Veteran cyclist and former politician Santiago "Santino" Castillo is still making a recovery after a nasty spill 9 days ago. The 69 year old is at home now after 8 days of hospitalization.
Castillo has told his fellow cyclists in a text message that he has chosen to quit cycling after the accident.
He says the collision with a young rider launched him into the air and left him unconscious for several days. Injuries sustained included fractures to his skull, both clavicles, eight ribs, and his right hand, as well as severe head trauma. He also revealed he waited nearly an hour for an ambulance and remained unconscious until Wednesday. He was hospitalized at Belize Medical Associates for eight days and was discharged on December 22. Doctors have since advised Castillo to stop racing altogether, warning that continuing could risk his ability to live a normal life. Accepting that recommendation, Castillo announced he will retire from competitive cycling in 2026, bringing an end to a long career in the sport.
