Aussie Olympian injured in hit-and-run

Kendrick Monk. Photo / Getty Images

Australian swimmer Kendrick Monk is in doubt for the London Olympics after being seriously injured in what he says was a hit-and-run accident while riding his bicycle to training.

Initial x-rays reveal the 200-meter freestyle specialist sustained two breaks in his elbow in the incident at Brisbane, capital of Queensland state.

Monk, 23, was taken to hospital after being assisted at the scene by fellow Australia swimming squad members including three-time Olympic gold medallist Stephanie Rice and Nick D'Arcy.

Monk will visit a specialist Thursday to confirm the full extent of injuries.

The Beijing Olympian is facing a six-to-eight-week recovery. The Australian Olympic selection trials are in March.

Monk, who spent Wednesday night in hospital, said he believes he was struck by the car on purpose.

"I can't remember too much after I was hit, but I know I wasn't doing anything wrong,'' he said. "I've made a statement to the police, and hopefully this is a strong reminder for drivers to keep an eye out for cyclists on the road. I was really lucky.''

Monk has been a member of the Australian swimming team for the past six years.

- AAP