Lochie’s riding through pain in pursuit of sporting glory

A teenager from north Brisbane cannot walk or run long distances but is making quite a name for himself on two wheels.

LOCHIE O’Loan can’t run or walk long distances - but is making a name for himself on a motorcycle.

The 14-year-old races for the Kilcoy Motocross Club after only taking up the sport three years ago.

His success saw him nominated for an Inspiration Award in the Caboolture Herald Local Sport Stars Awards, which close at the end of this month.

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The Wamuran teenager was born with fibula hemimelia. His left leg is 8cm shorter than his right and does not have a fibular bone, only tibia.

He has had two leg-lengthening operations that left him housebound for six months.

“I’ve had to teach myself to walk again but I still ride a motorbike,” he said. “I love riding my motorbike.

“I often hurt my left knee or ankle riding but push through the pain in a race because I just want to keep riding.

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“Physio is a weekly occurrence but I know that when I am on the bike it’s only for 10 minutes and then I can deal with the pain later.”

His biggest success was winning the SEQ round for big wheel 85 in 2017.

“I had only had surgery earlier that year so it was good that I was even riding let alone winning. It was a very special moment for the whole family.”

Lochie’s training includes a PT session each Monday night with his brother and a nightly home session of PT and physio.

Mum Cassandra said: “When he is out of action he hates it as there is nothing much else he can do. He is due for surgery again but wants to finish the four SWQ rounds first.

“He is amazing, modest and brave.”

Lochie is fourth at the Kilcoy club day rounds for his 250cc class with two rounds to go and second in the SEQ event with three rounds left.

To nominate a Local Sports Star visit: localsportsstars.com.au