Overview of common mountain bike injuries

"Mountain biking is inherently risky and could result in injury or death." IMBA, https://www.imba.com/

1. From: "Pete Rissler" <peter_rissler@rissler.reno.nv.us>

Newsgroups: alt.mountain-bike

Subject: Re: Diskectomy/Laminectomy recovery anyone?

Date: Fri, 7 Jul 2006 14:39:48 -0700

<bruce.edge@gmail.com> wrote in message

news:1152291986.510124.100470@b28g2000cwb.googlegroups.com...

> No, disk, not dick....

> But seriously, anyone out there still riding after something like an

> L4/L5 diskectomy? I had one last September and can't seem to get back

> into riding. Every time I try, even going out super easy just on the

> road, it feels great for a week, then I start a slide back into

> painkillers and it keeps getting worse for weeks after I stop again.

> I was riding 4-5 times a week, probably around 10 hours a week. Then

> came the sore back on long climbes that kept getting worse. Next was

> the series of MRI's and epidural cortizone shots.

> I sold my coiler as it was getting too heavy for me. Plonked down the

> $$$$$$ for niota Ti frame. Even with a 24 lb rig I still couldn't cope.

> Last was the surgery. A "minimally invasive laminectomy", translation:

> "Maximally screwed up". I've spent almost a year doing PT and stupid

> recovery excersizes that don't feel like they do anything. My surgeon

> says, "Well, I would have expected faster recovery, but we (ME you rat

> bastard, not you) just have to wait..."

> I didn't think I was ready to make the transition from hard core mtber

> to fat old fart, but I guess we don't ever make that choice willingly.

> I got on a scale the other day. I though the effing thing was broken,

> 30 friggin pounds since I quit riding.

> -Bruce

> P.S.Niota Ti, barely used for sale....

About 5 years ago I fractured a lumbar vertebrae (crashed on the MTB) and

for the next two years my back hurt like shit whenever I rode. The pain got

so bad that I finally went to see a chiropractor. First thing he says is

you have one leg shorter than the other and then you have almost no

flexibility. He worked on me for a couple of weeks but it didn't help. I

finally went to see an orthopedist. I got an MRI and found out I had two

ruptured lumbar disks, these were not just herniated but as the Doc put it,

they were fully extruded. The extruded disks were laying on nerves, one on

each side. He says "no wonder your back hurts, I can't believe you can even

ride a bike" then he gave me some free prescription strength Viox, all I

can say is they sure did work and look no heart attack. Just an aside, he

wanted to make sure that there was no nerve damage, so he hooks me up to a

machine that sends a electrical current through my body. After flopping

around on the table a couple of times he hooks me up one more time and sends

another good jolt through and says "Huh, you're wired backwards, let's try

this again." Well I guess if you've been "wired" backwards your whole life

then "you're really not wired backwards" you adapt. Anyway after one

epidural (cortisone shot) and a shot of "I don't know what the hell it was

but it sure made me sick " and 3 months of physical therapy (hint: find one

at your local Universities Sports Complex, these guys deal with sports

injuries all the time, and if you can scheduled it during the women's track

team work out, mine had a view of the weight room, nothing like watching

sweaty women pumping iron to pass the time). At the end of 3 months my legs

were the same length. I was given a stretching routine to do twice a day

and was told to try some yoga. Now after 5 years my back still hurt after I

ride but not as much, in fact I'm used to it but extended hillclimbs can

put a good hurt on the back. So my advice is to do a lot of stretching,

find a good yoga class and try do things that will lessen the strain on your

back, i.e.. higher position on the bike, get out of the saddle every now and

then, stop and walk around. It's either that or as you found out become a

couch potato.

Pete

2. Date: Thu, 8 May 2008 14:08:52 -0700 (PDT)
From: Thayne Bolin <thaynebolin@yahoo.com>
Subject: Race for Tara Llanes

Hello, I was searching the internet for bay area mountain bike clubs and you showed up. Last September 1rst. Pro Downhill racer Tara Llanes was invoved in a career ending crash during the Jeep King of the Mountain series in Colorado. The crash has left her with no feeling from the waiste down. I got a bunch of local racers together as well as industry support and put on a benefit race at Sandhill Ranch in Brentwood last November. When I was at the Sea Otter this year the Giant bike people (Her sponsor) approached me about running another race. I am just now starting to contact anyone and everyone in the bike industry to make this one off the hook. Last year we raised about $7,000 that went direcly to Tara's road to recovery fund. She is pushing her limits everyday in an effort to not only walk again, but to get back on a bike. At this point she has some leg movement and is allready doing things the doctors told her she would never be able to do again. we are looking for volunteers to help with track prep,donations and getting the word out about this race. Last yaer we only had six weeks to pull it off and we did very well. We had support from Santa Cruz Bikes, giant, fox Shox, Fox Racing, WTB. Mtbr.com, Michellin, Kenda and huge support from Redbull. They all donated items for a raffle and we sold over $3,000 in tickets. All totaled, we accumulated about $15,000 worth of stuff including a fully built Superlite bike from Santa Cruz Bikes. I'm not sure how involved in the sport you are, but if you could help spread the word it would be greatly appreciated for sure. The race will be sometime early to mid October and we will be running a four cross event and we also have a dual slalom course and hope to run that as well. Feel free to contact me via this e-mail if you have questions. Best regards,
Thayne Bolin.

3. Injured bicyclist airlifted at Annadel

May 04, 2008

An injured mountain biker was airlifted by helicopter out of Annadel State Park on Saturday afternoon after he crashed on a trail.

The Sonoma County Sheriff's Department said it used the department rescue helicopter to locate the injured mountain biker, drop off a paramedic and then lift them both out of the woods using a long evacuation line.

The man was identified as Dan Kimble, 41, of Berkeley, who was being treated at Santa Rosa Memorial Hospital for serious injuries.

The man apparently crashed his bike on South Burma Trail, but emergency ground crews responding to a call for help had difficulty finding him in the thick trees and rolling hills.

The crew of the Sheriff's Department helicopter, Henry One, located the injured man in a remote area, but wasn't able to land. Officials said the paramedic was dropped off nearby and tended to the man's injuries while the flight officer prepared for a long-line evacuation.

Using the line and rescue basket, the injured man and paramedic were moved to a nearby field, where the helicopter landed and later airlifted the mountain biker to the hospital trauma center.

-- Bleys W. Rose

5. All I see is a game of "Russian Roulette" being played by "very lucky or very stupid" mountain bikers in these videos, while they rip through our fragile and natural places in BC:

http://www.injuryfreezone.com/

6. So much for "Take a Kid Mountain Biking Day"! Mountain biking is not an appropriate hobby for young people: too dangerous and expensive.

Mike

http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/uk_news/scotland/south_of_scotland/7655440.stm

Mountain biker critically injured

The teenager was seriously injured after falling from his bike

A 15-year-old boy has been critically injured in a mountain bike accident on a trail in south west Scotland.

The incident took place in Ae Forest in Dumfries and Galloway at about 1410 BST on Sunday.

The teenager - who is from outside the region - was initially assisted by a group of cyclists in the area.

He has now been taken to hospital in Edinburgh for treatment for a serious head injury and his condition has been described as "critical".

A police spokesman confirmed they had been called to the incident along with the ambulance service.

He said: "A 15-year-old boy from outwith the region was discovered to have fallen off his bicycle.

"The boy was with a group of other cyclists when the incident took place.

"The group assisted the boy until paramedics arrived at the scene."

Regularly inspected

The teenager was initially taken to Dumfries Infirmary but has since been transferred to Edinburgh.

Ae Forest is part of the 7stanes mountain bike trails across the south of Scotland.

It offers routes of varying difficulty from entry level to a steep, downhill course.

A spokesperson for Forestry Commission Scotland, which runs the trails, said it had been notified of the incident by police but its assistance had not been required.

"All FCS MTB trails have been subject to risk assessments and are fit for the purpose that they are marketed for," he said.

"They are also inspected monthly and maintenance is carried out as and when required.

"None of the trails in Ae have required any remedial work."

He added that the Forestry Commission always advised riders to check trail information on site and wear the appropriate protective equipment.

7. http://bb.nsmb.com/showthread.php?t=117171

Another spinal cord injury ...

Strange timing for the Wings of Life auction.

I haven't seen any mention of it here, but a rider was injured up in the interior a few weeks ago: slipped on a frosty ladder bridge and had a high cervical (neck) fracture, and is unfortunately paralyzed. The level is high enough that he is on a ventilator to breath. He was riding with buddies, and they kept him alive by breathing for him for 2 hours until he was rescued. It's early yet, and we can only hope he sees some recovery.

Be careful out there, everyone.

Always ride with a buddy.

Consider getting -- and using -- one of those braces, like the ones that the Wings of Life is auctioning off.

I've been riding with one of the Leatt braces this year, and have found it comfortable and don't find it gets in the way. The moto guys are using these a lot.

Why am I using one? I didn't find out about these until a week AFTER my son fractured his neck up on Boogie Man. Fortunately, he survived, and with the help of NSMBA and others, is doing well. Some of you know John.

Think about it. Costs a lot less than that next bike part you covet, and will potentially avert a devastating injury.

..Mike

8. Evolution in action! So much for the alleged "health benefits" of

mountain biking!

Mike

http://icdumfries.icnetwork.co.uk/tm_headline=biker-8217-s-sudden-death-at-loch-skerrow&method=full&objectid=22909131&siteid=77296-name_page.html

Biker’s sudden death at Loch Skerrow

Feb 12 2009

by Stuart Gillespie, Galloway News

A MOUNTAIN BIKER died after complaining of chest pains while on a trip

in the Stewartry recently. Fifty-four year old Iain Bell, of Dumfries,

died near Loch Skerrow on Sunday, February 1, while out cycling with a

couple of friends.

The group stopped at Loch Skerrow, which is near the old ‘Paddy’ line

between Mossdale and Gatehouse station, after the chain came off Mr

Bell’s bike at around 1.45pm, at which point he took unwell.

Due to the remoteness of the location, the Galloway Mountain Rescue

Team crew from Castle Douglas, and the helicopter from HMS Gannet at

Prestwick, were needed to help the ambulance crews and police get to

Mr Bell, but, unfortunately, he had died by the time they arrived.

There are no suspicious circumstances surrounding the death.

The Castle Douglas branch of the Galloway Mountain Rescue Team were

out again on Saturday when they, along with the police, were called

out to find two missing walkers. The pair had got lost between

Gatehouse station and Clatteringshaws and believed they were on the

Fell of Fleet. They were found by the police on a road near

Clatteringshaws in around an hour.

9. http://www.newsandstar.co.uk/news/mountain_biker_seriously_hurt_in_scotland_forest_crash_1_523575?referrerPath=home

Mountain biker seriously hurt in Scotland forest crash

Last updated 10:13, Saturday, 07 March 2009

A mountain bike enthusiast from Annan suffered serious head injuries

after being thrown from his bike in a forest in central Scotland.

Keith Bell, of Hecklegirth, thought to be in his early 20s, was flown

by air ambulance from the Carron Valley mountain bike trail to

Glasgow’s Southern General hospital where he is being treated for head

injuries.

Keith and his brother Chris where taking part in a 10.5km trail when

the accident happened.

Other cyclists and walkers rushed to help the injured man before an

ambulance arrived.

10. Yet ANOTHER Dead Mountain Biker

http://www.southportvisiter.co.uk/southport-news/southport-southport-news/2009/03/13/birkdale-man-40-dies-of-heart-attack-while-mountain-biking-101022-23132369/

Birkdale man, 40, dies of heart attack while mountain biking

Mar 13 2009 by Laura Jones, Southport Visiter

FAMILY and friends of Stephen Birkby, 40, who had a heart attack while

mountain biking said he died doing something he loved.

Stephen’s friend and colleague Peter Burke, said: “One of his friends

said to me if Stephen had to write his way out of this life it would

be on his bike, hill walking or sailing.

“He was fitter than all of us – it happened very quickly and he

wouldn’t have known anything about it.”

The 40-year-old was on a day out mountain biking with friends in Long

Mynd, Shropshire, on February 21 when he died.

Stephen, a former Our Lady of Lourdes and Christ the King pupil, was

an active sailor and biking enthusiast from Birkdale.

Parents Joanna and Michael, of Barrett Road, Birkdale, described their

son as “someone who loved life”.

Liz Akerstrom, his partner of nine years, met Stephen at Mason Owen,

where he worked as a partner of the property firm.

Liz said: “We spent more time together than the average couple, living

and working together but never tired of one another’s company and

never stopped laughing together, one of the things which drew us

together in the first place.

“He was funny, kind and loving, totally supportive and very

protective.

“I love him very much, miss him terribly and am lost without him.”

“Steve will also be missed greatly by my sons Sam and Tom to whom he

has been parent, inspiration and friend.

“The boys credit Steve with helping them to achieve as much as they

have so far and I am sure that his memory will continue to inspire

them in the future.”

Mrs Birkby said: “We’ve had so many lovely cards saying he was

friendly, principled, loved life and had a wonderful smile - it’s very

comforting to us.

“People liked Stephen and thought that he was a special person - he

had a real gift for friendship.

“He always wanted to live by the sea.

“He had been on sailing courses and often went out biking and sailing

with his brothers.”

Stephen leaves partner Liz, her two children, his parents Joanna and

Michael and brothers Andrew, Matthew and Nicholas.

11. Another dead mountain biker....

http://www.odt.co.nz/news/queenstown-lakes/47638/st-john-ambulance-services-fully-committed-over-weekend

St John ambulance services fully committed over weekend

Home » News » Queenstown Lakes

By Marjorie Cook on Mon, 16 Mar 2009

News: Queenstown Lakes

St John ambulance services at Queenstown and Wanaka were under pressure on Saturday attending emergency call-outs and covering major events involving tens of thousands of people.

Queenstown St John was called to three major incidents on Saturday afternoon:

•About 12.30pm at Wanaka, a 57-year-old female mountain biker broke her ankle in Sticky Forest, near Beacon Point.

•About 1.30pm near Frankton, a small Isuzu truck and motorcycle collided on a private road near Tuckers Beach Rd, causing serious facial injuries to the 19-year-old male motorcyclist (police inquiries are continuing).

•Later in the afternoon, Jacob Schriek (55), of Riversdale, died of a heart attack participating in the Motatapu Icebreaker mountain-bike ride between Wanaka and Arrowtown.

The woman mountain biker at Wanaka had her accident in a place that could not be reached by a vehicle.

She was carried about 30m on a stretcher by volunteers, mountain bikers and ambulance staff to the Lake District Air Rescue Trust helicopter and flown to Dunedin Hospital for further treatment.

St John district operations manager Peter Graylands said while the Queenstown paramedic attended to the Wanaka mountain biker, a Queenstown road ambulance crew was sent to the Frankton accident, where the patient was "status two".

He was transferred to Lakes District Hospital to be stabilised before the Otago Regional Rescue Helicopter from Dunedin arrived to transfer the patient to Dunedin Hospital, Mr Graylands said.

The Motatapu death was dealt with by medics associated with the event and by the time St John staff received information, their presence was not required.

Wanaka police later flew to the scene to deal with matters on behalf of the coroner.

Mr Graylands praised the efforts of his crews throughout Central Otago and Queenstown Lakes district this weekend.

Two Wanaka crews were kept busy transferring patients to Dunstan Hospital on Saturday, while another volunteer crew was at the Upper Clutha A&P Show.

Queenstown crews were busy at the New Zealand Golf Open and the Cromwell ambulance crew was busy providing back up to Wanaka, Mr Graylands said.

"It was just one of those days. I didn't finish work myself until 10pm. All our crews were fully committed," he said.

He would not be able to provide a tally of jobs performed this weekend until today or tomorrow but confirmed the crews attended multiple incidents as well as treating many minor injuries at the golf and the A&P show.

"My crews did a good job on a very, very hot day. It was just one of those days, and we relied very heavily on our volunteers. We were fully stretched," Mr Graylands said.

12. Another dead mountain biker....

http://www.uppermichiganssource.com/news/news_story.aspx?id=316349

Details released on mountain bike fatality
Forty-one-year-old Margaret Hahr of Munising died in the incident.
Tuesday, June 23, 2009 at 12:47 p.m.

MARQUETTE TOWNSHIP -- We have an update on the mountain bike crash Monday, in which a woman died.

State Police have released the names of those involved. Forty-one-year-old Margaret Hahr of Munising died in the incident.

Hahr and 39-year-old Sidney Shaw, also of Munising, were riding their mountain bikes on a Marquette Township trail, west of the railroad tracks on County Road 550 when the accident happened.

Shaw told police Hahr was behind him on the trail, when she fell and was unconscious on the ground. He called police for help.

Hahr was taken to MGH where she was pronounced dead as a result of her injuries.

The cause and circumstances surrounding the crash are still under review.

13. Mountain Biker Breaks His Neck

So much for the safe, family sport....

Mike

http://www.dgstandard.co.uk/dumfries-news/local-news-dumfries/local-news-annandale-eskdale/2009/06/24/doctors-miss-broken-neck-in-mountain-bike-fall-man-51311-23957967/

Doctors miss broken neck in mountain bike fall man

Jun 24 2009 by Iain Pollock, Dumfries Standard Wednesday

A LOCKERBIE man was released from hospital after a horrific mountain biking accident, despite having the classic symptoms of a broken neck.

Andrew Stevenson, 37, was injured during a day out with pals at the Scratchmere trail near Penrith in Cumbria.

He was catapulted over the handlebars of his bike and landed on his head with a sickening thud.

His wife Debbie told the Standard: He took the full impact on his head and heard his neck crunch. Immediately his whole body was pins and needles.

He had a full face helmet on and his friends had to clean soil from his face. They made sure he was totally immobilised and called the ambulance.

Medics put Andrew on a back board and fitted a head collar before bringing in an air ambulance to transport him to the Newcastle General Hospital.

The father of two was given a CT scan but released from the hospital the same day.

Debbie, who works for the NHS in Dumfries, added: Because he was getting out we thought he was okay.

I even pulled a jumper over his head because they had cut all his clothes off apart from his cycling shorts. I just assumed he had a trapped nerve that was making his hands nippy because they told me he had a CT scan and there were no breaks.

Andrew, who works as a community policeman in Moffat, was in such pain that he went to the accident and emergency department at Dumfries Infirmary the next day.

He had an MRI scan which identified a prolapsed disc putting pressure on his spinal cord, but doctors suspected there was more severe damage masked by swelling.

They said he had the classic symptoms of a broken neck, Debbie added.

Andrew was taken by ambulance to the spinal injuries unit at the Southern General Hospital in Glasgow last Tuesday ... three days after the accident on June 13.

He has been immobilised on a bed since as doctors wait for his condition to improve.

Debbie said: The doctors have no doubt that its broken but because of the swelling they cannot see it. He is due to have another scan on Monday when they will decide what to do. He could be released with a neck brace or they may need to operate.

In March the Standard revealed that Laurieston weather consultant Geoff Monk walked about for a month with a broken neck after a fall. He was also taken to the Southern General Hospital for treatment when the extent of his true injuries was realised.

14. ANOTHER Dead Mountain Biker....

http://www.bcbikerace.com/Media/Blog/

Monday, June 22, 2009

A BC Bike Race Champion and Great Guy Down

Brian Johnson was on a mountain bike ride last week - the regular “Wednesday night ride” in Invermere, BC - and, sadly, did not make it home.

It was his last ride.

Drew Bragg, one of Brian's good friends in Invermere, and one of the BC Bike Race family as our MC and voice of BCBR, phoned me last Thursday to tell me the sad news.

The guys on the regular Wednesday night ride, a very tight group of guys in a smallish town in the East Kootenays who've been getting together every week for many years, found Brian on the ground beside his bike, apparently in the process of fixing his chain. They are not sure what caused his death.

15. "Everson man dies in Colo. mountain biking accident"

http://www.lyndentribune.com/node/4637

Submitted by the Tribune on July 15, 2009 - 7:54am. News

TELLURIDE, Colo. An Everson man died Saturday in an accident while mountain biking in the Telluride Ski Area.
Rittner Ritt Lewis, 51, was biking down a steep hill along a popular trail when he hit a rock or bump and flipped his bicycle, said San Miguel County coroner Bob Dempsey.
Lewis broke his neck but was killed by the head trauma he suffered even though he wore a helmet, Dempsey said.
Lewis, a widower who owned Bellingham-based Stone & Clay, leaves behind children.
Ritts wife, Karen, passed away in January 2008 after a long battle with cancer, according to the company Web site.
Mark Reimers

16. 15-year-old Has Serious Mountain Biking Accident

http://www.skyhidailynews.com/article/20090719/NEWS/907199990/1079&ParentProfile=1067

Summer a busy time for ambulance crews

By Tonya Bina
SKY-HI DAILY NEWS
Grand County, Colorado

Grand County's Emergency Medical Services have been kept busy with calls this summer some days compounded more than others.

On Wednesday, emergency responders experienced four calls nearly simultaneously one at Rocky Mountain National Park and three in other areas of the county, according to EMS Director Ray Jennings. The day also brought emergency transfers to Denver and at least two 911 calls.

On Thursday, EMS was busy again, with one transport to Kremmling Memorial Hospital for a Flight For Life pick-up, another to Granby Medical Center for a Flight For Life.

A 15 year old extreme mountain biker practicing for the USA Cycling Mountain Bike National Championships at SolVista Basin last weekend suffered a cervical neck injury when he flipped his bike, according to the Granby Police Department.

Two other competitors experienced less severe injuries on Thursday, requiring medical transports to Granby Medical.

Also Thursday, there was a chance that a multi-car accident on County Road 10 had caused injury to seven victims. Upon arrival, EMS learned that no one had been hurt.

There were three other emergency calls during the day, another three transports out of the county, and that night, Grand County EMS had two emergency transports to Denver, one at 1:30 a.m. and another at 5:30 a.m.

Summertime, it's that way, said Jennings, saying Wednesday's and Thursday's activity volume was typical for Grand County in July.

EMS generally runs 10 to 15 calls a day, he said.

Our population increases tremendously, with people spread out all over the county from the backcountry to the resort. It goes to show the dedication of our staff to take care of the community.

The county has the capability to run eight ambulances during the height of winter and summer. The entire EMS staff, he said, is qualified to attend emergencies, creating a department that can expand and contract with the needs of the community. Everybody on staff has an EMS certification from EMT all the way to Paramedics, Jennings said. It allows us flexibility to run multiple calls simultaneously.

- Tonya Bina can be reached at 970-887-3334 ext. 19603 or e-mail tbina@skyhidailynews.com.

17. ANOTHER Dead Mountain Biker! So much for the alleged "health benefits" of mountain biking....

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/europe/france/5955043/Holiday-Briton-60-dies-after-300ft-fall-from-bike-track-in-French-Alps.html

Holiday Briton, 60, dies after 300ft fall from bike track in French Alps

A sixty-year-old British man has fallen more than 300 feet to his death while mountain biking in the French Alps on a camping holiday with nine friends.

By Alexandra Williams in Chamonix
Published: 12:36PM BST 01 Aug 2009
The fall occured near Chamonix-Mt-Blanc, one of the world's most popular mountaineering areas
The body of the man, from Brighton, was discovered on Friday afternoon by police in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc.

He hired a bike on Friday morning and went for a ride alone along the Balcon Nord track, a popular mountain biking and walking trail.

Hikers discovered his bike impaled on a tree just below the track and alerted police.

A search by helicopter located the man's body 330 feet below the track.

A spokesman for the Mountain Police in Chamonix said: We do not know why the man fell. We are waiting for the results of a post mortem.

The man hit several trees and fell a considerable distance 100 metres. It is very steep in this section.

We believe he was on his own. He was on holiday with friends but he was the only one who went biking that day. There are no witnesses to his fall.

The Balcon Nord is a popular route and technically it is not too difficult.

18. ANOTHER Dead Mountain Biker!

But he was doing what he loved to do. That makes it okay? "This is the third death on a bike in the area in less than a month."

Mike

http://www.telluridenews.com/articles/2009/08/05/news/doc4a78fbcd13539554804810.txt

ON THE MOUNTAIN
Mountain biker dies of heart attack

Dr. Alexis Shelokov, 55, had home in Telluride

By REILLY CAPPS
Writer

Published: Wednesday, August 5, 2009 5:19 AM CDT
A doctor who worked to set crooked spines straight died of an apparent heart attack while riding his mountain bike on Prospect Trail Monday afternoon.

Alexis Shelokov, 55, lived in Plano, Texas, most of the year, but had a house in Bachman Village. He was an orthopedic surgeon and the medical director of the Baylor Scoliosis Center in Plano.

Shelokov leaves behind his wife, Georgiana, who is a radiologist, and two children: a boy aged 13 and a girl aged 11, reported San Miguel County coroner Bob Dempsey.

Shelokov had already been to Telluride three times this summer, said his friend Ed Roufa, mostly to mountain bike, which he loved.

It was a horrible accident, said Roufa, but he was doing what he loved to do.

Ed Roufa was with Shelokov when he died. They had ridden the Prospect Trail almost to the bottom, and Shelokov was ecstatic.

I cant tell you the exclamations we were using as we were doing the downhill, Roufa said. Then Shelokov suffered his attack.

EMTs arrived within minutes, Roufa said, but were unable to revive Shelokov.

Valley Lawn Funeral Home is handling the arrangements.

This is the third death on a bike in the area in less than a month. A visitor from Washington state died after a solo crash on Telluride Trail July 12, and local Captain Jack Carey died July 17 while road biking on Lizard Head Pass.

Shelokov grew up in Glenwood Springs, Roufa said, an avid skier and ice climber. He got his medical degree from the University of Texas Health Sciences Center in 1982. He had owned a home in Telluride for at least 12 years, Roufa said.

Shelokov straightened out the spines of adults and children with scoliosis, the malady of a crooked, S-shaped spinal column, and he received some raves from former patients on scoliosis.org and vitals.com, where doctors are rated.

I love him, wrote one woman.

Wrote another patient: I have never met anyone so attentive, caring, compassionate and very professional and honest at the same time.

In an interview on Ivanhoe.com, Shelokov talked about how patients with scoliosis would confide to him that they felt different, they felt deformed.

There are times that I describe my practice as one of being a psychiatrist with a knife, Shelokov said. Its an odd way to put it, but any time youre doing a procedure that changes the way a person looks physically and the way they feel physically, you cant do that effectively without dealing with the patient emotionally, dealing with them as a person rather than just a collection of bones.

He said he was working to correct the misperception that theres nothing to be done for adults with scoliosis. He told them: You can be made straight. A man who loved to ride his bike, Shelokov even helped a woman get on one. An online story from Baylor tells about a woman whose scoliosis got progressively worse as she grew older. Then, at age 31, she met with Shelokov, who told her there was help. After surgeons at Baylor fused five vertebrae in her lower back, she went out and bought a mountain bike. And now that Ive tried it, she said, Ive fallen in love with the sport.

It seems fitting that Shelokov would find a way to help other people get into the sport he loved.

He was the essence of Telluride, Roufa said. A great friend and a great rider.

E-mail: reilly@telluridedailyplanet.com. Phone: 728-9788 ext. 11.

19. ANOTHER Dead Mountain Biker!

There seems to be a pattern here....

Mike

http://www.deseretnews.com/article/1,5143,705305265,00.html

Man dies along southern Utah bike trail

Published: Tuesday, May 19, 2009 4:31 p.m. MDT

Authorities are investigating a man's death along a popular mountain-biking trail in Washington County.

Sheriff's deputies said it happened in the Little Creek area, where Joseph Manning, 40, of Avendale, Pa., had been mountain biking with friends when he became separated from them.

"He was later found by his friends near a pool of water. His friends started CPR on him until assistance arrived," Washington County Sheriff's Chief Deputy Rob Tersigni said Tuesday. "Medical personnel took over but were unable to revive him."

Manning's body has been sent to the state medical examiner for an autopsy, but Tersigni said there were no obvious signs of foul play. Temperatures in the area were nearly 100 degrees, prompting the Washington County Sheriff's Office to warn anyone hiking or biking in Utah's red-rock country to be prepared.

"With any type of activity, your body can overheat quickly, causing you to go into distress," Tersigni said.

Ben Winslow

20. ANOTHER Dead Mountain Biker....

http://www.velonews.com/article/92239/pro-racer-steve-larsen-dies-of-heart-attack-during-running

Retired racer Steve Larsen dies after collapsing during running workout

By Steve Frothingham
Published: May. 20, 2009

Steve Larsen, probably the only professional who competed and won major races as a mountain biker, road biker and triathlete, died Tuesday evening after collapsing during a running workout.

Larsen was 39 and he and his wife Carrie Larsen have five children.

"He was doing a track workout and he collapsed. They did CPR immediately and an ambulance arrived quickly, but they weren't able to save him," his friend Michael Nyberg told VeloNews

Another friend of the family confirmed Larsen's death, saying that an autopsy is pending, but that he apparently suffered a heart attack.

Larsen began racing in the 1980s and was on the Motorola team for three years in the early 1990s, racing the Giro d'Italia and other major European events. He then moved into mountain biking, winning the NORBA National Cross-Country title in 1997 and 2000.

In 2001, he switched to triathlon, qualifying for the Ironman in his first year in the sport, and finishing ninth at the Hawaii event. He also competed in XTerra offroad triathlons. He was reportedly the only American to compete in the world championships for road, mountain bike, track, cyclocross and triathlon. He was a member of the 1993 U.S. world road championship team that helped Lance Armstrong win his first world title.

Larsen at the 2003 Tour de Georgia
Photo: Casey B. Gibson

Larsen grew up near Davis, California. For several years he operated a bike and triathlon shop there, called Steve Larsen's Wheelworks. He retired from professional racing in 2003 and opened a real estate agency in Bend, Oregon.

He still competed in triathlons for fun, finishing 70th at the 2008 Ironman World Championships with a time of 9:19:25.

21. Another Death Caused by Mountain Biking

http://www.nzherald.co.nz/section/1/story.cfm?c_id=1&objectid=10513114:

Boy killed in crash loved his bike
5:00AM Thursday May 29, 2008

Doctors told Frazer McKinlay-Storey's family that he had suffered the worst neck injury they had ever seen. Photo / BOP Times
As teenager Frazer McKinlay-Storey was about to slip into unconsciousness, he managed to utter four words to his mother: "I love you, Mum."

Frazer drifted off, on board a helicopter heading to Auckland's Starship hospital. He didn't wake, and died two days later. He was just 13.

Last Thursday, about 4.15pm, a mountain-biking accident at the Tauranga BMX Club track at Sulphur Pt left him with a shattered neck.

The Tauranga Boys College student, who lived in Matua and had a passion for mountain biking, fell and hit the ground at such an angle that his neck shattered on impact.

"It wasn't a stunt or a jump ... it was just a berm that he was riding around and didn't realise there was a drop off on one side," Frazer's stepfather, Ross Bond, said yesterday. Frazer was to visit his father in Auckland the next day and was having a last blast around the track.

He was equipped with a brand-new crash helmet, but no protective gear could have saved him, Mr Bond said.

After the fall, a friend of his ran to get help and dialled 111. St John Ambulance staff arrived shortly afterwards.

Frazer was conscious for 12 hours after the accident.

"The doctors there were saying it was the worst neck injury they've seen on anyone because most people who have had that sort of accident would have been killed outright. So for him to have been conscious for 12 hours was quite something," Mr Bond said.

Frazer's condition deteriorated on Friday _ his mother Charlotte McKinlay's birthday _ and he was put on a ventilator before being prepared for the trip to the Starship. He spoke to his mother before being sedated for the 5pm flight. "The last thing he said was, `I love you, Mum'. He never woke up," Mr Bond said.

At Starship, an MRI scan showed the severity of his injuries and Frazer passed away peacefully on Sunday.

The family are devastated. "We're getting through it all, ups and downs," Mr Bond said.

Frazer's passion for mountain biking was ignited when he bought a bike at the beginning of the school year, his first at Tauranga Boys College. It was the first he'd bought out of his own pocket.

"He lived for it. He'd come in and have breakfast wearing his helmet," Mr Bond said. "Anywhere he wanted to go ... we had to dismantle his bike and put it in the car to take it with us."

Mr Bond said Frazer would be remembered as "a complete joker, bubbly, outgoing and very generous."

"[He was] an absolute gem to be around, wise beyond his years. He was a really good kid."

Tauranga Boys College Principal Robert Mangan said Frazer had been making good progress and had just been moved up a class. "Our thoughts and condolences are with the family in what is a very tragic accident."

Tauranga BMX Club President Ash Rawson said the next club meeting on the track would be in Frazer's honour.

Frazer's funeral will be in Auckland at Romaleigh Funeral Home, 31 Oceanview Rd, Northcote at midday tomorrow.

- NZPA

22. ANOTHER Dead Mountain Biker!

Evolution in action....

Mike

http://austriantimes.at/news/General_News/2009-08-07/15364/German_mountainbiker_dies_in_Tyrol

German mountainbiker dies in Tyrol

By David Rogers

A German man died from a heart-attack yesterday (Thurs) as he cycled in the Tyrol.

The 58-year-olds wife who was with him at the time said he keeled over as they rode from Mittenwald, Bavaria, into Austria to cycle to the Karwendel Haus near Scharnitz.

An emergency doctor called out by the woman said he had died immediately.

23. http://www.philly.com/philly/wires/ap/news/state/pennsylvania/20090824_ap_mainemankilledinwpamountainbikecrash.html

Maine man killed in W. Pa. mountain bike crash

The Associated Press

BEAVER, Pa. - Police believe a Maine man was killed when his mountain bike crashed on a steep hill in western Pennsylvania.

Brighton Township police Chief Howard Blinn says a jogger found the body of 44-year-old Robert Anderson about 3:15 p.m. Sunday.

The chief says it appears Anderson, of Long Island, Maine, was thrown from his bike and hit his head on a rock a Brady's Run Park.

Blinn says Anderson was in the area visiting his mother, who was watching his 6-year-old daughter when he was killed.

Brady's Run is owned by Beaver County and is about 25 miles northwest of Pittsburgh.

,,,

Information from: Beaver County Times, http://www.timesonline.com/

24. http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/uk_news/scotland/south_of_scotland/8218546.stm

Mountain biker seriously injured

The injured man was airlifted to hospital from the Dalbeattie forest trail to Dumfries and Galloway Royal Infirmary

A mountain biker has been airlifted to hospital after crashing on a trail in the south west of Scotland.

The accident occurred on the 7Stanes route at Dalbeattie Forest in Dumfries and Galloway at about 1100 BST.

Friends treated the man - who had serious head and neck injuries - before emergency services arrived.

Due to the difficulty in accessing the area by road a Royal Navy Sea King helicopter was scrambled to take the injured man to Dumfries Infirmary.

A Scottish Ambulance Services spokesman said: "The place where the accident took place was deep in the forest near Kippford Caravan Site.

"Our ambulance was not able to negotiate the rough tracks and to speed up the rescue operation we called in a Sea King helicopter as our own air ambulance was on another call at the time."

The injured man has not been identified.

The Dalbeattie mountain bike trail is one of seven linked tracks operated across the south of Scotland.

25. http://www.thisislancashire.co.uk/news/4561237.Mountain_biker_hurt_in_fall_at_Moses_Gate_Country_Park/

Mountain biker hurt in fall at Moses Gate Country Park

8:47am Monday 24th August 2009

RESCUE teams were called to a Bolton park after a mountain biker suffered a serious leg fracture.

The 38-year-old rider had been out with his brother and a friend in Moses Gate Country Park, Farnworth.

He had fallen from his bike and damaged his leg. Crews from the North West Ambulance Service were called out.

Paramedics splintered his leg and waited for the arrival of a Bolton Mountain Rescue response crew.

He was put on a stretcher and carried around half-a-mile to an ambulance, which had parked behind the Rock Hall information centre after struggling to get into the park due to a height restriction barrier.

A squad of 13 members of Bolton Mountain Rescue went to the park at 10.40am yesterday, using two Land Rover Mountain Rescue ambulances.

Team member Dave Marsh took one of the mountain bikers and the three bikes to the home of one of the bikers friends in Clifton.

The injured rider, from Swinton, was taken to hospital at 11.30am accompanied by his brother.

Team leader Garry Rhodes said: His leg was seriously fractured and we were called to help ambulance crews gain access to the site and to assist in the mans evacuation by stretcher.

The mountain rescue crew was also called to Winter Hill following reports at 11.42am yesterday of a 35-year-old walker having sustained a suspected dislocated shoulder in a fall.

The man managed to walk to the ambulance without assistance, however, and the mountain rescue services were not needed.

26. http://www.swissinfo.ch/eng/news_digest/McDonald_s_executive_dies_in_bike_plunge.html?siteSect=104&sid=11117777&cKey=1251106736000&ty=nd

McDonald's executive dies in bike plunge

The managing director of McDonald's Switzerland has been killed in a mountain bike accident in the Swiss Alps.

Martin Knoll, a 51 year-old Austrian, was touring in a group when he lost his balance and plunged about 50 metres in the Engstlenalp area near Innertkirchen in canton Bern, the company's website announced on Sunday.

His body had to be recovered by helicopter after the accident, which occurred on Friday.

The area of the accident is popular with mountain bikers but police describe it as "challenging". On the exposed stretch where Knoll fell, notices advise bikers to dismount.

Knoll had been with McDonald's since 1993 and headed the business in Switzerland and Liechtenstein since 2003.

27. http://www.thisislancashire.co.uk/news/4561237.Mountain_biker_hurt_in_fall_at_Moses_Gate_Country_Park/

Mountain biker hurt in fall at Moses Gate Country Park

28. http://radiology.rsna.org/content/219/2/427.abstract

US Findings in the Scrotum of Extreme Mountain Bikers1

+ Author Affiliations

¹From the Departments of Radiology II (F.F., A.K., G.H., B.A., D.z.N.) and Urology (A.S.), University Hospital Innsbruck, Austria. From the 1999 RSNA scientific assembly. Received June 21, 2000; revision requested July 28; revision received September 5; accepted October 2. Address correspondence to F.F., Department of Radiology, Division of Diagnostic Ultrasound, Thomas Jefferson University, 132 S 10th St, Main Bldg, Seventh Fl, Philadelphia, PA 19107-5244 (e-mail: ferdinand.frauscher@uibk.ac.at).

Abstract

PURPOSE: To sonographically investigate whether mountain bikers have a higher prevalence of scrotal abnormalities compared with that in nonbikers.

MATERIALS AND METHODS: Eighty-five male mountain bikers (mean age, 25 years; age range, 1745 years) and 31 healthy nonbikers (mean age, 24 years; age range, 1537 years) were examined for scrotal findings at ultrasonography (US). Only male subjects with a history of extensive off-road biking ( 2 h/d 6 d/wk; covered distance, >5,000 km/y) were assigned to the group of mountain bikers, whereas the control group did not engage in bicycling. In addition to clinical evaluation, US examination of the scrotum was performed by using a linear-array transducer operating at a frequency of 8.0 MHz.

RESULTS: Eighty (94%) mountain bikers had abnormal findings at scrotal US. Thirty-nine (46%) had a history of intermittent scrotal tenderness or discomfort but no severe scrotal trauma. Abnormal findings at US included scrotal calculi in 69 (81%), epididymal cysts in 39 (46%), epididymal calcifications in 34 (40%), testicular calcifications in 27 (32%), hydroceles in 24 (28%), varicoceles in nine (11%), and testicular microlithiasis in one (1%). In the control group, abnormal findings were noted in five (16%), all of whom had epididymal cysts. The overall difference in the number of scrotal abnormalities in bikers compared with the number in nonbikers was significant (P < .0001, ² test).

CONCLUSION: US shows a significantly higher prevalence of extratesticular and testicular disorders in these mountain bikers compared with nonbikers.

29. Acute injuries from mountain biking.
T K Chow, M D Bracker, and K Patrick
Department of Emergency Medicine, Loma Linda University Medical Center, CA 92354.
See commentary "More on mountain biking." on page 708.
This article has been cited by other articles in PMC.
Abstract
We questioned members of 2 southern California off-road bicycling organizations about injuries associated with the use of all-terrain bicycles. Cyclists were asked about riding and safety habits, the kind(s) of injury sustained with their most recent accident and whether they sought medical treatment, and the circumstances of the accident. Of 459 mailed surveys, 268 (58.4%) were returned. Respondents (82.8% of whom were male) ranged in age from 14 to 68 years. Of these, 225 (84%) had been injured while riding all-terrain bicycles, 51% in the past year. Although most injuries were characterized as minor, 26% required professional medical care, and 4.4% of those injured were admitted to hospital. Extremity injuries--abrasions, lacerations, contusions--occurred in 201 (90%) cyclists with 27 (12%) sustaining a fracture or dislocation. High levels of helmet use (88%) may explain the low occurrence of head and neck trauma (12%). Frequent riding and riding on paved terrain were associated with increased severity of injury, although most accidents--197 (87.6%)--occurred off paved roads. These results suggest that, compared with regular bicyclists, all-terrain cyclists have more, but not necessarily more severe, injuries. Clinicians and emergency medical personnel should be aware that the increasing popularity of off-road cycling may change the frequency and nature of bicycling injuries.
Full text
Full text is available as a scanned copy of the original print version. Get a printable copy (PDF file) of the complete article (689K), or click on a page image below to browse page by page. Links to PubMed are also available for Selected References.

145
146
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148

Selected References
These references are in PubMed. This may not be the complete list of references from this article.

Cushman R, Down J, MacMillan N, Waclawik H. Bicycle-related injuries: a survey in a pediatric emergency department. CMAJ. 1990 Jul 15;143(2):108112. [PubMed]
O'Rourke NA, Costello F, Yelland JD, Stuart GG. Head injuries to children riding bicycles. Med J Aust. 1987 Jun 15;146(12):619621. [PubMed]
Sgaglione NA, Suljaga-Petchel K, Frankel VH. Bicycle-related accidents and injuries in a population of urban cyclists. Bull Hosp Jt Dis Orthop Inst. 1982 Spring;42(1):8091. [PubMed]
Tucci JJ, Barone JE. A study of urban bicycling accidents. Am J Sports Med. 1988 MarApr;16(2):181184. [PubMed]
Kraus JF, Fife D, Conroy C. Incidence, severity, and outcomes of brain injuries involving bicycles. Am J Public Health. 1987 Jan;77(1):7678. [PubMed]
Belongia E, Weiss H, Bowman M, Rattanassiri P. Severity and types of head trauma among adult bicycle riders. Wis Med J. 1988 Jan;87(1):1114. [PubMed]
Wasserman RC, Buccini RV. Helmet protection from head injuries among recreational bicyclists. Am J Sports Med. 1990 JanFeb;18(1):9697. [PubMed]
Wasserman RC, Waller JA, Monty MJ, Emery AB, Robinson DR. Bicyclists, helmets and head injuries: a rider-based study of helmet use and effectiveness. Am J Public Health. 1988 Sep;78(9):12201221. [PubMed]
Thompson RS, Rivara FP, Thompson DC. A case-control study of the effectiveness of bicycle safety helmets. N Engl J Med. 1989 May 25;320(21):13611367. [PubMed]
DiGuiseppi CG, Rivara FP, Koepsell TD, Polissar L. Bicycle helmet use by children. Evaluation of a community-wide helmet campaign. JAMA. 1989 Oct 27;262(16):22562261. [PubMed]
Worrell J. BMX bicycles: accident comparison with other models. Arch Emerg Med. 1985 Dec;2(4):209213. [PubMed]
Guichon DM, Myles ST. Bicycle injuries: one-year sample in Calgary. J Trauma. 1975 Jun;15(6):504506. [PubMed]
Fife D, Davis J, Tate L, Wells JK, Mohan D, Williams A. Fatal injuries to bicyclists: the experience of Dade County, Florida. J Trauma. 1983 Aug;23(8):745755. [PubMed]
Kruse DL, McBeath AA. Bicycle accidents and injuries. A random survey of a college population. Am J Sports Med. 1980 SepOct;8(5):342344. [PubMed]
Kiburz D, Jacobs R, Reckling F, Mason J. Bicycle accidents and injuries among adult cyclists. Am J Sports Med. 1986 SepOct;14(5):416419. [PubMed]
Maring W, van Schagen I. Age dependence of attitudes and knowledge in cyclists. Accid Anal Prev. 1990 Apr;22(2):127136. [PubMed]
Fullerton L, Becker T. Moving targets: bicycle-related injuries and helmet use among university students. J Am Coll Health. 1991 Mar;39(5):213217. [PubMed]

30. http://bjsm.bmj.com/cgi/content/abstract/35/3/197

British Journal of Sports Medicine 2001;35:197-199; doi:10.1136/bjsm.35.3.197

Short report

Mountain biking injuries in rural England

L M Jeys¹, G Cribb¹, A D Toms¹, S M Hay¹

¹ Trauma Unit, Orthopaedic Surgery Department, Royal Shrewsbury Hospital, Mytton Oak Road, Shrewsbury, UK

Correspondence to:
Correspondence to: Dr Jeys, 27 Newton Park Road, West Kirby, Wirral CH48 9XE, UK lee.jeys@btclick.com
Abstract

BackgroundOff road mountain biking is now an extremelypopular recreation and a potent cause of serious injury.AimTo establish the morbidity associated with this sport.MethodsData were collected prospectively over one yearon all patients presenting with an injury caused by either recreationalor competitive off road mountain biking.ResultsEighty four patients were identified, 70 malesand 14 females, with a mean age of 22.5 years (range 871).Most accidents occurred during the summer months, most commonlyin August. Each patient had an average of 1.6 injuries (n =133) and these were divided into 15 categories, ranging fromminor soft tissue to potentially life threatening. Operativeintervention was indicated for 19 patients (23%) and severalrequired multiple procedures. The commonest injuries were claviclefractures (13%), shoulder injuries (12%), and distal radialfractures (11%). However, of a more sinister nature, one patienthad a C2/3 dislocation requiring urgent stabilisation, one requireda chest drain for a haemopneumothorax, and another requiredan emergency and life saving nephrectomy.ConclusionThis sport has recently experienced an explosionin popularity, and, as it carries a significant risk of potentiallylife threatening injury across all levels of participation,the use of protective equipment to reduce this significant morbiditymay be advisable.

