Crashed Out
This really was unlucky 13 — my 13th Leadville 100 — for me. I can no longer say I’ve never DNF’d out of a race.
And right now, I have to admit I’m taking turns pitying myself and considering the fact that I’m lucky to be alive, much less only mildly injured.
Here’s what happened.
Climbtastic
I started the race feeling fine — healthy, excited, ready to race.
And then the climbs started and I felt really fantastic. I passed people by the dozens, quickly and without special effort. I got to the top of the first big climb — St. Kevins — in what felt like very good time.
Feeling fast and invincible, I started the 4-mile paved downhill. Like most of the people around me, I was going what felt like 30-35mph.
I was flying, and feeling great.
Crash
And then I was suddenly at the outside edge of the apex of a right-sweeping bend. On a wet road. at top speed.
And I was pointed off the embankment.
I grabbed two handsful of brake, but it didn’t do me much — if any — good. I flew off the embankment, and had one very clear thought as I launched into the air:
“This is how I die.”
The next moments were chaos and pain. Crashing, tumbling, and sliding. And then to a stop.
Here is the view from the road of what I crashed down. Rocky is standing approximately where my bike and I came to a rest.
That’s about 40 feet.
The reason I have this photo is because my sister Kellene and Bro-in-Law Rocky went back later to see if they could find my new Oakley Jawbones. Amazingly, they did:
Considering Rocky and Kellene had nothing to locate my glasses by but my addle-brained description of where I went down and a skid mark going off the road, I’m incredibly impressed (and grateful) they found those glasses.
But now, back to my tale of misery.
Lying in the Rain
I came to a stop on my back, with the most immediately intense pain coming from my right hip — though my right knee won the prize for bloodiest injury. I was both amazed to be conscious, and certain that I had better stay still, since I must have broken most everything.
I started yelling, not wanting to be left down there alone, because I didn’t think I could get back up to the road on my own.
Kevin, a guy in a Racers Cycle Service jersey, immediately stopped, yelled at me to not move, and worked his way down to me.
Over the next twenty minutes, Kevin wrestled my bike back to the road, gave me his vest to help me stop shaking so violently, and yell at other racers to go get a medic for me.
Meanwhile, it started to rain. Good and hard.
After a while, the pain in my hip receded enough that I thought I could try sitting up. That worked out OK, so I went ahead and tried to stand up.
at That didn’t work out so well. Immediately dizzy, I sat back down.
Five minutes later, I tried it again. This time, it worked. I was able to put my weight on my right leg. That was a huge relief — maybe I wasn’t as badly busted as I originally thought. I went ahead and climbed back to the road.
Finally, I was able to persuade Kevin to continue on and do his race — hopefully, even with the half hour (Or more? Hard to say, since I had no watch with me) he had spent with me he was still able to have a good race.
And then I stood in the rain for twenty minutes or so, soaked, freezing and shivering. And inspecting myself to see where else I was hurting besides my hip and knee. Here is the list I came up with:
- My hands were cut and bleeding in multiple places
- My left arm hurt
- My lip was cut
- My neck hurt
- The small of my back hurt. A lot.
The Medical Tent
John, a race volunteer, came and picked me up in his truck, and loaned me his down jacket. I have never been so grateful for warmth, ever. He then gave me a ride back, telling me that once we got into cell phone range, I should call my crew.
But I don’t have anyone’s number memorized. Just my home phone. So I called home, told my sister Lori to give me Kellene’s number, and then got ahold of Kellene and told her I was enroute to the medical tent.
And then, at the medical tent, I surprised everyone. They had not expected customers so early. They got me a cot together, sat me down, and poked and prodded me. No guarantees, I was told, but it seems like I didn’t have any breaks. And I didn’t need stitches.
Yes, somehow I did a high speed crash down an embankment loaded with boulders and trees, and walked away.
So, really, I shouldn’t complain. I should be glad to be OK. And I am.
But look at my face (and hand) as I started making my way back to the hotel.
That’s the face of a guy who had a pretty bad day.
Comment by Jill | 08.15.2009 | 6:12 pm
Wow. That’s a huge bummer. But glad you’re not worse.
Comment by Chris Driggers | 08.15.2009 | 6:14 pm
Fatty, sometimes you can lose and still win. We’re glad you rode! I’m doing 60 miles tomorrow, in no small part because of the motivation I get from reading this blog.
Comment by LidsB2 | 08.15.2009 | 6:14 pm
Congratulations — for surviving what could have been quite ugly! Sorry about the DNF. Next year… Keep smiling, Fatty.
Comment by USARMYCPT | 08.15.2009 | 6:19 pm
Glad you are OK…..Could have been much worse!!!!
Comment by Blackdog | 08.15.2009 | 6:21 pm
Glad to hear you are OK. That is a scary crash. Hope to see you in Corner Canyon.
Comment by Margaret | 08.15.2009 | 6:21 pm
Oh no! You looked great at the start of the race. And, I wanted to say great job to the rest of your team. Every time I saw them, they were hauling like mad. Way to go! Hope you guys had fun and that you have a great finish next year!
Comment by Willie Nelson | 08.15.2009 | 6:21 pm
Man! I’m glad all is well and you got some help from a Good Samaritan. Sorry to hear about it all. Here’s to a speedy recovery.
Comment by cyclingeurope | 08.15.2009 | 6:22 pm
Wow, so grateful that you weren’t hurt more Fatty! I saw your Twitter post the moment it came out and my heart sunk for you. Heal fast and get back on your bike!
Comment by Julie | 08.15.2009 | 6:23 pm
So bummed when I saw your tweet. Glad you’re ok.
Comment by RoverDave | 08.15.2009 | 6:24 pm
Fatty – So glad your OK! Sorry to hear about the DNF – you will get ‘em next year!
Comment by Michael in TN | 08.15.2009 | 6:24 pm
Holy Crap! You are lucky! Sorry you went all that way to ride off a cliff…bet you could have managed that at home!
Heal up for Philly!!
Comment by Juancho | 08.15.2009 | 6:25 pm
The script was written. You needed that crash.
Comment by Philly Jen | 08.15.2009 | 6:25 pm
A bunch of us Fatties were pre-riding the Livestrong Philly 70-mile course today, and when we stopped for a water break, we found out from your Twitter feed that you crashed out.
We were all really bummed for you, but we know Philly will be better next week. The only way to DNF (or more like DNS) is going to be death by chocolate, I promise.
Get well soon!
Comment by Bryan (not that one) | 08.15.2009 | 6:25 pm
Very glad you’re ok, Fatty. How’s the bike?
Comment by Harald | 08.15.2009 | 6:26 pm
This is not the type of race recap that I was looking forward to. So glad to hear that you’re okay!
Comment by Big Boned | 08.15.2009 | 6:29 pm
Fatty,
Glad you are ok (except for the disappointment of the DNF). I was surprised reading that you’d cut your hands knowing that you like full-finger gloves. The picture showed you hit hard enough to get really banged up. Hope you are back riding soon.
