Ferguson sustained stable spinal fractures and multiple rib fractures in a "high-impact fall" during a practice run ahead of the downhill world cup.
According to Pinkbike, Ferguson, who’s originally from Scotland, was one of the first to attempt the big jump — since removed — at the top of the course and suffered a "heavy crash" on the feature.
An update shared with Pinkbike by her team, Nukeproof Axess Racing, says Ferguson realised she lacked the necessary speed on approach, "cased the landing and was bucked".
In a social media post, Queenstown Mountain Bike Club (QTMBC) says they understand she was airlifted to hospital and is reported to be in a stable condition and "doing well under the circumstances".
According to her team, she’s "in good spirits and more concerned about the team’s performance and morale than her own recovery".
"The team wishes her a focused and steady rehabilitation."
This week, Ferguson took to social media, posting a photo of herself in a hospital bed, wearing a neck brace and holding a soft toy — which also appears to be wearing a neck brace — to her stories.
"Day 5 of staring at the ceiling,’’ the caption said.
‘‘Thanks for all the messages and gifts. Lots of happy tears."
"I’m struggling to be on my phone atm but hearing you read an overwhelming amount of kind messages is really helping me.
"Thank you to every single person who has reached out.
"I’ll reply as soon as I can."
QTMBC describes her as an "incredible rider, a huge inspiration, and someone who continues to push the level of women’s downhill on the world stage".
"From making history at Red Bull Hardline to representing Queenstown at the highest level, she’s shown so much strength, courage and class.
"Right now, we’re sending all our love to Lou, her family, friends, teammates and support crew as she begins her recovery.
"The whole Queenstown riding community is behind you."
Last year she was crowned the British National downhill women’s champ, then became the first woman to have completed a full top-to-bottom, seeding, and then timed race runs, of the infamous Red Bull Hardline Wales course.
She came second at Red Bull Hardline Tasmania in February and second in Crankworx Rotorua in March.