^31.http://www.tri-cityherald.com/945/story/697496.html

FATAL: Yakima man dies in mountain biking mishap

Herald staff

YAKIMA A Yakima man died today after he apparently lost control of his mountain bicycle while descending a steep hill and was thrown from the bike, Yakima County authorities said.

The body of the 42-year-old man was found in a small canyon north of the Terrace Heights area around 1:30 p.m., not long after he was reported by his family to be three hours overdue from his ride, the Yakima County Sheriffs Office said.

His body was spotted by an acquaintance, authorities said. The victim was wearing a helmet and gloves, the sheriffs office said.

The Yakima County Coroner's Office plans an autopsy to determine the cause of death. The mans name was not released.

32. http://www.exmouthherald.co.uk/exmouthherald/news/story.aspx?brand=EXJOnline&category=news&tBrand=devon24&tCategory=newsexh&itemid=DEED01%20Sep%202009%2013%3A29%3A39%3A073

Mountainbiker rescued after serious fall on Lympstone Common

devon.editorial@archant.co.uk
01 September 2009

A MOUNTAIN bike enthusiast was left with two broken wrists after falling in a crater on Lympstone Common.

Exmouth firefighters were on Monday afternoon called to woods near Pines Ridge car park to help move the injured man to a waiting ambulance.

Onlookers said the man had been riding his mountain bike up a steep ridge of earth when it flipped over, sending him over the handlebars onto his outstretched arms.

33. Another Mountain Biker in a Coma

Meanwhile, the "fun" sport of mountain biking continues unabated....

Mike

Date: Fri, 4 Sep 2009 11:47:04 -0700
Subject: [BTCEB Info] Gala Ride 9/12 ; Adriana's Crash
From: Cyril Manning <cyrilmanning@gmail.com>
To: btceb@googlegroups.com
List-Unsubscribe: <http://googlegroups.com/group/btceb/subscribe>

Gala Ride -- NEXT SATURDAY, SEPT 12 on Mt. Tam

The next Gala ride is September 12 at Mt Tam.
Join us for our monthly group ride at 9:30 am the 2nd Saturday of
every month for a casually paced social group ride at one of the many
great parks in the east bay. This no-drop ride is always fun for all
levels!
Meet at Mill Valley Plaza, 87 Throckmorton Ave, Mill Valley ~ 9 a.m.
We ride at 9:30!

Note that Mt. Tam is where a much loved member of our community,
Adriana Ospina, had a terrible crash last weekend, putting her in a
coma. We will certainly ride with Adriana in our thoughts, and anyone
who wants to help her and her family with the huge burden this tragedy
is sure to have can bring cash or check donations for the trust that
has been set up for her.

----------------------------------

Check out our blog lately?
http://btceb.org/blog/

Are you a fan yet?
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Bicycle-Trails-Council-of-the-East-Bay/126341979240

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34. Bike accident means Edison principal Chuck Tansey will miss school opening

http://www.mlive.com/news/kalamazoo/index.ssf/2009/09/bike_accident_means_edison_pri.html

Bike accident means Edison principal Chuck Tansey will miss school opening

by Rex Hall Jr. / Kalamazoo Gazette
Saturday September 05, 2009, 12:10 PM

KALAMAZOO -- While students at Kalamazoo's Edison Environmental Science Academy will return from summer vacation on Tuesday, their principal won't be able to join them until at least two days later.

That's because Chuck Tansey, 36, is recuperating at his Kalamazoo home from a broken right wrist he suffered Aug. 23 when he crashed his mountain bike during a race at Fort Custer. Since then, Tansey said he's been through three surgeries at Bronson Methodist Hospital and was hospitalized for two days this week when he spiked a fever.

He's been told by doctors he can return to work at Edison on Thursday but won't get a final OK until after a doctor's appointment scheduled for Wednesday, Tansey said. This school year marks Tansey's sixth as the school's principal.

"This has been my second major accident, and I pretty much told my wife after the first one that if it happened again, I would stop racing," said Tansey, who is an avid mountain biker.

Tansey said the crash in which he broke his wrist occurred not long after the start of the bike race at Fort Custer. He said he rounded a corner fast, struck a tree stump on the ground and went over the handle bars of his bike. When he struck the ground, he landed on his wrist, said Tansey, who was wearing a helmet.

"I heard a little snap and looked down ... and you could see it was messed up," Tansey said of the compound fracture, which he described as a "Steven Seagal break ... kind of what you see in the movies."

Tansey's wife, who was with him at the race, drove him to Bronson, where doctors put metal plates in his wrist. The area of the break was too swollen, so doctors weren't able to close Tansey's arm after the surgery, he said.

He said he returned to the hospital Aug. 26, but doctors were still unable to close the arm because of swelling. They were finally successful during a third surgery a couple of days later, he said.

Tansey said he paid another visit to Bronson and was admitted to the hospital on Tuesday when he began running a high fever. He was released from the hospital Thursday evening. He said doctors weren't able to determine what caused the fever.

Tansey said he doesn't plan to race mountain bikes again, but he is going to give road biking a try, as well as some triathlons. As he continues to recover, Tansey said he has received immense support from his family, staff at Edison and Kalamazoo Public Schools administration.

"This support has allowed me to focus on getting well," he said.

35. Prospective Doctor Paralyzed from the Chest Down Due to Mountain Biking

If THIS doesn't move people to oppose mountain biking, nothing will!

Mike

Date: Mon, 07 Sep 2009 16:11:44 -0700
From: Monica Craver <mecraver@shaw.ca>
Subject: Re: Another Mountain Biker Dies from a Heart Attack

The insanity never ends --- sounds like this doctor-to-be's dream has been cut short by mountain biking, too. It is such a waste, isn't it.

http://bb.nsmb.com/showthread.php?p=2230681#post2230681
Rider Down-Healing Vibes

Just talked to my dad and received some sad news.

10 days ago the son of a family friend had a bad crash on Whistler Mountain. Blake Jameson is paralyzed from the chest down apparently and is heavily sedated.

Skid will know who this is. As Blake is working to be a doctor, and was volunteering with the bike patrol on Whistler for the last 2 seasons.

36. Injured mountain biker airlifted to hospital

What an expensive sport (for everyone involved, including the taxpayers)!

Mike

http://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/newsdetail1.asp?storyID=162903

Injured mountain biker airlifted to hospital

10/09/2009 6:00:01

An elderly man has been airlifted to hospital after coming off his mountain bike in the Marlborough Sounds.

The man in his 80s from Kenepuru Heads was reported overdue from a trip to the Queen Charlotte track at 2pm yesterday. Police search and rescue members found him on the track with hip and leg injuries.

Nelson's rescue helicopter was called in at 11pm because of the remoteness of the steep, bushclad location. The crew used night vision goggles to spot him and a St John advanced paramedic was winched down. The man was treated on the spot and was then winched out.

37. Mountain biker lucky to be alive after crash

http://www.granthamjournal.co.uk/news/Mountain-biker-lucky-to-be.5639325.jp

Mountain biker lucky to be alive after crash

Published Date: 11 September 2009
Friday, 10am - A MOUNTAIN BIKER is lucky to be alive after a crash helmet saved his life whilst on holiday in Scotland.
Nigel Wainwright, a flight engineer from RAF Cranwell, had been cycling an advanced 'red run' in Dalbeattie when his front wheel dug into the rocky terrain and threw him off his bike.

Landing on his head and neck, Nigel knew from his military training what he had to do.

He said: "As I landed on my head it felt like I had been hit with a hammer. It didn't even feel like I had the helmet on. I felt my neck compress and I knew it was important not to move."

Luckily, Nigel was not cycling alone and other members of his party alerted the emergency services.

He said: "The first ambulance could not reach me, so they called in the Air Ambulance. They were unable to move me safely over the rough ground, so they had to call in a Sea King helicopter to winch me off the mountain. They were extremely professional and calm in what was a very difficult situation.

"There was some friendly banter on board from the crew, as the Navy helicopter rescued someone from the RAF, which was a little embarrassing."

The dad of two, 39, was taken straight to hospital in Dumfries, where tests revealed the extent of his injuries.

He suffered a cut to the head where his helmet had split in two, as well as a stable fracture in his neck, bleeding muscles and torn ligaments.

Experienced in many outdoor pursuits, Nigel was aware of the dangers but said that more people need to take precautions as his accident could have ended very differently.

After his lucky escape, he is keen to stress the importance of wearing helmets to all cyclists, from children riding to school to their parents and occasional riders.

He said: "I am lucky to be alive and got off very lightly. I am still in a great deal of pain and can't stand for long, but so far I am recovering well and owe my life to that helmet.

"I enjoy the adrenaline and the risks, but not wearing a helmet is foolish.

"I think it is a fashion thing, as they are probably viewed as uncool and a bit of a pain to put on.

"However, for the sake of a few pounds you can save a life, which you can't put a price on."

E-mail your news and views to comment@granthamjournal.co.uk

38. Mountain Bikers Glorify Injuries!

And then they have the nerve to complain about road biking being dangerous!

Mike

http://www.theglobeandmail.com/life/travel/cycle-of-life-at-whistler/article1283987/

But don't worry if you show up for dinner scraped and bruised biker war wounds are expected.

Yeah, it was full contact, face to rock, says Vanessa Murphy, sporting a shiner that elicits respect from other mountain bikers.

Cool. Nice, echoes Araxi waiter Andrew, displaying his own scabby road rash.

That's the thing about Whistler everyone's active.

39. "SES leader dies in mountain bike event"

Beginning to see a pattern here? Mountain bikers say their sport is a safe, fun, environmentally benign activity for the whole family. If mountain biking is such a good thing, I wonder why mountain bikers need to lie about it?

Mike

http://news.theage.com.au/breaking-news-national/ses-leader-dies-in-mountain-bike-event-20090914-fnba.html

SES leader dies in mountain bike event

September 14, 2009 - 4:59PM

NSW State Emergency Service (SES) Commissioner Murray Kear says he's devastated by the sudden death of Deputy Commissioner Greg Slater.

Mr Slater, 46, of Mount Keira, died of an apparent heart attack while taking part in a mountain biking endurance event with his son in the Mogo State Forest on the NSW south coast on Sunday.

Mr Kear said Mr Slater was a "much loved" and highly-decorated officer who had served with the SES for 11 years.

The SES telephones were ringing "hot with condolences" from around the country and from overseas over the loss of Mr Slater.

"Today we're like a small family, feeling it very hard, all around the state," he said.

Mr Slater's death had come as a shock because he had been a healthy, fit man, Mr Kear said.

Endurance sports were his hobby and he had previously competed in the Australian ironman triathlon championships four times.

"Greg was the epitome of a healthy person ... anything that had physical exercise attached to it, Greg would be in it, so it's just a shock," he said.

Mr Kear said Mr Slater's wife Jenny, also a NSW SES employee, his daughter Madaline and his son Alex, who was cycling in the event with his father when he died, were devastated.

"(They are) trying to come to terms with the loss of a husband and a father," he said.

Mr Slater joined the Australian Federal Police (AFP) in 1981 and served in Cyprus and East Timor, as well as with the Rescue Squad.

NSW Minister for Emergency Services Steve Whan said Mr Slater had been instrumental in the development of the SES since his appointment as deputy commissioner in 2004.

He had been recognised for his dedication, commitment and bravery, having been awarded an AFP Commendation for Brave Conduct and a United Nations Fire Commander's Commendation for Brave Conduct.

"Mr Slater's leadership and dedication to the community of New South Wales and to his country will be sorely missed," Mr Whan said in a statement.

"On behalf of the New South Wales government, I extend my sympathies to Mr Slater's family and colleagues."

Mr Kear said the NSW SES was discussing memorial arrangements with Mr Slater's family.

A post-mortem examination is being conducted to determine the cause of his death and police will prepare a report for the coroner.

40. http://www.ktvz.com/Global/story.asp?S=11153933

Injured mountain biker, lost climbers rescued

Posted: Sep 17, 2009 11:24 PM PDT

From KTVZ.COM news sources

A mountain biker lost control and went over her handlebars on a trail west of Bend Thursday evening, prompting a 2 -hour rescue effort, authorities said.

About the time that wrapped up, Deschutes County sheriff's deputies rescued two climbers lost at Smith Rock.

In the first incident, Julie Barbour, 44, of Bend, crashed on the Whoops Trail, near Phil's Trail, around 6 p.m., said Deschutes County sheriff's Cpl. Wayne Morgan.

An off-duty Sheriff's Search and Rescue volunteer was riding on the trail and came upon the crash scene, Morgan said.

The SAR volunteer stabilized Barbour and reported the incident to 911 dispatchers, who in turn contacted SAR, which sent nine volunteers to the scene.

Barbour was placed on a wheeled litter and taken about a quarter-mile to a nearby spur road. For there, she was placed in a four-wheel-drive SAR vehicle and taken about 1 miles to a waiting Bend Fire ambulance at Skyliners Road, Morgan said.

Around 8:40 p.m., the ambulance took Barbour to St. Charles Medical Center-Bend with non-life threatening injuries, the corporal said, adding that she was wearing a helmet at the time of the crash.

At 8:47 p.m., 911 dispatchers got a cell phone call from Tony Carr, 23, of Portland, who said e and climbing partner Rosemary Patterson, 24, also of Portland, were lost on Smith Rock and unable to find their way back to their camp, said sheriff's Sgt. Mike Biondi.

Carr and Patterson had been climbing all day, but said they became disoriented as darkness fell and had just one small flashlight between them, Biondi said.

Two sheriff's office deputies responded to the area and used their emergency lights and sirens to help the climbers get their bearings, the sergeant said.

After about a 90-minute search, deputies were able to help the climbers move up the trail to the overlook parking area, Biondi said, adding that both climbers were unhurt.

41. Nurse Brain-Injured by a Mountain Biking "Accident"!

I hope that this very sad case will convince people that mountain biking should be banned EVERYWHERE. Trails are not designed to be predictable, and never will be, making mountain biking inherently dangerous. No amount of "fun" will compensate for this!

Mike

http://www.insidebayarea.com/oaklandtribune/localnews/ci_13411131

Family, friends seek help for Piedmont woman injured in bike ride

By J.M. Brown
Correspondent
Posted: 09/24/2009 10:33:12 AM PDT
Updated: 09/24/2009 11:49:32 AM PDT

Friends of a Piedmont woman who suffered a brain injury during a cycling accident last month are asking for the public's help in raising funds for her family.

Adriana Ospina, 37, a labor and delivery nurse at Oakland's Alta Bates Summit Medical Center, was ejected from her mountain bike on a trail below Mount Tamalpais on Aug. 30 after a long ride with friends. In addition to the brain injury, Ospina is being treated at Marin General Hospital for a broken collarbone and shoulder blade.

Ospina was in a coma for 19 days until Sept. 18, when she finally began to respond to voices and spoke slightly. Relatives anticipate she will need costly rehabilitation after she fully regains consciousness.

Loved ones keep a constant vigil at her bedside. More than 430 people have joined a Facebook page designed to keep people up to date on her progress.

Friends also have set up a trust fund to help Ospina's family cover extensive medical bills, as well as their own expenses. The outpouring of support already has been more than the family could have imagined.

"I never thought this many people would come," said sister Luzangela Ospina, 34. "For a couple of days at the hospital, we were like, 'Oh my God, who are all these people?'""

Ospina's parents, Octavio and Myriam, were born in Colombia and moved to New Jersey before arriving in California 20 years ago. The couple raised their two daughters in Oakland and San Leandro before retiring and buying a home in Stockton. Adriana has been helping to support her parents financially, her sister said.

"They are supposed to be enjoying retirement, and this throws everything off," Luzangela Ospina said. "We're a nervous wreck. Anytime the doctor comes near you, you get high blood pressure."

Ospina has lived in Piedmont for about two years and has been a nurse for 15 years, her sister said. As a registered labor and delivery nurse, she works one-on-one with expectant mothers all the way through the birthing process.

"Half of the kids born in Piedmont, she was assigned to their mothers," said friend Adeline Wood, who added that Ospina is an accomplished athlete.

Besides mountain biking, Ospina is an open water swimmer with the South End Rowing Club in San Francisco, where she has competed in the International Alcatraz Triathlon.

Last year she climbed Half Dome at Yosemite to commemorate a friend's birthday and has also biked the snow sheds at Donner Summit with friends.

"She is like a daughter to me," said Wood, a mountain biker who is working to plan fundraising events for Ospina.

Water World Swims and the South End Rowing Club raised about $6,000 during a recent swim event for Ospina. A group of about 100 met at sunrise, said a prayer for Ospina and swam the 2.5 miles from Alcatraz Island to the shore in San Francisco, Wood said.

No one is exactly sure what caused Ospina's accident. Wood said a large group of riders was coming down a coastal trail from a Sunday morning ride on Mount Tamalpais when they realized Ospina didn't come in with them.

Riders went back up the trail and found her lying on the ground about 20 feet from her bike. She was wearing a helmet and protective pads for her shoulders and shins, but the fall was too severe to avoid serious injury.

"It's a fluke accident that can happen to any of us," Wood said.

Fellow riders, some who are in the medical field, attended to her immediately as 911 was called, Wood said. An ambulance arrived shortly and took to Ospina to Marin General, where she underwent surgery to address the brain injury.

Ospina's doctors have only told the family that "it is just going to take a recovery process," her sister said. "They say only time will tell."
HOW TO HELP Donations to Adriana Ospina's family can be made payable to the Adriana Ospina Trust, Wells Fargo Bank, 151 40th St., Oakland, CA, 94611. Keep up to date on Ospina's progress and fundraising events by visiting www.caringbridge.org/visit/adrianaospina or the Facebook page called "Family and Friends Praying for Adriana Ospina."

42. http://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/news/uk/scotland/article6850964.ece

Injuries on the rise among mountain bikers

Mark Macaskill

A leading Scottish spine surgeon has called for an urgent review of mountain-biking safety after figures showed the number of cyclists seriously injured has risen.

David Allen, director of the Queen Elizabeth National Spinal Injuries Unit at Glasgows Southern General hospital, warned the sports growing popularity meant the number of off-road cyclists injuring their spines would continue to rise unless action was taken.

Since 2004, there have been more than 120 mountainbiking accidents, with eight cyclists getting spinal injuries. Cycling is the second-most common cause of sports-related spinal injuries, after diving.

Last month, a mountain biker was airlifted to hospital with serious head and neck injuries after crashing on a trail in Dalbeattie in the southwest of Scotland. In October last year, a 15-year-old boy received a serious head injury in Ae Forest in Dumfries and Galloway.

There does appear to be a disproportionate increase in the number of mountain bike injuries and they are, in general, more serious [than other cycling accidents], said Allen.

The increase in serious injuries has coincided with Scotlands growing international popularity as a destination for mountain bikers.

The trend has been blamed on inexperienced riders who tackle forest trails and purpose-built tracks, which often involve difficult jumps and steep drop-offs. Concerns have also been raised over the quality of riders equipment, such as helmets and pads.

Allens warning comes ahead of the publication of a national strategic framework on mountain biking, compiled by cycling groups.

The framework will recommend that all trails in Scotland comply with a standard colour-coded grading system used by the Forestry Commission. Under the system, green denotes the easiest trail, progressing to blue, red, black and orange, which should be attempted only by the most experienced bikers.

More detailed information on trails will be provided so riders can judge which are best suited to their ability.

The first mountain bike proficiency scheme, run by Scottish Cycling, the sports governing body, will also be launched in Scotland and rolled out across the rest of Britain. Riders must demonstrate good technical, navigation and first aid skills to pass.

A national strategic framework on mountain biking is welcomed as long as it takes into consideration the importance of safety awareness and safety of the trail, equipment and clothing, including the use of helmets and protective body armour, said Allen. We would welcome a real-time accident-monitoring scheme that could identify dangerous routes.

Allen added that Scotlands growing reputation as one of Europes best mountain-biking destinations meant that additional measures were vital to stop the number of serious spinal injuries rising further.

The countrys flagship centre, at 7stanes in Dumfries and Galloway, boasts 25 world-class trails and generates more than 9m for the local economy. The Mountain Bike World Cup is held every year at Fort William, Inverness-shire.

We cant stop anyone from accessing Scotlands great outdoors but we should be aiming to limit injuries by providing as much information as we can to participants, said Jackie Davidson, chief executive of Scottish Cycling. With increased numbers comes the potential for increased levels of injury, but a lot more safeguards are being built in with regard to the grading of trails, education of riders and the structure of clubs.

The Forestry Commission Scotland, which manages the 7stanes centre, said all trails were risk-assessed and routinely inspected by biking rangers, and that accidents were investigated to see if lessons could be learned. A spokesman said: We take mountain bike safety very seriously. We want riders to enjoy the trails, whatever the level, but we also want them to do this safely. There are many things you can do to improve safety, including proper trail design, good interpretation and grading and we always keep procedures under review.

43. Mountain Biker Breaks Her Neck, Barely Escapes Dying -- But Unrepentant! (Stupidity, your name is "mountain biker"!)

http://www.lodinews.com/articles/2009/10/07/sports/1_accident_091007.txt

Lauren Liden smiles as she talks about her love of mountain biking while in her Woodbridge home. Liden crashed and broke her neck during a recent race in South Dakota. (Dan Evans/News-Sentinel)

Broken neck can't stop Woodbridge cyclist Lauren Liden

By Joelle Milholm
News-Sentinel Staff Writer
Wednesday, October 7, 2009 6:21 AM PDT

Comments (1 comment(s))

While her body lay flat on the ground, Lauren Liden's mind was racing.

The Woodbridge resident wondered how she went from riding her mountain bike to being tossed into the air before landing head first on the ground.

With a throbbing headache and blood rushing from her nose, she tried to analyze the situation. She could wiggle her toes and fingers. She had feeling up and down her body. She wasn't paralyzed, but she knew something wasn't right.

As an ambulance came to take her out of the adventure race in which she was competing in the hills of South Dakota to the hospital in Rapid City, she began to think her neck was broken.

She was right. Liden fractured her C1 vertebrae, the very top bone in her neck. Luckily for Liden, it didn't touch her spinal cord. Outside of immense pain and a short stint in a few different neck braces, Liden won't have any permanent damage from the accident.

"I could have been dead or I could have been in a wheelchair. To me this is nothing," Liden said recently, pointing to the immobilizing headgear that is strapped from her back to the top of her head. "I will be as good as new in four or five months and back to what I was doing and I am extremely lucky."

It's hard to believe it's all from a stick that popped up off the trail and jammed itself into her front tire, bending two of her spokes like an elbow and launching Liden into the air like a projectile.

The Race

Liden is a cyclist. Whether it's road riding, hitting mountain trails or summer adventures with her husband Lyle, she spends a lot of time on her bike. So when she was approached about competing in Primal Quest a 10-day adventure race covering 600 miles of biking, trekking, climbing, caving, kayaking, river boarding and more with the majority of the miles coming on the bike she couldn't refuse.

So she joined a three other Stockton Bicycle Club members who were in need of a female rider for the coed race and headed to South Dakota in mid-August.

Liden's squad, Team Spanos, hiked a marathon with their camping gear on day one. They continued through the race, biking and caving, working hard and only sleeping about two hours a night.

"I was having a blast," said Liden, a veterinary doctor who owns Dry Creek Veterinary Hospital in Galt. "I would have to say I was having the time of my life in this race."

Halfway through the fourth day, Team Spanos realized they'd taken a wrong turn during a biking section of the competition. Once they figured out they were on the wrong road, they turned around to backtrack in search of the right one.

On the way back, they met up with Big City Mountaineering, another team that took the same wrong turn. As they pedaled back to the original trail on a forest service road not a technically challenging ride Liden glanced back to talk to one of the Big City Mountaineering riders.

Bam! That's when it happened.

"I caught her out of the corner of my eye. I saw her going over her handlebars," said Liden's teammate, Steve Peppard, a Galt resident and Stockton Police Officer. "I knew it wasn't going to be good. Then I heard her land."

The Crash

Liden said that those who saw the crash believe she flew about 30 feet. She landed straight on her head, like a railroad spike being driven into the ground by inertia. Her helmet, which now shows a crack in its interior foam, saved her life.

"One minute I'm on my bike, riding down the trail. No big deal," Liden recalls of the crash. "The next minute I'm airborne and for a split second I remember thinking 'Whoa what I'm I doing in the air.' And then I smack on the ground. Just in milliseconds. It was so fast."

The impact broke her neck and brought intense pain to her entire head. Her sunglasses were impaled into her nose. Her teammates had to pull them out of her face, leaving a gash across the bridge of nose that would later require three stitches and has left an X-shaped scar.

Her jaw throbbed. Her ears rung. Her eyes, reacting from a traumatic impact, became painfully sensitive to light.

"The regular sunlight was like the light of 10,000 suns burning my eyes," Liden said. "It was so bright."

Her teammates covered her eyes with a towel, which they also soaked with water for Liden to suck on. They forced her to remain still, trying to stabilize her neck an effort that saved her life and prevented paralysis. Even taking a sip of water was too dangerous.

While waiting for the ambulance, Liden, who was fully conscious, started to realize the severity of her injury.

"I was thinking this is the bad kind of pain and there was no way I was going to finish that race," she said.

The Aftermath

More often than not, fractures to the top two vertebrae result in paralysis or death. Test results revealed that Liden's ligaments held the fractured C1 in place. The broken vertebrae didn't touch the spinal cord.

The break also could have damaged nerves that connect to the diaphragm, like what happened in Christopher Reeve's paralyzing horseback-riding injury. In that case, Liden would not have been able to breathe and could have died or spent the rest of her life needing respiratory assistance.

Many times when vertebrae are broken, they must be surgically fused together to create permanent stability. With no vertebrae above C1, Liden would have had to have the broken vertebrae fused to her skull, severely limiting her neck and head mobility for the rest of her life. Once again, Liden got lucky and her C1 showed enough stability to eliminate the need for surgery. She was even allowed to leave the hospital, fitted in her halo tightly strapped to her head, neck and back, five days after the crash.

A few days later, she traveled back to Lodi.

At first Liden's activities were very limited. She couldn't move around much, or even lift a gallon of milk. Getting dressed and taking a bath were grueling activities.

Day by day, Liden was able to do more. Now she's able to go to the gym and can even lift 15 pound weights. She's got her stationary training bike up in her backyard and rides it almost every day.

In the immediate future, she's looking forward to ditching the halo for a less obstructive neck brace. Then she'll be able to slowly get back to work.

She's bummed she'll be inactive for the snowboarding season, as she already bought a pass to Kirkwood. She constantly pesters doctors about when the halo can come off and when she can get back on the bike. She's hoping to be training and racing again come early 2010.

"It's really scary what could have happened," Liden said. "People look at this whole getup and say 'oh you poor thing.' But I am so lucky."

A comment from a friend:

Flying over the handle-bars is such a common mountain biking accident. It's like they are playing Russian roulette with their lives. I am sure this unrepentant gal also suffers from some "brain damage" due to amnesia (forgetting quite how she ended up with a broken neck in the first place).

It is a sad state of affairs that people who are smart enough to become doctors, nurses (or veterinarians), who don't value their own lives, enough to quit this dangerous sport after such a close call from a "very common accident". Would any of us want ourselves, or our animals, treated by someone like this gal? Not me!

Is it really any wonder these people do not value the natural environment they ride roughshod on, either? I shake my head at the cluelessness of it all.

--Monica Craver—

44. "The victim, Andre Steed, was struck a by a mountain bike rider who did not stop after impact"

http://cbs3.com/topstories/biker.fatal.hit.2.1273313.html

PHILADELPHIA (CBS 3)

Andre Steed was run-down by a bicyclist on a Center City street and later died from his injuries.

Citizen's Crime Commission

Philadelphia police are seeking help from the public locating a bicyclist who fled the scene of a fatal accident in Center City.

According to the Citizen's Crime Commission, who is administering a $10,000 reward, the accident happened on October 15 at the corner of 16th and Locust Streets. The victim, Andre Steed, was struck a by a mountain bike rider who did not stop after impact.

Authorities say Mr. Steed suffered massive head injuries and passed away on October 24.

The law firm of Caesar, Rivise, Burnstein, Cohen & Pokotilow are offering a $10,000 reward for information leading to the arrest and conviction of this biker. Witness at the scene described the biker as a white male in his early 20s, weighing approximately 140 pounds wearing a white hoodie with red spots in the back. The mountain bike was described as white.

If you have information on the biker you are urged to contact the Crime Commission tip line at 215-546-TIPS.

45. ANOTHER Mountain Biker Dies of a Heart Attack!

So much for the alleged health benefits of mountain biking....

Mike

http://www.sltrib.com/news/ci_13584894

Centerville man dies while mountain biking

By Lindsay Whitehurst

The Salt Lake Tribune
Updated: 10/17/2009 03:22:53 PM MDT

A Centerville man died of a heart attack while mountain biking with his son in Weber County on Saturday, police said.

Rick Bastian, 55, had biked from Green's Pond to the Art Nord Trailhead, north of Snowbasin Resort, said Weber County sheriff's Sgt. Teresa Perkins. He felt short of breath but chalked it up to the higher altitude and told his 24-year-old son to go ahead. As he started up the next peak, he collapsed and went into full cardiac arrest, Perkins said.

His son called 911 about 11:45 a.m., and the man was flown by helicopter to Ogden Regional Medical Center. He was pronounced dead on arrival.

46. "Crashes in the mountains are an every day occurrence"

http://www.sltrib.com/collegesports/ci_13657237

Mountain biker overcomes fracture

Utah cyclist wins overall national title despite fall in downhill race that broke his collarbone.

By Martin Renzhofer

The Salt Lake Tribune
Updated: 10/28/2009 11:47:48 AM MDT

Mitchell Peterson didn't realize the extent of his injuries. Then again, it just shows the grit of mountain bikers. Crashes in the mountains are an every day occurrence.

"I noticed that every bump hurt," he said.

Despite a broken collarbone, the University of Utah finance major finished the final leg of the 2009 USA Cycling Collegiate Mountain Bike National Championship and with it the overall championship.

Mitchell was the lone Ute at the competition, which was completed Oct. 18 at Northstar at Tahoe resort near Truckee, Calif. He finished second in cross country and short track, 42nd among 4X racers and 50th in the downhill.

Mitchell's downhill finish can be excused. He crashed midway through the race and fractured his collarbone.

Instead of seeking treatment, Mitchell attended the awards ceremony to pick up his trophy. Only this week did he finally visit the doctor.

"The downhill course had a 5-foot drop," the 22-year-old cyclist said. "I came onto a rock that had been moved into my normal line. I swerved and crashed."

What makes this championship unique is the levels of competition. While Mitchell is part of a club at Utah, schools such as Fort Lewis College, which won the overall competition, offers scholarships. Mitchell scored high enough to give Utah an overall 15th place among 38 schools in team competition.

Simply put, BYU has dominated the Mountain West Conference cross country landscape. The Cougar men have won nine of 10 championships, while the women ran away with the title eight times.

More of the same is expected Saturday when BYU hosts the conference meet, which will take place at the Cascade Golf Course in Orem at 10 a.m.

BYU's women have actually finished second the last two seasons, while the lone blemish on the men's run came five years ago when Air Force broke through, edging the Cougars.

Currently, the men, which recently placed third at the Pre-Nationals, are ranked sixth nationally, while the BYU women are No. 22. The Cougar women, led by MWC Female Cross Country Athlete of the Week Cecily Lemmon-Lew, finished second at the Chile Pepper Invitational.

"As a team, it was a great opportunity to get ready for conference and championship meets," BYU women's coach Patrick Shane said.

For Lemmon-Lew, who placed second out of 267 runners, the conference award was her third this year. Despite not feeling well, she ran a career-best 20 minutes, 32.5 seconds for the 6K.

"I was really happy with the race and excited for how the team ran," she said afterward. "We're improving in every race."

The women's main competition appears to be New Mexico, which boasts four of the year's top 10 times, including Ruth Senior's run of 21 minutes, 23.7 seconds at Pre-Nationals.

The men finished behind No. 1 Stanford and No. 4 Colorado. Mike Batty's 12th place finish led the Cougars. His 8K time was 24 minutes, 2 seconds. Cougar runners also placed 19th (Thomas Gruenwald), 29th (Rich Nelson), 44th (Alden Bahr) and 59th (Ryan Merriman).

"I think we established the depth chart for the conference race and solidified who our lead runners are," BYU men's coach Ed Eyestone said.

The Cougar men appear to be a clear favorite as they own seven of the 10 best times this season.

martyr@sltrib.com

47. ANOTHER Mountain Biker Death

So much for the alleged health benefits of mountain biking....

Mike

http://www.kivitv.com/Global/story.asp?S=11379730

Idaho Man Dies While Mountain Biking in Utah

Idaho man dies while mountain biking in Moab

SALT LAKE CITY (AP) -- The Grand County sheriff's office says an Idaho man has died while mountain biking in Moab.

Todd Johnston, 42, of Ketchum, was on the Gold Bar Rim Trail Friday when he complained to friends about being tired and stopped to walk his bike.

Johnston's friends kept riding. When he didn't catch up, they doubled back to find Johnston collapsed. A group of motorcyclists had found Johnston and were performing CPR.

In a news release, Grand County officials say emergency crews unsuccessfully tried to revive Johnston for about an hour, using both CPR and a defibrillator.

Information from: The Salt Lake Tribune, http://www.sltrib.com

http://www.mtexpress.com/index2.php?ID=2005128509

Hailey resident dies in Utah

Cause of death of avid mountain biker Todd Johnston not yet known

By JON DUVAL
Express Staff Writer

Hailey resident Todd Johnston, 41, died from as-yet-unknown causes while mountain biking with friends near Moab, Utah, on Friday.

Johnston, owner of Four Seasons Spa & Pool, collapsed while riding the Gold Bar Rim trail, a section of jeep trail and slickrock popular with mountain bikers.

Johnston was riding with his friends and frequent riding partners Reed Melton and Marc Driver, both Wood River Valley residents. In an interview, Melton said the trio had driven down to Moab for three days of biking, with plans to return Sunday.

Melton said that at the base of a small climb on a jeep road, Johnston said, "I might have to walk this," a statement Melton took to be a characteristically self-deprecating remark from his friend, who Melton called a strong rider who liked to challenge himself.

According to Melton, at the top of the climb he and Driver waited for a few minutes before heading back down the trail, thinking that Johnston might have a flat tire.

Instead, they found Johnston collapsed on the ground and a group of motorcycle riders, two of whom were trained emergency response personnel, already on the scene performing cardiopulmonary resuscitation. According to the Grand County Sheriff's Office, emergency crews responded to the call 40 minutes later, at 2:45 p.m., and used a defibrillator to try to revive him. Johnston was pronounced dead an hour later.

"Some people have asked if it was exhaustion, but there's nothing further from the truth," Melton said. "That day had been three friends out joking and laughing on a casual ride, going at a conversational pace."

Melton said that although they had been out for about three hours before Johnston collapsed, the ride had been broken up by a flat tire, a snack break and photo opportunities.

"Todd was one of the most fit people I know and had done serious races," Melton said.

Johnston's father, Chuck Johnston, agreed, saying his son was well known for his energetic personality.

"He didn't do anything halfway and always wanted to push himself," he said.

He said an autopsy will be performed to determine the cause of death, but that results will not be available for six to eight weeks.

"Todd was a person of boundless energy and energetic love," Chuck Johnston said. "He had incredible love for his family, friends and this community.

"It's important for everyone to know that he was never alone and was with people he cared about. He was doing something he loved and we're glad we had him for 41 years. His spirit is in this valley because his legacy is so great."

A memorial service will be held for Johnston at 2 p.m. Friday at St. Thomas Episcopal Church in Sun Valley with a reception following from 3-5:30 p.m. at the Elkhorn Springs Restaurant.

Jon Duval: jduval@mtexpress.com

48. "Mountain biker who died named"

[Evolution in action! Mike]

http://www.odt.co.nz/news/dunedin/80414/mountain-biker-who-died-named

Mountain biker who died named

Mon, 2 Nov 2009
News: Dunedin

The 56-year-old Dunedin man who collapsed and died while cycling at Lake Hawea on Friday was Dr David Peacock.

Dr Peacock, a graduate of the University of Otago, was a psychiatric registrar with the Otago District Health Board.

A keen mountain biker, he was a former president of the Otago Tramping and Mountaineering Club and a member of the Royal Dunedin Male Choir.

Last month, he sang in the Dunedin production of Gilbert and Sullivan's opera Yeomen of the Guard.

49. ANOTHER Serious Injury Caused by Mountain Biking!

http://www.cyclingnews.com/editions/second-edition-cycling-news-thursday-november-19-2009

Hincapie leads charity ride

Article published:

November 19, 13:07

By:

Hedwig Kr��

$15,000 raised to cover medical expenses for injured cyclist

On Sunday, November 15, Columbia-HTC pro George Hincapie led a charity ride in Greenville, SC, to raise funds for local cyclist Thea Kent, who was critically injured in a mountain biking accident. Kent, who does not have a health insurance, suffered a fractured vertebra, seven broken ribs in her back (broken at the spinal column), six broken transverse process bones, a punctured lung and minor head injuries.

"The Ride for Thea Kent" was subsequently organised by the local cycling community and became a full success after Greenville resident Hincapie signed up to lead the 55-mile event, one of two distance options on offer. Approximately 450 local cyclists participated and raised a total sum of $15,000 to help Kent cover the medical expenses resulting from her accident.

After the ride, which followed popular local routes of Paris Mountain, Tigerville, the Callahan Mountain Road and Camp Old Indian, participants gathered for a silent auction of cycling equipment that included a Team Columbia jersey signed by Hincapie. This raised another $585 for Kent.

"My gratitude goes out to the hundreds of people who helped to lighten my burden," said Kent. "I cannot possibly thank every one individually, but I want every one to know I appreciate every gesture - no matter how big or small. I am eternally grateful."

Local sports photographers The Living Pixel have listed event photography on their online storefront for sale through December 15. All profits from the sale of pictures from this event will also be donated back to Kent.

Follow Cyclingnews on Twitter for the very latest coverage of events taking place in the cycling world - twitter.com/cyclingnewsfeed.

50. Tara Llanes, a champion downhill mountain biker, suffered a horrific crash while racing at the Jeep King of the Mountain event

If this can happen to a "champion", ordinary mountain bikers are at an even greater risk....

Mike

http://www.velonews.com/article/100135/2010-race-for-tara-date-announced

2010 Race for Tara date announced

Published: Nov. 21, 2009

Press Release

The mountain bike park at Northstar-at-Tahoe resort will host the Race for Tara 4 on Oct. 2-3, 2010.

Tara Llanes and Andy Buckley, Northstars director of resort experience, made the announcement on Nov. 20, about a month after the 2009 Race for Tara at Northstar, located near Truckee, California.

The Race for Tara was started three years ago by Brian and Thayne Bolin after Llanes, a champion downhill mountain biker, suffered a horrific crash while racing at the Jeep King of the Mountain event in Beaver Creek, Colorado. A large portion of Race for Tara proceeds will be donated to spinal cord research and helping other athletes with spinal cord injury. A smaller portion will go toward the continued medical costs Llanes has had to endure.

According to a study initiated by the Dana and Christopher Reeve Foundation, there are nearly 1 in 50 people living with paralysis approximately 6 million people. llanes is working to build a fund for athletes that have catastrophic injuries like hers.

I want to be there for other athletes that are going through the same thing I do day in and day out, she said.

The Race for Tara was started to help raise funds for Llanes and her ever-growing medical costs. During the races first year, Llanes was still in the hospital and only able to call in on the loudspeaker to thank participants. In the second year Tara was actually able to drive to the race and show her appreciation to everyone. In 2009, Tara was not only able to be at the event she was able to participate and race down the mountain in a 4-wheeler DH bike.

Downieville DH Champ and WTB pro Mark Weir said the Northstar downhill is great.

It was the most well-balanced course the U.S. has ever had, he said.

The 10-minute long course will test the endurance and skill of every participant. The courses will vary depending on the level of rider. There will be a $35 donation for all beginners, intermediates, and experts and a $40 donation for all semi-pro and pro.

In the last three years the Race for Tara has raised nearly $30,000 thanks to the entire cycling community.

I was impressed with the amazing support the event received from both companies and individuals, said Matt Robertson of Shimano. Giants presence was amazing, not just the brand but the racers and the employees. They led the charge and were closely followed by the rest of us.

51. ANOTHER Serious Mountain Biking "Accident"

As usual, there is no investigation into just how dangerous mountain biking is. Shallow journalism is the order of the day....

Mike

http://www.tribtoday.com/page/content.detail/id/530255.html?nav=5021

His son, his hero

Teen carries father to safety after bicycle accident

By BURTON COLE Tribune Chronicle
POSTED: November 29, 2009

Article Photos

Jeff Mostoller, left, and his son Aaron stand with their mountain bicycles.

Jeff Mostoller never saw the tree root nudging out of the dirt trail.

The knobbed tire of his Mongoose mountain bike slammed into the root. Mostoller and bike both went flying, he slamming facedown into puddle of mud, the bicycle crashing across his back.

''I couldn't move anything'' from the neck down, he recalled.

It was May 15, and he was riding the winding, off-road trail in Greenville, Pa., with his youngest son, Aaron, 15.

''When he first hit, I thought it was just another crash,'' Aaron said as they talked about it five months later. ''And then he started screaming my name, screaming for help. I didn't know what to do.

''I threw the bike off him,'' Aaron said. ''I rolled him over, not knowing what to do next.''

Jeff's back remained in a rigid arch, his stomach stuck up in the air. Trying to calm his son, he asked, ''Do I look fat?''

It was the next questions that further scared an already terrified Aaron: ''Did my left hand move? Did my right hand move? Did my leg move?'' No, no and no.

Aaron wanted to run for help. Jeff told him to stay by his side. Aaron stayed, fighting tears, fighting the feeling that everything was his fault. After all, wasn't he the reason his Dad hit the root?

He had been pedalling in the lead but was getting smacked in the face by dew-misted cobwebs still clinging to overhanging tree branches. So he called back to his dad to pass him. Ha! Let him get the cobwebs.

''I don't know how you got in front of me anyhow,'' Jeff said said. ''I'm usually in the lead.''

''You were going too slow,'' Aaron said with a grin.

Jeff passed, hit the root, and here they sat, Dad unable to move and fading in and out of consciousness, son not able to leave him, no other cyclists passing through and without a phone to make a call.

''I remember this so plainly,'' Jeff said. ''(Before we started to ride,) he said, 'Should we take our cell phones?' I said, 'Naw,' and we both left them in the car.''

After about 20 minutes, an excruciating pain started to overwhelm Jeff. Feeling pain. That had to be better than feeling nothing, right?

Jeff finally allowed Aaron to get the phones from the van. The Lakeview High School soccer player flew more than a mile back to the car, saying it was the fastest he ran in his life. But when he got back, his dad still would not permit him call 911. Nor did he want to bother his two oldest children, Adam and Angela, both emergency room nurses. A son-in-law also is a nurse. Jeff himself is an ultrasound technician at Forum Health Northside Hospital.

Jeff simply called his wife, Lonnie.

''He called me and said, 'Something bad has happened,' and the phone went dead,'' Lonnie said. ''He called again and said, 'Don't get scared. Something bad happened. I think I'm paralyzed,'' and the phone went dead. This happened three times.

''I was too far away, and I didn't know exactly where they were at,'' she said.

Jeff directed Aaron to get the bikes back to the car. Aaron propped his dad against a tree and made the two-mile round trip twice more, throwing up on the way back the last time.

Then the thin boy, who is about 3 inches shorter than his 6-foot-tall, 200-pound dad, lugged him down the trail.

''He carried me like an old drunken sailor out of the woods,'' Jeff said.

''In retrospect, we should have left the bikes,'' Jeff mused.

''You think?'' Lonnie shot back. ''And you think you should have called 911?''

''Had it been him,'' Jeff said, ''I would have left the bikes and called 911. But when it's you, you're trying to reason it out. I'll need the bike. I'm going to ride again.''

The truth of the matter is he was in shock and not thinking, he said. And Aaron, in shock himself, was setting aside instincts and listening to his dad, who, he knew, should know what he's talking about.

So, again at his dad's request, Aaron, a licensed driver for less than three months, bypassed the hospital in Greenville to drive to Northside.

Son Alex, then a Lakeview senior, met his family there. Alex was heading out for lunch at school when he checked messages on his cell phone. He heard his little brother's voice: He said, ''I think Dad's dead,'' and he hung up.'' Sister-in-law Natalie also was on the messages, and he found out more from her. Alex left school and met the family at Northside.

''My dad was strapped down to a hospital bed, connected to five different machines. He was just as scared as us,'' Alex said. ''His face is still fresh in my mind. He had mud caked in his teeth and hair, he was shivering, and he was all wet and bloody from his fall. I just kept praying to God, 'I just wanted my dad to be OK.' ''

Jeff was flown by helicopter to Cleveland Clinic, where a bone from his hip was fused into his neck, and two metal rods were placed along his spinal cord.