Big Boned
Comment by Pink | 08.15.2009 | 6:33 pm
come on, man. you have children that only have you at this point in time. You cannot afford to be silly.
Comment by Trish | 08.15.2009 | 6:34 pm
I’m so glad you are going to be okay. While I was hoping your angel would give you wings in today’s race, I think you were given a greater gift indeed.
Comment by Alan | 08.15.2009 | 6:34 pm
man, that sucks! Sorry to hear about that. And I’m glad you and your bike are (relatively) intact.
Comment by Shaun Darragh | 08.15.2009 | 6:38 pm
Fatty – that’s the face of a man that had someone seriously looking out for him…
Comment by Wild Dingo | 08.15.2009 | 6:46 pm
Oh CRAP! So sorry to hear that!I’m so bummed. but there’s always next leadville! and those stairs. hey you climbed those stairs!
Comment by Jason | 08.15.2009 | 6:48 pm
your amazing…
Comment by Speedy | 08.15.2009 | 6:50 pm
Glad to hear you’re ok, sorry about your race, it always sucks to crash in a big race. More importantly though is the singlefly. Flesh and bones will regrow, but alas carbon does not, so how is the bike?
Comment by Jamie | 08.15.2009 | 6:59 pm
To get a DNF you need to have a D[id] S[tart] though. And that’s no bad thing.
Comment by Andy | 08.15.2009 | 7:00 pm
Good to hear you are OK, tough to crash out but it happens to us all eventually. Nothing so bad for me so far but I am sure it will eventually. Hope I get your luck when it happens, but I agree with Speedy .. how is the Singlefly. Carbon doesn’t like falls like that! Its a beautiful bike.
Comment by Jaime O. | 08.15.2009 | 7:00 pm
If Kevin were a real hero, he would have seen your situation, amped up the speed, and flown over that embankment to get to you sooner. I mean, really! Picked his way down the hill? C’mon!
Glad you didn’t get super hurt. Super glad I’m not you when you wake up tomorrow and try to get up.
Comment by Hughes | 08.15.2009 | 7:03 pm
So sorry about the DNF. I think I know what it meant to you. You will put that energy and frustration into the training for next and you will get it done. Any crash you walk away from is always a good one.
Take care of you and yours and keep spinning.
Comment by chad | 08.15.2009 | 7:03 pm
glad you’re ok. caught the wedding ring in the pic and thought of Susan. get better fatty.
Comment by Annie | 08.15.2009 | 7:04 pm
What a bummer, since you started out so well! But, like everyone else, I’m glad you’re not hurt any worse than you are. You’re going to be sore for a bit, I’m sure…
Comment by Diana W | 08.15.2009 | 7:05 pm
What an aweful tale. Glad you are relatively ok. There’s always the next race. Chin up!
Comment by ann | 08.15.2009 | 7:05 pm
You are on your feet and able to face tomorrow. Everyone wins, though winning has many different faces these days. Tomorrow.
Comment by steve sax | 08.15.2009 | 7:11 pm
As you know, Fatman, it is about the adventure, not the outcome. Glad you are going to be fine soon…and yes, how is the Fly?
That is the face of a man that went out there to give ‘em hell, as they say. And you did.
Chapeau!
Comment by Carla | 08.15.2009 | 7:18 pm
OK I won’t be as nice – THAT JUST PLAIN SUCKS! Sorry today ended like this. Heal quick – get back on the bike and hug your children when you get come.
Comment by Dan in Sac | 08.15.2009 | 7:18 pm
Dang! I was wondering how your ride was going today. Thank goodness for that ‘fortunate fall.’ And I think race Semaritan Kevin is a cool dude who earned a cold one, or considering the climate, a hot cup of joe.
Glad you are ok. And think on the positive side, you are in race shape already for next year.
Comment by Chris | 08.15.2009 | 7:19 pm
Wow! I told Chris [the other one] about your crash because I read your Twitter update this morning. We were worried for you throughout the day. Thanks for the update and glad your injuries weren’t worse. You’re a winner in our book! Lick those wounds and enjoy the rest of your time in Leadville. Rockin’ that Lance won! Woot!
Comment by Andrew | 08.15.2009 | 7:22 pm
How’s the bike?
Comment by Meghan | 08.15.2009 | 7:22 pm
Glad to hear you’re ok (even if disappointed at a DNF). You must have had one special angel watching over you.
Comment by Rob M. | 08.15.2009 | 7:23 pm
Jamie beat me to it.
DNF is not as bad as DNS (Did not start).
Glad you tried.
Sorry you crashed but very glad you are just sore.
Comment by LuckyLab | 08.15.2009 | 7:24 pm
Glad you’re okay. I ran into another rider in a Fat Cyclist jersey on my century today and made the comment if anyone deserved to reach their goal today, it was you. I’m sorry to hear about the DNF, but, again, glad you’re okay.
Comment by Heidi | 08.15.2009 | 7:36 pm
Damn…
Comment by Jenni Laurita | 08.15.2009 | 7:44 pm
Ok, so you got your first and only DNF out of the way.
Onward to Philly where I we’ll keep you safe and slow. Well, I can promise to keep you slow anyway.
Glad you’re ok.
Comment by Debamundo | 08.15.2009 | 7:47 pm
Oh yeah, that doesn’t look good at all. Dang! Bet that hand is gonna swell. Glad it wasn’t worse, though. Massive head trauma would be inconvenient.
Comment by Matthew | 08.15.2009 | 7:47 pm
Yikes, sounds nasty. Glad you’re ok Fatty!
And as others have said, what about the poor bike?
Comment by Kathie in OR | 08.15.2009 | 7:50 pm
First time I’ve written! That is an impressive launch off the trail, guy. Glad you survived without bones breaking. You’ve got fans out here in eastern Oregon, too!
Take care,
Kath
Comment by geraldatwork | 08.15.2009 | 7:50 pm
I am glad you came out of this basically OK. Next time you might not be so lucky. I have been following your posts for a couple of weeks. You have had a difficult time. I think it is time you look at the crash as a message and focus on the things that are really important like your children. Time to move on from this dangerous stuff. You can take it up again when your and Susan’s kids are grown up. Just enjoy some safe road riding in the meantime. Sorry to have to say this.
Comment by Pat1236 | 08.15.2009 | 7:52 pm
From the pictures I would say that Susan was there helping you down that bankment. Your angel did give you wings, sorry that you had some bumps on the way. I am glad you are OK and not hurt to bad. Good luck on the next ride and oh yes, be sure you take that angel with you on any other rides.
Comment by Mike from Melbourne | 08.15.2009 | 7:56 pm
I’m glad you were able to walk away from that one, could have been much worse. Better luck next year !
Comment by Canadian Roadie | 08.15.2009 | 7:57 pm
Hope you feel better soon, you are truly lucky that there are no broken bones. How’s the bike?
