At the NPC Louisiana State Champions on July 12, 2003, Art Atwood injured his knee while he was guest posing. As told by various people, Art was heading down a small stairwell on the right side of the stage to get into the audience, when he sliped, but caught imself. However, it looked like he hurt his knee pretty bad, as he had to leave on a stretcher. It did look very serious, and we hope he is doing well.
Later on, Art himself responded to his fans, and said:
I just wanted everyone to know what happened before some rumors go wild.... Yes, I tore my quad near the end of my guest posing in Louisianna. I slipped (oil on my boots) down a couple stairs going from the stage into the audience. I didn't think it was bad, until I tried to fire my outer quad...nothing happened..
I just had an MRI and Tuesday the doc is reattaching the tendon to the patella. He said about 6 weeks for recovery. I know the O is in 15 weeks and can only take it from week to week and see what happens....It really sucks, but what doesn't kill you makes you stronger right?!!
Just want to shout out to all my friends and fans. Thanks for all your emails and support! I'm still training hard and won't let this set me back! Thanks, Art.
Art, we are all wishing good well on a speedy recovery, and hopefully, recover in time to compete in the Olympia.