A world-renowned drag racer vowed to do everything he can to prevent other competitors from suffering the same fate as he did during a disturbing accident in Edmonton last week.
Dale Creasy Jr. is currently recovering from surgery at the Royal Alexandra Hospital after a shocking accident Sunday at the Rocky Mountain Nationals.
The two-time defending IHRA Nitro Funny Car world champion broke both legs during his semifinal match-up when his transmission broke loose, leading to his vehicle falling apart at the end of the strip.
"(It was) like someone hitting you with a sledge over and over again," he said.
Doctors spent five hours piecing his left leg back together. After the surgery he was able to move all his toes, which officials call a good sign towards a full rehabilitation.
His mother said the entire family is relieved after the successful surgery.
"There was talk of saving his leg so when he came out with two feet sticking up it was the greatest feeling," Ruth Creasy said.
Despite the positive outcome, doctors say he won't walk again for six months. Full rehabilitation may take more than nine grueling months.
The painful accident has led Creasy to make a promise to make racing safer for all drivers.
"I don't want anybody to have to go through this," he said. "This is something I wouldn't wish on anybody."
Local drag racer Shaun Madigin agreed more needs to be done to protect drivers.
"It's very upsetting," he said. "Everything can be safer."
Surround by emotional family and friends -- and the trophy given to him by Sunday's champion -- Creasy promised something good will come from his misfortune.
"We're going do everything we can to make sure it doesn't happen to anyone else," he said.
With files from Dave Mitchell