Comment by Hoggy | 08.15.2009 | 7:59 pm
well done on survivng a crash like that fatty. one good thing is that when you can fully appreciate how lucky you were you can change the whole description into a story of how skilled you were in avoiding all the trees and rocks and not being much worse off.
Comment by Samantha Lee | 08.15.2009 | 8:00 pm
Really glad you’re okay. Really glad that kind racer stopped to help you. Really glad the medic loaned you his coat. Really, really glad they found your glasses. :)
Comment by Natalie | 08.15.2009 | 8:03 pm
Glad you’re OK!
Comment by Walt | 08.15.2009 | 8:05 pm
Elden,
Sorry to hear it. I was looking forward to a good race report from you. At least the jersey looks OK :-)
I’ve done something similar. 8000′ up in the Swiss Alps, damp brakes, way too fast for a 90 degree left corner. I hit the guardrail head on and luckily performed a full somersault to land flat on my back. Hard enough that one of my shoes stayed clipped in a pulled off my foot. I only went 10-15 feet down the embankment, but my bike was 40 or 50 feet down a 40 degree slope. Total injury: a 1 cm cut on my knee. Plus replacing the front wheel and handlebars on the bike.
Hope you have a quick recovery.
Comment by Jo | 08.15.2009 | 8:05 pm
Glad you came out of it with only scratches and dents–long hot baths with epsom salts will soak the worst of it out. Hope you can make Philly next weekend. I’ve got some friends hoping to meet you there.
Comment by Jaybird | 08.15.2009 | 8:09 pm
Glad you’re okay! But wow, you look so tough in that pic.
Comment by Jensamom23 | 08.15.2009 | 8:12 pm
Oh My! Glad you are okay.
Comment by bobbieh | 08.15.2009 | 8:12 pm
Oh, Fatty! I’m so sorry the race ended this way for you ~ but I’m glad you’re (relatively) OK! I think your angel Susan must have been there protecting you!!!
Comment by bikemike | 08.15.2009 | 8:23 pm
you came out alive or worse yet, mangled for life, brother…i’d say you had a great day. warm is good.
Comment by MattC | 08.15.2009 | 8:24 pm
So apparently 13 IS an unlucky number. Truly AMAZING that you weren’t seriously (and I mean SERIOUSLY) hurt. You surely had a guardian angel watching over you today. And as the others, I am hoping for the best for the singlefly. Guys…we crash, and immediately check the bike for damage. But hey…it’s all part of the adventure…your first DNF…that BTS! (Big Time Sucks!) Hopefully you are well enough to ride Philly next weekend. Heal fast my friend.
Comment by Norah | 08.15.2009 | 8:25 pm
Wow! Based on the photo of that slope I’d say you actually had a very good day. I’m so glad you’re in one piece. It’s too bad you didn’t finish, but you sure got an incredible story out of it. Heal quick and have fun in Philly. We’re all pulling for you.
Comment by MVSC | 08.15.2009 | 8:28 pm
Fatty Fatty Fatty!! That’s the face of a pretty amazing guy who’s had a hell of a ride recently… Hope you are recovering, slowly. Your family is amazing – I have a little girl crush on Kellene.
Comment by Kathy McElhaney | 08.15.2009 | 8:29 pm
OUCH! Those fingers (and other areas not shown) are gonna hurt a while. Glad you’re okay!
Comment by Kris | 08.15.2009 | 8:29 pm
Geez brother. Glad you are good. You still have to make appearances in Philly and Austin. For that I am willing to offer you my miles to Austin. Seriously, we need you there. Even have sitters!!! Email me.
Comment by Gene | 08.15.2009 | 8:35 pm
Um….ouch
Comment by jk | 08.15.2009 | 8:36 pm
Hi Eldon –
I wanted to say it was so good meeting you today in Leadville! And, again, I’m so sorry you crashed out. As my husband and I were walking away, he reminded me that I did not get a photo with you! Stupid, stupid, stupid! Oh well. I’ll see you in Austin and I’ll find you there. By the time we met you, you were looking much better than you do in that photo! But I recognized you from the gimpy walk! Good luck next week in PA.
Blessings to you and your family.
Comment by duckie | 08.15.2009 | 8:53 pm
oh my gosh! So sorry – but so glad you are alright. You know you were being watched over. Take care of yourself and your kids!
Comment by Peter | 08.15.2009 | 8:54 pm
Bugger about the crash. Hopefully you’ll be in good enough shape to ride Philly next week. Will see you in Austin!
Comment by Moishe | 08.15.2009 | 8:55 pm
Hey Elden — sorry to hear about this. That downhill scares me every time I’ve done the race, I always end up going way faster than I realize.
My first thought reading this, though, was, “nice that someone stopped to help Elden, because I know he would’ve done the same for someone else.”
Second thought was, wow, sure seems like someone was looking out for you.
BTW, skin heals. How’s your *bike*?
Comment by Mile High Mark | 08.15.2009 | 8:55 pm
Daaaaaamn.
Most people would be lucky to hike down that stuff, and you flew down it! But like someone else said, DNF is better than DNS, eh?
Healing vibes going out to you.
Comment by Katie Bee | 08.15.2009 | 8:58 pm
Sometimes just starting a race and knowing that you can and will start many more is enough after a tough go…..slow down….enjoy the ride….revel in the beginnings not the ends. :)
Comment by Tiff | 08.15.2009 | 9:08 pm
Feeling so bummed for you. But you didn’t just crash out in a little way, you did it spectacularly . . . and lived to tell. And I’m so glad about the living to tell part!
Comment by Joel P. | 08.15.2009 | 9:12 pm
So sorry to hear about your crash. Everything I thought to write has already been written. So best wishes, feel better and good luck in Philly
Peace
Joel
Comment by ArizonaHeatWave | 08.15.2009 | 9:14 pm
Man that sucks, but you made the effort and in this life that is what matters. Chin up, on to the next.
Comment by Max | 08.15.2009 | 9:14 pm
Glad you’re relatively intact, Fatty. This crash could’ve ended up much worse than it did. Sorry to be the wet blanket here, but perhaps you need to throttle back on the high-risk stuff. Your kids have already lost one parent.
OK, enough of the wet blanket for now. The one really, REALLY important question that’s been asked and not yet answered… HOW’S THE BIKE??? :)
Comment by BamaJim | 08.15.2009 | 9:19 pm
Bummer about the crash, but looks like it easily could have been MUCH worse. I can relate to your description of your thought as you went over the edge. In my case it was “this is not going to end well”. Hope you heal soon.