''If he would have injured one vertebrae higher, he would have been permanently paralyzed and on a tracheotomy.''

He returned home on a Tuesday.

''My dad was walking,'' Alex said. ''Just four days ago, he was paralyzed. It amazed me.''

Jeff was off work 12 weeks. Most days still are pain-filled, and that may continue for at least another year, Lonnie said.

''I'm doing pretty good compared to what I was, what I could be,'' he said.

He's back to walking a mile and biking up to five miles at a time. He used to pedal 20 to 50 miles an outing, but he figures he'll get there.

Aaron doesn't care if he ever gets on a bike again. He knows he will get back on the bicycle and ride. Some day. He won't hide behind his fears forever. But it doesn't have to be today.

Jeff has his own goal: ''On May 15 of next year, we're going to go back and examine the trail.''

Looking back, Jeff said, ''It really turned out to be a blessing that it happened,'' Jeff said, ''just to realize how much love we have for each other. And God's help. Our faith in God helped.

''Aaron saved me but it was my whole family that healed me. None of it would have been possible without God.

''I never want to go through it again but it was such an eye-opening experience and a heart-opening experience to see such an outpouring of love.''

Friends, family, strangers... the family pets were tended to while the family was at the hospital, donations were given and Lonnie said she didn't have to cook for two weeks.

''Oh, this community ...,'' Jeff started before the rest of the sentence was choked away by emotion.

Lonnie said she marveled at her own children. It's the goal of parents to raise their children to grow into responsible adults who will do the right thing. But to witness it in action, to see one's ''babies'' in their own profession and to watch them taking care of their dad and the rest of the family in times of crisis - ''Wow,'' she said.

Aaron still struggles.

''I don't feel that I saved his life,'' he said. ''Without me, it could have been worse, but I have it in my mind that it was my fault.''

His family disagrees.

Jeff, an avid cyclist who often rides alone, countered, ''If I had been by myself, the same thing would have happened.''

''He is not the reason Dad got in the accident; he is the reason my dad is alive,'' Alex said.

''If it wasn't for Aaron,'' Lonnie said, ''Jeff may have not made it out of those woods alive. Aaron, you are our hero! Thank you.''

bcole@tribtoday.com

52. "Copter rescues mountain biker, 50, after crash "

http://www.ocregister.com/news/park-221583-mountain-mckeown.html

November 29, 2009 11:49 AM

Copter rescues mountain biker, 50, after crash

By ERIKA I. RITCHIE
THE ORANGE COUNTY REGISTER

NEWPORT COAST A 50-year-old mountain biker was airlifted today after going over his handlebars while riding a trail at Crystal Cove State Park, authorities said.

Orange County Fire Authority was called to the coastal wilderness park at about 9:30 a.m. after reports of a mountain biking accident.
OCFA helicopter 1, based out of Fullerton Airport, was used to rescue a 50-year old mountain biker this morning at Crystal Cove State Park.
Photo courtesy OCFA

The man was riding with a group on Rattlesnake Trail in the wilderness park about 1.25 miles inland from Laguna Beach's El Morro Elementary School, said OCFA Capt. Greg McKeown.

"They had just come downhill and looked back and didn't see him," said McKeown. "They went back and found him on the trail."

An OCFA helicopter was dispatched from Fullerton Airport and took two Orange County Fire Search and Rescue firefighters from Station 61 to the scene.

According to McKeown, the helicopter was able to land in a clearing near Rattlesnake Trail and the firefighters were able to reach the injured man by foot. Two Laguna Beach fire paramedics already were at the scene treating the man for neck and shoulder injuries and possible spine injuries.

The man, whose name was not released by authorities, was flown to Mission Hospital in Mission Viejo. The two Laguna Beach Fire paramedics flew with him.

"By having the helicopter they could get the patient who had traumatic injuries to the hospital quicker and more safely than going down the trail," McKeown said.

53. ANOTHER Serious Injury Due to Mountain Biking

To: bbtcmembers@yahoogroups.com
From: "DanF" <danfenton@yahoo.com>
List-Subscribe: <mailto:bbtcmembers-subscribe@yahoogroups.com>
Date: Mon, 30 Nov 2009 15:16:23 -0000
Subject: Injuries to knee forces sale

I am crying inside as we speek. I blew out my knee in a race Sunday... I can tell it will never be the same...Even post surgery,I've decided that I can not afford future injuries and potentialy end my carrier as a union carpenter... Or worse, loose everything I own...So I am listing my Baby for sale to the group... It is an 08 Specialized Enduro comp. with upgrades such as Mavic 729 rims, Fox DHX 5.0 coil shock,(still have the air shock), Demo bars,Kona platforms and Candy Sl pedals...I have $3,800.00 into her, I'll take $2,000.00, all extra parts and tires included...Road bike and 24" BMX bike and work stand are going to... reply for info.

54. "Girl plunges down gorge into River Braan"

"The spokesman said the accident happened when pupils from the school were taking part in a "fully-supervised outdoor activity" on a route often used for such activities."

If this can happen during a "fully-supervised outdoor activity", imagine what would happen if it were unsupervised!

Mike

http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/uk_news/scotland/tayside_and_central/8404210.stm

Girl plunges down gorge into River Braan

The girl plunged down a gorge into the River Tay

A teenage girl has fallen 90ft (27m) down a gorge in Perthshire following a mountain biking accident.

The girl, a pupil at Menzieshill High School in Dundee, was part of an organised group who were mountain biking at Rumbling Bridge, Dunkeld.

Police said it appeared the girl had lost control of her bike before hitting the bridge and falling into the gorge.

Emergency services found her conscious and breathing. She was airlifted to Ninewells Hospital in Dundee.

The accident happened shortly before 1300 GMT, Tayside Police said.

The girl was with an organised group from the Dundee City Council-run Ancrum Outdoor Centre.

Her parents have been informed and the the Heath and Safety Executive been made aware of the incident.

'Full co-operation'

A Dundee City Council spokesman said: "Everyone at Menzieshill High School and the education department wishes this pupil a full and speedy recovery from her fall.

"Her family were alerted as soon as possible after the accident and we will be keeping in close touch with them during her recovery."

The spokesman said the accident happened when pupils from the school were taking part in a "fully-supervised outdoor activity" on a route often used for such activities.

He added: "We will co-operate fully with any external investigation and will also be carrying out our own assessment of the situation."

http://news.scotsman.com/scotland/Mountain-biking-girl-16-lucky.5899081.jp

Mountain biking girl, 16, lucky to be alive after 90ft river gorge plunge

Published Date: 10 December 2009
By Frank Urquhart
A TEENAGE schoolgirl was "lucky to be alive" last night after she plunged 90ft down a steep river gorge at a Scottish beauty spot.
The 16-year-old fell down the narrow ravine flanking the River Braan near the Hermitage in Perthshire and was swept down the river after being knocked off her mountain bike when it collided with the parapet of a bridge over the gorge.

She had been with members of an organised group from a local outdoor centre and was pulled from the river by members of the party. She was then airlifted to safety in a delicate operation involving an RAF helicopter, firefighters and paramedics.

The teenager is understood to have been hypothermic and in shock by the time she was airlifted to safety, but she was said to be "stable" in Dundee's Ninewells Hospital last night.

One of her rescuers said: "She is very, very lucky to be alive. If I was her, I would be putting a lottery ticket on tonight."

The girl, a pupil at Menzieshill High School in Dundee, was part of a group, organised by Ancrum Outdoor Centre, who were mountain biking in the area when the accident happened at the Rumbling Bridge, near Dunkeld.

A police spokeswoman said the girl had fallen 90ft down to the gorge. "She would appear to have lost control of her bike and collided with Rumbling Bridge, before falling down into the gorge and into the river," she said.

"Emergency services were quickly on the scene and the girl was found to be conscious and breathing.

"She has since been airlifted by the RAF Leuchars search and rescue helicopter to Ninewells Hospital for medical assessment."

The spokeswoman added: "As with all incidents of this nature, the Health and Safety Executive has been informed."

Units from Tayside Fire and Rescue Service, including specialist water rescue teams, ambulance crews and paramedics raced to the scene.

Kevin Lennon, the fire service's station manager at Perth, said: "The girl had come off her bike and went over the bridge and landed in the water.

"She then got swept underneath the bridge and out to the other side to a small pool, where she was located."

He said other members of her party had managed to scramble down the steep face of the ravine to pull her from the water. When the emergency services arrived, two firefighters and a doctor also descended into the gorge, using harnesses and lines, to aid the injured schoolgirl.

Mr Lennon said: "They managed to get the girl on to a spine board and got a collar on her. A helicopter then arrived at the scene. We weren't sure if the helicopter would manage to get to her, and we had our rescue teams gear up a line rescue.

"Fortunately, due to the skill of the pilot and the winchman, the helicopter crew managed to get a cage stretcher down to the girl and winch her out of the ravine."

He added: "It was a co-ordinated effort involving all of the emergency services at the scene. We are all experts in our own fields but, had we not worked together as a single team, I don't think we would have the successful outcome that we did have."

A spokesman for Dundee City Council said yesterday: "Everyone at Menzieshill High School and the education department wishes this pupil a full and speedy recovery from her fall. Her family were alerted as soon as possible after the accident, and we will be keeping in close touch."

http://www.thesun.co.uk/scotsol/homepage/news/2765448/Dunkeld-Perthshire-girl-bike-from-the-dead-after-gorge-fall.html

Bike from the dead

By MYRA PHILP

Published: 10 Dec 2009

A SCHOOLGIRL cheated death yesterday after plunging 90ft off a bridge into a freezing, raging river when she was thrown from her mountain bike.

The 15-year-old smashed into the bridge and fell into the narrow, rock-strewn gorge while on a school outing.

Miraculously she escaped with cuts, bruises, abdominal injuries and hypothermia following a rescue involving the RAF, ambulance crews and the fire service.

Incident commander Kevin Lennon, of Tayside Fire and Rescue, said: "This girl is very, very lucky to be alive. Looking over the bridge you wonder how anyone could survive. It's a very dangerous area."

The horror accident took place just before 1pm at the Rumbling Bridge at Dunkeld, Perthshire.

The girl - a pupil at Menzieshill High School in Dundee on a mountain-biking trip - was plucked from the River Braan by staff supervising the group of shocked schoolkids.

The victim - conscious throughout her rescue - was then winched from the gorge by a search and rescue helicopter scrambled from RAF Leuchars and flown to Ninewells Hospital in Dundee.

An ambulance service spokesman said she was "handed over in a very stable condition". Hospital medics were last night assessing her injuries.

The mountain-biking group was being supervised by staff from the council-owned outdoor activities Ancrum Centre in Dundee.

A council spokesman said they wished the girl a "full and speedy recovery". He added: "We will co-operate fully with any external investigation and will also be carrying out our own assessment."

The incident has been reported to the Health and Safety Executive. Police are investigating.

scottish-sun@the-sun.co.

55. http://www.kelowna.com/2009/12/14/neilson-working-toward-olympics-with-one-hand-close-to-being-healthy-after-bike-crash/

Neilson working toward Olympics with one hand; Close to being healthy after bike crash

Monday, December 14th, 2009 | 2:20 am

Canwest News Service

Drew Neilson will wake up in the early morning darkness Monday, head to the airport and board a 6 a.m. flight to Colorado where he'll compete in a World Cup snowboard-cross competition this weekend.

And aside from that cruel moment of reckoning with the alarm clock, this is the best he's felt in quite a while.

The 35-year-old snowboarder from Deep Cove in North Vancouver is finally close to being healthy again after he wrecked his right hand in a mountain biking accident on Cypress Mountain two summers ago. He may have a five-inch plate buried in that right hand. And the hand may never function the way it did before he "did a Greg Louganis" and went head over heels on a run named the Wild Cherry.

But Neilson, a husband, a father of two young boys and a former construction worker who helped build the Canada Line, says he's ready to make a serious bid to win a berth on Canada's 2010 Olympic team.

"It's getting back," he said of the strength he lost in the hand.

"Last year I was racing with a hook, not a hand, to get me out of the start gate. It was a wrist brace with an aluminum hook off the end of it. I used it to grip the gate because I had absolutely no grip in my hand. It was painful because it had been infected. It was really frustrating. I was just getting on the course and fighting my way through rounds."

Neilson underwent surgery last January but he damaged the hand trying to pull one of his boys out of the car seat. The wrist became infected but he managed to compete through the pain before having a second surgery in March to fuse the ligaments together with a metal pin.

"I still have some damage in the nerve, which is the major strength in the grip of your hands," he said. "I have grip in some fingers but I don't get the wrist motion in the [starting] gate so formypull-through, we'vehad to rethink it and train my brain to use it properly. It's just a new process for me. Change is something I've done for 10 or 12 years."

Neilson, who has 20 World Cup podiums, nine of them wins, through his 13-year career, needs three top five finishes out of the next four World Cups to meet the Olympic snowboarding team's rigid qualifying standards. Canada has 18 Olympic spots, with no more than 10 going to either gender. Within the Canadian team snowboard-cross riders are competing with the halfpipers and the alpine slalom skiers for those 18 spots.

Because of the wrist injury, Neilson saw limited action last season and had fewer opportunities to get results. But there's one discretionary spot that will be decided by coaches, and Neilson thinks his experience and history of success should count for something.

"I'd like to get three [top-five finishes]," Neilson said. "But I think a victory or a podium would go a long way for me with my past. I've won nine World Cups and I've been on the podium 20 times. I think my experience speaks for itself. Just having that experience of being a winner I'd like to think if I can get myself in the mix then maybe I can get the fourth spot."

And if all that isn't enough, Neilson may have a little extra incentive in Telluride, Colo. In September at the World Cup 2009-10 season opener in Chapelco, Argentina, Neilsonfailedtoqualify for the 16-rider final and ended up 33rd.He says it's the first time he's done that in four years.

"These next four races, I'm so angry I just want to take it out on the course," he says. "I've just been frustrated since Argentina. It's been a long break to try to take the anger out. I want to get back on the snow and race some guys."

Squamish's Maelle Ricker is also keen to climb back on the post-Argentina horse but for different reasons. Ricker won in Chapelco.

"Itgivesyouconfidence," Ricker said of winning the season opener. "You know you did the right things over the summer and that you're still competitive with the top girls in the world. The level of riding in women's snowboard-cross is just going up. In the top 16 in Argentina there were 10 countries represented. Girls are pushing it from all parts of the globe."

Ricker is a good bet to make the Canadian Olympic team. It'll be her third Games after finishing fifth in 1998 in Nagano and fourth in 2006 at Turin.

tbell@theprovince.com

56. Mountain biking girl, 16, lucky to be alive after 90ft river gorge plunge

No mention, of course, of how dangerous mountain biking is....

Mike

http://news.scotsman.com/scotland/Mountain-biking-girl-16-lucky.5899081.jp

Mountain biking girl, 16, lucky to be alive after 90ft river gorge plunge

57. Mountain Biker's Leg Amputated

Was it really worth the "thrills"? ...

Mike

http://www.hartlepoolmail.co.uk/news/Mum39s-agony-after-son39s-leg.5925687.jp

Mum's agony after son's leg amputated

19 December 2009
By Mark Thompson

A MAN who spent two hours trapped in a 3ft pothole with multiple
fractures has been left devastated after doctors were forced to
amputate part of his leg.

Michael Casey had to endure excruciating pain in freezing conditions
after he came off his bike in the pitch dark at the former Steetley
chemical site.

He was eventually rescued and flown to hospital but medics had to
remove part of his left leg despite desperate efforts to save it.

Today his mum, Lorraine, 51, of Warren Road, Hartlepool, said: "He is
distraught.

"He just keeps saying he can't look down at what is left of his leg.

"He has taken it badly, but who wouldn't? He has cried about it and is
finding it hard to cope.

"I'm past myself. He will have to spend Christmas in hospital, but
I'll be there by his side."

Michael, who is unemployed, underwent an eight-hour operation straight
after the incident at 4.30pm on Sunday as medics battled to save his
severely fractured leg.

But their attempts failed and he took the decision on Tuesday to have
his leg amputated above the knee after doctors told him they could do
no more.

The Mail reported on Monday how Michael, who has a brother and sister,
was mountain biking on a dirt track near the Brus Tunnel when he fell
down the pothole.

He lay in agony in a ditch for two hours as paramedics struggled to
treat him due to his location.

He was eventually airlifted by the police helicopter to hospital.

The Mail has continuously called for the sprawling Steetley site to be
cleaned up, and launched the Sort Out Steetley campaign to make the
area safer two years ago.

Fire and police chiefs have also repeatedly called on people to stay
away of the site that is full of deep holes, sharp metal and rubble.
Lorraine said: "I want to warn people to stay away from the site.
Michael has proven how dangerous it is and he has suffered for it.

"It should be fenced off, but people should still keep away even
without the fences.

"Michael was down a ditch in agony for two hours and has had 15 hours
of operations.

"He has had a lot of pain both physically and mentally.

"Hopefully in the new year he will get a prosthetic leg and walk
again. But we've been told he will be in hospital for months to come."

58. "A mountain biking injury left him paralyzed in 1995"

http://www.aspendailynews.com/section/home/138472

Ferguson breaks leg, but hopes to compete again in February

by Curtis Wackerle, Aspen Daily News Staff Writer
Tuesday, December 29, 2009

Competitive adaptive skier Sam Ferguson of Aspen suffered a broken leg last week and will miss this years X Games.

Ferguson, who is paralyzed from the waist down and rides a monoski or sit ski, broke his femur in half near the kneecap on Dec. 20. At the time, he was getting ready to go skiing and was transferring himself from the tailgate of his truck into the chair of his sit ski. The sit ski slipped on the ice, causing Ferguson to fall on his leg.

While Fergusons broken leg would be a season ending injury for an able-bodied skier, Ferguson hopes to be back on his monoski by mid-January and competing again by early February. His rehab will focus on bringing down the swelling, restoring movement and rebuilding bone and muscle strength.

As he has no feeling in his legs, Ferguson did not feel the pain of the femur fracture, although he said he became light-headed after the accident happened. He noticed something was wrong when he got to the top of the gondola on Aspen Mountain and his leg was swollen. He then saw his knee drop down when he lifted his leg up. Ferguson downloaded and sought medical attention. Doctors have inserted a surgical rod into his leg.

ADN file photo
Aspens Sam Ferguson competing in the 2009 X Games. Ferguson broke his leg and will have to miss this years X Games.

A monoski is a bucket seat on a metal chassis with shocks mounted on a single alpine ski with hand outriggers for balance. Ferguson, who trains with the Challenge Aspen team, has become accomplished in the sport since a mountain biking injury left him paralyzed in 1995. He claimed an X Games silver medal last year in monoskiercross, where multiple riders race down a course of tabletop jumps, banked turns, rollers and gaps. He is also amassing World Cup points in monoski alpine downhill and super G racing. Ferguson was slated to be at least an alternate on the U.S. Paralympic Team, which will compete at the 2010 Vancouver Paralympic Games this March. Ferguson could still be invited, depending on how he does in the few events he hopes to be available for between now and the games.

Ferguson said he hopes to make his return to competition at the Canadian Nationals, which begin on Feb. 9.

The X Games will be held at Buttermilk Mountain on Jan. 28-31, which is not enough recovery time for Fergusons leg to withstand the force of landing the jumps on the monoskiercross course, he said. He will attend the X Games to encourage his fellow athletes, he said.

Ferguson is 20 points away from qualifying for World Cup downhill monoski racing. He hopes to be competing in the World Cup monoski races that will be held on the Tiehack side of Buttermilk in late March.

Ferguson gives much credit for his accomplishment to the staff and coaches of Challenge Aspen, who taught him how to monoski after he became a paraplegic.

That was the one thing to put my passion back into and apply that confidence back to the rest of my daily life, he said.

Ferguson now skis most every day in the winter.

curtis@aspendailynews.com

59. Another Serious Mountain Biking "Accident"

Even under "perfect riding conditions", mountain biking is inherently dangerous!

Mike

http://forums.mtbr.com/showthread.php?p=6455238

Lynn Woods carnage... Pray and wish a fellow rider a good recovery.

No pictures, but the images still play in my mind!

My friend drove up from NYC to enjoy a weekend ride in LW. The four of us, geared up and set out on the jaunt. We marvelled at the perfect riding conditions and enjoyed the renuinon of friends. But one hour into our ride, being the front biker, I quickly turned around in response to gruesome sounding shouts from my friend. I knew immediately he suffered a bad injury.

He was on the ground; his lower leg was bent and flopping around like a broken candy cane still in it's bag. Horrific! Basically his leg snapped like a chicken bone. His bike lay to his side with the front wheel twisted. And he was writhing, twisting, clenched in pain with uncontrollable shouts. I ran and checked him for more injury and then grabbed his hand tightly to comfort him.

We called 911, and paramedics and LFD arrived 30 mins later. They tried to call the Coast Guard for an airlift basket to get him out of woods but ended up with 8 men carrying him out in a hammock-like stretcher. Terrible. He was screaming. It sounded like a war zone.

I was saddened. I think he's going to have a long road to recovery. Please wish him well or say a prayer. Thanks.

After he was tucked away in the hospital ER and after most of the dust settled, my friend and I discussed if leg armor would have saved him. He had just bought 661 knee pads for the ride, and that's all he wore. We tried to figure out the mechanism of how it happened.

60. ANOTHER Death from Mountain Biking

http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/uk_news/england/staffordshire/8483169.stm

'Cover-up' NHS boss is suspended

John Moore-Robinson died hours after being discharged from hospital

A senior NHS member of staff believed to have ordered a rewrite of a damning report because she did not want "adverse publicity" has been suspended.

John Moore-Robinson, 20, died after he was discharged from Stafford Hospital with an undiagnosed ruptured spleen.

In a report, senior consultant Ivan Phair said Mr Moore-Robinson's treatment could be called "negligent".

But trust secretary Kate Levy said she did not want the comments "quoted in the press", and demanded their removal.

The memo emerged during an independent inquiry being held into the failures at Stafford Hospital.

Telecommunications worker Mr Moore-Robinson, from Coalville, Leicestershire, was taken to Stafford Hospital's accident and emergency in April 2006 after a mountain biking accident in Cannock Chase, Staffordshire.

'Avoidable situation'

An X-ray revealed broken ribs, but no scan was done to check his spleen and he was prescribed painkillers and discharged. He died hours later.

Mr Phair's report, written weeks later, concluded: "The premature death of Mr Moore-Robinson in my opinion was an avoidable situation.

"I feel that an independent expert would criticise the management afforded to him by the staff.

"There is a high probability that the level of care delivered to Mr Moore-Robinson was negligent."

But Ms Levy, who worked as Mid-Staffordshire NHS Foundation Trust secretary and head of legal services there, did not wish the comments to be reported in open court to a coroner.

She wrote two memos to Mr Phair asking him to delete criticism.

Mr Moore-Robinson's father is now calling for an inquest

She wrote: "With a view to avoiding further distress to the family and adverse publicity I wish to avoid stressing possible failures on the part of the trust."

In another memo she wrote: "I feel such a concluding statement may add to the family's distress and is not one I wish to see quoted in the press."

In a statement, the hospital's new management said it was "appalled" that anyone would want to hide information to protect the reputation of the organisation.

Antony Sumara, chief executive of Mid-Staffordshire NHS Foundation Trust, said they were in the process of formally suspending Ms Levy, "pending a full investigation into the allegations raised".

Mr Moore-Robinson's father Frank Robinson is now calling for an inquest into his son's death.

He said: "It's left me speechless.

"Up until the inquiry we really had no idea."

61. Miranda Miller breaks leg

http://www.squamishchief.com/article/20100129/SQUAMISH0201/301299951/-1/squamish/miranda-miller-breaks-leg

Miranda Miller breaks leg
Pro downhiller expects to be ready for Sea Otter Classic

Miranda Miller, seen here before the 2009 World Championships in Australia last year, is expected to be out of action for 12 weeks while she recovers from a broken leg.

January 29,2010

Neil Judson
njudson@squamishchief.com

What started out as a relaxed riding trip on Vancouver Island turned into a serious off-season injury for local downhill mountain bike racer Miranda Miller.

Miller, 19, broke her leg while scoping out a trail with a group of friends on Mount Prevost near Duncan on Jan. 21. She was riding around a small jump while checking out trail features on her first run through, unaware that there was a large root sticking out at shin level. She pedaled into the root, which stopped her abruptly as it struck her directly on the right shin, breaking both the tibia and fibula.

For a downhill racer accustomed to powering fast through extremely steep, technical descents, the circumstances of the injury are frustrating, said Miller.

It was totally a freak accident kind of thing. Not even doing anything gnarly, just going around something, she said.

Miller, who is entering her second Pro Elite racing season, will undergo surgery and is expected by off the bike for about 12 weeks, which includes six weeks of rehabilitation. She broke the same leg when she was 13 years old, which led to two surgeries.

Miller said she was lucky to have been riding with a group of four riding buddies, including fellow National Team member and Vancouver Island native Dean Tennant. Although Miller was able to roll most of the 40 minutes back to their vehicle, Tennant gave a much-needed boost up inclines.

At that point, Miller didnt know the extent of the injury but tried hard not to put any weight on her right leg.

It hurt pretty badly and I figured I better get out of there quickly, she said.

Despite the setback, Miller said she is determined to race the Sea Otter Classic in Monterey, California in mid-April. Last year, Miller placed sixth in the events SRAM Mountain Bike Downhill competition amongst a Pro Elite field of 29 riders.

Aprils Sea Otter Classic could be the start of a big season. Miller already has a U.S. Open title from her first Pro Elite season, but is looking to carve her mark even deeper on the national and international circuits.

Millers leg injury shouldnt be serious enough to slow her down if past performances are any indication. In August, Miller was cleared to compete in one race at Whistlers Crankworx while recovering from an acute renal condition that left her hospitalized just weeks prior. She not only competed in the Monster Energy Garbanzo Downhill, which is one of the longest downhill races in the world, she also won it.

62. http://www.odt.co.nz/news/national/91265/broken-wrists-nose-mountain-biker

Broken wrists, nose for mountain biker

Sat, 30 Jan 2010
News: National

A 25-year-old Auckland man broke both wrists and his nose after falling down a 20m bank while mountain biking in the Tongariro Forest, in the central North Island.

Youthtown Trust Rescue Helicopter spokesman Hendry de Waal said the man was on the 42 Traverse mountain biking track when the accident happened.

He was airlifted to Rotorua Hospital after a long-line was used to rescue him.

63. " flew off the bike, broke his scapula and was going into shock"

Subject: [morca] Re: Why all the Gravel and work on Ord?
From: papa-g <gacourtright@sbcglobal.net>
To: "Monterey Off-Road Cycling Association (MORCA)" <morca@googlegroups.com>
List-Help: <http://groups.google.com/support/?hl=en_US>, <mailto:morca+help@googlegroups.com>

I am not the expert on this topic by any means, but this is what I
THINK I know:

The roads being worked on are not new roads. These roads are used for
emergency vehicles to respond to both fire and medical emergencies.
If the roads are not improved, Fort Ord is not able to host such
things as the Sea Otter or 24 Hours of Adrenaline due to liability...I
think. Some roads are in such bad shape that the local Cal Fire/
Salinas Rural will not use them to respond to emergencies. Not pretty
seeing the gravel and such being put in, but it will look real good
seeing an emergency vehicle coming down one to get to your sorry and
broken butt if you do not keep the rubber side down! As we know, in a
medical emergency, every minute counts.

I want to see Fort Ord be open and stay "wild", too. There is no way
to have both at all times. Rangers have to patrol, roads will need to
be worked on and folks need to push back to keep OUR lands open and
usable for recreation. One way to do this is BE INVOLVED!!! Show up
to the MORCA meetings, volunteer your time to do trail work, be active
in the FORA/ESCA process and be proactive instead of reactive to the
issues. Lots of folks in the club do this and I am thankful to all of
you! If you are a lurker, get involved, please.

One quick story...before I get back to my paying job...Sea Otter a few
years ago when the club volunteered to marshal the XC race: I was at
the top of trail 50 where that nasty bit of gravel is. A racer was
coming down the ruts on fire road just before the intersection and
flew off the bike, broke his scapula and was going into shock. Jim,
my hero... ;)...was doing his BETA duties and calling in emergency
services. A helicopter was called in while an emergency vehicle tried
to get to the site at the same time. Crazy thing is that it took a
good forty minutes or more before someone got to the site! The dirt
road from Laguna Seca was bad and the medics took a long time to
navigate to the site on the rutted out road...I think that the
emergency vehicle, a truck, only had about a mile or so of dirt they
drove on, the rest was paved.

Thanks for reading my two cents!

Gary

64. http://www.voxy.co.nz/national/mountain-bike-rider-transported-hospital-helicopter-karapoti/5/38401

Mountain Bike Rider Transported To Hospital By Helicopter From Karapoti

Contributor:
Voxy News Engine
Sunday, 14 February, 2010 - 14:48

The Wellington-based Westpac Rescue Helicopter transported a 32 year old woman to hospital today after she fell from her moutain bike while riding at Karapoti near Upper Hutt.

The helicopter, with a Wellington Free Ambulance paramedic onboard was called to the accident just before midday today. The woman was believed to have fallen in an area approximately 50 minutes walking time from the Karapoti carpark end of the trail. The alarm was raised by fellow riders who had to return to the the Karapoti carpark to get cellphone coverage. "Our initial information was that she had fallen down a steep bank and may need to be winched from where she had fallen" says Colin Larsen, Westpac Rescue Helicopter crewman. "We were told by the womans friends that she had suffered quite a deep laceration to her left leg".

One of the womans friends was able to help the helicopter crew navigate to where it was thought she had fallen. A brief search of the area was carried out by the helicopter before we were notified that other bike riders had helped the woman back out to the Karapoti carpark.

The helicopter then returned to the carpark where the woman was treated by the Wellington Free Ambulance helicopter paramedic and flown to the Wellington Hospital Emergency Department. She is currently being further assesed and treated for her injury.

65. For starters, this is an "international" mountain biking "bravado" website with a chockful of ammunition available to help our activism along....
"Broken Riders"- injury pics from around the world of mtb'ing... WARNING -- very graphic -- it just might help make parents think twice about setting their children loose in "Mtb'ing camps" ;)
http://www.pinkbike.com/photo/list/?category=22&date=2010-02

and it's accompanying pics called "Crashes in Action" - some injury shots included...
http://www.pinkbike.com/photo/list/?category=23&date=2010-02

and not to mention the carnage of "Broken Bikes" - this is where the bike shops/manufacturers "make a killing", selling all those replacement parts for those broken bikes....
http://www.pinkbike.com/photo/list/?category=21&date=2010-02

It's a beginning...explore the whole page and pick a country -- any country...(this handy website comes out of Vancouver, B ...the real truth about mountain biking...)

66. So much for the alleged "healthfulness" of mountain biking...

Mike

http://www.mailtribune.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20100215/NEWS/2150304

Showing the way

Local physical therapist pairs former patients with new patients to help newly disabled people learn how to cope
Jesse Gifford, right, shows Matt Thomas his specially modified van that has been adapted for people with spinal cord injuries.Jim Craven
February 15, 2010
By Bill Kettler
Mail Tribune

Jesse Gifford knows all too well how Matt Thomas feels these days.

Thomas has been confined to a wheelchair since July, when a mountain bike accident left him paralyzed. Gifford suffered a similar paralyzing injury almost 13 years ago after a diving accident.

"Your whole world is shattered," Gifford recalled. "You don't know what you're going to be able to do or whether you'll be able to provide for yourself at all."

Physical therapist Leslie Black asked Gifford, one of her former patients, to get together with Thomas to show him that a spinal cord injury isn't the end of life. Black often recruits her former patients to visit with new patients who arelearning to cope with disabling injuries.

"Even though I've had a lot of experience working with people with spinal cord injuries, I don't have one myself," Black said. "I think there's a lot of benefit in having someone who deals with it day by day be a mentor or a sounding board."

Gifford, 31, recently drove his specially modified van to Providence Medford Medical Center to give Thomas, 35, some sense of what someone can do, even with a spinal cord injury.

Right now, as much as anything, Thomas misses his freedom to just get in the car and go.

"It sucks not being able to drive," he said. "I'm the equivalent of a high school freshman."

Thomas, who worked as an engineer before his accident, quizzed Gifford about the adaptive components of his rig. Gifford showed him how his wheelchair locks into the floor and demonstrated the throttle and brake controls for his left hand and the adaptations to the steering wheel that allow him to steer with his right hand.

Gifford's visor-mounted cell phone caught Thomas' eye.

"What hand do you use (for the phone)?" Thomas asked.

"It's voice activated," Gifford explained. "I just say 'answer.' "

Gifford and Thomas both have what medical professionals call "complete" spinal cord injuries, meaning they have no sensation or movement below the injury site. They have some use of their arms, but very limited grip strength.

"You're really lost at first when you have an injury like this," Gifford said, as Thomas and Black worked through a therapy session. "It's good to show (newly disabled people) there's hope. It's good for me, too. It makes me realize how much I've done."

Gifford, who lives in Eagle Point, recalled Black telling him after his injury that he would be driving on his own again someday.

"I looked at her like she was crazy," he said.

Gifford did much more than learn to drive. He earned a degree in computer science at Southern Oregon University and now works as a Web designer.

"Even now I'm still learning how to do things," he said. "I'm still finding out what I'm capable of."

Black said she tries to match former and current patients who have similar backgrounds, education, life experience or age.

"You can't connect people just because they happen to be in wheelchairs," she said. "I do think about personalities. People have to have some kind of commonality."

Gifford and Thomas were both athletes. Gifford played high school football and ran for the track team. Thomas was a kayaker, mountain biker and climber.

Thomas, who lives in Medford, said he plans to return to school to earn a master's degree in business administration and seek more aggressive physical therapy.

"Seeing Jesse is a paradox," he said. "It's helpful to see someone with that level of function. At the same time, it's a little depressing to see someone paralyzed so long who hasn't recovered."

Thomas said he's still coming to terms with losing the person he was.

"Labor Day a year ago I was on a four-day kayak expedition down a river nobody had ever done before," he said. "Spending next Labor Day in a wheelchair is a pretty stark comparison."

Reach reporter Bill Kettler at 541-776-4492, or e-mail bkettler@mailtribune.com.

67. http://www.nzherald.co.nz/cycling/news/article.cfm?c_id=31&objectid=10627705

Cyclist's body found in creek

By Isaac Davison
4:00 AM Monday Feb 22, 2010

A cyclist died in knee-deep water after losing control of her bike in a Hamilton reserve and falling into a creek at the weekend.

Late last night, police were still trying to identify the victim, who is believed to be in her early 30s and of Maori or Pacific Island descent.

Police said the woman struck a fallen tree at the bottom of a winding, steep path in Edgecumbe Park, Whitiora, before plunging down a 4m bank.

Acting Senior Sergeant Pete Whittaker said the woman, who was not wearing a helmet, was likely to have been knocked unconscious before drowning in the Waitawhiriwhiri Stream, which was "only up to his knees".

"She must have been going at a fair whack, and the hill is just so steep. There's skidmarks on the grass where she's failed to veer around the corner, and it looks like the tree has clothes-lined her. It's just tragic."

Mr Whittaker could not confirm when the accident happened, but said the cyclist was likely to have been riding through the reserve alone on Saturday night.

He said anyone walking down the path between Edgecumbe Rd and Charlemont St would have spotted the body.

Two 15-year-olds who were "taking a breather" from their morning church service at Central Baptist Church yesterday found the body head-down in the creek, which runs off the Waikato River. The cyclist's mountain bike lay nearby in the water.

The pastor's wife, Sally Allen, said that by the time the youths discovered the body, there was nothing they could do to help. They alerted their parents, who called for emergency services.

"We'll be praying for the family next Sunday," Ms Allen said.

The paving stones on the path were being repaired, and the cyclist ignored a sign at the top of the hill that said, "Footpath closed".

The woman's body was removed from the creek yesterday afternoon. She had a bob haircut and was dressed in aqua-blue boardshorts and a black T-shirt. She was wearing a tiki around her neck. She wasn't wearing shoes.

Residents who lived around the park said people rarely cycled down the hill from the Charlemont St end because the slope was so steep.

A pathologist will carry out an examination today to determine the cause of death.
By Isaac Davison

http://tvnz.co.nz/national-news/woman-killed-in-bike-accident-named-3382944

Woman killed in bike accident named

Published: 9:48AM Friday February 26, 2010

The name of a woman identified on Thursday as the person whose body was found in a Hamilton creek on Sunday has been released.

She is 40-year-old Joan Pani Hiwinui of Hamilton.

Detective Senior sergeant Karl Thornton of the Hamilton CIB said Hiwinui was identified by members of her family on Thursday morning after they contacted police with concerns that they hadn't seen or heard from her for several days.

"Her case has been reported to the coroner who will determine the cause of death. At this point, from a police perspective, we're happy about being able to bring closure for both Joan and her family's sake." says Thornton.

The family has asked for privacy and have not released any other details.

Hiwinui died after she missed a bend on her bicycle, braked and crashed into a tree, flying over the front handlebars into the Waitawhiriwhiri stream.

68. Date: Wed, 17 Feb 2010 11:12:14 -0800
Subject: Lots of info on an International Mtb'ing "Bravado" website...

For starters, this is an "international" mountain biking "bravado" website with a chockful of ammunition available to help our activism along...
"Broken Riders"- injury pics from around the world of mtb'ing... WARNING -- very graphic -- it just might help make parents think twice about setting their children loose in "Mtb'ing camps" ;)
http://www.pinkbike.com/photo/list/?category=22&date=2010-02

and it's accompanying pics called "Crashes in Action" - some injury shots included...
http://www.pinkbike.com/photo/list/?category=23&date=2010-02

and not to mention the carnage of "Broken Bikes" - this is where the bike shops/manufacturers "make a killing", selling all those replacement parts for those broken bikes....
http://www.pinkbike.com/photo/list/?category=21&date=2010-02

It's a beginning...explore the whole page and pick a country -- any country...(this handy website comes out of Vancouver, B ...the real truth about mountain biking...)

"It is horrifying that we have to fight our own government to save the environment." ~Ansel Adams

69. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/20020788

Sports Med. 2010;40(1):77-90. doi: 10.2165/11319640-000000000-00000.

Mountain biking injuries in children and adolescents.

Aleman KB, Meyers MC.

Human Performance Research Laboratory, Department of Sports and Exercise Sciences, West Texas A&M University, Canyon, Texas, USA. kbaleman1@buffs.wtamu.edu

Over the last decade, the sport of mountain biking has experienced extensive growth in youth participation. Due to the unpredictable nature of outdoor sport, a lack of rider awareness and increased participation, the number of injuries has unnecessarily increased. Many believe that the actual incidence of trauma in this sport is underestimated and is just the 'tip of the iceberg'.

The most common mechanism of injury is usually attributed to downhill riding and forward falling. Although rare, this type of fall can result in serious cranial and thoraco-abdominal trauma. Head and neck trauma continue to be documented, often resulting in concussions and the possibility of permanent neurological sequelae.

Upper limb injuries range from minor dermal abrasions, contusions and muscular strains to complex particular fracture dislocations. These are caused by attempting to arrest the face with an outstretched hand, leading to additional direct injury. Common overuse injuries include repeated compression from the handlebars and vibration leading to neurovascular complications in the hands. Along with reports of blunt abdominal trauma and lumbar muscle strains, lower extremity injuries may include various hip/pelvic/groin contusions, patellofemoral inflammation, and various muscle strains.

The primary causes of mountain biking injuries in children and adolescents include overuse, excessive fatigue, age, level of experience, and inappropriate or improperly adjusted equipment. Additional factors contributing to trauma among this age group involve musculoskeletal immaturity, collisions and falls, excessive speed, environmental conditions, conditioning and fitness status of the rider, nonconservative behavioural patterns, and inadequate medical care. The limited available data restrict the identification and understanding of specific paediatric mountain biking injuries and injury mechanisms.

Education about unnecessary risk of injury, use of protective equipment, suitable bikes and proper riding technique, coupled with attentive and proper behaviour, are encouraged to reduce unnecessary injury. This article provides information on the causation and risk factors associated with injury among young mountain bikers, and recommendations to minimize trauma and enhance optimal performance and long-term enjoyment in this outdoor sport.

PMID: 20020788 [PubMed - in process]

(My note: "Proper behaviour" with regards to mountain biking would mean that one would not choose to thrash the natural environment, maybe?)

70. ANOTHER Death from Mountain Biking!

Unsung heroes take center stage

By BILL WARD

wward@tampatrib.com

Published: February 28, 2010

TAMPA - During the elite runner heyday of the Publix Super Markets Gasparilla Distance Classic 15-kilometer run, world-class runners certainly brought electricity to the event, but you have to wonder how many stories like those of Austin Richmond and Murray McDonough went unnoticed as a result.

Saturday, with little in the way of prize money on the line, their lives took center stage.

For Richmond, the men's winner, it was a story of a 24-year-old father who has been forced to live in so many places the past few years that in the eyes of the government, he is considered homeless.

For McDonough, the race was a celebration of a healthy, vibrant life that suddenly ended just nine days ago following a mountain biking accident in Polk County.

While Richmond has family in Clewiston and Bradenton, he has not had a permanent place to call home since he competed for Webber International University in Babson Park, where he earned a business degree. And even then, Richmond lived in a small trailer.

Since graduating from Webber, Richmond's dream of qualifying for the U.S. Olympic marathon trials has seen him bounce between the homes of family and friends, including those in Colorado, where he spent time training at altitude. Between those stops, he and his wife, Krystyne, had a daughter, Alexa, who is now nearly 6 months old.

In these difficult economic times, Richmond says he has been unable to find steady work. So when he recently applied for government assistance to help support his family, he and his wife were listed as homeless.

"(The government agency) wanted to know about all these things we didn't have, like a home and permanent address, which we don't have," Richmond said. "Obviously, it hasn't been easy for us. But we're doing OK, and I know that if I can just stay focused in my training, I can run faster."

After second-place finishes here in 2007 and '08 and a fourth in '06, Saturday was another personal best for Richmond. He dropped 27-year-old Jim Wahl of Cary, N.C., just after 2 miles, and despite suffering a painful cramp in his diaphragm near the 6-mile mark, Richmond fell only slightly off a sub-5-minute mile pace to finish in 46 minutes, 49 seconds.

Wahl earned second in 48:27, and since Richmond listed his family's address in Clewiston as his hometown, St. Petersburg's Hank Campbell, 30, won the $2,000 for the first local finisher in third place overall at 49:51.

Upon learning of Richmond's situation, however, race director Susan Harmeling consulted former Gasparilla president Joey Resnick and current president Maureen Chiodini. Together, they agreed the right thing to do was award Richmond his own $2,000 check.

"We support the local running community, and that's why we have the prize money for them," Harmeling said. "But at the same time, you have someone with the athletic ability he has and if anyone deserves the help, it's him."

As the cloudy skies Richmond raced under finally gave way to light rain, Michael McDonough, 50, crossed the finish line. In a virtual sea of back-of-the-pace runners, Michael had never run a race longer than 5k before Saturday, and that was nearly 20 years ago. But in honor of his little brother, Murray McDonough, he took up the challenge of Saturday's 15k.

Michael not only wore the No. 74 race number Murray had been issued for Gasparilla, but Michael also wore his brother's running shoes, shorts, shirt - right down to his socks. He and several of Murray's friends and co-workers from the engineering firm URS also wore handmade red ribbons with "In Memory of Murray" written on it.

Michael and Murray's friends all say he was the fittest 47-year-old you could meet. Exercise was a way of life for him. Murray even volunteered for the Meals on Wheels program by delivering food to the needy on his bicycle.

But on a solo mountain bike ride on Valentine's Day, Murray was found unconscious at the bottom of a steep section of Loyce Harpe Park near Lakeland. Murray was wearing his helmet, but he had broken a vertebra in his neck and had nearly severed his spine. A nurse hiking in the park discovered Murray minutes afterward and performed CPR before he was airlifted to a nearby hospital.

The lack of oxygen to his brain between the accident and his arrival at the hospital resulted in minimal brain function. Five days later, Murray's family decided to take him off the respirator. His heart continued beating for several minutes before finally stopping.

Murray had left no end-of-life documents or instructions. But since he had taken such good care of his body, his family decided to donate his organs, and they say eight of them will be life-saving.

As he stood near the finish line with Murray's friends, Michael tried to think past the pain in his legs from the race. Today, he and other mountain bikers will gather at Loyce Harpe Park for a ride in honor of Murray.

"It feels like we've said everything there is to say and talked about it so much, but it still doesn't feel like it's possible he's not here," Michael McDonough said. "I know he pushed me out there today to finish."

71. Graphic photos of a typical mountain biking injury:

http://www.panix.com/~baldwin/surgery/

72. "It's a dangerous sport". We don't hear that near often enough.

Mike

http://www.news1130.com/news/local/article/32965--coquitlam-search-and-rescue-save-injured-mountain-biker

Coquitlam Search and Rescue save injured mountain biker

They were called to Eagle Mountain

Renee Bernard Mar 06, 2010 21:28:06 PM

COQUITLAM (NEWS1130) - Coquitlam Search and Rescue personnel were called into action today, to help an injured mountain biker off of Eagle Mountain.

Dwight Yochim says the biker fell after a jump. "It's a dangerous sport. He landed on his head, off a fairly big log, so he's lucky there were no neck or spine injuries."

Luckily the man was cycling with three others, who cell phoned for help. Fifteen people took part in the rescue.

