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Bigfork athlete struck by javelin at track practice

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Anders Epperly (MTN Sports File Photo)

BIGFORK – An accident led to a frightening injury at Bigfork High School’s track practice Thursday afternoon.

Multi-sport star Anders Epperly was struck by a javelin in the chest and flown immediately to a hospital in Kalispell.

Bigfork Athletic Director Matt Porrovecchio confirmed Friday that Epperly is recovering. He avoided what could have been a much worse injury.

Epperly was standing outside the throwing zone, but a gust of wind caused a throw by a teammate to veer off course. The javelin punctured Epperly’s lung, but fortunately missed major arteries.

He may need to spend a couple more days in the hospital to monitor his wound, but he is expected to make a full recovery.

The senior helped Bigfork win a second straight state basketball championship last month, breaking Montana’s all-time career assists record in the process. He also started at quarterback on the football field for the Vikings.

-Reported by Derek Buerkle/MTN Sports