Comment by tibiker | 08.15.2009 | 9:21 pm
Elden, You may or may not know this but I was secretly using you to pace me up St Kevin’s climb. BTW, you are a sneaky little mtn biker as we started together, and then somehow you were like 100 yards ahead of me as we started the climb. Impressive how you did your stealth move to get up there! I got within a few feet a couple of times but didn’t say anything so as not to break your rhythm. (you seemed to be in the ZONE!) Then we got up a little further and you were GONE. Turns out you knew exactly where it crested and made your move. And that’s the last I saw of you. Caught Sam at the bottom and he told me what happened, we were worried about you all day. Finally got the update from Dug at the Pipeline feed zone and were relieved to hear you weren’t seriously hurt. Then he showed me the CLIFF you went off. Amazing you didn’t get killed, never mind that you weren’t seriously hurt. Glad you’re OK, too bad you crashed because you were tearing it up!
Comment by Boomer | 08.15.2009 | 9:23 pm
susan was looking out for you – try not to give her too much work – glad you’re mostly and miraculously okay
Comment by TimZim | 08.15.2009 | 9:25 pm
Too bad you crashed out, but glad you weren’t hurt very badly. Next year I’ll do Leadville with you and we can both finish!
I bet the lottery is going to be crazy next year.
Comment by Kent Peterson | 08.15.2009 | 9:28 pm
Heal up Elden. For those advising you to stop riding, I’d like to point out that riding is not the problem. Crashing is the problem. Keep riding, stop crashing. You’ve been there, done that. Now roll on.
Comment by Jodi | 08.15.2009 | 9:28 pm
So proud of you for living your own life on your own terms. With so much out of our control, it’s important to model for our children that we continue to live in a way that is individually fulfilling. Such an important lesson.
You are awesome, even at crashing.
Love live and dream brother.
Comment by Bruce Bebow | 08.15.2009 | 9:29 pm
Glad you are okay. Did you break the tree in the foreground in the first pic of Rocky? What’s the name of your blog?
Comment by anji | 08.15.2009 | 9:30 pm
thank God you were safe :)
Lucky number 14 is next year… that’s two 7s together, and aren’t 7s lucky??? :D So, you’ll be twice as lucky!
Comment by Rich Wielgosz | 08.15.2009 | 9:31 pm
Despite the fact that it might not have seemed like it when that photo was taken, you had a good day. You weren’t seriously hurt, and you will live to ride another day.
Lance won, as I’m sure you are aware. :-)
Comment by Erine | 08.15.2009 | 9:51 pm
WOW! Glad you’re okay, Fatty!
Comment by Justin | 08.15.2009 | 9:53 pm
Race #247
2+4+7=13
You didn’t have a chance this year…
Comment by TimRides | 08.15.2009 | 9:55 pm
Everyone else said it well.
Jodi said it best.
Comment by Marrock | 08.15.2009 | 9:57 pm
The whole idea is to throw yourself at the ground and miss, Superman.
Keep kicking ass, some of us still need a role model. ;)
Comment by mtnbkr | 08.15.2009 | 10:09 pm
I kept reading, waiting for the punchline… Like the Slickrock halfpipe post… But it never came. Wow – very bumbed for you, but glad your ok.
Maybe a subliminal move to conserve energy to keep up with the rest of us Fatty’s next week in Philly?
Comment by Tubenerd | 08.15.2009 | 10:11 pm
Lucky. Man.
Comment by clausinmadison | 08.15.2009 | 10:14 pm
In other news, a guy named “Kevin” magically wins an Orbea Orca with Di2 . . .
Sorry to hear about the crash, but I’m glad to hear there are still a few good samaritans out there.
Comment by Caitlin | 08.15.2009 | 10:18 pm
You are so blessed to have walked away! Sorry about the crash, though. What a bummer. :/
Comment by KateG | 08.15.2009 | 10:19 pm
I’m so sorry that was how the race turned out for you! You really did “go ’til you blowed”! :) I’m glad you are ok! I think Susan was keeping a special eye on you today! You motivate me everyday and help my realize how lucky I am in my life. Bless you, Fatty.
Comment by co | 08.15.2009 | 10:20 pm
hey Fatty – it’s all good, every year (day!) a new story. You didn’t break bones (as I did this spring, ending my plan to do 20 minutes of butterfly stroke every day and a century bike ride by summer’s end), you can type (took me awhile – good thing I’m not earning my pay as a programmer these days), and you’re still lucky to be you and to have the life (past & present) that reflects being you. Includes Susan and your most wonderful kids, your friends, your relatives, your injuries. No complaints, I think!
Comment by lyndap | 08.15.2009 | 10:24 pm
Glad to hear you’re okay. I like to look at those rides as “Any ride is a good ride that you come back from with no broken bones and no remote medical evac.” You’re still a winner in my book.
Comment by Terri | 08.15.2009 | 10:26 pm
That’s the face of a man who needs some recuperation. Take care of yourself Elden.
Comment by lyndap | 08.15.2009 | 10:26 pm
PS…looks like you had an angel looking out for you :)
Comment by Robert | 08.15.2009 | 10:26 pm
Ouch! I was up there today and you were one of the people I was trying to keep an eye out for. I don’t know you, but I was ready to yell for you! I’m so sorry about your wreck. It really was cold up there with that rain though!!
Comment by Cyclin' Missy | 08.15.2009 | 10:29 pm
Sooooo glad you’re OK! Sorry you didn’t get to finish. Keep it going, Fatty!
Comment by Mike D | 08.15.2009 | 10:34 pm
At almost exactly the time you posted this I was launching myself over my handlebars. Bashed my knee and cut my cheek up. We’d make a great pair…
How’s the bike?
Comment by rick | 08.15.2009 | 10:38 pm
bummer, no belt buckle, but you’re not too hurt and you found your sunglasses. Now you’ll have memories, you’ll be able to your friends: I got this or that scar at the Leadville 100. Just as good as a buckle… Allez
Comment by Jen | 08.15.2009 | 10:45 pm
Take it easy – don’t beat your self up – what you have been through in the last few months is mentally and physically Leadville 100 quadupple and then some. Don’t bonk – treat yourself right!!!
Comment by Jouni | 08.15.2009 | 10:49 pm
“Allez Pou Pou, Allez!”
Get ‘em next time friend. Onward to Philly.
Comment by reymannm@mac.com | 08.15.2009 | 10:49 pm
Hey it looks cool. Hoping you don’t experience the worst of it in two days…
Comment by Jay | 08.15.2009 | 10:58 pm
Three cheers–no, FOUR CHEERS for Kevin, may he be immortalized forever in The Annals of Good Dudes.
Comment by MuddyButty | 08.15.2009 | 11:01 pm
Fatty, heal well & live to ride another Leadville. Susan cushioned your landing & will continue to watch over you & the fam.
Comment by Jamieson | 08.16.2009 | 12:03 am
Glad to see that you are ok after that crash. With the twitter #lt100 tag, it could have been you, Armstrong and Wiens on the trail with the messages that came through.
See you next weekend in Philly.
Comment by John Daigle | 08.16.2009 | 12:16 am
Three letters: MRI. Check the old brain pan out, make sure there’s no lasting effects.