73. http://www.malverngazette.co.uk/news/5060740.Mountain_biker_airlifted_after_fall/

Mountain biker airlifted after fall

3:33pm Sunday 14th March 2010

By James Savage

A MOUNTAIN biker has been airlifted to hospital after falling from his bike and hitting his head on a tree.

West Midlands Ambulance Service was called to Castlemorton, near Malvern, shortly after 11.30am on Sunday.

An ambulance, a medical responder and the Midlands Air Ambulance from Cosford were dispatched to the scene. The fire service was also in attendance.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokeswoman said: On arrival at the scene crews found a mountain biker who had fallen from his bike and is believed to have hit his head on a tree branch.

"The man, believed to be in his late 30s, was treated on scene for a neck injury. He was given pain relief at the scene and immobilised using a neck collar and spinal board.

Due to the location of the incident a specialist team from the fire service assisted the crew to transfer the patient from the hillside to the ambulance.

The ambulance crew conveyed the patient to the Air Ambulance who airlifted the patient to Worcestershire Royal Hospital for further assessment and treatment.

74. "He remained 'very weak physically' after breaking his back in a mountain bike accident"

http://olympics.thestar.com/2010/article/779621--sam-danniels-brings-heart-and-soul-to-slopes

Sam Danniels brings 'heart and soul' to slopes

'I'm not looking to come 15th,' says Canadian skier of his first Games

March 14, 2010

Daniel Girard

WHISTLER, B.C.It's fair to say Sam Danniels is a focused individual.

About 3 1/2 years ago, the Toronto native decided that even though he remained "very weak physically" after breaking his back in a mountain bike accident it would be good therapy to try and secure himself a spot on the Canadian alpine ski team for the 2010 Paralympics.

"It just seemed like a great goal, something I could put my heart and soul into," the 23-year-old says.

"And that's exactly what I've done.

"But really, there was never much doubt in my mind that I'd be here today."

So, you'll have to forgive Danniels for not getting too worked up about his Paralympic debut being delayed by fog, which led to the postponement of the downhill races here Saturday.

He'll eventually ski in the downhill and super-G, his two sit-ski events at these Winter Games, once race organizers sort out the scheduling.

Whatever. He'll just roll with it.

"It's part of the sport," says Danniels, who moved to Whistler about three years ago after spending time back with his family in Toronto following the accident in 2005.

"Sometimes everything goes smoothly and you get a nice, blue bird day and sometimes it's just a nightmare.

"Whistler is a skier's paradise. It's just not a ski-racer's paradise."

Danniels, who attended Upper Canada College and graduated from Royal St. George's College in the Bloor-Bathurst area, moved to Kamloops, B.C., right after high school to study adventure tourism management at Thompson Rivers University.

While there, he travelled to Whistler virtually every weekend to ski in the winter and mountain bike in the summer before the accident left him a paraplegic.

As part of his rehabilitation in Ontario, Danniels learned sit skiing at Collingwood about four years ago.

Danniels, who is in his first season on the International Paralympic Committee World Cup circuit, doesn't come in here as a medal favourite.

But on Wednesday, in the only training run for the downhill event, he finished first by nearly a second, sweeping down the hill at average 73 km/h.

"If he pulls it off and wins, no one would be happier than us," Lasse Ericcson, development coach with the Canadian para-alpine team, said in an interview Saturday. "But we don't have any expectations like that on him and we've told him that we're here to see him learn for future games.

"In the disabled community, he's still a very young athlete. I hope to see him for a lot more years and a couple of more Paralympic Games for sure."

Danniels knows he'll be a better skier in four years.

But, since he's made the team and is competing on his home mountain before a couple of dozen vocal supporters from Ontario and B.C., he's not just looking to gain experience.

"I show up to race and I race to win," Danniels says. "That's my mentality and that's why I'm here. I'm not looking to come 15th."

Still, no matter what the result when his races finally happen, Danniels says the ride to his first Paralympics has been worth every minute.

"At the end of the day, it's about enjoying yourself," he says. "I've been a skier or a snowboarder or an outdoors person my entire life and I love this.

"This is what I do."

75. "Mountain biker airlifted to hospital after fall"

http://www.birminghammail.net/news/worcestershire-news/2010/03/15/mountain-biker-airlifted-to-hospital-after-fall-97319-26031989/

Worcestershire News

Mountain biker airlifted to hospital after fall

Mar 15 2010 by Anuji Varma, Birmingham Mail

A MOUNTAIN biker was airlifted to hospital after he fell and hit his head on a branch in Worcestershire.

The man, believed to be in his late 30s, was treated on the scene for a neck injury before the Air Ambulance took him to Worcester Royal Hospital for further treatment.

The incident happened yesterday shortly after 11.30am on a hill at Castlemorton.

76. "Top mountain biker dies"

So much for the alleged "healthfulness" of mountain biking....

Mike

http://www.iol.co.za/index.php?set_id=1&click_id=13&art_id=iol1269329511910B263

Top mountain biker dies
March 23 2010 at 09:37AM

A top international mountain biker taking part in the Absa Cape Epic Mountain bike race died early on Tuesday.

Australian James Williamson, the 26-year-old editor of the Australian Enduro mountain bike magazine, died in Ceres Private Hospital at 6.47am after his riding partner, 28-year-old Shaun Lewis, had been unable to rouse him.

The race, a gruelling 722km event between Wellington through the countryside to Somerset West started on Sunday.

This breaking news flash was supplied exclusively to iol.co.za by the news desk at our sister title, the Cape Argus.

77. A "healthy activity for the whole family", huh?

Mike

http://www.leaderlive.co.uk/news/87004/mountain-biker-hurt-in-forest-near-wrexham.aspx

Mountain biker hurt in forest near Wrexham

Published date: 06 April 2010 | Published by: Staff reporter

A MOUNTAIN biker has been taken to hospital following an incident near Wrexham.

An ambulance was called to Llandegla Forest, Llandegla, shortly before 1.40pm yesterday and sent to the scene.

An ambulance service spokeswoman said: We were called after reports of a mountain biker who had reportedly fallen from his bike in the forest.

"Due to the location of the incident the crew had to walk about 500 meters to the injured biker.

On arrival at the scene, ambulance crews treated a man believed to be 37 years old age for a suspected fractured leg.

"The crew immobilised the man and with the help of bystanders transported the man to the ambulance."

78. http://www.nzherald.co.nz/cycling/news/article.cfm?c_id=31&objectid=10638025

Biker shrugs off freak accident with smile

4:00 AM Tuesday Apr 13, 2010

Kevin Myatt says he 'felt like I was famous' when Rotorua Hospital staff came to check out his injured hand. Photo / APN

A freak accident that left a bike brake lever embedded in a Rotorua mountainbiker's hand had hospital staff running - for their cameras.

Thirty-year-old machine shop foreman Kevin Myatt, now sporting 15 stitches, said pictures of his hand might look horrific but he was in no pain and instead found himself smiling with disbelief as he was treated.

The crash happened on the Dragonstail track in the Whakarewarewa forest on April 1.

He had taken a week off work to carry out a gardening project but decided to head to the forest for "a bit of a play".

"I was trying to build up a bit of speed before some jumps but I dropped my chain and the force of losing resistance threw me forward over the [handle] bars," he said.

"It was very, very quick. I was sliding along the ground, looked back and saw the lever had gone through the bottom of my hand."

His brake lever slid up his arm, cutting it open, then pierced the skin on his wrist before surfacing.

He said the first thing that hit him was the realisation it was close to an artery. He grabbed hold of his wrist to stem blood flow and yelled at his riding companions to call for an ambulance.

He said he was lucky in his choice of brakes - his system disconnects from the bike more easily than others so he was able to detach himself from the rest of his bike before the ambulance arrived.

At Rotorua Hospital, word of his injury quickly spread and staff members headed to the emergency department to take a look.

"The attention was unbelievable. I felt like I was famous," Mr Myatt said.

"I was told that normally people have to get sticks removed from their hands from mountainbiking crashes - not brake levers.

"You certainly get a fright when you look at the pictures."

He admitted he was a little concerned about the pain he might feel when the wound was cleaned of the pine needles and dirt, but needn't have worried as he was put under general anaesthetic to have the lever removed.

"I've been mountainbiking for 17 years and in that time I've broken my wrist and had my shoulder rebuilt. That's not a bad record.

"As long as you walk away with a smile then it's okay."

79. http://www.malverngazette.co.uk/news/8100303.Boy_hospitalised_after_mountain_bike_accident/

Boy hospitalised after mountain bike accident

9:45am Thursday 15th April 2010

AN 11-year-old boy was rushed to hospital after an accident at the Out to Grass Mountain Board Centre in Cradley yesterday (Wednesday).

The incident happened at about 3.10pm and an ambulance and the Midlands Air Ambulance from Strensham attended the centre at Bromyard Road.

An ambulance service spokesman said: On arrival at the scene, crews found a boy, believed to be 11 years old, who had been injured after falling from his mountain bike.

The boy had suffered significant facial injuries in the accident and had been unconscious for a short period. He was treated at the scene by ambulance crews and immobilised using a spinal board and neck collar.

The boy was transferred by land ambulance to Worcester Royal Hospital for further assessment and treatment.

Fortunately, the boy was wearing an appropriate cycle safety helmet at the time of the fall which saved him from suffering more serious injuries.

80. http://seattletimes.nwsource.com/html/theblotter/2011643541_i.html

Searchers find injured mountain biker east of Issaquah

Posted by John de Leon

An injured mountain biker was hospitalized early Monday morning after he was found by searchers near Lake Tradition.

The biker, a 41-year-old man, was reported missing to Issaquah police around 9 p.m. Sunday after he failed to return home. A couple that had been hiking near Lake Tradition had earlier found the man's cell phone and notified a friend of the man.

Police conducted a preliminary search of the Lake Tradition trail area before contacting King County Search and Rescue. The man was found around 1:16 a.m. Monday just off a steep trail west of Lake Tradition. He had suffered head injuries in a fall from his bike, according to Issaquah police.

The man was taken to Overlake Hospital Medical Center in Bellevue. His condition was not immediately known.

81. Mountain Biker Cracks a Rib [He also punctured his lung]

Bicyclists claim to want equal treatment, but I haven't heard any of them asking to be required to file an accident report when they have an injury-causing accident, the way motor vehicle drivers are required to do so!!! Maybe that requirement would help the authorities properly assess the impacts of mountain biking!

Mike

To: <bbtcmembers@yahoogroups.com>
From: "PETERSON, PRESTON J (ATTSI)" <pp7551@att.com>
List-Subscribe: <mailto:bbtcmembers-subscribe@yahoogroups.com>
Date: Mon, 19 Apr 2010 10:00:18 -0700
Subject: Doug Walsh steppin' up

As the head of the ride leader development program Doug doesn't just
talk, he walks the walk.

Only an hour into yesterday's Dungeness ride we had a rider (sorry I
didn't quite catch his name) slide out on a moss slick wooden bridge and
crack a rib. I came upon the scene with Doug, and I he didn't even
hesitate in volunteering to walk out with the rider and take him to the
clinic for the rest of the afternoon.

Yes it had to be done but still difficult to give up your sunny day ride
in the Olympics after organizing the ride and getting up early and
taking the ferry etc.

Way to go Doug and I hope the injured rider is going to be okay,
although he probably won't be mountain biking for several weeks if he
did indeed break a rib in his upper back area.

82. "Williamson's participation in the grueling 722 kilometre mountain bike stage race wasn't necessarily a factor in the failure of his heart". Yeah, right.

Mike

http://www.bikeradar.com/news/article/james-williamsons-death-due-to-natural-causes-25553

An undiagnosed heart condition was the cause of James Williamson's death while sleeping at the Cape Epic mountain bike race last week, according to Williamson's partner Niki Fisher. Fisher travelled to South Africa with Williamson's family last Wednesday, where she spoke with the race doctor after an autopsy was performed on the 26-year-old.

"It appears Jimi had a 'heart condition' - where the second chamber of the heart did not push the blood out properly - so to compensate, Jimi's ventricle grew larger," said Fisher. "This was a genetic condition. It had nothing to do with his riding."

Williamson's participation in the grueling 722 kilometre mountain bike stage race wasn't necessarily a factor in the failure of his heart, according to Fisher. As an endurance mountain biker and the 2008 Solo 24 Hour World Champion, Williamson was no stranger to competing at challenging races like Cape Epic.

"It could have happened to him as he was sitting at the computer, or just lying in bed," she said. "The doctor thinks if anything that Jimi's fitness was positive and unlikely to have contributed or encouraged the problem."

Doctors told Fisher that it was possible even had Williamson had his heart tested in recent years that the condition might not have been revealed. She recalled the doctor's hypothesis on the events that caused Williamson's heart to fail.

"The doctor explained in detail what he thinks might have happened during the night. Jimi was lying comfortably on his stomach, and his heart beating would not have done what it was meant to do which is what killed him. He would not have known this and would have died peacefully in his sleep."

The post mortem found no blockages and Williamson's potassium levels, which could indicate electrical problems with the heart, were normal. "Nothing wrong in any other way," added Fisher.

The weekend's Mont 24 Hour mountain bike race in Canberra, Australia was essentially shortened by one hour to 23 hours in order to accommodate a tribute ride to Williamson. Competitors at the event rode a shortened loop, taking about 30 minutes, as a tribute to Williamson with the race officially starting at 1 PM AES.

You can follow BikeRadar on Twitter at twitter.com/bikeradar.

83. http://www.northnorfolknews.co.uk/content/northnorfolknews/news/story.aspx?brand=NNNOnline&category=news&tBrand=NNNonline&tCategory=news&itemid=NOED23%20Apr%202010%2012%3A00%3A12%3A067

Drummer hitch for Aylsham band

Sam Evans drumming with the Sharps in the quarter finals - before injuring his arm.

RICHARD BATSON

23 April 2010

A young Norfolk band is facing its biggest ever gig in a national talent competition without its regular drummer after he injured an arm in a mountain biking accident.

The Sharps are playing at the semi-final of a UK-wide Live and Unsigned contest in London on May 2 - with hopes of reaching the final at the O2 arena.

But the band of 19 and 20 year olds who have played together since they formed at Aylsham High School, look likely to have to perform without drummer Sam Evans.

He is at home in Norfolk nursing a badly injured shoulder suffered during a mountain biking jump on Felmingham Heath near his home - while his colleagues draft in a new group member for the big day.

It's a shame, but accidents happen, said Sam, whose fall two weeks ago saw him airlifted to hospital by air ambulance.

I was really getting into mountain-biking but took a jump a bit too fast. The next thing I knew an hour had passed and I did not know where I was. I phoned my mum who called an ambulance, and they sent a helicopter.

His dislocated shoulder means no drumming for two weeks, and his chances of recovering in time for the semi final at the Beck Theatre in Hayes are less than 50:50.

The Sharps' Plan B is to use another Aylsham lad Guy Porteous, who is studying music with guitarist Keiran Morgan in Southampton, on guitar, while all-rounder Kieran switched to drums, which he used to play for Norwich band The Moo.

The pair are currently working on the two songs for the semi-final - one of their own called Play The Game Again and a Beatles cover For No-One, just in case Sam does not recover in time.

Darby Dorras, the band's other guitarist, said: "It's a disaster. We really feel we have a chance. Obviously we're pleased that Sam hasn't hurt himself worse than he did, but we can't help feeling gutted."

There were thoughts of asking him to drum one handed, but the extent of the injury ruled that out.

Live and Unsigned is the biggest original music competition in the UK for unsigned bands and artists, promoting originality in formats from heavy rock to rap, and with a prize pot of 75,000.

In the quarter finals judges praised the raw energy of the Sharps, whose other member is Keiran's twin brother Callum.

Live and Unsigned events director Chris Grayston said: It's tough for the guys - especially Sam - but the show must go on, so good for them!

For more information and tickets for Live & Unsigned go to the www.LiveandUnsigned.UK.com

Hear the Sharps' original songs at www.myspace.com/thesharps

84. http://www.denverpost.com/news/ci_14957116

Colorado Springs man injured after fall on Mesa County trail

By Tom McGhee
The Denver Post
Posted: 04/25/2010 03:59:53 PM MDT
Updated: 04/25/2010 04:19:19 PM MDT

A Colorado Springs man is in the hospital after falling about 35 feet while he was mountain biking on a Mesa County trail.

The 45-year-old man was riding on the Kokopelli Trail when he tumbled over an embankment at about 12:30 p.m. today, said Mary Gonzales, spokeswoman for the Mesa County Sheriff's office.

Rescue workers took the injured man to St. Mary's Hospital in Grand Junction.

85. Mountain biker falls 50 feet, transported to Pasadena hospital

http://www.pasadenastarnews.com/news/ci_15006747

Posted: 05/03/2010 11:54:41 AM PDT

Deputies used a helicopter to rescue a mountain biker who fell 50 feet down a hillside near Chaney Trail in Altadena on Sunday, authorities said.

Carlos Bautista, 35, was riding Chaney Trail on Mount Lowe and the Sunset Ridge when he went over an edge Sunday afternoon, said Sgt. Debra Herman of the sheriff's Crescenta Valley office.

Bautista was taken to Huntington Memorial Hospital in Pasadena for treatment. His injuries and condition are unknown at this time, said Herman.

86. "Lost in the dark with a busted knee"

http://www.greenwichtime.com/sports/article/Phillips-recovers-from-mountain-bike-injuries-474812.php

Phillips recovers from mountain bike injuries

ALYSSA SCHNUGG, Oxford Eagle

Published: 08:54 a.m., Wednesday, May 5, 2010

OXFORD, Miss. (AP) Lost in the dark with a busted knee, Wesley Phillips, sat in the woods for about five hours before being rescued.

His first thought?

"Football," said the Ole Miss Rebels long snapper. "Then I thought how was I going to tell my mom without upsetting her."

On April 10, Phillips and his buddy, Joe Woolsey, took their bikes on the railroad-bed trails. The two went off the main trail and started biking through the narrow dirt trails in the woods. At about 6:30 p.m., Phillips lost control of his mountain bike while riding down a hill.

"I was going maybe 25 miles per hour," he said. "I went over a small ramp and was fixin' to hit a tree head-on so I jumped off my bike."

A he flew through the air, Phillips' head missed the tree, but his right leg slammed into the trunk.

"My shin and ankle kind of bent around the tree," he said.

After attempting to use his bike as a crutch failed, Phillips tried walking by leaning on Woolsey, which wasn't working either.

"We got to the top of a hill and I heard a 'pop' and my knee gave out," Phillips said. "I sat down and told Joe I wasn't going to make it."

Phillips called 911 at about 7:30 p.m.

"They were talking to me and making sure I wasn't in shock," he recalled. "They were trying to figure out where I was."

Woolsey left his friend and attempted to walk to where the two had started out to meet the paramedics and police officers, but they had arrived faster than Woolsey could make it out and began searching the woods.

"It was a pretty big ordeal to find him," Oxford Police Chief Mike Martin said. "We couldn't get in there on anything other than foot because it was so dark. It's such a maze out there."

The University of Mississippi Police Department sent out officers on dirt bikes to help with the search. It was Officer Gery Phillips who first found Phillips.

"I remembered his name because we had the same last name," Phillips said. "I could hear the bike and I started yelling. He finally found me and on his way down the hill towards me he twisted his ankle and hurt his knee. We were there for about 30 minutes before the two more officers and an EMS guy found us."

Officer Phillips is still on leave due to his knee injury, UPD Chief Calvin Sellers said.

Another UPD officer, Lt. Bishop Lewis, hurt his back while searching for Phillips, but he has returned to work, Sellers said.

One of the police officers offered Phillips his jacket and another wrapped his shirt around Phillips' legs.

"They were concerned about me getting too cold," he said. "I had been sweating and it was getting cold out."

Once Phillips was found, getting him out of the woods was the biggest obstacle.

Eventually about 10 people were with Phillips, including Woolsey and his brother Zach, who had come out to help in the search. The men took turns carrying the 220-pound Phillips more than 2 miles through the dark woods.

"It was rough," Martin said. "They had him strapped to a backboard and they had to carry him up hills and across ditches. It was a pretty big production."

Phillips said he remembers feeling bad for his rescuers who had to carry him out of the woods.

"I'm not a small guy," he said. "They had a hard time carrying me all that way. I felt so bad, but so blessed."

After getting back onto the main trail, Phillips was lifted onto the back of a police vehicle. Driving the car very slowly, the others held onto the backboard to make sure Phillips didn't slide off the back of the trunk.

Finally, at about 11:30 p.m., Phillips was loaded into the back of an ambulance and on his way to Baptist Memorial Hospital-North Mississippi.

There, doctors discovered Phillips had torn his anterior cruciate ligament and had two tears in his meniscus. He recently had surgery where cadaver tissue was used to replace the ligament.

Phillips, who will be a senior at Ole Miss in the fall, was hoping to be the first-string long snapper for the Rebels where he's been second string behind Preston Powers for three years.

"This upcoming season I was hoping to get that position," he said. "But now it looks like I might not be able to play at all."

Doctors and rehabilitation therapists have told Phillips the best case scenario is he could possibly get back on the field in September.

"I feel good," he said. "I think I can make it. I think I can be ready by September. Being a long snapper, I generally just snap the ball and run straight down field. I'm hoping I can wear a knee brace and just deal with it hurting a little."

Despite the possibility of his Ole Miss football career taking a hard hit, Phillips remains positive and optimistic but mostly, he's thankful.

"I just want to express my thanks to the police and paramedics," he said. "There's no way I could have made it out of there if they didn't help."

87. MDC Ordered To Pay $2.9 Million To Injured Bicyclist

By ERIC GERSHON

May 10, 2010

A Superior Court jury in Hartford has awarded a former children's book illustrator $2.9 million for injuries suffered years ago in a bicycle accident on land owned by the Metropolitan District Commission.

The six-person jury awarded the money Friday to Maribeth Blonski of Rocky Hill after finding that the regional water and sewer authority improperly placed a steel gate across a path within the Talcott Mountain Recreation Area, said Blonski's lawyer, Michael A. Stratton.

On May 16, 2002, Blonski, now 43, was biking on a trail in the area, also known as the West Hartford Reservoir, when she struck the gate, breaking four vertebrae in her neck, Stratton said.

The MDC had installed the gate to block motor vehicle access to the water, he said.

R. Bartley Halloran, the MDC's chief in-house lawyer, said Sunday through a spokeswoman that the MDC was surprised by the verdict and intends to appeal.

When the accident happened, Blonski was host of a local-access television program about mountain biking, Stratton said. Blonski now works at the front desk of a health club, he said. She previously worked as an illustrator of children's books.

It took eight years to resolve the case because of a dispute about whether the MDC was immune from responsibility, Stratton said. After a four-day trial before Judge Edward Domnarski, the jury decided the authority was not immune in this instance, and also found that Blonski was partially responsible.

Stratton said Blonski had offered to settle the case for less than the amount awarded by the jury, but MDC refused.

88. Mountain biker airlifted to hospital

http://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/news/article.cfm?c_id=1&objectid=10645355

4:29 PM Sunday May 16, 2010

An injured mountain biker has been flown to Wellington Hospital in a serious condition after a crash near Upper Hutt.

The Westpac rescue helicopter, with a Wellington Free Ambulance paramedic on board, was called to the scene on a track above Maidstone Park, Upper Hutt, at 1.25pm.

A 56-year-old Silverstream man was treated for a spinal injury and was now in stable condition.

Westpac rescue helicopter crewman Dave Greenberg said the man was travelling along a track and did not see an upcoming jump. "He said his front wheel fell away and he was thrown over his handlebars, landing on his head."

The man was wearing a helmet.

89. Mountain bikers are an EXPENSIVE burden on the community!

Mike

http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/uk_news/scotland/tayside_and_central/8678166.stm

Hurt cyclist rescued by military
A military helicopter has been used to help the emergency services rescue a cyclist injured in a forest in central Scotland.

The man was hurt while mountain biking in Carron Glen, west of Denny, at lunchtime.

The ambulance service said its medical helicopter had been unable to land near the injured cyclist so it sought help from the Ministry of Defence.

A rapid response vehicle and ambulance also made their way to the scene.

90. Two in hospital after mountain biking accident

http://www.wanganuichronicle.co.nz/have-your-say/news/two-in-hospital-after-mountain-biking-accident/3914140/

Give us your thoughts on this story.

Two women have been hospitalised after a mountain biking accident on Mt Ruapehu yesterday.

One woman sustained head, arm and leg injuries when she fell from her bike coming down Ohakune Mountain Rd, the road that leads to Turoa skifields late yesterday morning.

She and some friends were coming down the mountain road when she fell.

But, trying to avoid her ,another woman crashed and suffered back injuries.

The Square Trust Rescue Helicopter was called to Ohakune to pick up the more seriously injured cyclist who had been taken to the rugby field in the town because weather on the mountain had deteriorated.

The rescue helicopter flew her to Wanganui Hospital while the other woman was taken by road to Wanganui Hospital by St John Ambulance.

The 17km-long scenic road leads from the outskirts of Ohakune to the Turoa skifields and was opened in 1963.

91. " Boy killed in mountain biking accident named"

The guys who started and continue to promote this sport (e.g. Matt Fritzinger) are truly
SICK! They should all be held responsible for this.

Mike

http://www.stuff.co.nz/national/3718093/Boy-killed-in-mountain-biking-accident-named

Boy killed in mountain biking accident named
NZPA Last updated 12:02 20/05/2010SharePrint Text Size Relevant offers
Police have named the 11-year-old boy who died after a mountain
biking accident in Gisborne yesterday.

Leo Te Kira was riding on a mountain bike trail with an adult and two
friends yesterday afternoon.

He was cycling down a steep part of the track when he crashed and
suffered serious injuries.

Police said Leo lost control on a steep decline and went over a bank.
He had been wearing his cycle helmet at the time of the crash.

The adult with the boys found Leo and called for help shortly after.

He was taken to Gisborne hospital but died about two hours later.

Police were "keeping an open mind" about whether charges would be
laid, senior sergeant Maui Aben said.

"We are still investigating the crash and whether or not charges are
pending is dependant on the outcome."

- with The Dominion Post

"Family friendly" sport, eh?

Mike

http://tvnz.co.nz/national-news/school-reels-after-biking-death-3562801

School reels after biking death

Published: 3:41PM Friday May 21, 2010

Source: NZPA

Source: Thinkstock

A Gisborne school community is reeling from the tragic loss of a student, after an 11-year-old died in a freak accident on Wednesday night.

Campion College year seven student Leo Te Kira was with friends riding along mountain bike trails when he lost control on a steep decline and went over a bank. He was taken to Gisborne Hospital with serious injuries but died several hours later.

Campion College principal Paul McGuinness says his death has been very traumatic for staff and students.

"You never expect anything like this. It very much comes out of the blue," he says.

"Any sudden death is a tragedy and causes great heartache. But when it is a young person, it is even more severe."

He joined the school at the start of the year as a Year 7 student and was well-loved by his peers, says McGuinness.

"His classroom teacher would describe Leo as a perfect student.

"He was very friendly and was loved by all of the other students.

"He was always looking to support and help others in the class and was conscientious in all the work he did."

Students at the school are being offered support and counselling services.

"We found out yesterday morning and gathered the students together for a prayer service, and told them as much as we knew. We led them in a prayer for Leo and for his family," says McGuinness.

"The whole school will keep Leo and his family in their prayers."

The school will liaise with the Te Kira family on how they wish to proceed.

92. Retired UCCS dean dies after bike crash

http://www.kjct8.com/Global/story.asp?S=12534008

Associated Press - May 24, 2010 4:34 PM ET

LARKSPUR, Colo. (AP) - A retired dean at the University of Colorado at Colorado Springs has died in a mountain biking accident.

Sixty-8-year-old Ron Wisner died when he crashed his mountain bike Friday on a trail near Larkspur.

Wisner was dean of students at UCCS from 1979 to 2003.

After retiring, Wisner and his wife spent a year teaching in Copenhagen and twice circled the globe as staff of the Semester at Sea program.

He is survived by his wife, two children and two grandchildren.

Information from: The Gazette, http://www.gazette.com

http://www.gazette.com/articles/springs-99306-bike-died.html

Retired UCCS dean dies in mountain bike accident

May 24, 2010 12:53 PM
JOEL MILLMAN
THE GAZETTE

Ron Wisner, the retired dean of students at the University of Colorado at Colorado Springs, died Friday when he crashed while mountain biking with his wife on a trail near Larkspur.

Described by family as an avid cyclist, runner and skier, Wisner, 67, was biking on the Kipps Loop bike trail in Greenland Open Space, according to Cocha Heyden, spokeswoman for the Douglas County Sheriffs Office.

"He passed doing one of the things he loved the most," said daughter-in-law Laura Wisner.

An autopsy is pending and the cause of death has not yet been determined, Heyden said.

Wisner was born June 18, 1942, in Upper Sandusky, Ohio, and joined the newly created Peace Corps after graduating from Ohio's Wittenberg University.

As a Peace Corps volunteer, Wisner taught agricultural practices to farmer in Niger, West Africa. The experience gave him a lifelong love for exploring the world and different cultures, relatives said.

After obtaining a master's degree from Michigan State University, Wisner, his wife, Jane, and their two children, Mark and Sara, moved to Colorado Springs where he was dean of students at UCCS from 1979 to 2003.

Since retiring, Wisner and his wife spent a year teaching in Copenhagen and twice circled the globe as staff of the Semester at Sea program.

He hiked, bicycled and skied with family and was a marathon runner and member of area running clubs. Among the groups to which he belonged or volunteered for were the U.S. Olympic Committee, Vail Music Festival, Pikes Peak Library District, Tri-Lakes Transportation Services for Seniors and Citizen's Project.

He served as a board member of the Karen Possehl Endowment for Non-Traditional Women's Scholarships, UCCS chancellor's Leadership Class, Pikes Peak Area Peace Corps Alumni and Kids on Bikes.

"Ron had the passion of someone half his age," Laura Wisner said. "This was a tragic shock. It just was not his time."

He is survived by his wife, two children and two grandchildren, all of whom live in Colorado.

Memorial services will be held Friday at 10 a.m. at Hillside Gardens, 100 S. Institute St.

93. "Falling is part of the game". Broken femur. [It's interesting that he blames the rut he hit on the rain, when it was actually caused by mountain biking. Mike]

http://www.nsmb.com/3692-fabian-barel-injured/

http://nsmb.com/3720-fabien-barel-update/

94. Mountain bikers risk their necks

http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/37514330/ns/health-fitness/

Helmets no protection for the spine in popular sport

updated 11:58 a.m. PT, Fri., June 4, 2010

High speeds, extreme terrain and long vertical drops might be making the increasingly popular sport of mountain biking as risky as football, diving and cheerleading, suggests a new study.

The findings warn that taking two wheels to the trails invites the danger of a spinal injury. One of every six cases reviewed was severe enough to result in complete paralysis.
"People need to know that the activities they choose to engage in may carry with them unique and specific risks," Dr. Marcel Dvorak, of the University of British Columbia in Canada, told Reuters Health by email. "Helmets will not protect you from these injuries, nor will wearing Ninja Turtle-like body armor."

Previous studies had described both the range of injuries sustained by mountain bikers and the spinal injuries suffered across a variety of sports. But no one had yet evaluated the specific risks of spinal injury among mountain bikers.

Dvorak and his colleagues identified 102 men and 5 women who were seen at British Columbia's primary spine center between 1995 and 2007 after mountain biking accidents. The average patient was 33 years old and all but two were recreational riders, they report in The American Journal of Sports Medicine.
The team couldn't calculate the risk of a spine injury among those who mountain biked, but they figured that over the 13-year study period, the annual rate was one in 500,000 British Columbia residents. The riders accounted for 4 percent of all spine trauma admissions to the center.

Surgery was required for about two-thirds of the mountain bikers. But the most devastating injuries were the 40 percent that involved the spinal cord. Of these, more than 40 percent led to complete paralysis.

"Wrist fractures and facial fractures are common" among mountain bikers, said Dvorak. "But spine injuries are the most severe with the most profound long-term consequences."
The majority of riders, he explained, were injured as a result of either being propelled over the handlebars (going "endo") or falling from great heights ("hucking"). In both scenarios, the result was often a severe impact to the head that triggered trauma down the neck and spine. "The higher the jump or fall," added Dvorak, "the higher the risk."

Perhaps surprisingly, the researchers found no relationship between helmet wearing and the overall severity of a rider's injuries. "Helmets are good in preventing head injuries, but they do not in any way protect your neck," noted Dvorak.

Also of unique concern to the sport is its "playing field": remote forested and mountainous areas. Some of Dvorak's patients had fallen while riding alone or at the back of a group. As a result, they were not found for an hour or more, and even then it was difficult for ambulances or helicopters to access the site.

His advice to mountain bikers: Be cautious about any tricks or jumps, know your terrain, and always ride in a group and stay together.

95. Spinal Column and Spinal Cord Injuries in Mountain Bikers: A 13-Year Review

http://ajs.sagepub.com/content/early/2010/05/20/0363546510365532.abstract

Emily R. Dodwell, MD
University of British Columbia
Brian K. Kwon, MD, PhD
University of British Columbia
Barbara Hughes, MD, MHSc
University of British Columbia
David Koo, MD
University of British Columbia
Andrea Townson, MD
University of British Columbia
Allan Aludino
University of British Columbia
Richard K. Simons, MB
University of British Columbia
Charles G. Fisher, MD, MHSc
University of British Columbia
Marcel F. Dvorak, MD(marcel.dvorak@vch.ca)
University of British Columbia
Vanessa K. Noonan, PhD
University of British Columbia

Abstract

Background: Multiple studies have described in general the injuries associated with mountain biking, and detailed accounts of spine injuries sustained in hockey, gymnastics, skiing, snowboarding, rugby, and paragliding have previously been published. However, no large-scale detailed assessment of mountain biking associated spinal fractures and spinal cord injuries has previously been published.

Purpose: This study was undertaken to describe the patient demographics, injuries, mechanisms, treatments, outcomes, and resource requirements associated with spine injuries sustained while mountain biking.

Study Design: Case series; Level of evidence, 4.

Methods: Patients who were injured while mountain biking, and who were seen at a provincial spine referral center between 1995 and 2007 inclusive, with spinal cord injuries and/or spine fracture were included. A chart review was performed to obtain demographic data, and details of the injury, treatment, outcome, and resource requirements.

Results: A total of 102 men and 5 women were identified for inclusion. The mean age at injury was 32.7 years (95% confidence interval 30.6, 35.0). Seventy-nine patients (73.8%) sustained cervical injuries, while the remainder sustained thoracic or lumbar injuries. Forty-three patients (40.2%) sustained a spinal cord injury. Of those with cord injuries, 18 (41.9%) were American Spinal Injury Association (ASIA) A, 5 (11.6%) were ASIA B, 10 (23.3%) ASIA C, and 10 (23.3%) ASIA D. Sixty-seven patients (62.6%) required surgical treatment. The mean length of stay in an acute hospital bed was 16.9 days (95% confidence interval 13.1, 30.0). Thirty-three patients (30.8%) required intensive care unit attention, and 31 patients (29.0%) required inpatient rehabilitation. Of the 43 patients (40.2%) seen with spinal cord injuries, 14 (32.5%) improved by 1 ASIA category, and 1 (2.3%) improved by 2 ASIA categories. Two patients remained ventilator-dependent at discharge.

Conclusion: Spine fractures and spinal cord injuries caused by mountain biking accidents typically affect young, male, recreational riders. The medical, personal, and societal costs of these injuries are high. Injury prevention should remain a primary goal, and further research is necessary to explore the utility of educational programs, and the effect of helmets and other protective gear on spine injuries sustained while mountain biking.

96. Five-year-old Mountain Biker Dies

http://forum.waterloo-moms.ca/showthread.php?t=2062

"I know of an 8 year old that was there with his parent and went over a small hill (smaller than a speed bump) and somehow went head first off the bike and is now in ICU at MacMaster in Hamilton. He was wearing a helmet at the time.

I also heard that on the same day as his accident a 5 year old did basically the same thing and ended up at MacMaster. She has since died from her injury."

97. Mountain biker missing for four days found alive

http://www.thelocal.de/society/20100626-28123.html

Published: 26 Jun 10 14:52 CET

A mountain biker from the small town of Schwiegershausen in Lower Saxony, who lay injured in woods for four nights, was found alive by police on Saturday.
The 43-year-old was found seriously injured on a forest path between Osterode and Herzberg by an off-duty policeman also biking along the path, a police spokesman said.

The spokesman said the man was not in a life-threatening condition and was able to speak after his ordeal, but gave no details as to his injuries. He was taken by rescue helicopter to a clinic in the nearby town of G��ngen.

The man left his house on Tuesday to take a two-hour bike ride, and was reported missing by his wife when he did not return in the evening. According to the police statement, the cyclist hit a pot-hole on a decline and fell ten metres down a steep slope next to the path. He was invisible from the path and could not make himself heard, the report said.

Police, fire services and local residents spent days looking for the man, but could not find him despite the use of helicopters, boats, horse-back patrols, and infrared cameras.

A 52-year-old policeman then discovered a pair of sunglasses on the path, and, aware of the search operation taking place nearby, climbed down the incline and found the man.

DDP/The Local (news@thelocal.de)

98. Police looking for help identifying injured man

http://www.telegram.com/article/20100626/NEWS/6260317/1003/NEWS03

WEST BOYLSTON — Police are looking for help in identifying a man knocked unconscious after a fall from his mountain bike.

Police Tuesday found the man, a white male in his 50s, unconscious on the side of Lancaster Street (Route 110). It appeared the man had fallen from his mountain bike. Police could not identify the man, and said he is still unconscious and listed in critical condition at UMass Memorial Medical Center — University Campus in Worcester.

Police said the man is about 5 feet, 10 inches tall, 225 pounds, and has short, gray, receding hair. He was wearing eyeglasses, a black Bell bike helmet, an Old Navy black multicolored shirt, black Cannondale bike shorts, and New Balance 621 sneakers, size 10-1/2. He was also wearing a gold Elgrin II watch. The man was riding a blue Giant Farrago mountain bike, which had a black bike pouch and an American Red Cross water bottle. He has an old scar from surgery on his right knee.

Paramedics who treated the man said he may have said the name Hank, with possibly the last name Jeneski while in the ambulance. Police have tried to find someone with that name but have been unsuccessful.

Police said anyone who might know who the bicyclist is should call Detective Marcello Tavano or Sgt. Francis Glynn at the West Boylston Police Department at (508) 835-3100.

http://www.telegram.com/article/20100629/NEWS/6290329

Police identify cyclist knocked unconscious

WEST BOYLSTON — Police have identified the man knocked unconscious last week when he was thrown from his bicycle as Albert H. Genaske, 72, of Parker Road in Lancaster.

Police Sgt. Francis Glynn said Mr. Genaske remains unconscious at UMass Memorial Medical Center — University Campus in Worcester. He said Mr. Genaske’s family members have been located and notified.

Sgt. Glynn said a woman called police late Saturday night after she read an item in the Telegram & Gazette about police looking for help identifying a man who had been injured in a bicycle accident June 22. Police described the man, and said that before he lost consciousness, he muttered something resembling a name. Police searched for something close to Hank Jeneski, but nothing turned up.

The sergeant said that based on the information the woman gave them, police were able to find Mr. Genaske’s son, and later his ex-wife, who positively identified Mr. Genaske.

Mr. Genaske was wearing a helmet when he went off the road on Lancaster Street (Route 110). Several witnesses saw Mr. Genaske crash the mountain bike.

“He was riding his mountain bike, and he was going pretty fast,” Sgt. Glynn said. “He went off the shoulder, but when he tried to get back on the road he lost it, and struck his head, causing significant injury.”

99. Mountain biker hurt in head-on crash into log

http://www.bendbulletin.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20100701/NEWS0107/7010362/1001/NEWS01&nav_category=NEWS01

Last modified: July 01. 2010 5:20AM PST

A mountain biker was injured on the Swampy Lakes bike trail Tuesday evening after striking a log head-on when he crashed his bike, according to a news release from the Deschutes County Sheriffs Office.

Bend resident Richard Warnock, 43, was taken to St. Charles Bend with non-life-threatening injuries after personnel from the Bend Fire Department and Deschutes County Search and Rescue responded to a call about the accident at 6:45 p.m.

Warnock had been riding his bike with a group of friends near the Swede Ridge shelter, behind Virginia Meissner Sno-park, when his bike veered off the trail and crashed into the side of the road, causing him to strike his head against a log.

A medic was taken to the area of the accident via ATV, and Warnock was treated at the scene. He was later transported back to an ambulance and taken to the hospital.

Warnock was wearing a helmet at the time of the accident, which authorities believe saved him from more serious injuries.

100. Mountain Biker Injured Tuesday Evening

http://www.mycentraloregon.com/news/local/1284218/Mountain-Biker-Injured-Tuesday-Evening.html

Deschutes County Sheriff's Office

June 30, 2010 06:55 am
Glenn Vaagen

BEND, OR -- Deschutes County Search and Rescue Crews were called to the Virginia Meissner Snowpark area Tuesday to help an injured mountain biker. Around 6:45 p.m., 911 received a call of a man injured on the Swampy Lakes bike trail near the Swede Ridge shelter west of Bend. SAR and Bend Fire responded, and used an ATV to find the man, Richard Warnock, 43. He was taken by Ambusled to a waiting ambulance, then driven to St. Charles Medical Center with non-life threatening injuries.

Investigators said Warnock was ridding with a group of friends when he crashed, hitting his head on a large log. He was wearing a helmet at the time, which most likely saved him from more serious injuries.

If you see local news happen, call the Horizon Broadcasting Group News Tip Hotline at 541-323-NEWS, or email us.

101. Pennsylvania mountain biker hospitalized after crash near Two Top Mountain

http://www.kbzk.com/news/pennsylvania-mountain-biker-injured-near-two-top-mountain/

Posted: Jul 8, 2010 9:39 AM
Updated: Jul 8, 2010 1:00 PM

A 61-year-old Pennsylvania man was rescued near Two Top Mountain after he lost control of his mountain bike and was ejected over the handlebars.

The West Yellowstone Police Department received a report of an injured mountain bike rider at about 1:20 p.m. Wednesday, July 7, according to a news release from the Gallatin County Sheriff's Department.

When emergency crews arrived they found that the Washington Cross, Pennsylvania man had been injured in the crash. He was packaged onto a special rescue sled and towed out of the area by ATV. He was transported to a nearby landing zone where he was transferred to an Air Idaho life-flight helicopter and flown to the Eastern Idaho Regional Medical Center in Idaho Falls, Idaho.

The Gallatin County Sheriff's Office Search and Rescue, the Hebgen Basin Fire Department, and the sheriff's deputies also responded to the call.

102. Mountain Biker Breaks His Neck!

Bike helmets help

http://www.vancouversun.com/opinion/Bike+helmets+help/3254808/story.html

By Steve Taylor, Vancouver Sun July 9, 2010

Six weeks ago, I fell off my mountain bike, splitting my helmet in two and breaking my neck. I am certain I would have died or become a quadriplegic if I had not been wearing a helmet.

Instead, I have no paralysis, and after another seven weeks in a halo brace I should be able to ride again.

Helmets do protect cyclists from serious brain and spinal cord injuries.

I have fond memories of riding with the wind blowing through my hair, but this column hasn't convinced me I should go without a helmet when I'm back on a bicycle.

Steve Taylor

Burnaby

103. Crashes are inevitable!

http://mountain.bike198.com/down-but-not-out-top-5-things-to-do-when-on-wreck-leave/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+MountainBikingBy198+%28Bike198+-+Mountain+Biking%29

It happens. As much as we all do not want to think or talk about it, part of the sport of mountain biking (or cycling in general) is not if you are going to wreck…it is when.

104. Mountain bikers describe attack by grizzly on Peninsula trail

http://www.adn.com/2010/07/08/1359490/mountain-biker-recounts-tale-of.html

RESURRECTION TRAIL: Group surprised sow with cubs.

By MEGAN HOLLAND
mholland@adn.com

Published: July 9th, 2010 12:14 PM
Last Modified: July 9th, 2010 12:14 PM

Tyler Nord doesn't remember the moment the grizzly pounced on him. He couldn't tell you what her breath smelled like or how soft her fur was. All he remembers is summoning the adrenaline that was coursing through his body to his legs to push her off.

The memories of the attack are like a strobe light of images playing through his mind, he said Thursday in talking of the encounter involving him, two mountain-biking companions and the bear on Resurrection Trail.

The bear bit or clawed into Nord's thigh, but he wouldn't notice that until later, after the grizzly and her cubs had retreated to the woods, bear spray in her face.

Nord, fiancee Kimi Elliott, and a friend on vacation from Portland, Kyle Eisenbach, all 25, were riding mountain bikes on Resurrection Pass Trail near Hope on Tuesday when they were attacked by the sow protecting her two cubs. All three bikers received superficial scratches, with Nord's puncture wound to the thigh being the worst. Their 2-year-old dog, Kobi, an Australian cattle dog, was uninjured, despite its own confrontation with the bear.

"None of it really seemed real. I wasn't scared because it seemed like a dream," Nord said.

Nord and Elliott, both engineers in Anchorage, wanted to show their out-of-town guest the Alaska outdoors, the pair recalled on Thursday. They drove down to the Kenai Peninsula in the morning for a 20-mile, daylong bike ride along the popular Resurrection Pass, a 38-mile trail that runs from near Hope to the Sterling Highway near Cooper Landing.

They had already stopped for lunch and were about six miles into the trail when Elliott took the lead. Nord had a bear bell on his bike. Elliott describes herself as a constant talker. They were trying to make noise, but at that particular spot the river that runs near the trail is loud. Real loud.

