Jonny Bellis named in Saxo Bank's Tour of Britain team

Saxo Bank have named 21-year-old Jonny Bellis in their provisional Tour of Britain line up as the Manxman continues his remarkable comeback.

Bellis was involved in a near fatal scooter accident near his home in Quarrata, Italy last September. He then contracted Peritonitis in the hospital when a feeding tube was incorrectly fitted. As a result his weight plumeted to 46kgs and when he left hospital in February he was unable to walk unaided due to muscle loss.

Bellis returned to racing at the Isle of Man road race championships in late June where he finished in last place, 20 minutes down. He started the British road race championships a week later but, like many, didn't finish.

The 2010 Tour of Britain that starts in Rochdale on September 11 will be Bellis's return to professional racing. Also named in the Saxo Bank team are Alex Rasmussen, Frank Hoj, Jaroslav Marycz and Jonas Aaen Jorgensen.

Race Director Mick Bennett said; "I am pleased to see Jonathan returning to The Tour this year, and I, and all of the organising team, wish him all the best for the race. I'm sure he will see a lot of support from the British public during The Tour."

Related links

Jonny Bellis makes racing return

Bellis back home after life-threatening crash and illness

Bellis out of coma

External links

Tour of Britain official website