Other than that, remember, Shiny side stays UP. Sticky side goes DOWN.
Comment by Yukirin Boy | 08.16.2009 | 12:19 am
great to hear there appears to be nothing more serious than cuts and bruises. But yes, get yourself checked out.
Comment by Carl | 08.16.2009 | 12:20 am
I was at the first aid station and I kept looking for you. I waited and waited but never saw you. I was disappointed that I didn’t get to cheer you on. Now I understand. Glad to hear you are doing ok, and there’s always next year.
By the way, I did see Kenny and he was flying. Did he finish with a good time?
Comment by Thomas | 08.16.2009 | 12:54 am
Glad you are okay. Pilots say “any landing you can walk away from is a good landing” I’d say that last 40 feet was more flying/landing than cycling. Godspeed.
Comment by ToddBS | 08.16.2009 | 1:23 am
Ouch! I went for a ride today on some single track I’d never been on before. Ended up eating it on a steep (and deceptively bumpy) downhill. I didn’t really launch; it was like the bike just stopped and I immediately slammed into the ground with the bike coming down on top of me – all within a half second. Aside from a gash on my leg from some branches, I walked away unscathed. In fact, the only thing I was really worried about was that nobody saw me :)
Glad you made it out ok!
Comment by Janneke | 08.16.2009 | 1:36 am
Dang, that doesn’t look like a fall you ought to walk away from. You most certainly had an angel on your shoulder. And even the jawbones survived! Heal well en keep going. Just stay upright from know on. Wheels down is how a bike should be ;-)
Allez Fatty!
Janneke
Comment by bryantp | 08.16.2009 | 2:36 am
Never give up. Next year!!
Comment by dwb | 08.16.2009 | 3:18 am
Stanley Tucci would ask for a second take.
Comment by Ady | 08.16.2009 | 4:16 am
Sorry about the DNF – that sure was a nasty tumble. Glad you’re OK.
Allez Fatty!
Comment by Born 4 Lycra | 08.16.2009 | 4:54 am
Thanks Kevin.
John make sure you get your jacket back.
Nobody can say it quite like a sister good stuff Jodi.
FC at least you DNF in style my first DNF was simply a shredded tyre which blew apart at walking pace.
Finally to R and K well done on finding the sunnies if you hadn’t we’d have fearless fly back in the next pics.
Onward to Phillie your public awaits.
Comment by ciclodiva | 08.16.2009 | 5:28 am
OH MAN! Heal quickly and look ahead to Leadville 2010!
Comment by Vito | 08.16.2009 | 5:34 am
Fatty…that is a real bummer! Very sorry to hear about the DNF, but at the same time…very happy to hear that you are in one piece and will be riding again in no time. Nice pic by the way :(
By the way…How is the bike doing?
Comment by Leslie | 08.16.2009 | 5:43 am
What a story! Thankful you’re okay, but sorry your race ended like that. Heal quickly!
Comment by Andy | 08.16.2009 | 5:45 am
Sorry man, we were pulling for you. There’s always more races.
Comment by Phil | 08.16.2009 | 5:47 am
I should probably say something with more substance but ah well:
Totally badass!
Allez Fatty.
Comment by George McNally | 08.16.2009 | 6:08 am
Wow. You were pretty lucky considering that you were going as fast as a motorcycle and you were wearing what is basically underwear and a helmet.
Comment by Jerry | 08.16.2009 | 6:13 am
Was very disappointed to hear about your crash. After such a crash, a lot of folks wouldn’t have the strength to get back up, but you’ve been doing that for months now. Sure Susan would be proud. LiveStrong
Comment by Mike Roadie | 08.16.2009 | 6:14 am
You won, my friend, the mountain did not!
There is no shame in not finishing, only in not starting; you gave it your best.
Perhaps you, and dear Susan, were Lance’s motivation!
Heal well.
FLS
Comment by Shiny Flu | 08.16.2009 | 6:27 am
It should read BFC on the results list.. “Big freakin’ Crash”
Glad to hear you’re alive and still functioning in one piece. Get well soon!
Comment by Saso | 08.16.2009 | 6:29 am
Glad you are alive and relativey well.
Comment by Claire | 08.16.2009 | 6:33 am
Youch!! that’s one hell of a drop. I am glad you walked away relatively unscathed.
Comment by Big Mike In Oz | 08.16.2009 | 6:37 am
I’ve had quite a few DNFs in my life. The 2 I’m least ashamed of are the 2 that ended with an ambulance ride. I think you’ve done enough damage to classify this one the same way.
Comment by DeborahB | 08.16.2009 | 6:41 am
Wow. Huge bummer. But so glad you came out of it relatively unscathed. Could have been much much worse. Prayers for a quick recovery and to get back on the bike pronto. How is the bike, BTW? My husband would be more concerned with it than himself.
Comment by Lisa | 08.16.2009 | 6:46 am
WOW! So glad you are OK! You must have one heck of an Angel watching out for you and yours…ride on as this DNF means you D N F you life…you have more work to do on this big blue marble.
Comment by Erin | 08.16.2009 | 7:19 am
Glad to hear you’re okay.
You are looking especially Tucci-esque in that photo. It’s a good one.
Comment by Di | 08.16.2009 | 7:21 am
Hey, NEXT YEAR! :-D
Look at it this way, Tinker Juarez DNFed for a much less cool reason – a broken seat clamp.
Comment by Mark in Boise | 08.16.2009 | 7:23 am
Dang, too bad. Hopefully the bike came through without too much damage? How about a before and after picture? Good luck, and go get after it next year.
Comment by Onan the Barbarian | 08.16.2009 | 7:44 am
Dang, nasty way to DNF. I’ve done the same and have DNFed a few times mainly due to equipment malfunctions but once because “God told me to stop”…I came within a few inches of meeting a very large tree face-first.
Glad you’re relatively OK.
Comment by justrun | 08.16.2009 | 7:49 am
It goes without saying that we’re so glad you’re okay. It’s really encouraging that you went on to do this race, and handle YOUR life on YOUR terms. There’s a lot to be said for that. A LOT.
Comment by Cat | 08.16.2009 | 8:10 am
Daaang… when I said “leave it all on the road” in my last comment… I didn’t mean literally! :)
I’m glad you’re okay. I know that’s the face of a guy who thinks he had a very bad day, but you and your family actually had a great day. You survived a lot. Hope you heal up and get back on the horse soon.
Comment by Kathleen@ForgingAhead | 08.16.2009 | 8:20 am
When I saw Livestrong Chris Brewer’s tweet yesterday about your crash my heart just sank.
Now that I see that cliff you went off I’m just happy you’re ok.
Really? A person can go down a cliff like that and walk away. So so so lucky.
Kevin rocks. Let’s find him and make him an honorary Fat Cyclist!
Be well Elden.