According to Nord and Elliott, Elliott rounded a corner and startled the bear lounging on the dirt path. Two cubs were nearby. Elliott slammed on her breaks and skidded to a stop. She quickly got off her bike, which she was clipped into at the pedals, and began retreating, walking the bike with one foot still attached to a pedal. She knew there was going to be an attack. She knew the bear wouldn't quietly go away. She had been way too close.

She began backtracking toward Nord and Eisenbach. Kobi took position, barking and growling at the bear.

The bear ran for Elliott. She dropped her bike and went for a clearing off to the side. She knew she was supposed to not run away from a bear but at that moment her own fear took over. She ran for her life.

Nord and Elliott both said the whole thing seemed like it was happening in slow motion but at the same time it all happened in a flash.

The bear was on Elliott but didn't take her down. It swatted her on the shoulder. but she doesn't remember the contact. It was right there, with her, running alongside her. She thought, "How am I not getting completely demolished right now?"

Later, she would notice bear slobber running down her biceps. She's not sure how it got there.

"Get the bear spray! Bear spray!" she kept yelling. The spray was in Nord's backpack.

Nord, who was farther down the trail, looked back and saw the sow going for his fiancee. He dropped his backpack and started running toward the bear. The sow turned its attention to him.

He remembers seeing a very big head that came up to his chest, the flash of her teeth, and the odd, misplaced thought that she was a very pretty bear. "It wasn't scary because it didn't seem real," he said.

Nord, who had fallen and was on his back, crunched his legs to his chest just as the bear landed on him. He pushed her off and she retreated. Nord doesn't remember her biting or clawing him. He didn't feel it. His adrenaline was skyrocketing.

Eisenbach was the bear's next target.

"Fetal position! Fetal position," Elliott yelled at her fiance's best friend, whom she had only recently met.

Eisenbach put himself into a ball next to a fallen tree. The bear was on him when Nord found the bear spray in the backpack and ran up to within 5 feet of her.

He had never used bear spray before and didn't know how close he needed to be, he said. "I hope this works," he thought to himself.

The bear was on top of his friend, pawing at his friend's backpack.

Nord got real close and pulled the trigger, aiming at the sow's face.

"She had a stunned look," he said of after the chemicals hit her.

He sprayed again.

In a flash she was gone into the woods.

Read more: http://www.adn.com/2010/07/08/1359490/mountain-biker-recounts-tale-of.html#ixzz0tO2HOCUH

http://seattletimes.nwsource.com/html/localnews/2012324978_grizzlyencounter11m.html

Cyclists recount meeting with grizzlies

PORTLAND A mountain biker from Portland says he and his companions survived a hairy encounter with a grizzly sow and her cubs on Alaska's Kenai Peninsula this week.

By The Associated Press

PORTLAND A mountain biker from Portland says he and his companions survived a hairy encounter with a grizzly sow and her cubs on Alaska's Kenai Peninsula this week.

Kyle Eisenbach joined fellow Portlander Tyler Nord and Nord's fiancee, Kimi Elliott, for the biking trip on the Resurrection Pass Trail on Tuesday. They had bear bells and spray.

About six miles up the trail they pulled around a blind corner and almost ran over the sow and two cubs sunning themselves. Eisenbach told The Oregonian that Elliott ran into a clearing, and the bear stalked her and gashed her shoulder.

Eisenbach and Nord began screaming at the bear, which advanced on them. Nord slipped and the bear pounced, puncturing his leg with her claws. He kicked at the sow, which then jumped up on a fallen tree and started swatting at Eisenbach's bike helmet.

Nord finally managed to spray the bear and it walked off. The three bandaged themselves with a first-aid kit and drove to an Anchorage emergency room for tetanus shots and antibiotics.

105. A lucky boy narrowly escaped death after being impaled on the handlebar of his mountain bike.

http://www.mirror.co.uk/news/top-stories/2010/07/12/impaled-on-a-bike-handlebar-pierces-boy-s-artery-exclusive-115875-22406805/

Impaled on a bike: Handlebar pierces boy's artery - Exclusive

By Euan Stretch 12/07/2010

A lucky boy narrowly escaped death after being impaled on the handlebar of his mountain bike.

Bradley Cannell, 12, fell from his bike and a 3in section of metal tube pierced his right thigh, severing a major artery.

Firefighters spent an hour cutting the bike from the terrified youngster while paramedics gave him morphine. He was flown by air ambulance to hospital - with the handlebar still embedded in his leg.

Surgeons spent four hours removing the half-inch wide tube and repairing damaged blood vessels and muscle.

Docs said he'd have bled to death if anyone at the scene had tried to remove the handlebar.

Read more: http://www.mirror.co.uk/news/top-stories/2010/07/12/impaled-on-a-bike-handlebar-pierces-boy-s-artery-exclusive-115875-22406805/#ixzz0tUno8m6V

106. Snowboard world champion Mike Jacoby recovering from bike accident

http://www.theskichannel.com/news/skinews/20100712/Snowboard-world-champion-Mike-Jacoby-recovering-from-bike-accident

Two-time FIS World Champion snowboarder (1996 and 1997) and snowboard pioneer Mike Jacoby suffered a head injury and broken jaw while mountain biking this past Friday in Hood River, OR.

He was found unconscious and was flown to Oregon Health & Science University in Portand, OR. Officials list Jacoby in serious condition.

Jacoby was a member of the inaugural Olympic Snowboard team in 1998, where he competed in Giant Slalom at the games held in Nagano, Japan.

107. Ohio GOP US Senate candidate Portman takes spill while mountain biking, undergoes surgery

http://www.fox8.com/news/sns-ap-oh--portman-bikeinjury,0,7267786.story

DAN SEWELL Associated Press Writer

3:56 PM EDT, July 13, 2010
CINCINNATI (AP) Ohio Republican U.S. Senate candidate Rob Portman is back home after undergoing surgery for a fractured collarbone that he injured while mountain biking.

Campaign spokeswoman Jessica Towhey (TOO'-ee) says Portman is resting comfortably after the minor Tuesday morning operation.

The 54-year-old former congressman returned to Cincinnati on Monday from Jackson Hole, where Towhey says he fell Sunday while biking with his 18-year-old son. He was in Wyoming for a fundraiser.

Towhey says Portman is already making phone calls and expects to return to campaigning later this week.

Portman said via Twitter he will have a sling temporarily, and a post-surgery tweet stated that his collarbone is now titanium-reinforced and stronger than ever.

Portman is running against Democratic Ohio Lt. Gov. Lee Fisher to succeed retiring Republican George Voinovich.

108. Local youth pastor breaks neck mountain biking

http://www.heartlandconnection.com/news/story.aspx?id=483403

by KTVO Newsdesk
Posted: 07.15.2010 at 6:45 PM

NEAR COLORADO SPRINGS, COLO. -- A northeast Missouri pastor is hospitalized after suffering serious injuries while mountain biking in Colorado.

Joe Vincent, youth pastor at The Crossing church in Kirksville, was biking Wednesday when his bike flipped and threw him to the ground.

The 31-year-old Vincent broke his neck and an arm in the incident.

His wife, Leah, told KTVO Thursday that her husband has shown no signs of any paralysis as a result of the broken neck, and he is expected to make a full recovery from the injuries.

She said doctors told them if Joe hadn't been wearing a helmet, he most likely would have been killed.

Vincent had taken a youth group from The Crossing out to Colorado.

He's currently a patient at Memorial Hospital in Colorado Springs.

109. " Mountain biking is inherently dangerous"

http://www.ctnow.com/news/connecticut/hc-green-mdc0716-20100715,0,6316655.column

MDC Should Be Immune From Lawsuits Like Mountain Biker's

Rick Green

5:29 p.m. EDT, July 15, 2010

In the interest of equal time and a good debate I bring you the other side in the great MDC reservoir controversy.

We can all agree that Maribeth Blonski, an experienced mountain biker, shouldn't have been riding the wrong way on the red loop trail on the afternoon of May 16, 2002, when she carelessly crashed into an iron gate and severely injured her neck and spine. But the Metropolitan District Commission, which opens its vast land holdings to the public, had an obligation to at least warn cyclists that a gate was now closed.

According to Blonski's lawyer, Michael Stratton, all the MDC had to do was put a sign up or install a more bike-friendly gate and there would be no grounds for a lawsuit, no $2.9 million verdict, and no columnist ranting about the potential closing of the trails.

But there was no warning sign, only a gate that was ordered closed after the 9/11 attacks. Blonski won a jury verdict when a judge ruled the MDC was not immune from this sort of lawsuit. MDC officials, worried about more lawsuits, now say the verdict may force them to close all recreation trails at reservoirs in West Hartford and the Farmington Valley.

No doubt many of you who share my outrage about this debacle will show up to speak out at an MDC hearing Tuesday at 5:30 p.m. at the town hall auditorium in West Hartford. The trails should remain open.

Honestly, I'm sick of this find-somebody-to-blame ethic that has seeped into our culture. But Stratton has some valid points those of us angry runners, walkers and cyclists might want to at least ponder before we yell too loudly.

"I don't like the threat of closing down the MDC property. But it is designed to provide cover for their own screwup,'' Stratton told me. "If this verdict was so costly that it would shut down a beautiful recreation area I'd be with you. I'd be protesting. But that's not what is going on here.''

Stratton told me the MDC has insurance that covers this judgment, which he insisted won't happen again if the regional water authority takes some basic, inexpensive steps, such as erecting warning signs.

"They are not talking about the real facts," Stratton said. "If you get hurt by virtue of a natural hazard that one ought to be aware of that's different from somebody proactively putting up a hazard in your way that is completely careless."

"They don't have an obligation to pick up downed trees or make the bike paths less bumpy. But what about compliance with safety standards for bike paths?"

Other lawsuits, Stratton pointed out to me, have failed because in most cases the MDC cannot be sued because it is a quasi-public entity providing public recreation.

"The only time they do not have immunity is where they actually construct the hazard themselves and it is related to their water purity function,'' Stratton said, like a water pump smack in the middle of a bike path or a gate without a warning sign.

The jury found Blonski to be 30 percent responsible in the case. But it found the MDC to be 70 percent responsible, which means it must pay Blonski about $2 million of the $2.9 million verdict.

"I would have settled the case for $250,000. It wasn't like Maribeth went in there looking for zillions of dollars. We just wanted enough money to pay her bills off and for future therapy,'' Stratton said. "To the extent that she made a mistake here, she's never had any other accidents. She's never sued anybody before. You have an organization that's paid by consumers to do [bike trails] the right way, and they didn't do it the right way."

I feel bad for Blonski, who still suffers discomfort from the crash. But despite this and the troubling questions Stratton raises about the MDC I still can't agree with this lawsuit or its outcome.

Mountain biking is inherently dangerous, particularly at the West Hartford reservoir, where nobody forces anyone to walk, run or ride. The MDC, a quasi-government agency that provides water at cost to its member towns, certainly is entitled to immunity from misguided lawsuits such as this one.

http://www.heartlandconnection.com/news/story.aspx?id=484216

Local youth pastor breaks neck mountain biking: UPDATE

by Kevin Chierek

KIRKSVILLE, MO -- The condition of a heartland youth pastor is vastly improving. Joe Vincent, youth pastor at The Crossing church in Kirksville, was mountain biking on Wednesday when his bike flipped and threw him off. Vincent was on a youth trip in Colorado with a group from The Crossing when the incident happened. He broke his neck and arm.

Vincent’s mother-in-law, Joyce Hettinger, told KTVO that he is making great progress in a much faster than anticipated recovery.

"We talked to him this morning (Sunday), the kids did and you know for the condition he's in he's doing fantastic” said Hettinger. “It's really neat. The doctors, every time they walk into the room they literally shake their head and say it's a miracle, for one he shouldn't have survived and even that he did, he should be paralyzed."

Vincent’s wife, Leah, told KTVO that doctors said if Joe hadn't been wearing a helmet he most likely would have been killed.

Hettinger said Vincent was recently moved from the trauma unit into rehab, something doctors speculated wouldn't happen for weeks or even months.

Vincent is currently a patient at Memorial Hospital in Colorado Springs. His return to the heartland is still not known at this time.

110. " Russell was injured in a mountain biking accident, leaving him paralyzed from the chest down"

http://www.columbiamissourian.com/stories/2010/07/14/ride-carl-sam-sees-good-turnout/

Carl Edwards' annual bike ride raises money for childhood friend

Wednesday, July 14, 2010 | 8:23 p.m. CDT; updated 8:43 p.m. CDT, Wednesday, July 14, 2010
Carl Edwards, right, rides with his friend Sam Russell, left, for the third annual Ride with Carl for Sam on Wednesday. The ride, which began at Walt's Bicycle Fitness and Wilderness Co., followed the 8.9 mile MTK Nature and Fitness Trail, which runs from near downtown Columbia to McBaine. Approximately 60 bicycle enthusiasts participated in the event that Edwards started to help raise money for his friend Russell, who was paralyzed from the waist down after he was involved in a mountain biking accident. Erik Haugsby
BY Jason Cox

COLUMBIA NASCAR driver Carl Edwards rode his bike Wednesday morning along the MKT Trail with members of the community in the annual Ride with Carl for Sam fundraiser. The money from the event goes to the Sam Russell Helmet Foundation, which helps Edwards friend, Sam Russell, pay for his medical expenses.

Russell and Edwards have been friends since growing up in together in Columbia. Three years ago, Russell was injured in a mountain biking accident, leaving him paralyzed from the chest down.

This was the first year Russell was able to take part in the ride. Using his hand-cycle bike, Russell was able to ride 10 miles from Walt's Bike Shop to McBaine. He said being able to participate this year made the event that much more special.

Last year I was in Atlanta all by myself, feeling pretty lonesome, Russell said. To be able to come here this year and bring my three girls along and be able to ride, it's wonderful.

Edwards was excited to ride with his friend for the first time since Russell's accident.

Sam's the man, Edwards said. Were going to have to change the name to Ride with Sam for Carl, though, cause I'm being more inspired by him and all these people that are coming out and supporting him than they are by me.

There were 49 registered riders for the event. Each rider was asked to make a $50 donation. Some of Edward's friends biked to McBaine as well, bringing the total number of riders close to 60.

The numbers are way up from last year, and were really excited about that, said Nancy Russell, Sam's mother and organizer of the event.

Edwards was surprised by the turnout.

I couldn't believe it when I pulled into the parking lot that there was this many people, he said. Last year the weather was rainy. This year it's supposed to be like 110. There's a lot of brave folks.

Although the temperature was around 90 degrees, the heat index was well over 100 degrees, but that didn't slow down the riders.

Of course, it's very hot today, but once you get going there's a good breeze, said Vicki Curby, one of the riders.

Curby, who does a lot of biking, was glad to see the number of people who rode to support Russell.

It was good to see fans out on the trail on a bike, she said. That was rewarding.

Sam Russell said the ride went well. He spent a lot of time before and after the ride talking with all the riders who were supporting him, something he's never done in the past.

I've met so many people that I've never met before and get to see so many people I probably wouldn't get to see otherwise, he said.

Edwards spent time before the ride signing autographs and visiting with the events participants. He also talked with many riders during the ride to McBaine.

The ride was just the first leg of Edwards annual bike ride, mostly along the Katy Trail, to Gateway International Raceway, just east of St. Louis in Madison, Ill. Edwards is set to race there Saturday in NASCAR's Nationwide Series, in which he is second in the point standings.

Some minor inconveniences in previous rides have led Edwards to make a couple of changes for this years ride. He wore sandals, so he didn't have to worry about smelly socks, but that wasn't the only change.

I've got padded underwear, 'cause last year was rough, he said.

111. Mountain biker suffered fractured ribs, a broken collar bone and a collapsed lung in a fall

http://www.thestar.co.uk/news/Rescuers-hit-their-century.6424949.jp

Rescuers hit their century

Published Date: 17 July 2010
By Unknown
MOUNTAIN rescue volunteers in Edale helped their 100th casualty of the year - a mountain biker who suffered serious injuries after crashing at speed in the Upper Derwent Valley.
The 49-year-old, from Didsbury, Manchester, suffered fractured ribs, a broken collar bone and a collapsed lung in the fall.

He was flown to the Northern General Hospital for treatment.

112. "Going fast through the woods and off jumps and things..."

Another crazy downhill female mountain biker. More media glorification of an insane and dangerous extreme sport and vandalism to our natural and wild places, by an obsessed and addicted downhiller who:
"...puts up with a sport that eats up her and her family's money, doesn't offer her an Olympic route and puts her in danger of crippling crashes, but she wouldn't have it any other way.

Really, she loves this kind of "edge" this inherently dangerous sport brings to the game? --

"I kind of just fell off the edge and smashed my face and my sternum onto my bike and fell eight feet backward onto my back, concussed myself, got stitches in my leg and coughed up blood for a week and felt like I was hit by a bus. It was pretty bad," she said. "My sternum, the bone is bruised and it can take up to six months to heal. I still have to watch it when people hug me and stuff, it still really hurts."

The crash is on YouTube (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wZJD2wn8guM). "It's pretty gnarly," said Gatto.

Her "gnarly" crash occurs around 55 seconds into the video, and it takes her a couple more minutes to "get up", with help to walk off the course" to the cheers of everybody in the video. Stupid is as stupid does, eh?

http://www.nsnews.com/sports/fastest+down/3292609/story.html

The fastest way down

West Van racer wins national mountain bike title

By Andy Prest, North Shore News, July 18, 2010

West Van’s Micayla Gatto
scored gold in downhill racing at the Mountain Bike Canadian
Championships held last weekend in Panorama, B.C.

West Van’s Micayla Gatto scored gold in downhill racing at the Mountain Bike Canadian Championships held last weekend in Panorama, B.C.

Photograph by: Paul McGrath, NEWS photo

If you see West Vancouver's Micayla Gatto around town, congratulate her on winning gold in women's downhill racing at the Mountain Bike Canadian Championships held last Sunday in Panorama, B.C.

But please -- no bear hugs.

The 21-year-old Gatto claimed her second national title -- her first came in 2007 -- by scorching the dry, dusty mountain trail in a time of 3 minutes 55.13 seconds, topping the second-place rider by more than eight seconds.

"It was nice to put the (champion's) jersey on again," Gatto told the North Shore News, adding that the fairly wide-open track was much different from the twisty, technical trails she usually does well on. "I'm definitely better with the steeper, more technical kind of muddy tracks, so that also made me kind of nervous going into the race. . . . The pedaling definitely was the most challenging part for me but I stuck all my lines and it was actually a really good run. I was really happy with it."

Now about those hugs. Gatto isn't shy -- she's just a little tender from a previous crash . . . in February. Welcome to downhill mountain biking.

The biggest wreck of her downhill career came earlier this year during training for the Cerro Abajo Urban Downhill, a race that winds through the streets of Valparaiso, Chile. Gatto was gearing up for a 20-foot step-down drop when her chain skipped and she came up short, smashing into the landing ramp below.

The crash is on YouTube (search the website for Micayla Gatto VCA). "It's pretty gnarly," said Gatto.

Adding to the pain was the fact that her smashed-up bike was stolen that night. "It was a really nice day," she said dryly.

But a week later she was back on a bike doing some light riding and by the time nationals rolled around last weekend she had already raced two more World Cup downhills as well as a local B.C. event that she won.

Though she has experienced massive wrecks like her crash in Chile, Gatto said there is nothing quite like zooming down a tricky course on a bike.

"A lot of people think it's scary but you can't think of that when you're riding," she said. "You just have to concentrate on where you want to go, not what could happen. It is quite a dangerous sport but if you do it right and if you are calculated in your actions -- I don't know, it's just the most amazing feeling in the world going that fast through the woods and off jumps and things."

The sport involves a fine balance between being in control and letting go.

"(I am) pushing myself enough so that I'm on the edge but not to the point where I feel out of control," said Gatto. "It's a really fine line and it kind of comes with practice and experience. When you crash enough times you kind of learn what your limit is and slowly push that to go faster every time you ride -- but just not to be stupid about it."

Gatto, a Rockridge secondary grad, followed her brother Trever into the sport when she was 16.

"He kind of quit once I started beating him," Gatto said with a laugh.

In Trever's defence, his sister was beating a lot of people. She attended her first world championships in 2005 and has since collected two world junior championship bronze medals, including at last year's race where she also finished seventh overall in the elite women's category.

She leaves Monday for World Cup races in Switzerland and Italy and is gearing up for this year's world championships scheduled for early September in Mont-Sainte-Anne, Que.

It's a life that Gatto loves but it's also one that is hard to sustain. Downhill racing is one of the only cycling events that is not an Olympic sport. Not only does that prevent her from going for Olympic gold, it also means that national funding is not available.

Her travel costs are paid for in a variety of ways: "Out of my own pocket, my mom, odd jobs," she said. "Because it's not an Olympic sport Canada doesn't fund downhill at all. We even have to buy our own Canadian national team jerseys to go to the world championships."

Gatto recently graduated as a graphic design illustrator from Capilano University but her freelance work in that field isn't really paying the bills either.

"Art and bikes -- not exactly the two most lucrative things you could choose," she said, adding that she does have some generous sponsors who supply her with gear and she is always on the lookout for more support.

It may seem strange that Gatto puts up with a sport that eats up her and her family's money, doesn't offer her an Olympic route and puts her in danger of crippling crashes, but she wouldn't have it any other way.

"I love what I do," she said.

To find out more about Gatto's art and racing visit www.micaylagatto.com or canadiandhgirls.wordpress.com.

********************************************************************

"When a government sanctions something it moves into the realm of something safe to do. The scary thing is people think that it is more acceptable." ~Joyce Ross

113. Police airlift Bedminster man who broke leg mountain biking

http://www.mycentraljersey.com/article/20100719/NEWS/100719039/Police-airlift-Bedminster-man-who-broke-leg-mountain-biking

By LINDA SADLOUSKOS STAFF WRITER July 19, 2010
BEDMINSTER A 51-year-old Bedminster Township man who reportedly fell and suffered multiple fractures to his leg while mountain biking in Allamuchy State Park on Sunday, July 19, was hoisted to safety by a state police helicopter team, state police said.

Terry Markovich of Bedminster was airlifted about 125 feet from a ledge in remote and rugged terrain in the state park, located in Byram Township, said state police spokesman Sgt. Julian Castellanos. He said the rescue took place at about 11:30 a.m.

Castellanos said Markovich apparently lost control of his mountain bike and his fall resulted in multiple breaks to his lower left leg. Castellanos said he does not know how the cyclist was able to report the injury and summon help.

Sgt. Anthony Zedonek of the state police emergency aerial response unit said that local rescuers contacted the aviation service after determining that carrying the cyclist to safety overland would involve a two-hour hike through rugged terrain.

Zedonek said Markovich was taken to a local school building following the rescue. He said he had no further information available on the man's condition. Zedonek said the helicopter unit also performs such assignments as water rescues and searches for persons lost in heavily wooded areas.

114. Banora cyclist dies in hospital

http://www.tweednews.com.au/story/2010/07/20/cyclist-banora-point-tweed/

Patrick Williams | 20th July 2010

A BANORA Point man has died in hospital a week after a serious mountain bike fall in South-East Queensland.

The 49-year-old, who has not yet been named by police, succumbed to spinal injuries in Princess Alexandra Hospital about 2am on Sunday. It is believed the man fell from his bike while riding through the Daisy Hill State Forest, near Logan, on Sunday, July 11.

He was originally discovered following the fall by other cyclists, about 750 metres from an area known as The Five Ways.

It is not clear how long the man had been alone following the fall.

Police said there were no witnesses to the incident.

According to the Queensland Governments Environment and Resource Management website, mountain biking is a popular activity in Daisy Hill State Forest.

A police spokesman said the Logan Forensic Crash Unit would continue investigations.

115. A 12yearold Delta girl was killed during a mountain bike ride Monday.

http://www.nbc11news.com/home/headlines/98876339.html

Delta girl dies at summer camp
Posted: 4:56 PM Jul 20, 2010
Reporter: Natalie Pallone

HINSDALE COUNTY, Colo. (KKCO) - A 12yearold Delta girl was killed during a mountain bike ride Monday.

According to the Hinsdale County Undersheriff, Venus Stratton was mountain biking with a group of kids and two Camp Redcloud instructors. They were going downhill on a rocky road when Stratton wrecked her bike at around 3 p.m.

The Undersheriff says Stratton was wearing a helmet but suffered a fatal injury to the side of her head. She died at the scene.

Camp Redcloud is located in Lake City, Colo. which is about three hours southeast of Grand Junction. It's a Christian year-round camp established in 1981.

The Director says there has never been an accidental death of a child and it was a freak accident that took Stratton's life.

Counselors are available for campers and staff to talk to and parents can pick up their kids from camp if they want.

Stratton was participating in a five day camp.

The camp's biking activities have been cancelled until further notice.

http://www.gjsentinel.com/news/articles/girl_12_dies_in_camp_biking_ac/

Girl, 12, dies in camp biking accident

By Paul Shockley
Wednesday, July 21, 2010

A Delta girl died Monday after falling from a mountain bike while riding down a hill at a summer camp in Hinsdale County.

Venus Stratton, 12, was among approximately 12 people who were riding down the winding hill when she crashed near the end of an afternoon outing with campers and staff at Camp Redcloud, according to Hinsdale County Undersheriff Justin Casey.

“Best I can tell, her head came into contact with a rock,” said Casey, adding the girl wasn’t responsive to witnesses at any point after the apparent accident around 2:30 p.m.

Stratton was pronounced dead by the time a Careflight helicopter arrived from Montrose Memorial Hospital, Casey said.

Camp Redcloud is a Christian-themed operation for children and families and is roughly nine miles southwest of Lake City.

Casey said Stratton, who was attending a weeklong camp, was wearing a helmet when she crashed.

Casey said Stratton and her fellow campers, accompanied by two staff members, were descending a four-wheel-drive road that snakes through the Gunnison National Forest.

“They (staff) were sending kids down one camper at a time, so no other campers saw the accident,” Casey said. “It’s a gradual grade that stair-steps down, and there are curves along the way.”

Casey said a preliminary investigation showed Stratton was the last camper to ride down and was followed by a staff member. That staff member came across the wreck, Casey said.

Casey said the girl had just started her descent when she lost control of the bicycle.

“I’d be surprised if her rate of speed was very high,” he said.

Casey said an autopsy is pending.

http://www.deltacountyindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=16353:delta-girl-12-dies-in-biking-accident-at-camp&catid=34:delta&Itemid=347

Delta girl, 12, dies in biking accident at camp

Written by Pat Sunderland

Wednesday, 21 July 2010 00:00

Venus Jade Stratton, 12, of Delta died while on a mountain biking outing Monday, July 19, at Camp Redcloud, just outside of Lake City.

Hinsdale County Undersheriff Justin Casey reports that Stratton was with a small group of fellow campers and two Camp Redcloud staff when the accident occurred.

They were going down a rocky road when she apparently wrecked the bike and suffered a head injury. Although she was wearing a helmet, she injured the side of her head just below the helmet. She died on the scene.

Venus was born Jan. 30, 1998, in Delta to William Stratton of Grand Junction and Angela Burns of Phoenix, Ariz. She lived with her grandmother and stepgrandfather, Christy (Ceder) Hayward-Lake and Garris Flebbe.

Services will be held Saturday, July 24, at Pea Green Community Hall. The time had not been determined at press time. Arrangements are being handled by Taylor Funeral Service and Crematory.

116. Injured Mtn. Biker Rescued West of Bend

http://www.ktvz.com/news/24325138/detail.html

From KTVZ.COM News Sources
POSTED: 10:08 am PDT July 20, 2010

BEND, Ore. -- A California man injured while mountain biking west of Bend was in fair condition at the hospital Tuesday, a nursing supervisor said.

Deschutes County Sheriffs Search and Rescue members responded to the Skyliners Road Sno-Park just before 11 a.m. Monday on a report of an injured mountain bike rider, said Deputy Mike Biondi.

Five SAR members, including two EMTs, and two deputies responded to the area. They found Jeff Moore, 53, of Roseville, Calif., a quarter-mile up the trail from the parking area, with an injury to his knee, Biondi said.

Moore said he had been riding uphill when he was unable to gain his footing and fell, hitting his knee on a rock, Biondi said.

A SAR ATV brought Moore back to the parking area, and he was taken by private vehicle to St. Charles Medical Center-Bend, the deputy said

117. Mountain biker rescued following leg injury

http://www.wenatcheeworld.com/news/2010/jul/22/mountain-biker-rescued-following-leg-injury/

By K.C. Mehaffey
World staff writer

Thursday, July 22, 2010

LEAVENWORTH Rescue crews carried a Puyallup teenager out of the back country after he received a serious cut on his leg while mountain biking on the Chikamin Trail outside of Leavenworth on Wednesday.

Aaron Derrig, 19, was taken to Cascade Medical Center in Leavenworth with a gash on his lower right leg that may have exposed the shin bone, according to Jerry Moore, Chelan County Sheriffs chief of administration.

A hospital official did not return a call this morning, so an updated condition is not available.

Moore said the sheriffs office received a call at about 1:50 p.m. from friends who were riding with Derrig.

Rescuers hiked between one and two miles to retrieve him, Moore said.

He said Derrig apparently lost a lot of blood, and the rescue took several hours

118. In 1993 Dr. Bruce Barnett wrote in the Western Journal of Medicine: ". . . most [mountain biking] accidents occurred while going downhill. This exposes the rider to a vulnerable posture, with a tendency for the rider to become "launched" over the handlebars. The head often strikes the ground, and . . . many riders strike their unprotected face, and massive facial trauma occurs. The cervical spine is unprotected, and the potential for serious injury exists."

119. Vancouver police officer dies while mountain biking in Columbia Gorge

http://www.oregonlive.com/clark-county/index.ssf/2010/08/vancouver_police_officer_dies_while_mountain_biking_in_columbia_gorge.html

Published: Tuesday, August 03, 2010, 4:01 PM Updated: Tuesday, August 03, 2010, 4:16 PM

Michael Russell, The Oregonian

Courtesy of Vancouver policeAndrew Young
A 45-year-old Vancouver police officer died while mountain-biking last week in the Columbia River Gorge, the Vancouver Police Department reported.

Andrew Young, an 18-year veteran of the Honolulu and Vancouver police departments, was off-duty when he collapsed near Hood River July 30, said Kim Kapp, a police department spokeswoman.

The police department did not disclose his cause of death, saying that he suffered from a "medical emergency."

Young joined the Vancouver force in February 1999 after spending nearly seven years with the Honolulu Police Department, Kapp said.

When the department maintained a full-time bicycle patrol, he patrolled the city on bike, Kapp said. He was most recently assigned to a patrol car.

The public is invited to attend a memorial service for Young at 4 p.m. on Friday Aug. 6 at the Holy Redeemer Catholic Church, 17010 N.E. 9th Street in Vancouver.

120. Pastor returns to church after serious wreck

http://www.heartlandconnection.com/news/story.aspx?id=493951

by Ashley Smith
Posted: 08.08.2010 at 7:44 PM

KIRKSVILLE, MO. -- After wrecking his mountain bike in Colorado almost a month ago, a Heartland pastor is back to work.

The Crossing-Kirksvilles Youth Pastor Joe Vincent was on a trip with several youth members of the church in Colorado last month when he wrecked his mountain bike and broke his neck and arm.

Vincent spent some time in a hospital in Colorado and St. Louis before returning to Kirksville.

He says the hardest part is not being able to help out as much at home or at the church.

Its been cool to be back, I missed my family and I missed my church, and its nice to be back in my own house again. said Vincent, This city and this church have definitely shown their true colors and my family has been lifted up and thats been an amazing experience for us.

Doctors say Vincent must wear his head brace for eight to 12 weeks and should be fully recovered in a year. Doctors are amazed at his progress and say its schocking he isnt paralyzed or even dead.

Vincent has three young kids and says hes thankful for all the help the church has provided to his family through this tough time.

121. New Zealand Mountain Biker Winched To Safety

http://www.voxy.co.nz/national/mountain-biker-winched-safety/5/58832

Contributor:
Voxy News Engine
Sunday, 15 August, 2010 - 16:03

A 39 year old male from Nelson was winched to safety before being flown to Nelson hospital at midday today (15th August 2010) by the Summit Rescue Helicopter.

He had been mountain biking with others when he had a fall badly injuring his leg in the Sharland forest, Sharland valley east of Nelson. Because of the remoteness the St John Advanced Paramedic crewmember had to be winched to the scene, after treating the injury the biker was winched onboard the Summit Rescue Helicopter before being flown to Nelson hospital for further treatment

122. "an elderly woman ... died after being struck by a bicycle on the Cedar River trail"

To: <thomasmail360@yahoo.com>, <bbtcmembers@yahoogroups.com>
From: Mark Klinke <herrklinke@hotmail.com>
Sender: bbtcmembers@yahoogroups.com
Date: Fri, 20 Aug 2010 19:03:45 -0700
Subject: RE: Rogue Trail Builders (long)

Good stuff Tom. I personally haven't spent time on trails in some time, but I do try to have your view which is the right thing to do to maintain the quality of our trail systems. It only takes one person to ruin a good thing and anyone can justify their behavior in their minds. As long as people refuse to work toward a mutually beneficial end we'll get static and resistance which is not good for how we are perceived and what areas we are allowed to ride, legally.

Interestingly enough I was just sent this from the Issaquah Alps President's
column. I'm not forwarding this to initiate anything other than there
are some salient points here for trail etiquette and similarity to your post. If perception is everything then we can learn from this.

Some problems never seem to go away. Twenty-plus years ago our club
founders were battling a 'new' problem. Fat-tire bicycles were tearing
up the "Issaquah Alps" trail system that club volunteers had so lovingly
built. Harvey Manning, Bill Longwell and others had just completed a
decade long struggle to get motorcycles and jeeps out of park lands on
Cougar, Tiger and Squak Mountains. Then suddenly the marketing of
'mountain bikes' in the 1980's resulted gangs of kids racing each other
down our 'Alps' trails on bikes!
Bill, who was crouched on his knees
pulling roots on a Tiger Mtn. trail, was nearly run over. Harvey,
walking a new trail with his Sheltie dogs, was startled "out of his
wits," and had to leap into the blackberries while the dogs scooted in
all directions. As he later said, "All peace and tranquility of the
woods vanished that day." He was furious at being run off of a trail
that he had built, in a park that he had saved with years of lobbying!
Also on Cougar Mtn., a woman on horseback had her whole life changed in
less than ten seconds. A biker group came flying down Cave Hole trail
hill at perhaps 20mph. Terrified, her horse reared up and then fell
sideways on top of her, breaking her leg. That left her with a life-long
limp, ended her riding career, and "took away any wish to ever be out
on those trails again." The bike riders never even stopped.....
In
recent years, IATC members have been finding outrageous scrap-lumber
forts, ramps, jumps and high 'cat-walks' nailed into trees. Illegal,
unsafe; built without the knowledge or approval of the landowner, these
bike 'play-parks' also show a total disregard for nature and the very
trees that they are using. Altogether, these are the events and actions
that polarize us againt bikes and lead us to say, "No bikes in the
Issaquah Alps trail system."
This also mirrors my experience in
twenty years as park manager at Cougar Mountain. We tried for a time to
have 'multiple-use' trails where bicycles were allowed, but it didn't
work. The bikers were constantly trespassing onto all of the other
trails, and as noted above, there were frequent conflicts with other
users. On Tiger Mountain, DNR has now spent thousands of dollars
building bridges and trails just for bikes - but again, riders are
trespassing all over the mountain. And, again in total disdain for the
environment, some bikers engage in what they call the 'sport' of
'free-riding' - which is basically flinging themselves downhill anywhere
through the woods where there is no trail at all. They suit up in body
armor for this, and brag about their injuries, but have no concern at
all for for damage to plants, animals, ground-nesting birds, etc. -
It's all man against nature, and is a testosterone-stupidity that
certainly doesn't deserve to be called a sport.
Trail damage and
construction costs are also issues. Anyone who has ever seen bike ruts
channeling water into mud holes, or bashed tree trunks and crushed
plants on trail corners, or switchback cut-throughs, understands the
problem. (Not to mention the TV commercials & magazine ads where
'mountain' bikes throw mud and thrash through streams, showing the kids
that this is somehow OK)! The real long-term cost to the environment and
park agencies is huge. However, for a lot of us hikers and walkers,
just seeing bike tracks is an affront. It means that a machine has
invaded the very place we came to get away from things man-made. It says
that we now have to be constantly on alert to being run-over from the
rear or smashed into from the front. We have to be ready to jump
sideways into the brush in a split-second. In public meetings the bikers
always say, "Oh, we would never do that, or go that fast." They don't
seem to understand our anger or our fears. I wonder how they might feel
if a dirt-bike motorcycle gang invaded their new trails at Grand Ridge
and Duthie Hill. Perhaps then they would feel the same fear of collision
and assualt by a machine. Might they then experience the same anger
at having their woods and trails torn up by more powerful outside
invaders ?
The tragedy of an elderly woman who died after being
struck by a bicycle on the Cedar River trail this year points out
another problem. Older folks may have hearing loss, or directional
hearing aids. Younger folks may have i-pods, ear-buds, cell phones or
perhaps so much 'texting' focus that they just don't hear a warning.
Often the warning comes too late, or people are confused about what they
should do. When many people hear "On your left !" they instinctively
turn to the left. Pre-schoolers and doggies (on or off leash) are always
unpredictable. Bikers need to slow down to walking speed, and then wait
for recognition and room to pass. Just as with runners or horses, the
request should be "Hello there, may we pass here ?".
I guess what I
am hoping for is both a change of attitude and behavior. Instead of
yelling at people to "get out of the way!" bikers need to show courtesy
and say "thanks for sharing the trail." Instead of being speed and
muscle 'conquerors' of the woods, bikers need to slow down and chat with
the people they meet. Hikers are there for exercise too, but they view
the woods as a treasure chest of surprises to be appreciated. You can't
enjoy Chocolate Lillies or Phantom Orchids at 15 miles per hour - in
fact you'll probably run over them before you see them. As Harvey was
fond of saying, "You just don't go to a museum expecting to play
basketball!" There is a reason why bikes are not permitted in nature
parks, on interpretive trails, in wilderness areas, and on Mt. Rainier
& Olympic National Park trails.
Now we have news articles stating
that Issaquah should become "...a mountain bike mecca", when in fact
the bikers represent only a very small percentage of the population.
(Some problems never go away). Nation-wide, and locally, walking and
hiking are by far the most popular forms of outdoor recreation; and
trails serve by far the largest number of people for the least cost. So
we of the IATC again say, "Bikers, pay your dues. Help parks acquire
land, and then get permission to build your own trails, to standards
that will match your type of use." To the park agencies we say, "Plan
seperate trails for seperate uses, and provide the law enforcement
needed to keep them seperate." To everyone we say, " Slow down, show
some respect for the other users out there on the trail; and please take
the time to really respect and enjoy nature and the wonderful parks and
forests that we have here in the northwest."

Mark K.
To: bbtcmembers@yahoogroups.com
From: thomasmail360@yahoo.com
Date: Fri, 20 Aug 2010 11:04:23 -0700
Subject: Rogue Trail Builders (long)

123. Mountain Biker Crashes, Cannot Walk

http://www.usatoday.com/news/health/2010-08-03-twitterrescue03_st_N.htm

'NEED Help!': Biker's Twitter followers call for ambulance
By Liz Szabo, USA TODAY
As she flew over the handlebars of her mountain bike, seconds before slamming into the ground, Leigh Fazzina remembers thinking to herself: "I'm going to break my neck. And there is no one out here to help me."

Fazzina, 36, had gotten lost in a 300-acre Connecticut wood while competing in a mini-triathlon last Tuesday. She says she was racing downhill, trying to locate the main biking trail and rejoin her race, when her front wheel hit some tree roots.

After a painful landing in the dirt, Fazzina bloodied, panicking and unable to walk knew she needed help.

But the amateur Philadelphia cyclist, who was in Connecticut to visit relatives, had no idea where she was. She tried screaming for help. But the other mountain bikers, including a cousin who entered the race with her, were too far away to hear.

Fazzina says she tried calling another cousin on her cellphone but couldn't connect. Desperate, Fazzina tried Twitter, the social networking site, on which more than 1,000 "followers" had signed up to receive her tweets.

"I've had a serious injury and NEED Help!" she typed. "Can someone please call Winding Trails in Farmington, CT tell them I'm stuck bike crash in woods."

At least half a dozen people, most who had never met her, picked up their phones.

Mary-Ellen Harper, director of fire and rescue services for the Farmington Fire Department, says her department got calls from California, New York and Chicago.

Within minutes of sending her tweet, Fazzina says she heard an ambulance siren.

In areas such as state parks, with spotty cellphone coverage, it's not unusual for people to be able to send instant messages or 140-character tweets when they can't make voice calls, says David Redl of CTIA-The Wireless Association, an industry group.

"If you are at the edge of a (wireless) network, you'll have fringe coverage enough to get a text message through," Redl says.

Though Twitter has more than 125 million users, it's still an unusual way to summon emergency help. Crime victims have texted to call for help, and families have used Twitter to reconnect after disasters. But officials at Twitter, the National Association of Emergency Medical Technicians and the American College of Emergency Physicians all say they don't know of anyone using Twitter to call for an ambulance.

A week after the scare, Fazzina is back in Philadelphia; she says she is still sore and badly bruised but has no broken bones. And while her injuries weren't serious, she says, she's still glad she didn't have to spend a night in the woods. She plans to go mountain biking again once she heals but only on a path that she knows well. And only with her cellphone.

124. Mountain biker flown out of Big Cottonwood Canyon in critical after crash on trail

http://www.deseretnews.com/article/700060570/Mountain-biker-flown-out-of-Big-Cottonwood-Canyon-in-critical-after-crash-on-trail.html

Published: Thursday, Aug. 26, 2010 11:21 p.m. MDT

BIG COTTONWOOD CANYON A mountain biker was critically injured while riding in Big Cottonwood Canyon Thursday night.

The 35-year-old man was biking on the Mill D North trail with another biker when he crashed and catapulted over the bike's handlebars.

The other biker came around the bend and found the victim lying face down, officials said. When the biker rolled the victim over, the man was hardly breathing.

Unified Police Sgt. Corey Latham said the victim's friend, who has had EMT training, immediately rolled the man over, opened up his airway and started CPR.

It took emergency personnel two hours to reach the victim, stabilize him and transport him a half-mile off the trail to a waiting helicopter.

The victim was flown to Intermountain Medical Center in Murray in critical condition with possible spinal cord injuries.

The victim lost consciousness a few times on the flight to the hospital, Unified Fire Authority Capt. Brad Taylor said.

Lana Groves

125. Mountain biker dies after collapse on Conwy trail

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-11361524

The Marin Trail covers 25km of a mountain biking route

A 54-year-old man has collapsed and died when mountain biking along a popular forest track in Snowdonia.

It happened on Saturday evening on the Marin Trail near Betws-y-Coed when the man, from Flintshire, was cycling with a brother and friend.

An ambulance could get only within a quarter of a mile so an Ogwen mountain rescue team went to help.

Attempts to revive the cyclist, who had suffered chest pains, were made but without success.

Rescue team members carried him on a stretcher to an ambulance.

http://www.bikeradar.com/news/article/mountain-biker-dies-on-marin-trail-in-snowdonia-27834

Mountain biker dies on Marin Trail in Snowdonia

By BikeRadar

A 54-year-old man collapsed and died on the Marin Trail in Gwydyr Forest at the weekend (Russell Burton)

A mountain biker collapsed and died while riding the Marin Trail near Betws-y-Coed, North Wales, on Saturday.

The 54-year-old man, who has not been named, suffered chest pains while climbing a steep slope with his brother and a friend. An ambulance was called but could not reach him.

Paramedics eventually made it to the scene on foot, where they spent over an hour trying to revive the Flintshire man, but their efforts proved fruitless.

A spokesman for Welsh Ambulance Services NHS Trust said: "We were called at 4.08pm to an incident where a man had collapsed with chest pains while cycling on a forest track. One ambulance attended but due to the rough terrain the crew had to go on foot to reach the casualty. They were assisted by Ogwen Valley Mountain Rescue, but despite attempts to revive the patient he was declared deceased at scene."

The 17-mile, red-graded Marin trail is known for its long fireroad climbs and is a favourite with hardcore cross-country riders.

http://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/2010/09/20/man-dies-after-collapsing-in-north-wales-forest-55578-27301504/

Man dies after collapsing in North Wales forest

Sep 20 2010 by Eryl Crump, Daily Post

PARAMEDICS worked desperately for more than an hour to try and save a man who collapsed while mountain biking on a forest trail at the weekend.

But despite their efforts the 54-year-old man from Flint, who has not yet been named, could not be revived and he was pronounced dead at the scene.

He was cycling with a brother and a friend when he collapsed while going up a steep slope on the popular Marin Trail, a 17-mile long mountain bike track in the Gwydyr Forest near Betws y Coed on Saturday.

A Wales Ambulance NHS Trust spokesman said: “The call was received at 4.08pm on Saturday that a man had collapsed with chest pains while cycling on a forest track.

“One ambulance crew was despatched.

“Due to the rough terrain they were unable to get to the casualty and made their way on foot to him. They made prolonged attempts at resuscitation but sadly without success.”

Because the riders were off the main forest road the ambulance could not get directly to the casualty and the crew were forced to walk the last quarter of a mile to the scene of the incident.

“They asked the Ogwen Valley mountain rescue team for assistance

The weather in the area was poor and a Sea King helicopter based at RAF Valley was also placed on stand-by.

