Broken ankle in Mordor classico

Broken ankle in Mordor classico
Date	2024/02/28
Location	Mordor (Medio)
Severity	Injury
Canyoneering-related	Yes
SAR involvement	No
Navigation problem	No
Swift water problem	No
Environmental problem	No
Communication problem	Yes
Planning problem	No
Skills problem	No
Body movement problem	Yes
Rigging problem	No
Rappel problem	No
Insufficient gear	No
Gear failure	No

Summary

High ankle fracture jumping in Mordor classico.

Accounts

Broken ankle in Mordor classico in Costa Rica. The rescue leader has publiclly spoken about this incident. This is a first hand account from a member of the 10 person group that witnessed the incident and participated in the rescue.

The incident occurred at approximately 11:30am-- verified by the guide. The location was at the running jump at the beginning of the green narrows. The jumper put too much effort into the jump, overshot the landing, and couldn't recover in time. Right leg struck the far wall under water. Shoulder was initially thought to be dislocated as well. Medical professionals and wfa/wfr were in the canyon group and assessment was done immediately. Ankle fracture was suspected. Boot was tightened and left on. Ankle splint was applied and taped into place. First communication was made to get help. There were other know groups of canyoners in the area. Communication was received by about 12:45pm.

The group proceeded to technical rescue in the narrows. Fire man carry was ruled out as it would pull out the shoulder. The victim was lowered via top belay. Tandem rappel was utilized for one rappel. When the canyon opened, the guide and one fast team member departed to bring the relief team. The team member coordinating the rescue confirmed that texts were received. A vehicle was asked for. Time was about 1-1:30 pm. Advil was given.

Victim was lowered and assisted to the final rappel. A natural anchor was built to lower the victim outside of the water course. Victim was assisted down the creek bed until rescue team arrived (time uncertain). Cold water kept the pain down and the victim assisted when possible with the rescue.

Once the relief team arrived, a carrying chair was assembled to move the victim down the creek. Carriers were alternated. Victim was lifted from the harness and the carrier was assisted for balance.

A horse was provided at the creek bed for rescue. Victim rode out on the horse and was at the exit vehicle at approximately 7:45pm. Victim was assisted back at the hostel and then left for a San Jose hospital at 8:30pm. Victim was diagnosed with a high ankle fracture and shoulder was determined to be intact.