Comment by asmathews | 08.16.2009 | 8:24 am
Glad to hear that you weren’t hurt worse after such a scary accident!
Comment by Ghengis Jung | 08.16.2009 | 8:40 am
Awesome job Elden! Most of us probably wouldn’t have even made it out there. I’d probably have trouble getting out of bed and feeding myself right now, so DNF or not, Leadville is just a testament to your strength and the amazing support of your family and friends. You are an inspiration.
Comment by JP18D | 08.16.2009 | 8:42 am
I’m sure you are a kaleidoscope of colors… so this is your idea of “go til you blow”.. glad to hear you are not seriously hurt, although you probably hurt seriously.
Comment by Linda | 08.16.2009 | 8:45 am
Glad you are okay, but that majorly sucks! Silver lining: you found your glasses…yay!!!
Comment by thebikegal | 08.16.2009 | 8:47 am
Sorry to hear about the crash! (I’d been checking up on you on the website’s “standings” search, and was worried by the “DNF.”) Glad to hear it isn’t worse, though.
Comment by Robert | 08.16.2009 | 8:50 am
I am glad that you are ok fatty! Take care and heal now :)
Comment by eleki | 08.16.2009 | 9:03 am
There’s no doubt in my mind that you had a special angel watching over you.
Comment by Rob Jones | 08.16.2009 | 9:24 am
Hey Elden,
Glad to hear that you’re OK.
Rob
Comment by Jamie | 08.16.2009 | 9:31 am
At what point do we get the big reveal that there was no one called Kevin registered to race, and Racers Cycle Services hasn’t existed in over 50 years?
Who was he? Where did he come from? These are questions us mortals can only contemplate!
Comment by CyndiF | 08.16.2009 | 9:33 am
“Take it easy – don’t beat your self up – what you have been through in the last few months is mentally and physically Leadville 100 quadupple and then some. Don’t bonk – treat yourself right!!!”
Jen is right: those are the eyes of a tired man. Be kind to yourself over the next few months.
Comment by Heather | 08.16.2009 | 9:47 am
So sorry to hear about your crash. I know that a DNF is disappointing…but think about all those out there who don’t even try. And your crash could have been so much worse. Thankful you weren’t seriously hurt. Don’t be too hard on yourself. You’ve been through the ringer the last year and especially the last few weeks. Take some time to heal…get some rest. Take care and be well!!
Comment by TimK | 08.16.2009 | 10:33 am
I think this kind of crash qualifies you to compete in next year’s TdF. Too bad Versus wasn’t filming you, they’d show it in their montage for the next decade.
Comment by Joe P | 08.16.2009 | 10:49 am
The Superfly superflew.
Feel better soon.
Comment by AngieG | 08.16.2009 | 10:49 am
You can’t have rainbows without a little rain. Now granted you’ve had like the 100 year flood, but its all about perspective.
Plus anyway you look at it the next time you rode Leadville would have been 13. Its like the elevator at the casinos. They never have a 13th floor, however just do the math. 14 is really 13. Its not like there is floor in between 12 and 14 that they use for storage or left empty.
The big thing here is that you rode. You started, you felt good and you gave it your best try. Like Susan, You Won!
You just being you has changed so many of our (your readers) lives in positive ways. You are truly a powerful person. Thanks as always for being totally unselfish and sharing the good and the challenges with us.
Extra FOF (friends of fatty) love to Kevin for stopping and for Rocky and Kellene for finding your Jawbones.
Had a great ride yesterday in the Holstien 100. It was a beautiful ride along Hwy 1 thru Tomales and Bodega Bay in NorCal. Weather was great, stunning actually. No fog at all and about 75 degrees and the Team Fatty colors were flying.
See you in Austin.:-)
Comment by Patty Guinta | 08.16.2009 | 10:49 am
YOU TOOK WAY TOO LONG BETWEEN THE TWEET AND POST! We were worried sick! I am glad you are alive and relatively okay. Get back on the bike soon!
Patty
Comment by Big Mel | 08.16.2009 | 10:52 am
Once again, riding mirrors life … we fall down, we get up. Hope you have a speedy recovery. God bless.
Comment by Lisa B in Seattle | 08.16.2009 | 10:52 am
Dang, man – Stanley Tucci looks awful in that pic! As for you, lots of ibuprofen, hot showers, short slow rides until next weekend in Philly. Just wondering – how did the shorts fare?! :)
Comment by Brian Sherry | 08.16.2009 | 11:42 am
Holy crow – obviously Susan is already working her guardian angel magic from above. Sucks that you crashed – fantastic that you are not hurt worse. Ride on
Comment by Leslie | 08.16.2009 | 12:05 pm
Glad you’re okay, and I’m amazed you can still find a few things to laugh at after such an experience (glasses!).
And what Jodi said: don’t fear living your life.
Comment by Powerful Pete | 08.16.2009 | 12:30 pm
Oh well. Hang in there Fatty. You still made… ehm… an impression! Good to hear that you are ok.
Oh, and do work on those bike handling skills, will ya?
:-)
Comment by km | 08.16.2009 | 12:40 pm
I’ll be Dug or Weins coated your rotors in vaseline …I’m telling you it was a conspiracy man they fear you…..man that bites about the DNF I know you were looking forward to the race. Glad to hear nothing was broken. That Kevin guy deserves a medal or at least a time credit for his help. What a Samaritan.
Comment by MTB W | 08.16.2009 | 12:41 pm
WOW!! You definitely have an angel watching over you and protecting you (I think you already know her name).
The pic with all of the rocks and trees makes me think of you being in a pinball machine, bouncing from one to another! Descending a hill on wet pavement while going around a tight turn is scary – mental note, avoid those in the future. Be glad you came out of the crash without major injury and that you got to spend time with your core group.
Anyway, in times like these, it makes you think of important issues – like how is that poor bike doing???
Comment by Heather @ runfastermommy.com | 08.16.2009 | 2:19 pm
WOW! I’m glad you (and your glasses!) are OK!!! Scary!
Comment by tim doust | 08.16.2009 | 2:43 pm
glad your ok………….god really is looking after you………….you truly do mean to live strong………….God bless you fatty
Comment by Anon | 08.16.2009 | 3:20 pm
lol.
Comment by Lloyd | 08.16.2009 | 3:23 pm
Just glad you’re ok. “Nuff said.
Comment by RobC | 08.16.2009 | 3:48 pm
Damn… but you walked away from that one. If it was anyone else, I’d say that there are worse things than crashing out of your big race, but you knew that already.
Here’s hoping you heal up quick, and it’s not long before you’re back in the saddle. Leadville 2010 better watch out!
Comment by Charlie Brown | 08.16.2009 | 4:03 pm
It was good to see you (I had the black woolie jersey) at the pre-race meeting. Sorry to hear about your wreck… although I guess some people will do anything to get out of the cold rain!
You said feels like you were going “30 -35″mph…. according to my Garmin, I was going 40 and I was getting passed by others like I was standing still… a couple of those corners are sharp!