Ogwen Valley mountain rescue team spokesman Chris Lloyd said more than 20 members of the volunteer team responded to the call for help.

“There were members at base and we were able to get to the forest very quickly.

“Paramedics were already on scene and our team assisted in giving the casualty CPR.

“Efforts to revive continued for more than an hour.

“Despite a prolonged effort at resuscitation, sadly the man did not survive.

“We then assisted in carrying the casualty to the ambulance.”

An experienced cyclist described the Marin Trail as “one of the best in Wales.”

“It is a cross-country course with fast, technical tracks, which appeals to downhillers but there are also steep climbs which allows time to take in the views of the mountains of Snowdonia. It takes about two hours to complete the circuit and this can be very strenuous,” he said.

http://www.flintshirechronicle.co.uk/flintshire-news/local-flintshire-news/2010/09/21/tragic-biker-was-deeside-schoolteacher-51352-27313939/

Tragic biker was Deeside schoolteacher

Sep 21 2010 by Dave Goodban, Flintshire Chronicle

A MOUNTAIN biker who died suddenly in the Gwydyr Forest in Snowdonia National Park was a former teacher at a Flintshire school.

David Ovens, 53, taught at John Summers High School in Queensferry for 27 years before retiring in 2007.

The dad-of-one from Flints funeral will be held next week.

For tributes to Mr Ovens see this weeks Flintshire Chronicle or log on to the website on Thursday.

126. A Mountain biker was airlifted to hospital with serious head injuries

http://www.scarborougheveningnews.co.uk/news/local/mountain_biker_airlifted_to_hospital_1_1611365

Mountain biker airlifted to hospital

Published on Fri Sep 24 10:32:31 BST 2010

A MOUNTAIN biker was airlifted to hospital with serious head injuries following an accident at Dalby Forest.

A spokesman for the Great North Air Ambulance said the 25-year-old man was anaesthetised at the scene before being taken to James Cook Hospital in Middlesbrough following the incident at 3.20pm yesterday.

A Yorkshire Ambulance Service spokeswoman said: We received a call at 3.16pm about the incident in Dixons Hollow. We sent an ambulance and a rapid response vehicle before the Great North Air Ambulance took over.

http://www.gazetteherald.co.uk/news/8414652.Mountain_bike_rider_airlifted_after_Dalby_Forest__accident/

Mountain bike rider airlifted after Dalby Forest accident

1:11pm Saturday 25th September 2010

A MOUNTAIN biker was airlifted to hospital following an accident in North Yorkshire woodland.

The 25-year-old man, from Pontefract, West Yorkshire, was taken to James Cook University Hospital in Middlesbrough at 3.20pm on Thursday, having been anaesthetised at the scene of the incident in the Dixon Hollows area of Dalby Forest.

A spokeswoman for Yorkshire Ambulance Service said the organisation sent an ambulance and a rapid response unit before the Great North Air Ambulance took over the injured rider’s treatment. His condition was yesterday described as “serious”.

127. North Wales Police chief hurt in bike crash at Moel Famau

http://www.denbighshirevisitor.com/news/denbighshire-news/2010/10/06/north-wales-police-chief-hurt-in-bike-crash-at-moel-famau-105722-27406064/

Oct 6 2010 by David Powell, Denbigh Visitor

NORTH Wales Polices chief constable has been injured in a mountain bike accident.

Mark Polin (right) was hurt after crashing into a wall on a trip to Moel Famau in Denbighshire. He dislocated his right shoulder, suffered nerve damage in his right hand and gashes to his forehead.

He said: I was mountain biking down a slope on Moel Famau when I came off and managed to headbutt a wall.

My shoulder popped out and Ive damaged the nerves in my hand.

You do sports like that and occasionally youll come off.

Asked if the mishap had put him off mountain biking, he replied No.

Chairman of North Wales Police Authority Alun Lewis has congratulated Chief Constable Polin on reaching Level 3 in Welsh, which means he can converse in the language to some extent.

128. Westmoreland Co. Attorney Found Dead On Bike Trail In Maryland

http://www.wpxi.com/news/25366005/detail.html

Posted: 11:50 am EDT October 12, 2010Updated: 12:07 pm EDT October 12, 2010
Channel 11 News has learned that a prominent Westmoreland County attorney was found dead in Maryland along a popular bike trail over the weekend.

The sheriff's department in Garrett County said J. David Caruthers was found along a trail in Herrington Manor State Park.

Investigators said Caruthers had a mountain bike with him and that it appears as if he died of natural causes.

A medical examiner in Baltimore will perform an autopsy.

Caruthers had a private practice and was also the chief trial counsel for the Westmoreland County Public Defender's Office.

129. Mountain biker rescued from stream in Wyre Forest valley

http://www.kidderminstershuttle.co.uk/news/8437158.Mountain_biker_rescued_from_stream_in_Wyre_Forest_valley/

8:14am Thursday 7th October 2010

A MAN who was out mountain biking has been rescued from a stream at the bottom of a narrow valley in the Wyre Forest.

The incident happened at about 7.50pm last night. An ambulance, an incident support officer and the Hazardous Area Response Team (HART) were sent to Callow Hill.

The location was around two miles along forest tracks. Ambulance crews accessed the tracks from a car park near to the Duke William Pub off Long Bank.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokesman said: The 55-year-old Worcester man was out mountain biking with friends when the incident happened.

The exact circumstances are not clear but, when crews arrived, they found the man in a stream at the bottom of the valley, about 20 feet below the pathway. The sides of the valley were slippery with wet vegetation.

The situation was made more complex by the location having no mobile phone signal. Colleagues of the injured man had to cycle out to call 999.

Fortunately, the digital radio system that ambulance staff use did give coverage and the initial ambulance staff were able to provide updates to the HART team as they were en route to the incident. In addition, they also marked the route to the location.

Ambulance staff and firefighters made their way to the scene, some by foot, others in 4x4 vehicles.

Members of the HART team descended the sides of the valley to get to the patient. While firefighters dug steps into the side of the valley to aid access, the HART team members got the man out of the water and on to a specialist rescue stretcher.

A rope had been lowered down to them and, together, fire and ambulance crews lifted the man up the 20 feet from the valley floor to a waiting ambulance. He was taken to Worcestershire Royal Hospital with a back injury.

This was an excellent example of co-operation between fire and ambulance crews, which resulted in the man being taken to hospital far more quickly and safely than might have been possible until recently.

130. Crews Find Missing Mountain Biker Alive

http://www.kpho.com/valleynews/25426472/detail.html

Woman Spends Night In Spur Cross Recreation Area

POSTED: 6:59 am MST October 18, 2010
UPDATED: 9:47 am MST October 18, 2010

CAVE CREEK, Ariz. -- Search crews found a missing mountain biker alive in the Spur Cross Recreation Area near Cave Creek.

The woman, reported missing on Sunday afternoon, was shown on news helicopter video walking under her own power, though she used a stick as a cane and sported a bandage on her left knee. Helicopter footage showed her being met by an all-terrain vehicle that transported her the rest down the remaining part of the trail.

Jeff Sprong of the Maricopa County Sheriff's Office told CBS 5 News that the woman was dehydrated, but in good condition otherwise.

Sprong said deputies received a report of the missing bicyclist around 4 p.m. Sunday after she texted a friend that she was lost.

The Maricopa County Sheriff's Office Search and Rescue Team found her around 6:45 a.m. Monday after searching through the night.

Check back with CBS 5 News for updates.

131. Gesink's father dies as result of mountain bike crash

http://www.cyclingnews.com/news/gesinks-father-dies-as-result-of-mountain-bike-crash

By:

Cycling News

Published:

October 23, 14:33,

Updated:

October 23, 17:34

Robert Gesink (Rabobank) will race with a broken bone

Rabobank rider skipped Lombardy to be with his father

Robert Gesink's father has died from the effects of a cycling crash. The Rabobank rider had withdrawn from the Tour of Lombardy earlier this month to be at his father's side.

The elder Gesink suffered a serious crash in the Bart Brentjens Challenge, a mountain bike ride in South Limburg, the Netherlands, on October 10. Robert Gesink, who had won the Giro dell'Emilia the day before, returned to the Netherlands immediately.

The riders, team leaders, management and staff of the Rabo Cycling Teams and sponsor Rabobank are shocked by this sad news and wish Robert and all his family all strength in coping with this heavy loss, the team said on its website.

http://www.velonation.com/News/ID/6130/Robert-Gesinks-father-passes-following-mountain-bike-crash.aspx

Robert Gesink's father passes following mountain bike crash

by Jered Gruber at 8:01 AM EST

Injuries sustained from the Bart Brentjens Challenge two weeks ago proved too much

Two weeks following his crash at the Bart Brentjens Challenge in South Limburg, the father of Robert Gesink succumbed to his injuries and passed away Saturday morning.

The day after his son's second straight win at the Giro dell'Emilia, the elder Gesink took to the start of the Bart Brentjens Challenge, but would not make it to the finish.

Following his win on the 9th of October in Emilia, Gesink had placed himself as one of the top favorites for the following weekend's season ending Monument, the Giro di Lombardia.

Gesink wouldn't get the chance to start though, as the call came on Sunday, and he immediately left for the airport to be at his father's side. Little was heard of following the initial report that Gesink would not be taking part in the Race of the Falling Leaves. The next report was yesterday and the sad news that his father had passed.

The Rabobank team website, Rabosport, wished Gesink and his family the best in the family's difficult time: "The riders, team leaders, management, and staff of the Rabobank Cycling Team and participative sponsor, Rabobank, are shocked by this sad news and wish Robert and all his family strength in coping with this great loss."

132. Crocodile Trophy stage neutralised after Heuker's death

http://www.cyclingnews.com/news/crocodile-trophy-stage-neutralised-after-heukers-death

By:

Barry Ryan

Published:

October 24, 12:03,

Updated:

October 24, 15:01

The late Weit Heuker

Competitor died during the night

Stage six of the Crocodile Trophy mountain bike race was neutralised following the death of Dutch rider Weit Heuker. The 59-year-old died during the night of the 23rd-24th October.

Heuker, who had been lying in 6th place in the M3 general classification, suffered cardiovascular and circulatory failure. It is understood that Heuker had previously suffered cardiac arrest but that the events medical officers were not aware of his history before the race.

We learned this morning unfortunately only now that Weit Heuker already had suffered a cardiac arrest a few years ago and had been under medical care since then, said Dr. Alexandra Reimann, head of the races medical support team.

Sundays stage 6 was cancelled as a mark of respect to the late Heuker. The competitors assembled for a minutes silence before riding a neutralised route along the main road from Chillagoe to Mt. Mulgrave, where the seventh stage begins.

Race organiser Gerhard Schoenbacher offered his sympathies to those close to Heuker. Our deepest condolences go out to the family, friends and teammates, he said.

[“Mountain bike addiction defined: So, the guy already had known cardiac problems, was under medical care, but still thought that riding in the "The World's Hardest Longest Hottest and Most Adventures Mtb Race in theWorld" would be an okay thing to compete in?” -- a friend]

133. Mountain rescuers aid injured cyclist

http://www.weekendpost.co.za/article.aspx?id=621560

2010/11/01

A MOUNTAIN rescue team brought an injured cyclist to safety after he plunged down a steep embankment during the Mondi Herald Addo Mountain Bike Challenge yesterday.

Race organiser Shane Bradfield said Wellington Moyo lost control of his bike on a narrow descent and was injured after falling over the handlebars and down a steep slope.

Moyo was taking part in the 85km Mondi Extreme Challenge, known as the Eastern Capes toughest mountain bike race.

As it was impossible to reach him from the road, the mountain rescue team was called in to bring Moyo to safety. Bradfield said he did not seem to be seriously injured but was later taken to hospital in Port Elizabeth by ambulance. Estelle Ellis

134. Bend Woman Rescued After Mountain Bike Accident

http://www.mycentraloregon.com/news/local/1303123/Bend-Woman-Rescued-After-Mountain-Bike-Accident.html

Deschutes County Sheriff's Office

November 06, 2010 07:00 am
Bill Baker

BEND, OR -- A Bend woman sustained serious injuries from a mountain biking accident on a U.S. Forest Road late Friday afternoon.

The Deschutes County Sheriff's Office reports that Shoshana Foxwell, 45, was traveling eastbound on Ben's mountain bike trail west of USFS Road 4610, when she lost control on a corner and flipped over her handlebars.

Foxwell landed in the middle of the trail and sustained serious non life threatening injuries. Foxwell was treated by the Search and Rescue unit who had been in the area until additional Search and Rescue medic units arrived

Once additional units arrived on scene, Foxwell was placed on a backboard and transported to a Bend Fire ambulance that was waiting on Skyliners Road near milepost 7 and transported to St. Charles Hospital in bend for her injuries. A total of eight Search and Rescue members responded to the call.

135. The other side of the cyclist divide

http://www.stuff.co.nz/life-style/blogs/are-we-there-yet/4317881/The-other-side-of-the-cyclist-divide

Last updated 08:54 08/11/2010

When it comes to the great cyclist v everyone else debate, I’ve usually found myself firmly on the cyclist’s side. After all, I am one, so of course I'm biased. Description: Mountain biker

So on Sunday afternoon I was considerably startled to fall into the "everyone else" category.

It was a beautiful day in Wellington, so there I was, walking a small dog on a lead up Mt Victoria, on the paths well used by pedestrians and mountain bikers alike.

Suddenly a mountain biker flew past me, at such a rate of knots that I nearly fell off the track trying to get myself and the small dog, otherwise known as Percy, out of the way.

The cyclist was riding in the opposite direction to where I was walking but unexpectedly appeared from around a corner, giving me a fright. Said cyclist helpfully yelled to his friend behind him warning of the pedestrian and the dog.

Unfortunately, neither saw it as necessary to reduce speed. I was mildly surprised, as had I been in their shoes I would have done so because dogs are unpredictable - even small ones on leads.

The fact Percy got quite a fright I did not blame them for.

However, I was less than impressed near the summit when another two mountain bikers went past me even faster, once again almost pushing me off the track and scaring the hell out of Percy.

I know Mt Vic is a popular cycling track. But it is also popular with pedestrians – especially dog walkers - and on a nice day, you would expect to see a lot of them.

As I said, I tried to uphold my end of the track-sharing deal by moving over in a considerable hurry.

Now, most of my cycling is of the roadie variety. My foray into mountain biking is recent and so far limited to the easiest tracks possible, so perhaps I am not aware of the correct mountain biking etiquette.

Is it unreasonable of me to expect them the mountain bikers to slow down? Is that perhaps more dangerous? Or just too damn difficult given the number of people out and about on Mt Vic? (No, that isn't sarcasm, it's a genuine question.)

The track was definitely wide enough to be easily shared, but if the bikers had made a small mistake or hit a tree root, I, or the dog, would have been toast. If Percy had moved 10 centimetres in their direction – not impossible given his lead - he definitely would have been toast.

Of course, poor Percy was more concerned with getting as far away from these horrifying things as possible, even if that meant falling off the side of the hill. He was so traumatised by this second experience that when he saw a roadie some distance away on the other side of the road about 10 minutes later he freaked out and refused to walk any further.

Any thoughts here? Am I being unreasonable?

136. The dark side of mountain biking

This is one video that we must show every parent about the "dark side" of mountain biking: (Make sure you see the newspaper headlines toward the end...)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8sR_6lreuQ8
The doctors found his right heel in 8 pieces, and his left in 15 pieces. He spent 3 months in a wheelchair and a couple more months on crutches. He is now fully recovered and started riding again (that is a sign of addiction)

137. Mountain Biker Breaks His Neck, but Wants to Return to Mountain Biking Anyway

That's a clear sign of an addiction.

Mike

http://www.rotoruadailypost.co.nz/local/news/corey-warns-other-mountainbikers/3932704/

Corey warns other mountainbikers

Alison King | 6th December 2010

Lucky: Corey Deane feels lucky to be alive after a mountainbike crash left him with a broken neck. Photo / Ben Fraser 011210bf2

As the warmer weather brings more mountainbikers into the Whakarewarewa forest, Corey Deane has a message for them all - be careful.

He wants riders to enjoy themselves but not become complacent.

The 28-year-old Kawerau man said he felt lucky to be alive after breaking his neck on a Rotorua forest track he had ridden hundreds of times before. He felt even luckier after hearing about Rotorua Pastor Timothy Lee's crash on the same trail, which left the Baptist Church pastor paralysed.

Corey, an adventure guide, was riding with his brother James on June 16. He had 15 years of mountainbiking experience and considered himself fairly competent, especially given he had guided others in the forest.

"We'd been out for a couple of hours, just cruising," Corey said. "On our way back we hit the Exit Trail. I got to an obstacle, I was riding across a log - something I've done hundreds of times - but I got a bit off-balance. I went to jump off the side, thinking nothing of it, but I went over the handlebars and slammed on my head."

Corey said his brother told him to lie down. His neck felt sore and he tilted it from side to side to try to make it feel better. They decided to walk out. James was to fetch the car from the visitor centre carpark.

"By the time he came back I felt weird so we called for an ambulance," Corey said.

He was kept in overnight at Rotorua Hospital and had a CT scan the next day which confirmed three breaks on the C1 vertabrae at the top of the spine.

"It took a while to sink in. I'd walked out of the forest with a broken neck. I felt really, really lucky."

Corey was in Rotorua Hospital for six days and was fitted with a halo brace, putting his neck into traction. After 13 weeks he was fitted with a hard neck brace and is now weaning himself off a soft collar.

His neck muscles are building up in strength but it will be some months before he can return to light duties. "I hope to get back on my bike. I love it but I have to take it a bit easier.

"I won't be able to go back to being a rafting guide. Going over that 7 metre waterfall is a bit too hard. I was told another knock could be fatal and that was quite sobering. I'm happy to make that sacrifice to be here."

He said James hadn't been back on his bike since the crash and his other riding friends had not ridden the Exit Trail.

What niggles Corey is that he had ridden harder and faster trails before and returned home unscathed.

"Just the weekend before I went out with my dad and we rode the National Downhill track, all the crazy stuff.

"I hurt myself on the easy stuff. I think I got a bit complacent and I'd tell others not to get like that.

"I don't want to put people off - I can't wait to get back out there."

He said the experience had been hard on his wife Jade but the couple had decided to be positive throughout the experience.

Kaitiaki Adventures, his rafting employer, held a fundraiser for the couple to help with his recovery, raising $2000 by organising an accommodation and adventures package through the Millennium Hotel, Agroventures, Tamaki Tours and Hells Gate.

Mountainbiking skills instructor Gabby Molloy said it was important for all riders to start out slowly in the new season.

"Build it up slowly and practise your skills," she said.

"You should always have a game plan for every situation. Riders should also ride within their means and stay alert."

138. Another Mountain Biker Paralyzed

http://www2.timesdispatch.com/news/2010/dec/04/good04-ar-694023/

Biking enthusiasts rally Saturday to help a friend

By Michael Martz | TIMES-DISPATCH STAFF WRITER
Published: December 04, 2010

Richmond's mountain bikers and trail builders are rallying today behind one of their own, Wayne Goodman, who is recovering from a spinal cord injury that he suffered in a freak biking accident more than two months ago.

Goodman's friends are raising money to help his recovery with "A Day in the Park for Wayne" at Forest Hill Park in South Richmond, where he was injured Sept. 17.

The event will begin at 2 p.m. at the park's main picnic shelter, near the spot where Goodman tumbled headfirst over his handlebars into a stone wall after his bicycle wheel hit a grassy rut while he was adjusting his pack.

Goodman, 60, of Henrico County, was paralyzed initially but has recovered his motor skills gradually while at VCU Medical Center's spinal cord rehabilitation unit and, more recently, Hunter Holmes McGuire Veterans Affairs Medical Center.

"Wayne remains very positive in his recovery and his rehab team reports very encouraging progress," said Bill Swann, a close friend and president of TEAM Richmond Adventure Sports Racing. "The road is going to be long and Wayne knows this will be the toughest race of his life."

Goodman has been a big contributor to the creation of a trail system that has drawn world-class racing events to James River Park, Forest Hill Park and the river's north bank. He was one of the leaders of the small volunteer army that built the North Trail almost five years ago, creating an 8-mile loop with the Buttermilk Trail on the James River's south bank.

"His legacy is going to be deep and long," said Greg Rollins, president of the Richmond area chapter of Mid-Atlantic Off-Road Enthusiasts

His friends will sell "G-Man" T-shirts and accept donations at today's event. The picnic shelter is located near the park entrance off West 42nd Street.

Contact Michael Martz at (804) 649-6964 or mmartz@timesdispatch.com.

139. Mark Webber completed Formula One season with broken shoulder

http://www.guardian.co.uk/sport/2010/dec/06/formula-one-mark-webber-broken-shoulder

• Red Bull driver sustained injury in mountain bike accident
• Was leading championship at time but ended up in third place

Sachin Nakrani
guardian.co.uk, Monday 6 December 2010 13.41 GMT

Mark Webber drove in the final four races of the F1 season with a broken shoulder Mark Webber has revealed that he drove in the final four races of the F1 season with a broken shoulder. Photograph: Crispin Thruston/Action Images

Mark Webber drove in the final four races of the Formula One season with a broken shoulder, the Red Bull driver has revealed in his new book.

Webber sustained the injury in a mountain bike accident, BBC Sport reports. He kept it secret from Christian Horner, the Red Bull team principal, and only told his physio Roger Cleary and F1's chief medical officer Gary Hartstein.

The Australian sustained the injury after the Singapore grand prix. He had returned to Australia and was out riding with a friend, who fell off his bike in front of Webber, who went over his handlebars trying to avoid him. The fracture was so fine that it could not be treated.

The incident was the second time in a little less than two years that Webber has suffered an injury while out training on a mountain bike. In November 2008 he was hit by a car while taking part in his own adventure challenge in Tasmania and suffered a fracture of his right leg as well as a broken shoulder.

At the time of his latest accident, Webber was leading the F1 world championship by 11 points from Ferrari's Fernando Alonso. He eventually finished in third place, 14 points off his team-mate and the eventual champion Sebastian Vettel.

140. Texas Mayor Injured In Bike Crash

http://www.kwtx.com/news/headlines/Dallas_Mayor_Injured_In_Bike_Crash_111594649.html?ref=649

The mayor of Dallas broke some ribs in a tumble from his mountain bike.

DALLAS (December 9, 2010)--Dallas Mayor Tom Leppert is recovering after taking a tumble while riding his bicycle and breaking a couple of ribs.

Leppert at times appeared to wince from the pain during a council meeting Wednesday.

He said he took a tumble off his mountain bike on Saturday.

He was wearing a helmet.

Leppert, who says he injured three ribs, plans to maintain his regular schedule.

He was elected mayor in 2007.

141. “Mountain biker fights for life”

["Organisers cut down the tree before racing recommenced." Mountain biking has the same environmental impact as hiking & horseback riding? How often is a tree cut down, just because a hiker or equestrian bumps into it???

His life may be over already at 15! The adults who promote this sport, who should know better, should be held responsible for "accidents" like this.

Mountain biking in natural areas is inherently unpredictable because nature is unpredictable. That's why there are standards for road construction and maintenance: to make them predictable, and lessen the possibility of an accident.

Mike]

http://www.themercury.com.au/article/2010/12/13/192791_tasmania-news.html

Mountain biker fights for life

DANIELLE McKAY | December 13, 2010 12.01am

A YOUNG Tasmanian mountain bike champion is fighting for his life after smashing into a tree during a competition warm-up yesterday.

Eugene Smith, 15, was warming up for the fiercely contested Australian Mountain Bike Championships when he lost control of his bike on the steep Tolosa Park track.

Officials said the talented Hobart rider veered off a downhill run.

Smith catapulted into a tree on the side of the track about 10am, knocking himself unconscious.

St John Ambulance officers treated him trackside before taking him to the Royal Hobart Hospital.

The teenager is believed to have several broken ribs, a punctured lung and possible spinal injuries.

He was in the RHH's intensive care unit last night in a critical condition.

Smith was one of 14 injured riders attended by Tasmanian Ambulance Service and St John Ambulance paramedics at the event yesterday.

Mountain Bike Australia executive officer Tony Scott said it was an unfortunate accident and he sent his best wishes to the Smith family.

"These riders are very, very experienced, they wear compulsory safety gear including a full-faced helmet and accidents are rare," he said.

"It was, however, an accident, however unfortunate, and we certainly feel for the family."

Smith was scheduled to compete in the under-17 downhill competition just half an hour after the accident occurred.

The Tolosa Park course was not as fast as other national courses, with riders covering the 1.5km to 2km course in about three minutes.

Mr Scott said it was a technical course that demanded a lot of skill and good technique from riders.

"Compared with other courses, this is relatively innocuous," he said.

Smith's prowess was building and he had just moved up a grade to compete in the under-17 division.

Only last month, Smith finished second in the state series, earning several congratulations on his Facebook page from impressed mates.

The Hobart Dirt Devil Club member boosted his competitive edge by racing interstate.

Yesterday's racing was delayed about half an hour but the full day's schedule was completed.

Organisers cut down the tree before racing recommenced.

Tasmanian Ambulance Service duty manager Tony Harris said it was a heavier case load than normal for officers.

"We don't have an event that compares to this one that gives us this type of case load," he said.

142. The Rotorua mountainbiker made headlines around the world in April after a crash left a bike brake lever embedded in his hand

http://www.rotoruadailypost.co.nz/local/news/freak-injury-is-no-deterrent/3935334/

This Is Now: Kevin Myatt and the scar from the brake lever which went through his wrist. Photo / Ben Fraser 141210bf6

The Rotorua mountainbiker made headlines around the world in April after a crash left a bike brake lever embedded in his hand.

He needed 15 stitches and despite the photos looking horrific he was left with no significant long-lasting problems.

"Everything works great," Mr Myatt said.

"There was only a nick on a tendon. I get a small sensation when I bang it but apart from that, I'm good as gold."

He's had a lot of mileage from the crash. He won a new full-face helmet from a bike website and last week the photo was selected by a radio station as one of the most gruesome - resulting in a $500 payout.

Photos were sent around the world and appeared on mountainbiking websites.

The crash happened on the Dragonstail track in Whakarewarewa forest on April 1.

Mr Myatt had taken a week off work to carry out a gardening project but decided to head to the forest for "a bit of a play". After riding some trails he decided to head home, cutting through Dragonstail on the way out.

"I was trying to build up a bit of speed before some jumps but I dropped my chain and the force of losing resistance threw me forward over the [handle]bars," he said in April.

"It was very, very quick.

I was sliding along the ground, looked back and saw the lever had gone through the bottom of my hand."

His brake lever slid up his arm, cutting it open, then pierced the skin on his wrist before resurfacing.

He said the first thing that hit him was the realisation it was close to an artery.

He grabbed hold of his wrist to stem the flow of blood and yelled at his riding companions to call for an ambulance.

His brake lever survived the crash.

"I'm still using the same brakes," he said. "My wife cleaned them up and they were back on the bike before I could ride. I had to connect them one-handed.

"I was back riding within three weeks, as soon as the stitches were out.

"When you're so used to doing something you don't think about crashing.

"People always ask if having that accident put me off but when you're out there you switch off."

He said he had had another crash on the same track riding with the same companions since the crash in April but without injury.

Mr Myatt has been riding mountainbikes for 17 years and in that time has suffered a broken a wrist and had his shoulder rebuilt. But none of it has put him off.

"I'll be riding as much as possible over the holidays."

143. Another Mountain Biker Paralyzed!

http://www2.timesdispatch.com/news/2011/jan/01/tdmain01-biker-faces-endurance-test-of-life-ar-746511/

Biker faces endurance test of life

By Michael Martz
Published: January 01, 2011

Wayne Goodman celebrated his 60th birthday Oct. 22 in a hospital room with a group of friends and a box of chocolates.

His friends, all devoted mountain bikers like Goodman, offered to open the wrapped box for him because he couldn't use his hands effectively after a spinal-cord injury a month earlier.

Goodman said no. Emphatically.

"I kind of went at it like a dog," he said.

Greg Rollins, president of the Richmond chapter of Mid-Atlantic Off-Road Enthusiasts, was there. "He tore at it and tore at it," he said.

In the end, Goodman got his piece of chocolate.

He's showing the same determination with help from his doctors and an unshakeable circle of friends to overcome an injury that initially left him paralyzed and unsure if he ever would walk again.

"He's taking it like he's taken everything else in stride in his life," said Nathan Burrell, trails manager for the James River Park System. "He's taking it as a challenge."

Goodman, a Henrico County native and resident, has taken plenty of risks in his life. He has spent days without sleep in the wilderness in adventure races. He has ridden the toughest trails and taken some tumbles.

But his life took a turn too many when the front wheel of his bike hit a grassy rut near the main picnic shelter in Forest Hill Park. He was adjusting his camel pack so he could drink water on a trail ride with a young biker who wanted some tips.

The wheel turned right, tossing Goodman head first into a stone wall.

"As soon as that happened, it was like someone hit a light switch," he recalled in an interview this month in the Spinal Cord Injury Unit at Hunter Holmes McGuire VA Medical Center in Richmond. "I could not feel anything."

His girlfriend, Chin Cha Akers, got to him quickly and called for help. When an emergency medical technician arrived and asked him to wiggle his toes, he found that he could.

"That's when I said to myself, 'I have a chance here,' " Goodman said.

Since that moment, Goodman has been working to make the most of that chance.

He underwent surgery at VCU Medical Center to relieve pressure on his swollen spinal cord, injured in the cervical vertebrae of his neck.

After two months at VCU, he transferred last month to McGuire, where he was entitled to care because of three years he served in the Marines in the late 1960s.

Goodman's injury leaves plenty of room for hope. It was an incomplete injury to the spinal cord there's no chance of recovering movement in an injury that's complete with a high D rating on a descending scale of severity.

"I think he will recover significantly after all this treatment," said Dr. Mohammed Bhuiyan, who is overseeing a team of physicians and treatment specialists working intensively with Goodman at McGuire.

Bhuiyan told Goodman last week that he would be able to walk again in his home once he leaves the hospital, probably by the end of February. "It made me so happy, it made me cry tears of joy," Goodman said.

None of his many friends doubt his will or tenacity.

"The beautiful thing about Wayne is he finds a freaking way to make it happen!" said Deborah Khars, a mountain biker, trail volunteer and occupational therapist who visits Goodman frequently at McGuire.

Goodman was one of the people who forged the North Trail that completed a loop for bikers, runners, hikers, and anyone else who enjoys the James River Park trails on both sides of the river, including Forest Hill Park.

"He's definitely been one of the lions," said Burrell, who worked with Goodman in designing and building trails in the park system for six years.

Bill Swann, who spent countless weekends working with Goodman over the course of a year in building the North Trail, organized "A Day in the Park for Wayne" last month in Forest Hill Park. He and other friends sold "G-Man" T-shirts and raised $2,400 in donations

It's an appropriate response for a man who had to buy a trailer for all the tools he'd bought for trail work that he did for what he calls "my ministry."

"Building the trails was my outlet for community service," Goodman said, "and doing what maybe Jesus or God would want me to do."

Even now, with his prognosis good but far from certain, Goodman is still thinking about the park system.

"I still want to come down and do trail work," he said. "I just love it."

mmartz@timesdispatch.com

144. " Four years ago I broke my left hip socket aka "acetabulum" on Sean's Trail in Bellingham"

From: "lenfrancies" <len.francies@gmail.com>
List-Subscribe: <mailto:bbtcmembers-subscribe@yahoogroups.com>
Date: Mon, 03 Jan 2011 05:52:38 -0000
Subject: New Hip, New Year

Four years ago I broke my left hip socket aka "acetabulum" on Sean's Trail in Bellingham. My surgeon (Richard Winquist) reconnected the crescent moon shaped flake of bone with titanium screws and mesh to restore the integrity of the socket. He told me I would need another surgery for a hip replacement someday as I had crushed the cartilage with the impact and dull bone to bone aching would eventually have me back for that.

Through at least 5 resources I learned of a special surgeon, James Pritchett, that does a procedure known as "hip resurfacing" that would not have the restrictions of a regular hip replacement such as no running.

On October 26th at 11am I went into surgery. At noon Dr. Pritchett walked out and told my family that everything went well. I was clear minded and remembered everyone's name I was introduced to while in the hospital including the night nurse. This feat was unusual!

Within a week I was pushing the shopping cart at Freddies with my crutches inside and a week later with a cane. A week later (#3) I was in PT standing ON the new parts balancing for 10 seconds. Two days later I walked cane free and the rest is recovery history.

I was released on 12/23 and my last PT appt. was 12/30 and she could not find anymore scar tissue so she had finished her job as well. Let's call it two months from surgery to having my life back...

On 12/31 I hiked tiger mountain up the cable line trail to West Tiger #3 and down the trail gaining+losing 2000' in 5 miles. On 1/1/11 I geocached my way 5 more miles around my neighborhood. Today I went for my first mountain bike ride...

HAPPY NEW YEAR

About James Pritchett & hip resurfacing
(includes video of Floyd Landis on NW Afternoon: hit the play button)
http://www.pritchettorthopedics.com/hipjoint.php

145. http://nsmb.com/4008-na-ketonalu/

2011-01-01

It is not a story about big tricks. It is a story about life and passion.
In 2007 Piotr Szedowski, a rider from Poland had a bad accident. He went trough clinical death, spent five days in coma, lost two liters of blood, injured his heart muscle, lungs and brain. He had multiple fractured bones, broke his femor (split open), got 8 blood transfusions and went all together through 8 surgeries. He was not walking for a year.
In the year 2010 his passion brought him back on the bike

146. Mountain biker flown to hospital

http://www.stuff.co.nz/dominion-post/news/4513938/Mountain-biker-flown-to-hospital

An injured mountain biker was flown to hospital by helicopter in Wellington today.

The 51-year-old man from Thorndon had been mountain biking on the Town Belt tracks behind Tinakori when he fell off and hurt his ankle.

The man did not know his exact location or which track he was on.

The Westpac Rescue Helicopter responded with a Wellington Free Ambulance paramedic onboard.

The paramedic was winched down through a clearing in the trees and the patient was flown to Wellington Hospital where he is being assessed and treated for his injuries.

147. Mountain Biker Back in the Saddle after Breaking His Neck

[A good sign of an addiction!

Mike]

http://www.bordercountiesadvertizer.co.uk/sport/97562/mountainbiker-dan-atherton-back-in-the-saddle.aspx

Mountainbiker Dan Atherton back in the saddle

Published date: 11 January 2011 | Published by: Staff Reporter

LESS than six months after breaking his neck, Llangynogs World Cup mountain biker, Dan Atherton, celebrated the new year by returning to his bike for the first time.
Describing the crash on the Athertons own dirt jumps last June during training, Dan explained: As I took off I knew I was going to land short, so jumped off mid air. As I bailed I started rotating and smashed into a ditch. I knew instantly something was wrong. My neck was totally out of my control. It was limp and it was all I could do to hold it still, he added. At Shrewsbury Hospital, Dan, pictured, learned he had broken his neck: I broke the C1 in four places, said Dan, Its a ring used to articulate the head, with the skull above and the C2 below. Thankfully, I landed with enough force to displace the broken bones outwards, minimising the chance of neurological damage.
A metal cage was screwed into Dans skull and strapped around his chest, holding his head motionless for three months, during which time he kept a log of his progress.
July: A big expedition...10 steps out, 10 back. Feels like a pile of bricks on my head.
Love waking up at night. For a split second everything is okay. Then I feel... but as long as I can feel, Im happy.
October: Bolts have been unscrewed. A pillow never felt so good.
November: New scans found two skull fractures that had been missed. Finally, neck is stable and I can go hard on the re-hab. Stood looking at my bike. This moment has been a distant goal for a long time.
December: Finally, after months of waiting, Dan finally got back on a bike last month, an important milestone in his remarkable recovery, but while there is a long way to go, he says for now he is just appreciating normal life.
I have crashed like that 100 times and walked away unscathed, says Dan, Its amazing how life works.

http://www.cyclingnews.com/news/atherton-back-on-bike-after-injury

Atherton back on bike after injury

By:

Cycling News

Published:

February 1, 15:40,

Dan Atherton (Commencal Racing) has recovered from breaking his neck.

British mountain biker will return to racing at Fort William

In July of 2010, British mountain biker Dan Atherton sustained a terrifying injury. A crash, in which he landed on his head at his own dirt jumps in North Wales, resulted in a break of the C1 disc in his neck - a life threatening injury. After months off the bike, Atherton received positive results of a final CT scan, and he is cleared for riding and "full training".

Atherton's commitment and dedication which he usually puts into his riding went into getting him through his recovery. With months in a brace and none of his life's usual manic activity, there were low moments along the way and plenty of time for contemplation. He is determined to recover and return to the highest level of the sport according to a statement released by his team manager.

Dr. Robert Bray delivered the results of the final CT scan. Red Bull's Darren Roberts, the Atherton family's personal trainer, accompanied Dan and said, "The fractures have all healed and the tiny fragments of bone which are loose will be absorbed by the body over time. There was a slim possibility that an operation was going to be required to remove these - but thankfully that op is not needed.

"More importantly Dr Bray said the words we've been waiting to hear since July 2010, 'You're good to go Dan, totally healed - get back on your bike and get riding hard. Try not to break it again'."

Atherton is aiming to return to World Cup competition at the second round in Fort William, Scotland. He'll concentrate on downhill racing and aims to return to the podium glory he enjoyed prior to the incident.

Atherton, along with his racing siblings, teammates Gee and Rachel, gave thanks to all who supported him during the difficult time of the recovery.

Follow Cyclingnews on Twitter for the very latest coverage of events taking place in the cycling world - twitter.com/cyclingnewsfeed

148. Two Mountain Bikers Rescued, BOTH with Head and Neck Injuries

http://wellington.scoop.co.nz/?p=30992

Two Mountain Bikers Rescued

January 15, 2011

Press Release Westpac Rescue Helicopter

Saturday 15 Jan 1930 hrs The Wellington Based Westpac Rescue Helicopter transports two Mountain Bikers to Wellington Hospital from two different incidents this afternoon. On the first call a 15yr old male from Lower Hutt had been mountain biking near Ngawi Saturday 15 Jan 1930 hrs

The Wellington Based Westpac Rescue Helicopter transports two Mountain Bikers to Wellington Hospital from two different incidents this afternoon.

On the first call a 15yr old male from Lower Hutt had been mountain biking near Ngawi on the Waiarapa Coast when he fell of and injuring his head and neck.

The Westpac Rescue Helicopter responded with a Wellington Free Ambulance Paramedic onboard.

The Helicopter was able to land near the Local Fire Station where the patient had been transported and was being treated by a local Fire brigade member.

The patient was transported to Wellington Hospital Emergency Department where he is being assessed and treated for his injuries.

On the second call a 49 year old man from Lower Hut was mountain biking on a track in QE 2 park south of Paraparaumu when he fell of coming down a hill.

The mountain biker also suffered injuries to his head and neck.

The Westpac Rescue Helicopter responded with a Wellington Free Ambulance Paramedic onboard.

On arrival the Patient was being treated by Two Wellington Free Ambulance Paramedics. The helicopter was able to land near the Patients location in the sand dunes.

The patient was transported to Wellington Hospital Emergency Department where he is being assessed and treated for his injuries.
ends

149. Mountain biker airlifted with head and back injuries

http://www.thenorthernecho.co.uk/news/8797347.Mountain_biker_airlifted/

Mountain biker airlifted

2:30pm Tuesday 18th January 2011

A MOUNTAIN biker was airlifted to hospital with head and back injuries after coming off his bike in a popular beauty spot.

The Great North Air ambulance attended the incident in Errington Woods, near New Marske, East Cleveland, this morning, along with a road ambulance crew and Cleveland Search and Rescue.

The 35-year-old man, who is from the Redcar area, had been injured after being thrown over the handlebars, after the front wheel hit a hollow.

The man, who was conscious, was given pain relief and immobilised at the scene, before being airlifted to James Cook Hospital, in Middlesbrough.

His condition is described as stable and not life-threatening.

150.

http://www.nwemail.co.uk/news/ulverston/rescue-drama-as-cyclist-injures-leg-1.801039?referrerPath=news/

Rescue drama as cyclist injures leg

Last updated at 15:02, Thursday, 20 January 2011

A MOUNTAIN biker was at the centre of a dramatic rescue when she fell and seriously injured her leg while on a ride.
IN ACTION: Rescue of cyclist Wendy English in Langdale by Langdale Ambleside Mountain Rescue Team

Fifteen members of Langdale and Ambleside Mountain Rescue Team helped Wendy English after she fell off her bike on a wet track in Baysbrown Woods, Elterwater, at around 11.50am on Sunday.

The rescue team treated her and carried her from the scene into a waiting ambulance.

Nick Owen, Langdale and Ambleside Mountain Rescue Team leader, said: Its a fairly steep, nasty path.

As bit of a mountain biker myself, I dont think Ive ever got down there without dabbing my foot down on the ground.

Its a technically difficult track.

Clearly they were experienced. It wasnt particularly wet, its just sometimes you fall off and you are all right, other times you fall off and can hurt yourself beyond all recognition. We received a message back from one of her friends to say thanks and that it was a nasty fracture, but as yet they hadnt been able to operate because it was badly swollen.

Well-wishers on Langdale and Ambleside Mountain Rescue Teams Facebook page thanked the team for its efforts in helping Mrs English, who formerly worked at Gill Cycles in Ulverston.

The rescue team was involved in the response for one-and-a-half-hours.

Last year, the team was involved in 162 rescues, helped 179 people, dealt with six fatalities, put in 4,000 team member hours, with an average rescue duration of three hours at a rate of three per week.

151. http://www.stuff.co.nz/national/4600428/First-aid-lessons-pay-off-for-riders

First aid lessons pay off for riders

CLAIRE CONNELL

Last updated 12:00 31/01/2011

Two Marlborough schoolboys are being hailed as heroes by ambulance staff for helping their friend and brother after he was seriously injured while mountainbiking in the Wither Hills.

Chris Davis, 13, and George Kennington, 12, had attended a St John Ambulance first aid course and knew exactly what to do when George's brother Hugo, 9, fell off his bike a few weeks ago.

The boys were riding along a hilly part of the Wither Hills mountainbike track, about a kilometre from the entrance, when Hugo fell off his bike on a steep jump.

A brake lever gashed his right leg, severing a major vein and causing him to pass out and start vomiting.

"All I heard was screaming, and I turned around and he was walking to us and all this blood was pouring out of his pants," George said.

Using the family cellphone the boys always carry while mountainbiking, George called 111 and walked out to meet St John Ambulance staff while they waited for the Summit rescue helicopter to arrive.

Meanwhile, Chris stayed with Hugo, wrapped a T-shirt around his leg to stop the bleeding, and tried to keep him alert and keep his airway clear.

St John paramedic Jude Breeze said she was very impressed with how calm and level-headed the boys were when ambulance crews arrived.

George and Chris' actions proved how important it was to know first aid in an emergency, she said.

"They did all the right things because they were taught. It got them out of a tricky situation, I think. They were the heroes of the day."

Hugo was flown to Wairau Hospital, in Blenheim, where he had surgery to repair the vein. He is now back riding, and said the accident wouldn't stop him mountainbiking again.

He doesn't remember much about the accident but said it was scary standing up and seeing so much blood.

"If it was just me by myself, I don't know what would have happened."

George and Chris said they were glad they had attended a first aid course and knew what to do, but it was still scary at the time.

152. http://www.odt.co.nz/sport/mountain-biking/146814/challenge-puts-four-hospital

Challenge puts four in hospital

Mon, 7 Feb 2011

Four Otago Peninsula Challenge participants were airlifted to Dunedin Hospital in four separate incidents yesterday.

At 10.40am, the Otago Regional Rescue Helicopter was called to transport a 30-year-old male mountain biker with neck injuries to Dunedin Hospital, returning an hour later to airlift another mountain biker with suspected spinal injuries.

Another patient was taken to hospital at 12.20pm suffering dehydration, and another transported at 1.50pm with severe heat exhaustion after morning temperatures soared to record levels.

Otago Peninsula Challenge organiser Peter Notman said he did not have the full details of how the injuries occurred, but understood the mountain bikers were taken to hospital as a precaution.

Participants can walk, run or ride the route.

153. http://www.ktla.com/news/landing/ktla-mountain-biker-rescued-glendora,0,5826317.story

Biker Rescued After Tumbling Off Canyon Road in Glendora

The biker fell about 200 feet.
Watch Carolyn Costello's report

Biker Rescued in Glendora (KTLA-TV / February 7, 2011)

VIDEO: Mountain Biker Rescued After 300 Foot Plunge, Carolyn Costello reports

KTLA News

4:06 a.m. PST, February 8, 2011

GLENDORA -- A 22-year-old mountain biker was hospitalized after tumbling off a steep embankment in Glendora Monday morning.

The biker fell about 300 feet into a canyon near Glendora Mountain Road at Glendora Ridge Mountainway a few minutes after 10 o'clock, according to L.A. County Fire officials.

He was able to use his cell phone to call for help.

The man was plucked out of the canyon by firefighters aboard a L.A. County helicopter and took him to Huntington Memorial Hospital in Pasadena.

Rescuers say it's a miracle the man survived the fall.

"If you were to look at that cliff from our position looking back up -- how steep it was -- it's amazing that he wasn't killed instantly, paramedic Mark Desmarteau told KTLA.

And had he not had his cell phone, he would have been trapped in the canyon for hours or days, with life-threatening injuries.

"We would have found a dead body... absolutely," Desmarteau said.

