A huge high-side in qualifying threw Cal Crutchlow off his LCR Honda at Le Mans on Saturday.

Landing heavily on his side and back, he was also struck by the rear wheel of his own machine.

Although not suffering any breaks and remaining conscious, the Ramsey resident was transferred to a nearby hospital for further tests and a thorough check-up.

Detained overnight he was in obvious pain following the Sunday morning warm-up, but he took his position on the grid in 13th place to start the French Grand Prix later that day.

Producing a Herculean effort in what was a long, hot race, he managed to make up five places, mostly in the final three laps, to finish in a fine eighth place.

The race was won by Marc Marquez on the Repsol Honda, with Danilo Petruchi (Pramac Ducati) second and Valentino Rossi third.

Crutchlow is now eighth in the world championship on 46 points, dropping two places, and fourth in the independent team rankings.

The MotoGP now moves to Mugello for the Italian Grand Prix in less than a fortnight’s time.

In Moto2, Onchan resident Sam Lowes qualified seventh, but on the opening lap he cut a corner and found himself down in 12th spot. Finding it difficult to stay with the leading pack, Lowes finished the race 13th. He is now 15th in the Moto2 standings.

PETER CALLISTER