I kept thinking of you and Susan and ended up with a personal best for the day – redeemed myself from last year’s over 12 hours.
Heal well, hope to see you again next year,
Charlie
Comment by Barturtle | 08.16.2009 | 4:06 pm
Damn and here I was feeling bad for myself for falling (twice) yesterday cause i couldn’t get my foot undone. Get well soon, Fatty.
Will we get Singlefly Autopsy pics tomorrow?
Comment by Aaron | 08.16.2009 | 4:11 pm
Sorry about that Elden. Hopefully, you’ll be back up and riding in a couple days.
Comment by Di | 08.16.2009 | 5:44 pm
OMG – I’m kind of embarrassed to call myself a mountain biker since I didn’t ask this in my first comment, but:
HOW IS THE BIKE!?
Comment by lady clay | 08.16.2009 | 5:49 pm
OW! Get better fast! Just so you know, there are less spectacular ways to DNF. :)
Comment by jj | 08.16.2009 | 6:26 pm
Is it wrong of me to wish you had the helmet cam with you (and on)?
Very glad you’re ok! That does not look like a soft landing spot and you have less “padding” than in the past.
Heal quick.
Comment by Shaun from AUS | 08.16.2009 | 6:44 pm
Elden Elden Elden
This was obviously your own fault. You have lost far too much weight, you make Lance look fat.From now on you should be called SKINNY. You need that extra weight to keep the FLY from flying! Luckily you were wearing yor Super Cyclist Kit but that made you go faster than a speeding bullet more powerful than a locomotive able to smash trees and boulders with a single crash.If you wear those new glasses you must slow down you’re not in the Tour you know because the best riders in the world crash as well.In fifty years time this will be one of your greatest war stories when you are sitting around the nursing home.Keep bouncing back Super Hero us mere mortals are continuously gobsmaked.
Comment by ellen | 08.16.2009 | 6:44 pm
Holy Cow! Bad looking slope and I’m glad to hear you walked out. Looks like it was your lucky day after all.
Comment by Kristen | 08.16.2009 | 6:44 pm
seriously, thank God for guardian angels. One more story for the book though, huh?
Comment by Mike | 08.16.2009 | 6:44 pm
With all do respect, isn’t part of MTB about the story/adventure? I’m glad to hear you are ok and now you have one hell of a story to commemorate your 13th start!!! Keep on rocking!!!! Go rest up!
Comment by XCTiger | 08.16.2009 | 6:56 pm
You landed on those rock and didn’t break any bones???
The fact that you didn’t have to be dragged back up the hill strapped to a back board is pretty much a miracle. You may be sore and achy, but you’ll live to ride another day. Can’t ask for anything more. Just take it easy for a while.
BTW, my mind gets a little foggy in my old age, but wasn’t there a story about one of your sisters going off a 40ft cliff on her bike a few years ago? If so, this may be an familial genetic disorder.
Comment by roadmuse | 08.16.2009 | 7:00 pm
Eldon,
Man, you are tough!
Lance
Comment by Hillphobic | 08.16.2009 | 7:16 pm
It’s Rocky who I feel sorry for!
How many times are you Nelsons going to make the poor guy scramble down cliffs to recover loved ones and their cycling gear? At least he wasn’t wearing a suit this time.
Get well, Elden, and hammer Lucky 14 next year.
Comment by Boo | 08.16.2009 | 7:17 pm
Phew, I’m not the only one who crashed yesterday. Sure mine wasn’t at as big of a high stakes event, but I did have a big family wedding in the evening and I ripped my chin open. Luckily I found a bandaid that was very incognito and everyone noticed my dress instead (I am a girl!).
Comment by Jen | 08.16.2009 | 7:49 pm
So sorry! I thought this was the year you were going to beat Lance! The glasses were found, but can they be worn again?
Comment by canknitian | 08.16.2009 | 8:12 pm
Sounds like a very lucky day to me.
Allez Fatty! Toujours, allez!
Comment by Chris Turner | 08.16.2009 | 8:50 pm
Glad you’re OK. How’d the bike fare?
Comment by Susan | 08.16.2009 | 9:01 pm
Well, if it makes you feel any better, I think you looked a lot better than I was expecting after your account of the crash. And Jodi’s so right – you’ve got amazing family & friends. Next year…
Comment by Perian | 08.16.2009 | 9:45 pm
Yikes! Thought I have to admit that your pic doesn’t look nearly as bad as I was expecting from your story. Glad you walked away from it.
Comment by Josh | 08.16.2009 | 9:51 pm
Hey Fatty,
Sorry you wrecked, glad your OK. Only a short while before I was so jazzed to be riding behind you and chatting. For me, you’re a celebrity! I saw many of your posse or fans wearing Fatty kits and when I caught up to you I saw the pink hubs and the bald head! It was my first Leadville, and went really well considering the weather. My friend did crash on columbine and break his collarbone though. BTW- did you only have one gear? Hope to see you next year, heal up-rubber down.
Josh-Denver, CO
Comment by Russell | 08.16.2009 | 10:07 pm
DNF in a race won by Lance? I would love to be able to say that! Go Fatty!
Comment by Vance Longwell | 08.16.2009 | 10:31 pm
Fun usually has blood smeared all over it. Grats on Breathing. Kevin. You make me proud to be alive.
Comment by Norman | 08.16.2009 | 11:07 pm
Fine crash, done with style. Those rocks will fear you from now on. You’ve done us proud.
Comment by Norman | 08.16.2009 | 11:12 pm
Oh, and can I please be first in line for the commemorative jersey?
Norman
Comment by Emily | 08.16.2009 | 11:23 pm
Dude, you were absolutely flying when you came past me at the bottom of St Kevins. Too bad it wasn’t a 12-mile-long race.
Comment by Red Rider | 08.17.2009 | 12:06 am
Holy crap! Like you haven’t been through enough recently!
Glad you escaped relatively unscathed. You’ll ride another day. And I bet you hurt like hell today and tomorrow.
I hope soft tissue damage is the worst of it.
Comment by Clydesteve | 08.17.2009 | 12:31 am
I hate it when that happens! Crashing, that is. Not getting killed is really good.
Comment by Mike | 08.17.2009 | 6:04 am
I had a similar accident in 2004 just after my fiancee passed away. But I hit the side of the mountain instead of off the embankment. The rocks are still sharp and pointy though. Looks like there are lots of angels in Colorado looking out for cyclists.
Speedy recovery my friend and get right back on.
HEAL ELDEN!
PS – I hear Lance is wanting a rematch in Oct, in Austin!
Comment by buckythedonkey | 08.17.2009 | 6:15 am
What a coincidence. I was hit by a car and fractured my pelvis yesterday.
Double bummer.