The biker has some broken ribs, a collapsed lung and a sore neck and back, but he is expected to make a full recovery.

154. http://www.rotoruadailypost.co.nz/local/news/pastor-lees-son-injured-in-mountainbike-smash/3940272 /

Pastor Lee's son injured in mountainbike smash

Abigail Hartevelt | 12th February 2011

Mountainbike Misfortune: Rotorua's Hamish Lee (left) and his father Pastor Timothy Lee are both dealing with injuries from mountainbiking accidents.

Any talk of mountainbiking being banned in the Lee household is just that.

There is no way Rotorua teenager Hamish Lee is going to give up mountainbiking despite his recent accident which left him with a broken collarbone and a dislocated shoulder.

The accident came just several months after his father, Pastor Timothy Lee, was left a tetraplegic from a mountainbike crash on the Exit Trail in Whakarewarewa Forest.

Hamish was riding on the track known as the Little Red Riding Huck recently when he went over a jump, landed on his front wheel and went over the handlebars. Hamish asked his friend to text his mother Jenny to tell her he thought he had broken his arm and to come and pick them up. He was taken to Lakes Primecare and he has to wear a sling for six weeks and is keen to get back on a mountain bike.

Despite the Lee family's bad luck on the bike trails both Hamish and Mr Lee have not been put off mountain biking.

Mr Lee said he was initially a bit concerned about his son but that was more to do with his son being restricted from enjoying the end of his holidays with his friends.

Mrs Lee said some people had jokingly suggested on Facebook that the family might want to have a rest from mountainbiking.

Mr Lee says he has been getting "pretty frustrated" as at this time of the year he would normally be quite active.

However, he has been enjoying being at home and has achieved one of his short-term goals - flicking the pages of his Bible - something he managed to do for the first time a couple of weeks ago.

He had visited a few of the city's churches over recent weeks sharing his story.

He is looking forward to officially heading back to work next month at Rotorua Baptist where he will job share with an associate pastor, Alby Mascheretti.

Mr Lee said he was looking forward to "working with staff and the church team and pursuing our work in the community and preaching".

http://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/news/article.cfm?c_id=1&objectid=10705962

Paralysed pastor's family vows to keep mountainbiking

5:30 AM Sunday Feb 13, 2011

Hamish suffered injuries in a recent mountain bike crash.

The Old Testament says the sins of the father shall be visited upon the son.

But for Rotorua Baptist church pastor Timothy Lee, it is the accident of the father that has been visited upon his teenage son Hamish.

Last year, Pastor Lee was left tetraplegic after a mountainbike crash on the Exit Trail in Whakarewarewa Forest. He hit a bump, went over the handlebars, bounced off a tree and fell down a bank.

Last month, his 15-year-old son crashed in much the same way on another of the forest's trails, the Little Red Riding Huck.

He went over a jump, landed on his front wheel and went over the handlebars - but he, at least, avoided the trees and just landed hard on his shoulder.

And even as he flew through the air, it never occurred to him that he might be injured as seriously as his dad.

Hamish was lucky to escape with only a broken collarbone and a dislocated shoulder - and there is no talk in the Lee household of banning mountainbiking.

Jenny Lee, Hamish's mum, said some people had jokingly suggested on Facebook that the family might want to have a rest from mountainbiking - but that wouldn't happen.

Hamish plans to be back on two wheels in next to no time, and even thinks his dad might one day cycle again.

"If he gets out of his wheelchair, of course he'll mountainbike again," said Hamish.

His dad, though, was not so confident of walking or riding again.

"If I was to walk again it would be wonderful, and only by the grace of God," he said yesterday.

After Hamish's accident, he asked his friend to text his mother Jenny to tell her he thought he had broken his arm and to come and pick them up.

He was taken to Lakes Primecare and has to wear a sling for six weeks. He expects to be out and about again soon.

Timothy Lee, meanwhile, says he has been getting "pretty frustrated" because at this time of the year he would normally be quite active.

He has enjoyed being at home and has achieved one of his short-term recovery goals - being able to flick the pages of his Bible. The achievement was a big one for the tetraplegic, and one he managed to do for the first time a couple of weeks ago.

He has visited several of the city's churches in recent weeks, sharing his story.

And he is looking forward to heading back to work next month at Rotorua Baptist Church where the wheelchair-bound minister will job-share with an associate pastor, Alby Mascheretti.

155. Mountain bikers turn themselves into paraplegics:

http://vimeo.com/19709069

156. "Near-Fatal" Mountain Biking Accident

http://www.canberratimes.com.au/news/local/sport/rugby-union/no-bitterness-as-on-your-bike-order-taken-literally/2090954.aspx

No bitterness as 'on your bike' order taken literally

BY JOHN-PAUL MOLONEY
02 Mar, 2011 08:16 AM
No sooner had the axe fallen on his coaching career at the ACT Brumbies, than Andy Friend jumped on his mountain bike and headed up Red Hill.

As his mobile phone battery drained from the barrage of text messages from journalists and friends wishing him well, Friend found his escape.

''I tend to be able to lose the train of thought, just focus on not smashing your bike,'' Friend said.

At home later that day, Friend sat with his wife, Kerry, for a cup of tea out the back. He was as calm and good-natured as ever, interested only that in reports of his sacking he not come across as bitter.

Certainly he had points to make and things to disagree with, but two experiences in two years were his reminders to keep his employment situation in perspective.

The first was the death of player Shawn Mackay on the Brumbies 2009 tour of South Africa. The second was Kerry's near-fatal mountain biking crash last May, which left her in a coma for two days and from which she is still some way from full recovery.

''This guts you. I would have loved to have seen things through. But in the scheme of things, it's only a job,'' Friend said.

''We had with Kerry's accident last year and Macca in year one some really tough things to go through. You realise what's important and while this job is important, no one's injured, no one's hurt. We're all still sitting here.''

The question of Friend's future at the Brumbies has been decided. There is none.

And as that reality sank in, he said he didn't know what, if any, coaching roles he might pursue. His children Josh, 16, and Jackson, 14, are settled at nearby Canberra Grammar. The idea of taking up a coaching role elsewhere that would uproot them or separate him from his family is one that doesn't immediately appeal.

Friend's house is just a short stroll from Brumbies HQ. He's bound to bump into some of the players and staff whose opinion of his ability, justified or not, have helped cost him his job.

But Friend said he would be able to deal with ''our team'' no longer including him and wished the Brumbies success beginning with the Reds on Saturday, although he'd be staying at home watching it on TV.

''If I'm in love with something, I'm in love with it. As soon as I'm not, I just put it in a drawer and I don't think about it. It's all very raw and fresh today, but I do not wish that team ill. I really don't.

''There's been a lot of people who've put a lot of effort into that team and I sincerely wish them every success with it.''

157. http://www.thisiswiltshire.co.uk/news/8902018.Cyclist_died_three_days_after_injury_between_Hackpen_and_Overton/

Cyclist died three days after injury between Hackpen and Overton

7:00am Saturday 12th March 2011

Mountain biker Simon Harris, 40, died three days after being found unconscious on the Ridgeway between Hackpen and Overton hills, an inquest in Trowbridge heard on Tuesday.

Mr Harris, an information technology administrator, was found lying by his bicycle and broken helmet on a flinty stretch of the track by two walkers who called for help.

By the time a paramedic arrived Mr Harris, who lived with partner Joanne Cooper and their son in Grange Hill, Swindon, had recovered consciousness and was able to walk.

He was taken to Great Western Hospital but had slipped back into unconsciousness by the time he arrived. Three days later tests showed he had suffered brain-stem death.

A post mortem showed he had suffered an arterial thrombosis.

Wiltshires assistant deputy coroner Ian Singleton concluded that his death was an accident.

158. http://www.pressdemocrat.com/article/20110313/ARTICLES/110319781/1308/news

Injured Annadel bicyclist is hospitalized

By JULIE JOHNSON
THE PRESS DEMOCRAT

Published: Sunday, March 13, 2011 at 2:57 p.m.
Last Modified: Sunday, March 13, 2011 at 9:50 p.m.

A mountain biker was injured in Annadel State Park Sunday when he fell off his bike, sending fire paramedics on a two-hour trek up muddy trails to rescue him.

Fellow bikers called 911 at about 1:15 p.m. to report that the man had lost consciousness after a fall on the South Burma Trail, said Steve Lowe, fire captain with Santa Rosa Fire Department's Engine Four.

A Santa Rosa fire paramedic joined a crew from the Bennett Valley Fire Department, riding off-road vehicles up the trail, Lowe said. When the trail became too narrow, the crew hiked about a mile further in the rain to reach the biker.

The man, whose identity wasn't available late Sunday, was alert and talking when they reached him but had an injured lip and a large bump on his head, Lowe said.

A CHP helicopter crew was dispatched from Napa to help transport the man out of the park, however after it landed in Annadel, it was grounded by a large storm that blew in.

The crew secured the man's spine in a cervical collar and carried him back to the off-road vehicles, Lowe said. He was taken to Santa Rosa Memorial Hospital.

159. http://www.ocregister.com/news/rescue-293809-forest-mission.html

Published: March 26, 2011
Updated: March 27, 2011 10:10 a.m.

Helicopter called in to rescue stranded biker

By MICHAEL MELLO
THE ORANGE COUNTY REGISTER

CLEVELAND NATIONAL FOREST Orange County Fire Authority rescue crews have picked up an injured mountain biker from a remote area in the forest.

At 2:30 p.m., a department rescue helicopter was on its way to Mission Hospital in Mission Viejo, Capt. Greg McKeown said.

The patient was described as having "traumatic injuries." No further details were given.

The OCFA crew found the biker nine miles up Harding Truck Trail. It's unknown how he or she got hurt.

The Harding Truck Trail is a popular route with mountain bikers who use it to get to Santiago Peak.

Contact the writer: 714-704-3796 or mmello@ocregister.com

http://www.ocregister.com/news/mountain-293867-biker-rescued.html

Rescued mountain biker airlifted to hospital

By ERIKA I. RITCHIE

THE ORANGE COUNTY REGISTER

LAS FLORES – A 25-year-old mountain biker was rescued by helicopter near the Tijeras Creek Trail, fire officials said.

Fifteen firefighters and paramedics trekked into the area of the trail and rescued a mountain biker at 5:46 p.m. on Sunday after he had fallen from his bike and suffered head trauma, Orange County Fire Authority Capt. Greg McKeown said.

A helicopter was used to hoist the man out and he was transported to Mission Hospital, McKeown said.

No other details were released.

See related story.

Contact the writer: 949-454-7307 or eritchie@ocregister.com

160. http://www.lancashiretelegraph.co.uk/news/rossendale/8938597.Hospital_airlift_for_biker_after_Rossendale_quarry_accident/

Hospital airlift for biker after Rossendale quarry accident

9:19am Tuesday 29th March 2011

By Peter Magill Chief reporter

A MOUNTAIN biker was airlifted to hospital after suffering suspected broken ribs on trails near Bacup.

Mountain rescue volunteers, paramedics and the North West Air Ambulance were alerted to the incident at Lee Quarry, near Futures Park, around 1.50pm on Sunday.

The rider, aged 43, who has not been named, had injured his chest and arms on one of the Adrenaline Gateway courses.

Graham Dally, of the Rossendale and Pendle mountain rescue team, said half a dozen volunteers were scrambled to the scene within 10 minutes by pager.

We were contacted by the air ambulance and our members attended to give the stretcher a lift to the ambulance, waiting nearby, he said.

Luckily we were at Peel Tower, near Ramsbottom, and most people were able to get there quite quickly.

Jane Rotherham, North West Air Ambulance spokesman, said para-medics had been treating the casualty at the scene when a crew arrived.

The man was transferred for treatment to the Royal Blackburn Hospital within seven minutes, she added.

The incident is the second in a fortnight at the quarry, which attracts riders from all over the North West.

It has around 8km of tough technical mountain bike trails comprising rock gardens, drop-offs, tabletop jumps and challenging climbs.

Emergency crews were called to the same site on March 16, when a rider suffered injuries to his face and arm, just before 6pm.

But he was able to walk to a waiting ambulance for treatment.

161. http://www.ocregister.com/news/biker-295770-mountain-rescue.html

Mountain biker rescued by helicopter

By CLAUDIA KOERNER AND CLAIRE WEBB
THE ORANGE COUNTY REGISTER

LADERA RANCH A mountain biker was seriously injured in an accident Sunday morning and was rescued by helicopter, according to fire officials.

Orange County Fire Authority received word around 10:15 a.m. of the accident on a trail near Crown Valley and Antonio parkways. The biker, a 59-year-old man, suffered a head injury and possibly a back injury, Capt. Greg McKeown said.

The man was transported to Mission Hospital for treatment.

Contact the writer: ckoerner@ocregister.com or 949-454-7309

162. http://www.yorkdispatch.com/news/ci_17849257

Bicyclist rescued after fall down embankment near Lake Redman

GREG GROSS - The York Dispatch
Updated: 04/15/2011 10:21:25 AM EDT

Emergency crews rescued a mountain biker after he fell down a roughly 100-foot embankment and into a creek near Lake Redman in York Township Thursday.

Brian Bastinelli, deputy fire chief of York Township's Goodwill No. 1, said rescuers had to carry the bicyclist about a quarter-mile to a fire truck that took him to a waiting ambulance.

"It was a slow process getting him out," Bastinelli said.

The bicyclist was taken to a local hospital for a leg injury. He suffered a broken leg, according to 911 radio transmissions.

He was riding on Trail 7 in William Kain County Park when he hit some rocks and fell down the embankment about 3 p.m., Bastinelli said.

The bicyclist had a cell phone with him and called 911, telling dispatchers he was near an Interstate 83 bridge over a creek.

With two bridges over creeks in the area, crews went to the wrong one first before finding the correct one, Bastinelli said.

Bastinelli said the bicyclist did the right thing and told someone where he was going and carried a cell phone with him. If he hadn't had the cell phone, it could have been a long time before he was rescued, Bastinelli said.

163. http://www.goldcoast.com.au/article/2011/04/17/308791_gold-coast-news.html

Man airlifted after mountain bike accident

Anne-Louise Brown | April 17th, 2011
THE Gold Coast's RACQ CareFlight rescue helicopter today airlifted a man injured in a mountain bike accident to Brisbane's Princess Alexandra Hospital.

The accident happened near Beaudesert about noon.

CareFlight air crewman Ben Trollope said the man sustained suspected spinal injuries.

''He's come off his mountain bike during a competition so we have landed in an open area near the mountain bike track to stabilise and treat the patient,'' Mr Trollope said.

The man is in a stable condition.

164. http://www.signonsandiego.com/news/2011/apr/22/sd-fire-helicopter-crew-rescues-injured-biker/

SD Fire helicopter crew rescues injured biker

By Susan Shroder

Friday, April 22, 2011 at 6:42 p.m.
John Blankfort

A 44-year-old man is airlifted from the scene of a mountain bike crash at Mission Trails Regional Park on Friday by the crew of a San Diego Fire-Rescue Department hellicopter.

A 44-year-old man riding a mountain bike in Mission Trails Regional Park was injured Friday afternoon and airlifted to a hospital by a San Diego Fire-Rescue Department helicopter crew.

Authorities received a call for help about 4:10 p.m.

The man had been riding on a trail east of Tierrasanta when the bike hit a berm and he fell off and hit his head, said Maurice Luque, department spokesman. He also suffered numerous abrasions.

It was determined that he needed to get a hospital right away, although the injuries were not believed to be life-threatening, Luque said.

The man was conscious when paramedics arrived.

susan.shroder@uniontrib.com (619) 293-1876

165. http://www.dailybulletin.com/news/ci_17933096

Teen airlifted after falling off mountain bike

Lori Consalvo, Staff Writer
Created: 04/26/2011 05:06:29 PM PDT

A 16-year-old boy was airlifted Tuesday after he fell oof his mountain bike while on a steep, rocky trail in Claremont.

Los Angeles County firefighters received a call about the injured teen about 10:55 a.m., Inspector Quvondo Johnson said. The boy was found at 872 Highpoint Dr., near Johnson's Pasture and the Highpoint Condominiums.

Officials said the boy was riding bikes with friends behind his house. At one point, he rode down a 50 foot embankment and fell.

The teen, who had major injuries, was flown to a local hospital about an hour later.

166. http://www.lancashiretelegraph.co.uk/news/8993998.Lancashire_mountain_rescue_teams_inundated_by_calls/

Lancashire mountain rescue teams inundated by calls

9:00pm Tuesday 26th April 2011

By Jon Livesey Reporter

WALKERS have been told to take more care after a series of call-outs for mountain rescue teams over the Easter weekend.

There were dozens of incidents in the hills surrounding East Lancashire, including falls from climbers, walkers and mountain bikers.

Paul Durham, from the Bowland Pennine Mountain Rescue team, said: We were kept on our toes over the Easter break.

Despite asking fell walkers and ramblers to take extra precautions on the lead up to the long weekend the team were scrambled several times.

At lunchtime on Good Friday the team was paged by the ambulance service to two incidents within a 10-minute window.

Firstly to a fallen female walker near to White Coppice Chorley with a reported fractured ankle.

Secondly a report of a mountain biker with head and chest injuries was reported in the Gisburn Forest area of the Ribble Valley near Slaidburn.

Other incidents saw the team scrambled again on Easter Sunday to assist with the evacuation of an injured woman with leg injuries from Beacon Fell in the Ribble Valley.

The Rossendale and Pendle Mountain Rescue Team has also been called into action a number of times in the last fortnight.

In the first week of the Easter holidays the team attended Pendle Hill to assist the North West Air Ambulance locate a crashed paraglider.

They were called back to the hill on Tuesday April 19 to help with another crashed paraglider.

And shortly after midday on Good Friday, the volunteers helped tend to a 37-year-old woman who hurt her leg while out walking on the hill.

Over the Easter holidays the team has also assisted fallen mountain bikers and walkers at Lee Quarry, Rossendale, and Holcombe Hill, near Ramsbottom.

167. http://www.thetelegraphandargus.co.uk/news/9000009.Keighley_champion_mountain_biker_hurt_in_40ft_fall_off_cliff/

Professional breaks his leg and arm in accident while filming video at Cowling

5:51pm Thursday 28th April 2011

By Marc Meneaud

A professional mountain biker suffered serious injuries after surviving a 40-foot fall off a cliff while filming for a video.

Chris Akrigg, of Keighley, shattered his leg and broke his arm after plummeting down Earl Crag, a large grit stone outcrop near Cowling, Keighley.

The 33-year-old, a six-times National Bike Trial Champion, was filming his latest video at the time of the accident.

He has previously shot films of himself taking on some of the worlds toughest mountain-biking terrain.

168. http://www.voxy.co.nz/national/life-flight-trust-responds-injured-mountain-biker/5/88991

Sunday, 1 May, 2011 - 18:14

At 1220 this afternoon the Life Flight Trust responded to Maupuia Park, Miramar, where a woman had come off her mountain bike and collided with a tree.. Life Flight responded with a Wellington Free Paramedic on board the Westpac Rescue Helicopter. The patient, a 28 year old Wellington woman, was riding down a steep incline when she lost control of her bike, impacting head first with a tree. Wellington Free Ambulance road paramedics had already reached the scene of the accident and requested the assistance of the helicopter due to the steep and bush clad terrain.

The helicopter paramedic was winched down to the patient along with a special winch stretcher. Paramedics stabilized the patient who was then placed on to the stretcher and winched up to the helicopter.

The patient was flown to Wellington Hospital Emergency Department where she is being further assessed and treated for hers injuries which are believed to include a possible fractured nose.

The Westpac Rescue Helicopter was on display at the Life Flight Open Day when the emergency call out occurred.

Approximately 5,000 people attended the Open Day to see demonstrations and displays from the Life Flight crew and eight other emergency services. More than $14,000 in donations was raised at the event to help keep Life Flight's air ambulance and Westpac Rescue Helicopter service operational.

169. http://www.pressdemocrat.com/article/20110505/ARTICLES/110509697/1350?Title=Injured-Windsor-cyclist-dies-a-month-after-fall

Injured Windsor cyclist dies a month after fall

Published: Thursday, May 5, 2011 at 5:21 p.m.
Last Modified: Thursday, May 5, 2011 at 5:21 p.m.

A Windsor cyclist who was seriously injured a month ago as he rode through the Willow Creek Preserve near Duncans Mills has died, Sonoma County coroner's officials said.

Coroner's staff on Thursday identified the man as Jose Rayos, 49, of Windsor. He died April 29 at Santa Rosa Memorial Hospital, officials said.

Rayos was cycling though the preserve on April 9 when he was injured.

Following reports of a mountain biker down, Henry One was dispatched to the area just before 3 p.m. to search for Rayos in the 3,373-acre state park, Sheriff's Sgt. Dave Thompson said.

The crew located the fallen cyclist among a stand of 150-foot trees and Chief Pilot Paul Bradley lowered a rescuer on a 200-foot line to get him, said Thompson. The REACH medical helicopter crew took him to Santa Rosa Memorial Hospital.

- Julie Johnson

170. Date: Fri, 06 May 2011 20:56:14 -0700
Subject: Mtbers playing Russian roulette and losing

While the mountain bikers continue to slag me with pure venom, in two days we have seen two serious injuries out of mountain biking and one near tragedy with lost mountain biking kids on the mountain. So six teens in all, and one adult (the irony of it all is that I am getting a mess of cyber bullying coming out of the nsmb.com that is rightly making me wonder for my safety... let the mountain bikers do it to themselves. They are like a bunch of rabid hyenas into the kill and getting crazier every day. And nobody seems to care or is listening.)
http://www.pinkbike.com/news/Ranchstyle-Best-Trick-tomorrow-on-Pinkbike.html
Daire (12 hours ago)
apparently some kid has broken his back there trying to pull a backflip, he is in a very bad condition too.

http://bb.nsmb.com/showthread.php?t=141810
Canadian injured at Ranchstyle?

Just saw this email from James Wilson today. Saw brief mention over at Pinkbike as well:

Quote:
Yesterday at practice for Ranchstyle we had a kid from Canada try a backflip out of a step-down feature, under rotate and crashed hard. He is still out and we don't know if he's going to pull through or what type of damage is going to be there if he wakes up. It was a sobering reminder of just how dangerous our sport is and how grateful we should be every time we are able to come home after a ride and kiss our loved ones.

This weekend is Mother's Day and we should all give her a big hug and thank her for putting up with all the crap we've put her through. You should also give your wife, husband, kids or whoever else relies on you a call and tell them you love them you never know when you'ree time is up and you won't get that chance again.
Then I saw the thread about Darren Berrecloth and his fractured vertebrae.

Haven't been able to find out who was hurt, or where he's from. Can only hope he pulls thru.

Like James says: give your mom a hug. Anyone reading this forum has likely given both parents reason to have sleepless nights. And for us older riders: spouses, kids, significant others ...

and
http://bb.nsmb.com/showthread.php?t=141765
Bearclaw injured (merged)

Via Twitter @darenberrecloth
"Broke three vertibrae today on a front flip in my yard spinal cord is 100 percent. Faaaak yfrog.com/h2jiodzj"
Healing vibes

171. http://www.canada.com/Mountain+biker+injured+Kamloops+mishap/4743550/story.html

Mountain biker injured in Kamloops mishap

By Walter Cordery, Daily News May 7, 2011

Nanaimo's Peter Isherwood is laying [sic] in a Vancouver hospital bed fighting to keep the use of his arms and legs, following a recent mountain-biking accident week in Kamloops.

It was not the celebration he had planned for his 34th birthday.

Isherwood has been riding downhill for years and is considered "very good," said his friend Brett Bickerton.

"He's been biking his whole life and this was just a freak accident that happened after he was airborne, like he has been hundreds of times before," said Bickerton. "Unfortunately, when he landed the steer-tube broke."

Steer-tubes are forks that hold the front wheel in place on the bicycle. They collapsed and Isherwood went over his handlebars.

"Pete held on because he didn't anticipate a crash due to the fact that he had landed the bike correctly," said Bickerton.

"He went forward and hit the ground with his head and flipped. He couldn't move or feel anything at first."

Isherwood was rushed to hospital in Kamloops and then sent to Vancouver General Hospital. He could feel tingling in his arms and some pressure on his toes, said Bickerton.

"He not only broke his neck and suffered spinal cord damage, but there were other complications," Isherwood's common-law wife, Tamara Jayne Bickerton, said in an e-mail to the Daily News.

"He had an uncommon allergic reaction to the CT scan dye and his throat closed up. They had to perform an emergency tracheostomy. There was a scare of hypoxic brain damage because he was without adequate oxygen for five to 10 minutes."

Surgeons fused two vertebrae, C5 and C6, in his neck with a piece of his hip bone and a metal plate.

"It worked beautifully and his neck is stable enough without a brace or halo; however, that is only from the bone perspective, there has still been damage to the spinal cord itself," said Tamara Jayne.

"At this point he may be a quadriplegic or perhaps he will walk again. Only time will tell and we will simply work with what we have each day."

"He does seem to be improving somewhat," said Brett Bickerton. "It seems to me that he has regained some muscle control over his limbs.

"I'm very happy because he has the exact type of personality that somebody needs to remain positive."

WCordery@nanaimodailynews.com

172. http://www.newsandstar.co.uk/news/mountain-biker-badly-hurt-in-high-speed-lake-district-crash-1.835150?referrerPath=news

Mountain biker badly hurt in high-speed Lake District crash

Published at 17:47, Friday, 06 May 2011

A cyclist has been seriously injured in a high-speed mountain bike crash at Whinlatter Forest Park.

Andrew Southwell, 40, from Maryport, suffered serious head and neck injuries when he came off his bike while riding with friends on Tuesday evening.

The North West Ambulance Service and Keswick Mountain Rescue Team were called to the scene just before 8.20pm and a paramedic and the rescue team doctor helped stabilise Mr Southwell.

Search dog handlers helped splint Mr Southwell and take him to the mountain rescue team ambulance.

He was picked up by an RAF helicopter at around 9.45pm and flown to the Royal Victoria Infirmary in Newcastle. His condition was described as serious but stable.

173. http://www.dailyjournal.net/view/story/ff00e8fa68d7499d80b530e306a40011/CO--Mountain-Biker-Killed/

Mancos mountain biker dies in biking accident

THE ASSOCIATED PRESS
CORTEZ, Colo. Authorities say a Mancos man killed in a mountain biking accident on Monday near Cortez was the victim of a tragic accident.

The Durango Herald reported that Steven Ludemann, 66, died while riding the popular Phil's World trail system east of Cortez.

Lt. Detective Ted Meador with the Montezuma County Sheriff's Office says Ludemann was an avid mountain biker. He said the cause of the accident was unknown.

Meador said the accident took place on a steep dip on the trail. The coroner conducted an autopsy Tuesday afternoon and said the cause of death was serious injury to the spinal cord. Ludemann was wearing a helmet.

Information from: Durango Herald, http://www.durangoherald.com

174. http://www.gazettelive.co.uk/news/teesside-news/2011/05/23/mountain-biker-on-guisborough-woods-crash-84229-28745302/

Mountain biker on Guisborough Woods crash

by Mike Morgan, Evening Gazette
May 23 2011

A MOUNTAIN biker has today told how his helmet saved his life after he hit a tree at speed in a horrific crash.

Mark Preston, 41, of Coronation Street, Carlin How, is recovering at home after his serious crash at Guisborough Woods, above Hutton Village.

He sustained a suspected badly broken nose, severe swelling and cuts to his face and whiplash to his neck.

The crash happened at about 8pm on Tuesday when Mark was plummeting down a fast, downhill section with fellow members of Guisborough Mountain Bike Club.

He said: Fortunately, the helmet took a lot of the force of the crash and split in two at the front.

It probably saved my life, or saved me from more serious injury. I would like to stress the importance of always wearing a helmet which some young riders dont always do.

He praised members of Cleveland Search and Rescue Team, who used a 4x4 vehicle to get him out of the woods to a waiting ambulance.

He also thanked paramedics and staff at Middlesbroughs James Cook University Hospital, who treated him.

Single man Mark, a Tesco warehouseman at Teesport, said: Im a keen mountain biker and have been going to Hutton Woods for 25 years, with no bother at all just a few little scrapes.

I always wear a helmet. We go out in a group on Tuesday and Thursday evenings at Hutton village.

We all wear helmets and some wear knee and elbow pads too.

I was in the middle of the pack and going down a fast trail when I think my handlebar caught a tree near the bottom.

I came off and knocked myself out. Everybody stopped and gathered round me and there was blood all over the place. It took me a few minutes to come round.

The next thing I remember I was sitting up, but everyone was very concerned. The paramedics later checked my legs, which were covered in blood, but they were OK.

Im off work for a few days while I recover. But it wont put me off mountain biking. Its just one of those things and the nature of the sport.

The CSR team and all the emergency services were very prompt and Im also very grateful for the kindness of the hospital staff.

Marks bike came off better than he did. Its damaged with the brake levers bent, but its not too bad, he said.

Now Ill get a new helmet and when Im better carry on, wearing that!

A total of 23 members of Cleveland Search and Rescue Team attended the call and the casualty was on his way to accident and emergency at James Cook just over an hour after the team was called.

Barry Warrington, spokesman for the team, said: This was a serious incident and the man was in considerable pain.

Fortunately, he was wearing a helmet which, although it was damaged in the accident, could have been much worse if he had not been wearing one.

175. http://www.thetelegraphandargus.co.uk/news/9042319.Mountain_biker_tells_how_he_survived_cliff_fall/

Keighley rider Chris Akrigg relives horrific plunge

9:05am Monday 23rd May 2011

By Marc Meneaud

A champion mountain biker who survived a 40ft cliff plunge while filming his latest video spoke today about the horrific incident and his slow road to recovery.

Chris Akrigg, of Keighley, spoke out after an accident in which earth gave way beneath his bike wheels, causing him to fall from Earl Crag, a large grit stone outcrop near Cowling, Keighley.

The six-times National Bike Trial Champion had been re-visiting his favourite mountain biking terrain in Yorkshire, when the accident happened.

The 33-year-old told the Telegraph & Argus: I was just using the cliff as a backdrop, because it is a really nice location.

I was riding on the top ready to do something that was not even that scary or risky it just happened that it went badly wrong.

I was getting up some speed and, when I landed, the grass gave way and I went off a rather large cliff.

The fall sparked a large rescue operation which included paramedics and an 18-strong mountain rescue team.

In a lengthy operation, surgeons at Airedale General Hospital in Steeton, near Keighley, inserted a metal rod into the top of his pelvis, with pins holding together the shattered bone in his thigh.

He also suffered tissue damage because of the impact of the fall and still has his leg in plaster.

176. http://montrose.patch.com/articles/student-overcomes-head-injury-to-become-state-ranked-mountain-biker

Student Overcomes Head Injury to Become State-Ranked Mountain Biker

Doctors said Lucas Rowton would not fully recover from a bike accident. He proved them wrong.

By Lisa Dupuy

Lucas Rowton is ranked 4th in Southern California in the National Interscholastic High School Cycling Association.

Whiz Kid's Name/Age: Lucas Rowton, Age 15
Whiz Kid's School: Crescenta Valley High School.
Whiz Kid's Accomplishment: Rowton recently competed in the National Interscholastic High School Cycling Association Finals in Los Olivos, CA. Part of a team of mountain bikers from CV High, Rowton placed 7th in the state and 4th in Southern California. This is an accomplishment unto itself. But keep in mind, Rowton might have easily avoided bicycles altogether after a serious accident 2 years ago.
Whiz Kid's Key to Awesomeness: It was January 27, 2009. I was in 8th grade, recalled Rowton. I was fooling around with my friends and fell off my bike onto my head. Luckily I had my helmet on. Rowton lost consciousness. Thanks to the quick thinking of his friends, he was taken to the hospital where he remained unconscious for a terrifying three days. The brain contusion and subsequent swelling prompted doctors to say hed be lucky to get 80% of his brain capacity back, and that competitive sports were out of the question, said his mother Susan Rowton. She credits his remarkable recovery to nutrient-rich foods and Lucass determination to be healthy. Within a few months, he was back on his bike and flourishing at school. By August, said his mom, Lucas was in football pads playing quarterback for the CV Falcons freshman team.
Bonus Whiz Kid Info: He believes mountain biking will always be a part of his life. Its just fun, says Rowton. But he has words of wisdom to kids everywhere, Always wear a helmet.

177. http://www.bclocalnews.com/news/122541978.html

Dinner planned for injured mountain biker

By Jenn McGarrigle - Nanaimo News Bulletin
Published: May 30, 2011 8:00 AM

Friends of a Nanaimo mountain biker who broke his neck while riding trails in Kamloops recently are planning a fundraiser to help him out.

Peter Isherwood, 34, is recovering from his injuries in the G.F. Strong Rehabilitation Centre in Vancouver, where he is fighting to regain mobility in his arms and legs.

His rehabilitation will likely take at least six months or longer and his friends and family hope to raise enough money to ensure Isherwood does not worry about finances while he recovers. His common-law partner, T.J. Bickerton, has moved to Vancouver to be with him throughout the rehabilitation process.

A fundraising dinner takes place at Simonholt Food and Drink on Applecross Road on Wednesday June 8 starting at 5 p.m.

There will be a silent auction, with everything from a $3,300 bike to CDs, and two dinner options: a beer and burger for $30 or steak and wine for $50.

For more information, please go to the What's Happening With Pete Facebook page.

A donation account has also been set up for Isherwood through TD Canada Trust, account #9228-6325326.

178. http://www.wfsb.com/news/28075635/detail.html

Biker Rescued From Case Mountain

Crews Used Cell Phone Signal To Track Him

POSTED: 7:38 pm EDT May 30, 2011

MANCHESTER, Conn. -- Crews from Manchester and Glastonbury rescued a biker off of Case Mountain Monday evening.

Officials said the mountain biker got stuck and used his cell phone to call police. Police had the biker leave his cell phone on so they could use the it to help them locate his position.

Rescue crews were able to locate the biker and get him off the mountain shortly after 6 p.m.

Officials said the biker was taken to Manchester Hospital for treatment, and he was expected to be ok.

179. http://www.kare11.com/news/article/925057/391/Search-underway-for-missing-Coon-Rapids-man

Missing Coon Rapids man found safe

9:56 PM, May 30, 2011

Peter Beatty

COON RAPIDS, Minn. -- A a missing Coon Rapids man is safe at home after being the subject of a weekend police search.

Coon Rapids Police say 49-year-old Peter Beatty returned home Tuesday morning after being reported missing by his family. They say no foul play was involved in his disappearance.

Authorities had asked for the public's help in locating Beatty after he left his home on a purple mountain bike Sunday morning and has not been seen or heard from since. It was believed he may have been heading across the Coon Rapids Dam along the bike trail to the Elm Creek Park Reserve.

The concern was that Beatty has a seizure disorder and needs his medication, which he did not take with him

180. http://www.bclocalnews.com/bc_north/interior-news/news/122839064.html

Search and rescue called for missing cyclists on Hudson Bay Mountain

By Staff Writer - Smithers Interior News
Published: May 30, 2011 9:00 PM

On May 22, at approximately 3 p.m., RCMP were notified of two males who had become lost while mountain biking on Hudson Bay Mountain.

One of the males was carrying his cell phone and was able to contact a family member via text messaging who in turn contacted the police.

The males were wet and cold due to the heavy rain fall and temperatures at the time.

Police were able to communicate with the males via text messaging and gathered information regarding their surroundings. It was learned that the males were trapped in a deep ravine near a waterfall and were unable to get back out due to snow levels, fallen trees and weather conditions.

Both males were advised to remain in the ravine until rescue crews could attend.

Bulkley Valley Search and Rescue was called in and readily attended the area. Information regarding the males surrounding was provided to the SAR members who immediately knew the area and the general location of the males.

Approximately one hour after arrival on scene SAR members located both males in the ravine and quickly removed them. Both males were cold and wet due to exposure to the elements however neither male required medical attention. The bikers advised they have become disoriented following a minor injury which was compounded by the current snow pack which remains on the closed mountain biking trails in the area. The snow pack hampered travel forcing the bikers to re-route their descent resulting in both becoming lost.

181. Mountain biking called a "contact sport"

Here is a great article (following) about how dangerous mountain biking is. People really need to read this article. Really read it for its truthful content about common mountain biking injuries, and think twice about whether to send their little rugrats to mountain bike camp this summer. Sadly, there is a mountain bike fest this weekend after a week of heavy rains (June 3-5):
http://blog.mec.ca/events/mec-bikefest/mec-bikefest-north-vancouver/
partnering together with the NSMBA's "Return of the Ripper" event the same time:
http://www.northshorebikefest.com/
Double the insanity! This is what happens when you have a "mountain bike loving" Mayor and Council.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
"You have to realize this (mtbing) is a contact sport..." (with rocks, roots, trees...maybe..?)
http://www.bclocalnews.com/greater_vancouver/northshoreoutlook/sports/122966033.html

A good time for a ride

North Van's Jaclyn Delacroix at her favourite shop, Different Bikes.Delacroix, a personal trainer, broke her ribs and suffered a collapsed lung after falling from her mountain bike last year. Still an avid mountain biker, Delacroix says those interested in riding should invest in a quality bike before tackling any of the North Shore's trails.

Sean Kolenko photo

By Sean Kolenko - North Shore Outlook
Published: June 01, 2011 12:00 PM
Updated: June 01, 2011 12:39 PM

North Vancouverâ€™s Jaclyn Delacroix considers herself one part mountain lover and one part thrill seeker. So, she says, learning to mountain bike was something she "just had to do.â€

A self-proclaimed "quick study,â€ Delacroix had a friend who was willing to show her the ropes, and she took to the sport right away. But while out riding on Cypress Mountain about a year ago, Delacroix came face to face with a formidable opponent: a jump.

It was jump not unlike the multitude of jumps she had conquered in the past. But this time, Delacroix came down a bit too "nose heavyâ€ and was thrown from her bike. There was a nasty rock in the landing zone and she landed against it, shattering her ribs and collapsing her lung. She managed to get up and let out a "yes,â€ signalling to her friends she was conscious, before falling back down.

"I think a lot more now. I think I was a little reckless before,â€ says Delacroix.

"But the way I injured myself wasnâ€™t too common. I have friends who have never sustained injuries doing the same thing. Itâ€™s all about how far you push yourself and knowing when to walk away. About 95 per cent of mountain biking is pretty safe.â€

June is Bike Month in B.C. and this yearâ€™s theme is bike safety. While the province-wide initiative encompasses all forms of cycling, mountain biking holds a prominent place in North Shore bike culture.

Those looking to get into the sport, says Mark Wood, need to understand a few basic rules before heading on to the trails. Wood, the trail adoption plan director for the North Shore Mountain Bike Association, says the first step for seasoned and aspiring mountain bikers is the proper safety equipment — elbow pads, knee pads and helmets — as welwell as a yearly bike tune-up.

"You should take your bike into a shop, ensure it is in good condition,â€ says Wood.

"You should have the tightness of bolts tested, have the frame inspected for cracks and failures,â€ says Wood.

When purchasing a bike, adds Wood, it is important to ensure oneâ€™s desired bike is adequate for the trails on the North Shore. Such a focus may result in a more expensive bike purchase, but Wood says the majority of local trails arenâ€™t easy and if one considers only their budget it could "get them in trouble.â€

For the novice rider, Wood recommends starting off on the District of North Vancouver-sanctioned Bobsled Trail. Opened last year, the 900-metre trail is geared toward beginner and intermediate bikers. For those looking for something a little more challenging, Wood says the Bridal Path trail offers an adequate step up for those becoming more comfortable in the North Shore mountains.

"The Bobsled is a great beginner trail and the Bridal Path can get a bit more tricky,â€ says Wood.

"And either way, you get to experience something you donâ€™t always get to experience in your day to day. Youâ€™re getting healthy and fit and having fun with friends.â€

But as Delacroix is a testament to, wheeled fun in the mountains may lead to injury. Physiotherapist and avid mountain biker Derrick Kyle grew up riding local trails and says a regular injury sustained on North Shore trails is fractured collarbones.

Because North Shore trails are more terrain-based and less geared to higher jumps like the bike park in Whistler, Kyle says local riders tend to go over the handlebars and land on their shoulders; Whistler bikers tend to sustain neck injuries because of the higher elevations they often fall from.

At the beginning of each bike season, regardless of oneâ€™s experience, Kyle says every rider needs to start at "square one.â€

"You have to be aware of your ability level and build yourself up methodically,â€ says Kyle.

"But you have to build your base over and over again and prove to yourself you have the ability you showed the season before.â€

Recovery time, adds Kyle, is always injury specific. A soft tissue injury —muscle or tendon issues, for example — can put a rideider on the shelf for six to eight weeks while a dislocated shoulder could be season-ending.

Kyle, like the NSMBAâ€™s Wood, is a strong proponent of proper safety equipment, but warns against parents buying their kids equipment "to grow into.â€ For instance, Kyle says properly fitting helmets are of the utmost importance because oversized helmets can promote injuries. A riderâ€™s head, Kyle adds, can move around inside the helmet and result in an injury.

"You have to realize this is a contact sport and outfit your kid appropriately,â€ says Kyle.

"You have to expect to fall and dress appropriately. This is not a cheap entry sport for kids.â€

skolenko@northshoreoutlook.com

twitter.com/seankolenko

182. http://www.taiwannews.com.tw/etn/news_content.php?id=1616747

Japanese tourist dies in bike crash in Bolivia
Associated Press
2011-06-02 11:39 PM

A Japanese tourist died in Bolivia when he rode his bicycle off a cliff on a dangerous mountain path known as the Highway of Death.

Police say that 32-year-old Naomi Kanamura died Tuesday. Police Chief Hernan Rodriguez says Kanamura was moving very fast on a steep, gravelly grade of the road when his bicycle went over the side.

Rodriguez said Thursday that Kanamura received a deep cut in his head.

The narrow, mostly dirt highway east of the capital of La Paz draws thousands of thrill-seeking mountain bikers from around the world. The route drops 11,800 feet (3,600 meters) over 40 miles (65 kilometers). More than a dozen cyclists have died on the road in the past decade.

183. http://www.ktvz.com/news/28134218/detail.html

Mtn. Bike, Motorcycle Crashes Keep SAR Busy

Incidents West, East of Bend on Long-Awaited Warm Weekend

By Barney Lerten, KTVZ.COM
POSTED: 8:58 pm PDT June 4, 2011
UPDATED: 1:52 pm PDT June 5, 2011
BEND, Ore. -- Central Oregons warmest weekend in a while prompted many to head outdoors to play Saturday -- and as often happens, that also meant a busy day for Deschutes County Sheriffs Search and Rescue crews, called to an injury mountain bike crash west of town and a critical-injury motorcycle crash 25 miles to the east.

Around 12:20 p.m., 911 dispatchers got a call from someone reporting that Robert Denouden, 46, of Eugene, had crashed his mountain bike while riding on Kents Trail west of Bend, said sheriffs Deputy Mike Biondi, SAR operations manager.

The caller said Denouden had injured his hip and shoulder, and was down trail, about 3/4 of a mile from the intersection with Forest Road 4610, Biondi said.

Two deputies, a Forest Service officer and three SAR members (two of them EMTs) responded to the location, the deputy said. Denouden was treated at the scene and taken by ATV to the 4610 road, where he was met by friends, according to Biondi.

Then, around 1:40 p.m., 911 dispatchers got a cell phone call from a man reporting a motorcycle crash on the 70 trail near the Ground Hog OHV (off-highway vehicle) play area, about 25 miles east of Bend, Biondi said.

Due to poor cell phone reception, dispatchers had difficulty getting the patients information and the exact location of the crash, he said.

Two deputies on OHV patrol responded to the area and located Phillip Miller, 56, of Forest Grove about 1 1/2 miles south of the Ground Hog OHV play area, Biondi said.

The deputy and SAR personnel who were on the mountain bike crash also responded to the location, along with two more SAR medics, Biondi said.

Miller was stabilized at the scene and taken by ATV and ambu-sled 1 1/2 miles to the Ground Hog quarry, Biondi said.

Miller then was flown by AirLink helicopter to St. Charles Medical Center-Bend, where a nursing supervisor said he was in critical condition Saturday night but had improved to serious condition Sunday.
Print Email

184. http://www.dailyjournal.net/view/story/477cd79d944549c9b8d85136ca29514a/CO--Biker-Injured/

Biker from the United Kingdom injured in Colorado biking accident

THE ASSOCIATED PRESS
First Posted: June 06, 2011 - 7:47 am
Last Updated: June 06, 2011 - 3:55 pm

BOULDER, Colo. A mountain biker from the United Kingdom has injured his leg after falling while mountain biking in Colorado.

The Boulder County Sheriff's Office identified the man as 59-year-old Victor Parr of Manchester. He was taken to Boulder Community Hospital on Sunday.

The sheriff's office says Parr was more than a mile down the Betasso Preserve County open space when the accident occurred.

185. http://www.kboi2.com/news/local/123596714.html

Mountain biker flown to hospital after crash in Boise foothills

By KBOI Web Staff

Emergency crews were dispatched to the Boise foothills near Bogus Basin Rd Thursday night for a report of an injured person.

BOISE, Idaho - Emergency crews were dispatched to the Boise foothills near Bogus Basin Road Thursday night for a report of an injured person.

The Ada County Sheriff's Office says a mountain biker in his 20s was riding with three other people when he fell behind the others and crashed about 3 or 4 miles from Bogus Basin Road.

His injuries were too serious to continue riding. A short time later, a doctor who just happened to be riding on the same trail found the injured man and called 911.

Emergency crews from the Ada County Sheriff's Office, Boise Police, and the Boise Fire Department were dispatched to the scene.

