Penticton helicopter team comes to rescue of Okanagan cyclist

PENTICTON – A helicopter rescue team came to the rescue of a severely injured cyclist in the Summerland area this weekend.

The Penticton Search and Rescue Helicopter External Transport System team was called to the summit of Test of Humanity biking trails near Summerland Sunday, May 8, for a mountain biker who was injured.

A ground rescue effort began approximately six kilometres away from the injured woman, but as mobilization began, word was received the woman’s injuries were more severe than originally reported, resulting in a decision to call in the helicopter team.

The helicopter rescue crew was able to reach the woman and transport her to Penticton Regional Airport where an ambulance was waiting. The extent of the woman’s injuries are not known at this time.

The team was also called to the Myra Bellevue canyon trail system on Saturday afternoon, May 7, to support Central Okanagan Search and Rescue with a medical emergency.

First responders were assisting a man experiencing a ‘medical event’ and the helicopter team was cancelled shortly after their arrival when ground personnel were able to get the situation under control.

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