On a positive note, I am delighted to be able to report that my helmet (thank you Giro!) worked a treat. I smashed it between the road and my head and all I got were a couple of helmet-rail-shaped bumps and a bit of a headache. Pretty impressive. I’d be in big trouble if I hadn’t been wearing it.
But my bike! My bike! :-( How’s yours?
Glad you’re more or less OK. Get well!
A “you need this product” moment:
> But I don’t have anyone’s number memorized.
Google “roadid”, I don’t leave home without wearing mine. Available in pink (but not orange).
Allez Fatty!
Comment by Sara | 08.17.2009 | 6:39 am
I’ve DNF’ed in a running race due to injury and I felt so bad. I just kept telling myself it could have been worse.
There’s always next year…
Comment by MOCougFan | 08.17.2009 | 7:21 am
That sucks Stanley. Glad your mostly ok.
Comment by Jennifer | 08.17.2009 | 7:35 am
Another plug for RoadID. My wife and I have them, and I bought one for my son (being a teenager, he promptly lost it)
Fatty, I’d say it was a LUCKY day. Keep riding.
Comment by dodey | 08.17.2009 | 8:42 am
talk about kicking you when you’re down. life sure doesn’t seem fair sometimes. thinking of you and your family.
Comment by Kevin M | 08.17.2009 | 8:47 am
Fatty, sorry to hear about that crash. Thankful for a good samaritan and angels breaking your fall. Next will be great! Heal fast I hope everything will be ok for Philly for you.
Comment by joe blow | 08.17.2009 | 8:48 am
Louis from last year didn’t help you over the edge?
Hope your “favorite ever bike” will ride again…
Your comment of “this is how I go out”, reminds me of the old joke: “I want to die in my sleep like my grandfather, not screaming like the passengers in his car.”
Nothing actually broken? Consider yourself very lucky.
Comment by Mike E | 08.17.2009 | 8:51 am
Very lucky escape sir! Hope your trusty steed made it through too! By the looks of it you came off slightly better then that flattened tree in the first Pic.
Heal soon Mr Fatty!
Comment by kiwi | 08.17.2009 | 9:23 am
Hey Fatty,
I’m gland you are okay,when I say okay that you can walk ect…The part about the Oakley’s was funny to me as I was at Downer’s Grove U.S Crit Yesterday,Rahsaan Bahati(Rock Racing) last years winner was on his last lap. I was on the side line and as he speed past a pair of Oakleys came flying at me and hit me on the head .They were Bahati, team workers got them for him…Now Bahati cashed out too 100meters from the line …so flying Oakleys and cashing was the order of the day!So don’t feel bad!
Kiwi
Comment by Mike | 08.17.2009 | 9:46 am
OUCH!
I’m glad you survived, Fatty. Best of luck with the rehab.
P.S. How’s the bike?
Comment by VT Rob | 08.17.2009 | 10:40 am
Elden…glad your OK and sorry you missed finishing.
Falls are funny. Elden takes a high speed flight down into trees and rocks and is relatively unscathed. I take a low speed trip over the handle bars and dislocate my shoulder. (At my local trails….not at Leadville.)
Comment by HobbleCreek Possee | 08.17.2009 | 10:49 am
The start of the race was fast and hard. But I felt like I was holding my own despite gasping for air and a painful side ache. When finishing the last few climbs over the top of St. Kevin’s, I heard “good job Vince!” and was blown away to see Fatty gliding past me like he was on roller skates! You were flying! I’m so, so glad that you were not seriously hurt after seeing where you went down. Unbelievable.
Vince
Comment by Big Mark | 08.17.2009 | 11:02 am
Bummer. I was looking forward to reading about an unintentional sub-9 Leadville.
Glad you were, for the most part, OK.
Comment by EvilCyclist | 08.17.2009 | 11:26 am
I second JJ’s Post: How about Helmet Cam Footage? Until we see that, the conspiracy theorist folks will say you made it up, like the moon landings…I’m just saying…
-Evil C.
Comment by Joanne | 08.17.2009 | 11:44 am
Elden – I’m so sorry to hear about your crash! Especially because I feel like a complete dummy for shouting out “Yo! Fatty!” as I blasted down the pavement and saw you standing by the side of the road. My only excuse is my sunglasses were so muddy & streaked with water that I didn’t see your wounds. I just figured you were taking a nature break. Yikes!
Comment by Greg | 08.17.2009 | 12:44 pm
Sorry to hear about your crash Elden. Here’s to a speedy recovery!
Comment by Haven (used to be Kt) | 08.17.2009 | 12:55 pm
Wait a sec– you crashed down that boulder-strewn cliff, into those trees, and didn’t break anything??
Impressive. And you got your glasses back, on top of it all.
Kevin rocked. So did John. Always nice to have helpful people, and Kevin did the right thing by having you NOT MOVE, your injuries could have been severe.
You look really tired in that pic, so get a massage, take a hot shower, eat some lunch and take a nap.
Rest up and get better for Philly!!! Your legions of fans await!
Comment by Gary | 08.17.2009 | 1:17 pm
Ouch looks Painful mate, Wont say unlucky as it could have been much worse.
Comment by Joel | 08.17.2009 | 3:18 pm
I came back to comment after seeing the Bike Hugger post that linked here. I found the first two links in their piece of interest:
“Fat Cyclist Crashed out”
“Lance Won”
Hmmm, so did you crash, or decide to take (a far too literal) dive to let Lance have his podium moment?
(Maybe it’s been said, but I don’t have time to read all 209 comments.)
Comment by DuffBeer | 08.17.2009 | 3:48 pm
Fatty ,
I agree the fix was on ! You did a flop and landed perfectly between those boulders. So glad that the boulders were not hurt or were they. They did receive medical attention? Sure hope so . Lance or Wiens left the glasses there so they could be found. Fatty please consider using an avalanche transmitter from now on or do not pick such steep areas for your flights off the road.
Fatty shall ride again !!! go get um
Cheers DuffBeer
Comment by Andy F | 08.17.2009 | 5:58 pm
Elden,
I was lucky to meet you the day before when you came up to ask how my bud Charlie liked his fat cyclist “woolie”. I heard someone went over the edge on the pavement descent. I didn’t find out it was you till today. I am so sorry it happened but so happy you are OK. Leadville will be there next year for you, maybe we can ride some together next year. Happy trails.
Andy
Comment by sarah | 08.18.2009 | 2:13 am
i’m with jodi.
heal up quick; tell us about the bike when you get a chance.
allez, fatty.
Comment by JIMMY | 08.19.2009 | 1:38 pm
since you made it out alive, Oaks were ok
the next questions is
How is the bike?
Comment by aquaignis | 08.20.2009 | 11:38 pm
OOOWWWWWW! Looking at your travel path you took it could have been so much worse (ie.face planting on a tree or rock) Glad they found your oaks, great support team! Hope your using arnica gel for any bruising or sore muscles, great stuff! Now we know that you have recuperative powers…what about your bike?
Hope all is well and able to roll!
~lisa~