The three people who were riding with the injured man reached the end of the trail and waited for him. They realized something was wrong when he didn't show up and rode back to his location.

However, because the area in which the rider crashed was remote, an air ambulance was sent to recover the injured man and fly him to the hospital.

The rider was wearing a helmet when he crashed. The extent of his injuries are not known.

186. http://www.bclocalnews.com/kootenay_rockies/ferniefreepress/news/123469484.html

Mountain bike accident not bear attack

By Megan Cole - The Free Press
Published: June 10, 2011 10:00 AM

Rumours were flying around town after search and rescue, conservation officers, paramedics and the RCMP responded to a potential bear attack on Monday afternoon.

“The initial call was that three individuals were attacked by a bear,” said Const. Sheena Fulton of the Elk Valley RCMP.

Fulton said that what had actually happened was that a local man in his 20s had hit a low hanging tree branch while mountain biking on the Old Stumpy trail in Ridgemont, Fernie, and fell off his bike.

“We suspect that there was a group of people biking together and someone ahead heard the scream when the biker fell and suspected that there had been a bear attack,” said Fulton.

“The incident really took on a life of it’s own,” said Simon Piney of Fernie Search and Rescue.

Piney said that because of the initial call conservation officers had to be sent in to the area before ambulance attendants and members of search and rescue could go in.

“Once the conservation officers determined that there was no threat, paramedics were able to go in and attend to the man,” he said.

Piney said that the man had sped into the low hanging branch and was showing signs of a potential spinal injury.

Ambulance attendants stabilized the man and members of search and rescue packaged him so that they could take him out of the area.

The man was taken to the Elk Valley Hospital. His injuries are not yet known.

Piney said that there were two other incidents in the area yesterday, including a woman who broke her ankle while hiking.

Piney is reminding mountain bikers and hikers that if they are injured in the backcountry, the fastest way to get help is to call 911.

“When you reach dispatch, be clear that it’s in the backcountry and request search and rescue,” he said. “A lot of people waste time trying to find our number and we can only be sent out by the RCMP."

187. It’s tough being a ‘girl’ downhiller

Richard Winton

10 Jun 2011

IT can’t be easy trying to be feminine while picking bits of gravel out of your face. The observation sparks a snort of laughter from Bex Reilly, followed by a pause as the 19-year-old ponders the difficulty of the situation in which she finds herself.

As a mountain biker, she has had her share of disfigurements; agonising tendinitis in her knees, strained ligaments in one of those joints, an over-rotation of a shoulder that left it an inch lower than it should have been and so many haematomas that she has given up keeping count.

Indeed, just last week she was rushed to hospital with a broken wrist and suspected broken leg after losing control of her bike on a run at Glencoe and falling almost two-and-a-half metres, clattering though a small canyon of rocks. Safe to say touching up her make-up was not Reilly’s primary concern.

Yet for all that, the Galloway teenager cites track sprinter Victoria Pendleton and skeleton racer Amy Williams as inspirations, their ability to retain their womanliness amid brutal sporting environments something she yearns to replicate.

“You’ll be at a race with 300 guys and 10 girls and sometimes you are considered one of the guys, which is fine, but I’m a girl,” she protests. “I was always sort of a tomboy but as I’ve got older it’s changed. I’ve become more confident because of cycling and now I like to get dressed up and wear make-up and that can be lost because it’s all muddy but it’s important to try to stay feminine because I’m a girl and it’s who I am.”

"You learn from every crash how to fall and react and you have to accept it will happen"

And, as a girl, Reilly fiercely defends her right to cry. Lying amid the rocks and dirt at Glencoe after crashing in the third round of the British National Series, experience told her she had not broken a leg but the pain and swelling suggested her wrist was fractured.

As she was stretchered into an ambulance, fears about missing last weekend’s UCI World Cup event at Fort William swirling around her mind, she maintained her composure but admits bursting into tears when the diagnosis was delivered.

Reilly describes the incident as a “big scare” but her fear is not entirely founded on the physical discomfort. She is hurting, too, that the incident prevented her from making the cup at Fort William, finishing 33rd in an event in which she probably should not have ridden given the wrist injury and massive haematoma on her leg.

“I’d put so much into that one race and to mess it up the weekend before was gutting,” she admits. “You know you’re going to get a bad one eventually and I remember my first major crash; I caught a pedal on a rock, went through a wall and flipped about 15m just missing an oak tree. I just treated it as part of the sport but it was the start of me realising just how painful and brutal the sport can be. You learn from every crash how to fall and react – and you have to accept that it will happen or you would be too scared to race.”

That might have been one of her earliest lessons, but Reilly’s education is still ongoing. With this her first season as an elite rider and member of the British downhill squad, she has been exposed to a whole new level of competition but is thriving on the challenge of continuing what has already been a rapid ascent since she first raced in 2008.

Having always ridden as a child “my Barbie bike when I was six was my favourite” she and a couplle of friends from the village of Auchencairn attended cross-country skills days run by Reilly’s father but decided downhill was more glamorous. Exhilarated by the speed and danger, Reilly rode recreationally for 18 months before being talent-spotted by the national coach and welcomed into the youth development programme and rising through the ranks from there.

“I remember the first time I went on a downhill bike with the full-face helmet, goggles,” she says. “I had so much fun even though it was only a couple of minutes and that fun is still there now even though I’m riding competitively and have to try to balance the budget.”

As a student, money is never far from her mind. Indeed, Reilly has had to abandon plans to compete in tomorrow’s UCI World Cup event in Austria because injury to one of her team-mates makes her subsequently increased share of the petrol money flyying is too expensive prohibitive. Instead, she will be in Dunkeldd for a Scottish Series race and preserving her pennies for trips later this summer to France and Italy.

Were it not a bursary from the University of Strathclyde, Reilly admits she would have been unable to continue competing, but instead she is able to continue her studies in product design as a distraction from the intensity of training and racing.

With only three or four girls on the course, she finds herself in a familiar position but if downhill cycling is unable to impinge on her quest for femininity it is unlikely that an engineering degree will be able to manufacture any insurmountable barriers.
http://www.heraldscotland.com/sport/other-sports-news/it-s-tough-being-a-girl-downhiller-1.1106130

[There is seriously something psychologically wrong with this girl, and many who continue to pursue mountain biking incurring such severe injuries. She is young, right now, but all her injuries will be catching up to her when she becomes a bit older, in the form of arthritis, among other debilitating medical problems. Sadly, this daft young woman will be a "very old woman" before her time.]

188. Traumatic Brain Injury Caused by Mountain Biking

From: kbfalken@aol.com
Date: Tue, 14 Jun 2011 12:34:26 -0400
Subject: Preachers and helmets

Len, in response to your comment, want to be clear I'm just providing some information (happened to read it last night, in fact). I, too, have ridden up the fireroad to preston without a helmet, and don't consider that to be very risky - personal call. And I find unsolicited (sanctimonious) advice annoying in most circumstances...on the bike and off. :-) But I thought what I read was quite interesting and worth sharing with the group.

In the latest issue of Dirt Rag, there's a story about a guy that was just doing a short test-ride after making some adjustments on his bike and went without a helmet. He had an unexpected fall and ended up with Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) that's not really healing and has changed his life in an unfortunate way ...his brain just doesn't work the way it used to. And in an earlier issue (think it was #153??), there's an article from a doc talking about what happens to the brain, even in more moderate crashes. Good information on what we now better understand about brain injury - and as more soldiers return from combat in Iraq and Afghanistan, more is being learned about how the brain is damaged in both major and repetitive minor concussive events (minor brain injuries seem to have a cumulative effect).

I started as a roadie some 30 years ago (racing) and the norm was no helmet except for races where you had to wear a leather helmet (more like a hair net - not very helpful in a crash, but all that was available at the time). Times have changed with improvements to available safety gear; not only helmets, but things like Leatt Braces.

I actually had a friend that was a highly skilled rider, and just had had a typical crash at a bike park...but this time he landed awkwardly, and it broke his neck (he was fully decked out in quality body armor, including full face helmet - all the typical safety gear). He was very, very lucky to have top surgeons a few hours away...he's starting to walk again. His life will always be limited, but at least not in a wheelchair. Not trying to be dramatic, just pointing out a real story that hit close to home worth pondering. Needless to say, all of us that know him now ride with Leatt braces at the bike parks (i.e. Whistler, Silverstar, etc)

Kurt

189. ANOTHER Mountain Biker Breaks His Neck!

To: bbtcmembers@yahoogroups.com
From: Mark Hume <ma_hume@yahoo.com>
List-Subscribe: <mailto:bbtcmembers-subscribe@yahoogroups.com>
Date: Wed, 15 Jun 2011 10:19:49 -0700 (PDT)
Subject: Helmets, what do preachers have to do with them?

Hello all on the group here!

I have not read all the posts about wearing a helmet, but thought I'd share an experience.

My name is Mark, and I'm an active person. I work with kids in lots of forums, clubs, camps, etc. I do teach sports professionally as a snow board instructor, I also tech wake boarding and water skiing. Last summer @ a camp I have been teaching @ I developed an intro to mountain biking course, focus was on basic riding skills. The trails were well groomed horse trails @ a camp near Cle Elum, with flat trails, uphill climbs, and a variety of down hill trails as well. In one of the flat areas there were two mounds of dirt built up from some sort of project, both about 4+ feet high. Features were not part of the class or curriculum, but who doesn't mind riding over a "mound" of dirt, right? Fun for everyone right? Well, one of the mounds was missing a "bucket scoop" from one side, which I did not know about, nor could you see it from the direction we approached. My assistant instructor just happen to yell out there was a "drop"! I said ok, launched and
landed a 3 to 4
foot drop. How awesome & fun was that? As I looked back, my assistant almost crashed as he followed me, but fortunately he didn't! Yeay!

When I learned to snow board, my first time on a snow board I didn't have a helmet, but after 4 nice falls, I purchased a helmet for both myself & daughter, & always wear it. The foundation of learning in Snow Sports professionally speaking is;

SAFETY
FUN
LEARNING

In that order!

So needless to say, I adapted the same foundation for the Mt Biking course. Yes I had a brand new helmet I was confident wearing. I brought extras for kids (elementary age through high school) who might not have one. The class was popular, and a success. However, one day my assistant and I were scooping the trails for the class that day, & missing a turn we ended up riding back to meet the students where the mounds of dirt were. I rode over the mound with the drop. I launched, was positioned back behind the seat like I should be, but something unexpected happened. I found myself hurling through the air instead of riding out the landing. I landed on my head, fell over, got up, brushed my self off and replied: yes I am ok to my assistant who had watched and immediately asked " Are you OK"? So I got back on my bike, rode down the trail, around the corner, up the hill, and back around to the lodge where the class was meeting. The kids were so excited to
learn
more, and get out on the trails.

As it turns out, something had happened to my neck when I fell because my neck muscles got really tight & stiff riding back to the lodge from the fall (less than 5 minutes). What happened next was strange! When I looked down, there was a "ka-clunk" and my head did something weird. Something touched something you instantly knew, "that wasn't supposed to do that!" I did several things, took off some of my gear, took some IB profin, drank some water, got some ice on my neck, gave myself "traction", which felt great, but the "ka-clunk was still there. So I sat on a big sofa, taught the class the lesson of the day from the book, and decided to not ride, but wait for their return.

Eventually, we called the camp nurse who was going to drive me into the hospital to get some X-rays, that is until they found a crack in the lining of my new helmet!! I was like WHAT? I cracked my brand new helmet??? Geez! So they decided they needed to call the EMT squad. I ended up in the hospital in Ellensburg, waiting for the C-scan results. I got up used the bathroom (the EMT's put me in a hard collar) and walked back to my ER bay, as the doctors were bringing in the results. They said what are you doing??? Get back on the stretcher, you are headed for Harborview Medical Center in Seattle NOW!!

I fractured my C1 vertebra in 3 places! Yikes!! (I didn't mean to!! It was honestly just an "accident") They call it a Jefferson Burst Fracture, one of the most deadly breaks you can experience they told me, 80% or more die on impact!! Most of the survivors are paralized to many degrees. Yes I am a very fortunate person, after a major sugery installing two screws and a rod holding my C1 in place, I recovered! I started teaching snow boarding again the first weekend in December, 2010. My accident was Tuesday July 13, 2010!

Did my helment protect me? I would have to say YES! Did my helmet save my life? I would have to say YES! Would I be willing to go back and try this without a helmet? NO!

Just for what it is worth, don't know why anyone would ever ARGUE about wearing a helmet.....and what about preachers??? I have never seen one wear a helmet while preaching yet!

P.S. My dad happen's to be a Preacher (more correct, a Pastor)....Hahaha!

Mark ~ :) Oh, I also happen to be 51 years old.....

190. http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-13823814

18 June 2011 Last updated at 09:39 ET

RAF Helicopter called to rescue mountain biker

Paramedics called in an RAF helicopter to winch an injured mountain biker off the hills around Llyn Brianne, near Llandovery, in Powys.

Neither paramedics or a Welsh Air Ambulance crew could reach the scene where the 35-year-old man had been injured at 1226 BST on Saturday.

It is believed he suffered a spinal injury after colliding with a wall.

The man was flown to University Hospital of Wales in Cardiff. His condition is not known.

191. Toby Hill had to give up mountain biking after a serious hand injury

http://www.latimes.com/health/la-he-my-turn-biking-20110620,0,5547459.story

My Turn: Husband hangs up his mountain biking pedals

She finally came to appreciate the role mountain biking playing in his life. Now that he is giving it up because of injury, it's a sad time.

Toby Hill had to give up mountain biking after a serious hand injury. His wife, Lisa, can understand his sense of mourning. (Craig O'Neill / June 20, 2011)

By Lisa Hill, Special to the Los Angeles Times

June 20, 2011
In the last four years, my 42-year-old husband has had three mountain biking-related surgeries. He's had more busted fingers, dislocated shoulders and other injuries than I can recall.

For a long time, the sport and his habit of hurting himself were the biggest sources of stress in our marriage. I resented it when he took off for a six-hour ride instead of spending the day with me. I had little compassion when he returned bandaged up, because he had done it to himself.

When my husband decided at age 36 to revisit his teenage passion of skateboarding, I told him that if he hurt himself, he was on his own. When he called from the ER after breaking his femur, I stayed true to my word: His mother brought him home.

He gave his skateboard away after that, but none of the other injuries has prevented him from getting back on his bike.

After a surgery for a broken collarbone a few years ago, I was fed up and told him it was time to give it up. He refused. It was too important to him. He got back on, promising to be more careful.

It wasn't until I started working out at the gym with a trainer 31/2 years ago and learned firsthand what physical activity can do for stress relief and well-being that I really began to appreciate how vital this activity was for him. My attitude about the biking had already improved over time, but at this point I began to actively support it.

My husband feels exhilarated when he's out on his bike. He loves the adrenaline rush, the freedom, the challenge and the camaraderie. He's made so many friends through mountain biking, and they are good people; I know how important this community is to him.

Two months ago, he called from San Diego County and said he had gone over some loose rock and been thrown off his bike and that his brother was taking him to the ER. I wasn't angry; I'd been through this too many times. I worried about the severity of his injury and about the financial effect on our family, though.

It turns out he'd broken his left thumb and his ring finger in two places. Doctors wanted to operate, but his hand was too swollen. He'd have to wait for surgery.

When he finally got home after hours in the emergency room, he said, "I'm done." My heart broke for him.

"I'm not asking you to be," I replied. And I meant it.

That conversation is likely moot. Toby's surgery did not go as well as the doctor had hoped. The injury was too severe: The bones were shattered so badly that the doctor had to use pins to put the pieces together. It's going to be a long road to recovery, and he might require another operation to straighten his ring finger.

I don't know what is going to happen. My husband, whose resting heart rate hovers in the high 40s, has been biking for half his life. Biking is a big part of his identity.

The thought of giving it up feels like a death to him.

Earlier in our marriage, I would have been thrilled to know Toby would no longer be getting on his bike. But now I'm saddened. "I know I'm in mourning," he said recently in a moment of depression over a bikeless future.

And I'm mourning with him.

Lisa O'Neill Hill, a writer, lives in Fullerton with her husband and 7-year-old daughter. She can be reached at loneillhill@yahoo.com.

My Turn is a forum for readers to recount an experience related to health or fitness. Submissions should be 500 words or fewer, are subject to editing and condensation and become property of The Times. Email health@latimes.com. Read more at latimes.com/myturn.

192. http://www.bclocalnews.com/kootenay_rockies/nelsonstar/news/124156204.html

Injured mountain biker rescued

Above and below: A woman injured while mountain biking on Friday evening was taken to safety with the help of Nelson Search and Rescue.
Scott Spencer/Nelson Search and Rescue

By Staff Writer - Nelson Star
Published: June 19, 2011 9:00 AM
Updated: June 19, 2011 3:06 PM

Nelson Search and Rescue helped a woman who was hurt while mountain biking on a trail up Giveout Creek Road on Friday evening.

Search manager Scott Spencer says the incident happened 100 m along the Placenta Decenta trail, on steep and difficult terrain about nine kilometers up the road.

They received a call shortly after 7 p.m. to help paramedics bring the woman out, and reached her in less than an hour.

Paramedics had already secured the woman to a spine board, Spencer says. A relay was set up on a short section but otherwise it was a relatively straightforward stretcher carry, he says, describing it as a quick and efficient rescue.

The woman was in the ambulance by 8:30 p.m.

Further details werent immediately available. Its not clear how the incident occurred, what injuries the woman suffered, nor where she was taken.

193. Mountain Biker Injured Trying to Get Around a Locked Gate!

http://www.santamariatimes.com/news/local/article_5dfd8e1e-9b07-11e0-b2dd-001cc4c03286.html

Three rescued in Los Padres National Forest

Horseback riders, mountain biker injured

Santa Maria Times | Posted: Monday, June 20, 2011 12:00 am
A horseback rider is rescued late Saturday afternoon in the Paradise Canyon area in Los Padres National Forest.//Contributed

Emergency crews were kept busy over the weekend rescuing three people two horseback riders and a mountain biker who were injured in Los Padres National Forest.

Two of the people were hurt when their horses fell off a rugged trail on a ride from Rancho Oso to the 19 Oaks Campground in the Paradise Canyon area, according the Santa Barbara County sheriffs spokesman Drew Sugars.

The first call came in late Saturday afternoon, when a female U.S. Forest Service employee and her horse fell as the riders were returning to Rancho Oso.

Forest service firefighters and sheriffs Search and Rescue crews located the victim, who was carried to a county helicopter and airlifted to Cottage Hospital in Santa Barbara, where she was listed in stable condition. Her name was not released.

A short time later, search and rescue personnel responding to the first incident received a report from a hiker that a mountain biker had fallen off a bridge near the first road crossing of the Santa Ynez River.

They found a man in his late 30s lying in a creek bed, bleeding from cuts to a knee and his head. Apparently the rider was trying to negotiate his bike around the locked gate at one end of the bridge when he lost his balance and tumbled about 12 feet.

After he was provided initial first aid, he refused further treatment and was released. His name was not released.

About this time, a second horse and rider with the Upper Oso group fell down a sheer 30-foot cliff to the rocky creek bed below. The rider, in his late 50s, was flung off the horse and hit his head and back on large rocks.

Rescue personnel found the victim and carried him out on a stretcher to Upper Oso. He was taken by ambulance to Cottage Hospital, where he was reported in serious but stable condition. His name was not released.

Both horses suffered minor injuries in the mishaps, but were rescued and were expected to recover, Sugars said.

194. http://www.grough.co.uk/magazine/2011/06/23/forest-airlift-for-injured-mountain-biker

Forest airlift for injured mountain biker

John McHale, Reporter
Wednesday 22 June 2011 11:23 PM GMT
The injured Glentress mountain biker is winched into the helicopter. Photo: Tweed Valley MRT

A mountain biker was airlifted to hospital after suffering serious injuries on a forest black route.

The 40-year-old man fell from his machine on the Deliverance trail in the Glentress Forest near Peebles in the Scottish Borders.

Tweed Valley Mountain Rescue Team was alerted at 1.15pm today, Wednesday, after reports the biker had broken his elbow and dislocated his shoulder.

Seven team members went to the mans aid after two ambulance paramedics reported they were able to reach the injured cyclist on foot but could not get him back to their ambulance. The route is several hundred metres from the nearest road.

Rescue team members joined paramedics at the scene and he was treated before being winched aboard a Royal Navy Sea King from HMS Gannet in Ayrshire, and flown to Edinburgh Royal Infirmary. The aircraft was unable to land in the forest, but the crew was able to hover over the site and winch the man on to the helicopter.

Two police officers and three Forestry Commission rangers also helped in the rescue operation.

Dave Wright, TVMRT search manager, said: Mountain biking is proving increasingly popular in the Scottish Borders and as such Tweed Valley Mountain Rescue Team train regularly to respond to mountain biking incidents and the common injuries associated with the sport.

Although serious incidents are relatively rare, this incident shows that joint working between the police, ambulance service, Forestry Commission and Tweed Valley Mountain Rescue Team is invaluable.

The Glentress mountain biking trail is one of southern Scotlands 7stanes centres, which span the area from Dumfries and Galloway to the Scottish Borders. Each has a stane stone sculpture depicting a local myth or legend.

The mountain bike trails are graded from the easiest, green, suitable for beginners with basic skills, up to black rated severe aimed at expert riders with top fitness and good off-road bikes.

The Glentress black route is 29km (18 miles) long and, as well as Deliverance, has sections with imaginative names such as Soor Plums, Britney Spears and The Bitch.

195. http://www.canada.com/Community+rallies+around+injured+cyclist/5010195/story.html

Community rallies around injured cyclist

Fundraising event brings in more than $27,000 in support of Peter Isherwood, who was hurt in a crash

By Danielle Bell, The Daily NewsJune 27, 2011

Nanaimo and communities beyond have rallied around Peter Isherwood, who broke his neck in a mountain biking crash in Kamloops in April.

The 34-year-old longtime rider suffered spinal cord damage after he went over the handlebars of his bike when his steer-tubes broke.

Earlier this month, friends and family held a fundraiser at Simon Holt Restaurant, raising nearly $27,000 in support of Isherwood.

Donations for live and silent auctions came from many individuals and businesses throughout Nanaimo and beyond.

Organizers say the event would not have been possible without the help of Cody Dreger, Satwinder Hundal, Kory Nuttall, Chad Johnston and many other people.

Isherwood is now able to feed himself and is in a manual wheelchair, his partner TJ Bickerton said in a recent e-mail update.

She said Isherwood remains in good spirits and is looking forward to pool classes.

He has also spoken with the B.C. Paraplegic Association to help mentor other quadriplegics like himself.

Dreger, of Simon Holt and Remax Nanaimo, and his family visited Isherwood in Vancouver to present the money.

Bickerton said she and Isherwood are shocked and grateful and can't wait to give back to the community.

"We are still absolutely shocked. We have no idea how to thank everyone," said Bickerton. "We can't wait to get back."

Bickerton will stay by Isherwood's side as he continues to recover at the GF Strong Rehabiliation Centre in Vancouver, where he is expected to remain until Aug. 31. The pair then hope to be able to move into transitional housing temporarily before returning to Vancouver Island.

196. http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-shropshire-13938944

Shropshire mountain biker airlifted after fall

A mountain biker has been airlifted to hospital in Shropshire after suffering a serious chest injury.

The man, 43, was riding about half a mile east of Little Stretton shortly before 1900 BST on Monday when he went over his handlebars on a steep slope.

An ambulance crew got their vehicle as close as possible but had to walk for around 15 minutes carrying their equipment to get to the patient.

The man was airlifted to the Royal Shrewsbury Hospital for treatment.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokesman said: "Given the location of the incident, the crew requested a helicopter and the Midlands Air Ambulance from Cosford was dispatched to the scene.

"As it was on route, the crew assessed the condition of the patient, who was found to have a serious chest injury.

The man, from Church Stretton, was immobilised using a neck collar and spinal board before being airlifted to hospital.

197. http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-europe-isle-of-man-13959025

29 June 2011 Last updated at 07:58 ET

RAF helicopter rescues Isle of Man mountain biker

Brandywell, Isle of Man courtesy Manxscenes.com The Brandywell area is a popular training ground for mountain bikers

An RAF helicopter has been brought in to rescue a seriously injured mountain biker from the Manx countryside.

Fire crews were also deployed in the rescue near Brandywell at about 2000 BST on Tuesday.

The biker, who is thought to have head and spine injuries, was taken to hospital from the Sartfell area.

A spokesman from the Isle of Man fire service said the difficult terrain meant it was necessary to bring in a search and rescue helicopter

198. http://www.dailycamera.com/boulder-county-news/ci_18374797

Mountain biker rescued from trail near Eldorado Springs

Erica Meltzer Camera Staff Writer
Posted: 06/29/2011 07:03:08 AM MDT

An injured cyclist was rescued Tuesday evening from the Doudy Draw Trail near Eldorado Springs, the Boulder County Sheriff's Office said.

Rescuers responded to a report of an injured mountain biker around 6:15 p.m. Christopher Marth, 38, of Boulder, was found about 1 1/4 miles from the trailhead parking lot. He had what appeared to be a broken right arm, the sheriff's office said.

Marth was evacuated to a waiting ambulance and taken to an area hospital for treatment.

The Boulder County Sheriff's Office, Rocky Mountain Rescue Group, Rocky Mountain Fire Protection District and city of Boulder Open Space and Mountain Parks rangers responded to the call.

199. http://www.newstimes.com/news/article/Injured-mountain-biker-rescued-in-Bridgewater-1449127.php

Injured mountain biker rescued in Bridgewater

Dirk Perrefort, Staff Writer

Updated 03:12 p.m., Friday, July 1, 2011

BRIDGEWATER -- A mountain biker in the Sunny Valley Preserve who emergency officials say broke his leg was transported by ambulance late Thursday to Danbury Hospital.

Bridgewater Volunteer Fire Department Chief A.J. Murphy said it took crews more than an hour to reach the mountain biker -- a man in his mid-30s -- due to his location on the Silica Mine Trail.

The man's injuries were not life-threatening, Muprhy said, and emergency officials were in contact via cell phone with other members of the mountain bikers group.

The fire chief added that instead of bringing the man an hour back up the trail to a waiting ambulance, officials decided to carry him to Lake Lillinoah -- about a quarter-mile away -- and transport him by boat to the state launch off Route 133, where a Brookfield ambulance was waiting.

Murphy said the incident illustrates the need for mountain bikers, hikers and others using the woods to bring a cell phone or some other communication device with them in case of an emergency.

The fire chief also said it's important to tell someone where you are going and when you are expected to return.

While Murphy declined to comment on the mountain biker's medical condition for privacy reasons, an area dispatcher said the victim fell and broke his leg.

Contact Dirk Perrefort

at dperrefort@newstimes.com

or at 203-731-3358.

Read more: http://www.newstimes.com/news/article/Injured-mountain-biker-rescued-in-Bridgewater-1449127.php#ixzz1R51JMVN6

200. http://www.iomtoday.co.im/news/isle-of-man-news/top_mountain_biker_in_rescue_drama_1_3533040

Top mountain biker in rescue drama

Julian Corlett re End to End Event

Published on Saturday 2 July 2011 0-1:00

AN experienced mountain biker had to be airlifted to hospital after he was injured in a terrifying crash at a remote spot near Brandywell Cottage.

Former Island Games competitor Julian Corlett, 51, of Glen Vine, was with a group of 10 on the Cronk Breck trail at the back of Greeba Mountain when he came off his bike in a boggy area.

His brother Chris said: If he had been riding alone we might still be looking for him now.

The fire service had to use an all-terrain Pinzgauer vehicle to reach him as his location was so difficult to access.

An RAF search and rescue helicopter from RAF Valley in Anglesey was scrambled to airlift the injured cyclist to Nobles Hospital.

Mr Corlett, was initially thought to have a compression spine injury but his condition is now believed to be less serious.

Elder brother Chris said: It was a slow-speed incident but it again shows the benefits of riding in a group rather than individually.

Emergency services were called to the accident scene at about 8pm on Tuesday night.

Station officer Nigel Cain said: Following a request from the Isle of Man Ambulance service, the Fire and Rescue Service responded with one of it six-wheel drive vehicles to recover an injured mountain biker in the Brandywell Cottage/Colden area.

On arrival, after medical assessment and taking into account the terrain, it was agreed by the emergency services that while the six-wheeled vehicle had proven it could cope with the terrain, the potential seriousness and the type of the male casualtys injuries meant that the recovery would need to be made by RAF search and rescue helicopter to ensure the casualty was maintained in a stable position.

Mr Corlett is one of the most experienced mountain bikers in the island. He is a regular top-15 finisher in the End to End challenge and last month won the 24-hour endurance Longest Day, Longest Ride event for the second year in succession.

He had been invited by American manufacturer Trek to test ride their bikes in the Austrian Alps in 10 days time.

Only two months ago, Manx Independent sports editor John Watterson sustained serious facial and neck injuries after coming off his mountain bike in the Arrasey plantation near Glen Maye.

201. http://www.kpho.com/story/15022216/emergency-crews-rescue-downed-mountain-biker

Emergency crews rescue downed mountain biker

Posted: Jul 04, 2011 9:02 AM PDT

By Steve Stout

PHOENIX (KPHO) -

A 25-year-old mountain biker was taken to a Valley hospital after he was rescued from a mountainous area near 51^st Avenue and Happy Valley Road in Glendale.

A Glendale fire department spokesperson aid crews from Phoenix, Glendale and Surprise worked to bring the biker off the mountain via a Big Wheel.

The biker crashed near the top of Deem Hills Recreation Area and suffered non-life-threatening injuries, the spokesperson said.

202. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=

Firefighters Rescue Mountain Biker After Crash Near Boulder Beach

A mountain biker had to be rescued from a popular biking area in East Spokane Friday, when he crashed just north of Boulder Beach, resulting in a difficult and time-consuming rescue mission.

203. http://www.myfoxphoenix.com/dpp/news/local/flagstaff/man-dies-in-mountain-biking-accident-7-6-2011

Man Dies in Mountain Biking Accident

Published : Wednesday, 06 Jul 2011, 4:08 PM MST

FLAGSTAFF - Sheriff's deputies are investigating the death of a Flagstaff man who was apparently involved in a mountain biking accident.

64-year-old James Lounsberry apparently died from fatal injuries he suffered during a bicycle trip from Mtn. Elden to Shultz Pass Road.

The Coconino County Sheriff's Office received a 911 call on Tuesday afternoon from Lounsberry, who reported he was seriously injured while riding his bicycle along Shultz Creek Tail Head.

Medical personnel arrived and tried to treat the victim, who was soon transported to the Flagstaff Medical Center. He was eventually pronounced deceased.

Over the course of the investigation, detectives found Lounsberry was dropped off at the top of Mt. Elden and chose to ride his bicycle down while a family member drove.

The investigation is ongoing.

204. http://www.marinij.com/marinnews/ci_18447026?source=most_viewed

Bicyclist injured at China Camp helicoptered to hospital

By Paul Liberatore
Marin Independent Journal
Posted: 07/09/2011 12:07:02 PM PDT

A bicyclist who fell and suffered head and back injuries Friday evening while riding in China Camp State Park was rescued by San Rafael firefighters and flown by Sonoma County Sheriff's Department helicopter to Santa Rosa Memorial Hospital.

The cyclist was riding with a group of bikers in a remote area of the park when he fell shortly after 7 p.m., the San Rafael Fire Department reported. Fire officials said the injured cyclist was treated at the hospital, but they did not release his name or condition.

205. Those pesky trees get in the way...

http://www.therepublic.com/view/story/30a0f99d3479462694162328835ed013/VT--Injured-Bicyclist/

THE ASSOCIATED PRESS
First Posted: July 14, 2011

EAST BURKE, Vt. — A bicyclist from Canada was evacuated from a Vermont mountain biking trail after he crashed into a tree and was found by another rider.

The 47-year-old Quebec man, whose name wasn't immediately released, was biking at Kingdom Trails in East Burke when he apparently went over the handlebars and hit a tree. He was conscious afterward but had numbness and tingling in his extremities.

He was treated at the scene and later taken to Northeastern Regional Hospital in St. Johnsbury.

The Caledonian Record says members of the Sheffield-Wheelock Remote Rescue Unit, East Burke Fire Department, Lyndon Rescue and Kingdom Trails officials responded.

206. http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=/n/a/2011/07/16/state/n173600D54.DTL

Mountain biker dies in accident at Lake Tahoe

Associated PressJuly 16, 2011 05:36 PMCopyright Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

Saturday, July 16, 2011
(07-16) 17:36 PDT Carson City, Nev. (AP) --

A mountain biker from Las Vegas has been killed in an accident in the mountains above Lake Tahoe's northeast shore.

The Nevada Appeal of Carson City reports 50-year-old Daniel Otter was descending a trail from Marlette Lake with a group of friends Friday when he lost control and cartwheeled over the bicycle.

Sheriff's deputies say Otter was traveling at about 20 mph at the time, and hit the ground with "severe force."

He died instantly in the 3:30 p.m. accident.

Trails in the mountains around Marlette Lake are popular with mountain bikers.

Read more: http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=/n/a/2011/07/16/state/n173600D54.DTL#ixzz1SPVBUUob

207. http://www.wyff4.com/news/28727766/detail.html

Mountain Biker Killed; Fellow Biker Stung 100 Times

Jeff Papenfus Killed In Fall On Trail

POSTED: 11:11 am EDT August 1, 2011
UPDATED: 10:16 pm EDT August 1, 2011

MCDOWELL COUNTY, N.C. -- A man well-known and beloved in the Upstate mountain biking community was killed while riding over the weekend, according to McDowell County EMS.

Jeff Papenfus, 44,Greenville entrepreneur, adventure racer and member of the Southern Off-Road Bicycle Association, was riding near Old Fort, N.C., in McDowell County when he fell into an embankment, according to postings on adventure racing forums.

According to friends' postings, Papenfus had just finished a training ride on Curtis Creek Road with two other riders just after noon on Saturday. The bikers were descending through Star Gap back to their vehicle. Derek Zimmerman had ridden ahead of Papenfus and Elizabeth Morse, when Papenfus fell.

Zimmerman said he waited about 20 minutes for Papenfus and Morse to get to the car.

"I was about ready to ride back up the hill and see where they were, see if something happened, but that's when the sirens came and that's when everyone showed up," he said.

While performing CPR and calling 911, Morse was stung by yellow jackets dozens of times.

"They brought her out and she had been stung, like, 100 times," Zimmerman said.

EMS Director William Kehler said the EMS crew were called to Jarretts Creek Access off of Curtis Creek Road.

McDowell County Search and Rescue, EMS and the McDowell County Sheriff's Department all responded to the call for help.

"He had run into a hive and that he had been stung," Zimmerman said. "They said it was, like, hundreds of times."

Papenfus died at the scene. Zimmerman said in an online posting that Papenfus likely died of a neck injury, not from being stung, according to EMS crew members he spoke to.

"He had run into a hive and he had been stung, and I guess they found out later that he had actually slid off into the bushes," Zimmerman said.

As of Monday afternoon, there was no official word on the cause of Papenfus' death. The Department of Natural Resources is continuing to investigate.

Morse was treated at the scene and was transported to a hospital. Several postings said that her actions attempting to revive Papenfus while being stung dozens of times were "heroic."

Papenfus described himself online as an "entrepreneur and adventurer." He was a member of Team GLR Adventure Racing ( Go Long Racing). Papenfus was co-founder of go-greenevents.com an online company providing web infrastructure and maintenance to small businesses.

Papenfus leaves behind his wife, Lisa. Many online forum postings encouraged support and prayers for his widow.

Read more: http://www.wyff4.com/news/28727766/detail.html#ixzz1TqAPuShu

208. http://www.thisisplymouth.co.uk/Injury-ruins-Horton-s-Olympic-test-chance/story-13053904-detail/story.html

Injury ruins Horton's Olympic test chance

Tuesday, August 02, 2011

Plymouth Herald

CITY cycling queen Maddie Horton pulled out of an Olympic test run after injuring her back.

Horton, one of a band of select riders invited to compete at Hadleigh Farm, Essex, hurt her back while putting on her cycling shoes.

Instead of putting the Olympic track through its paces, Horton was forced to join 4,000 spectators who watched Canada's Catherine Pendrel win the women's race.

The injury could put her chances of winning the elite women's category in the national series at risk.

Horton, and Torpoint's Carla Haines, were asked to take part in the race, set up to test the track in advance of next year's London Olympics.

Haines, up against some of the best women riders in the world, did well to last for three laps before dropping out.

Horton said: "At least I managed to try out the track the day before injuring myself.

"I went to the track physio for treatment, who told me it was up to me if I wanted to ride, but that I could injure myself further.

"I really couldn't take that risk, because I could have been too injured to work."

Horton, who runs Fully Sussed, a professional mountain-biking business with her husband Jay, believe an accident at work several weeks ago sparked her injury.

She was taking an army group on a fitness programme when she crashed her bike.

Horton said: "It's going to affect my training for the last in the National Series at Newnham Park.

"It's on September 24, so I've got eight weeks to get fit, but it all depends what happens with the injury.

"Before I had the accident, I was in with a chance of winning it, or at least being in the top three, but now I don't know.

"I've waddled around the last couple of races, but I want to be completely fit at Newnham so I can do it properly I don't want to just be able to turn up.

"I've got a chance of making it, but it all depends on what treatment I've got to get."

Horton said Haines had done well at Hadleigh.

The teenager was pulled out of the race after failing to maintain her race-pace.

But Horton said: "I think she will be really pleased to have taken part.

"To do three laps of the race is a good effort."

209. http://www.signonsandiego.com/news/2011/aug/07/copter-airlifts-bike-crash-victim/

Copter airlifts bike crash victim

RANCHO SAN DIEGO A 54-year-old woman was airlifted off a trail in Rancho San Diego after taking a spill over the handlebars of her mountain bike Sunday night, authorities said.

A Heartland Fire spokesman said the woman was riding with two friends when she crashed about 8:20 p.m. at a trail near Campo Road and Highway 94.

The woman lost consciousness for about four minutes before rescue teams were called in to help, San Diego Fire Department Capt. Tom Stephenson said. The San Diego Fire-Rescue helicopter was sent in to find the woman because of the rough terrain and darkness.

The woman had suffered a dislocated shoulder and was disoriented when rescue crews found her, Stephenson said. Because of her head injury, authorities determined she needed to be airlifted to Sharp Memorial Hospital. She is in stable condition, Stephenson said.

San Diegos firefighting helicopters have been the subject of cost-cutting efforts for the city in recent weeks.

The city decided to stop sending the only two helicopters that can fight fires at night unless a requesting agency is willing to pay the $3,250 an hour it costs to operate one.

San Diego has a pending $40 million budget deficit for the fiscal year beginning in July 2012.

Written by

Jen Lebron Kuhney

210. Imagine that: there was a ROCK in the trail! :)

Mike

http ://www.military.com/news/article/air-force-news/fairchild-airmen-rescue-idaho-biker.html

Fairchild Airmen Rescue Idaho Biker

August 22, 2011
Air Force News|by Scott King

FAIRCHILD AIR FORCE BASE, Wash. -- Airmen from Fairchild Air Force Base, Wash., rescued a 52-year-old female mountain biker Aug. 17 near Thompson Pass, Idaho, after she flipped over her handlebars and injured her ribs and back.

The victim, Paulette Kirby, was on a single-track mountain bike trail participating in the six-day Idaho Expedition Race when she hit a rock and lost control. She was on the side of a mountain with high terrain on all sides, unreachable by car or all-terrain vehicle.

Four Airmen from the 36th Rescue Flight responded to the call from the Shoshone County, Idaho, sheriff's office in a UH-1N Iroquois helicopter.

Once they arrived in the area, the sheriff's department staff had to use signal mirrors to maneuver the crew to the exact location of the scene due to the dense tree growth. During their approach, winds became an issue, so it wasn't until their third approach that they were successfully hovering over the victim.

Tech. Sgt. Steven Perez, the flight engineer, then lowered independent duty medical technician Tech. Sgt. Joseph Brownell 240 feet down to the victim.

"Because of the extent of her injuries, she was unable to lie flat in the Stokes litter, so I had the crew lower a Kendrick Extrication Device," Brownell said. "A KED is a semi-rigid brace that secures the head, neck and torso in an anatomically neutral position. It helped to reduce the possibility of additional injuries to her during extrication. I then put a C-collar and the KED on her and loaded her onto the Stokes. "

Brownell then called "ready for pickup" and notified the rest of the crew that they moved the survivor 20 meters away to a spot that was slightly more open for safer and easier extrication.

Capt. Jennifer Golembiewski, the aircraft commander, then flew an approach to the top of the mountain and back down searching for the new spot. She had no references at the new spot, so she passed the controls to her co-pilot, Capt. John Alsbrooks, who guided the helicopter to the new spot.

Once again overhead, Perez lowered the hook down to Brownell, who in turn hooked up Kirby. She was hoisted to the aircraft where several variables forced Perez, who is afraid of heights, to climb out onto the skids to retrieve her and secure her in the aircraft. Brownell was then hoisted and they flew Kirby to Sacred Heart Medical Center in Spokane, Wash., for treatment.

On his "20th or so rescue," Perez said he feels good about their efforts.

"This was the first time I have had to go out onto the skids of the aircraft -- and hopefully the last," Perez said. "Although challenging, this rescue, like the others, always brings me a good feeling. I'm glad we were able to help her get out of there and to the hospital where she could be treated for her injuries."

On her second rescue mission, Golembiewski said she's proud of her crew and more than happy to help out those in need.

"It's very rewarding to know that I had a small part in saving her life," Golembiewski said. "We hope that we're never needed, but are always ready to help when asked. I feel a tremendous amount of responsibility toward guarding and saving the lives of the people of our community."

Now recovering at the hospital with her injuries (two fractured ribs, two spinal fractures and a fractured sternum), Kirby is thankful to the Fairchild Airmen.

"I'm so glad they were there to help me through this experience," she said. "They are very good at what they do. It was amazing they were able to get me through that small opening at the top of the trees and up into the helicopter. It's the simple things in life that touch me; the medic who was helping me blocked the sun from my eyes with his hand the whole way to the hospital. That meant a lot to me -- this I will never forget."

On Aug. 9, the 36th Rescue Flight was involved in another rescue of an Airman who was in training at Colville National Forest, Wash. This most recent rescue was their 663rd.

211. http://www.nwaonline.com/news/2011/aug/27/owens-bounces-back-bad-breaks/?sports

Owens bounces back from bad breaks

By Chip Souza

Posted: August 27, 2011 at 2:44 p.m.

DECATUR Evan Owens knew it was bad as soon as he hit the ground.

Mountain biking with his younger brother last spring, Owens came over a jump and parted ways with his bike. He landed sharply on his left shoulder and felt the familiar stabbing pain.

Just a few months earlier, Owens broke his collarbone in a football scrimmage against Gentry. The first break sidelined the Bulldogs quarterback for the entire season.

Owens said he knew immediately when he hit the ground that it was broken again.

I just did a bad jump, I guess, Owens said.

With two broken collarbones in the span of a few months, Owens said he was a lot more careful after the second break to allow the bone to heal. He said he has no fear of another injury as the Bulldogs head into the opening game of the season.

First-year coach Shane Holland said Owens is a quiet leader. But the soft-spoken, 5-foot-7, 140-pound junior has a competitive spirit that comes out daily in practice, Holland said.

Hes sure not a rah-rah guy, Holland said. You have to get him to speak up at times, but when we run and do things, hes going to be first.

Holland said Owens teammates have faith in their quarterback and can count on him to get the job done. Owens never missed a summer workout.

Last season was a disappointment, Owens said. Watching his teammates compete on Friday nights was especially tough. That Decatur was playing its first varsity games in two years after the school failed to field a team in 2009 due to low numbers only compounded the issue.

I didnt like standing on the sideline, Owens said. I hated missing the games.

With five starters returning each way, the Bulldogs are hopeful of improving on last seasons 1-8 record. Holland, a veteran coach from just across the border in Eastern Oklahoma, said the team is slowly buying into the new program. Holland is Decaturs second coach in as many years.

Having a healthy Owens would be a huge plus for the Bulldogs. By changing to the Spread offense, Holland is confident the new scheme will play to Owens strengths as a runner.

The Spread opens up seams for guys to run, Holland said. Its not just about throwing the ball all over the place. Evan is a good runner and he has good quickness.

Owens said he hopes to someday race mountain bikes, although he has never competed in a bike race. Holland is hoping the bike stays in the garage at least until football season is over.

212. http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/ottawa/story/2011/09/16/ottawa-mountain-biker-good-samaritan.html

Paramedics thank Ottawa man for rescue help

CBC News

Posted: Sep 16, 2011 8:41 AM ET

Last Updated: Sep 16, 2011 8:34 AM ET

A Kanata resident helped emergency crews rescue an injured mountain biker stranded on a trail deep in the woods Thursday. (Ottawa Mountain Bike Association Map)

Paramedics say a west Ottawa man will be nominated for an award after he relinquished his front yard to a rescue helicopter and offered his all-terrain vehicle to help paramedics treat a stranded and injured mountain biker.

Just before 4 p.m. Thursday, Ottawa paramedics responded with police to an area near the Kanata Lakes mountain bike trails.

A 21-year-old man had suffered a severe injury to his leg and did not know where he was. He was unable to make it out of the woods, so other mountain bikers in the area started first aid treatment.

Emergency crews blasted sirens from Huntmar Road and other streets in the area until the bikers could hear them. A rescue helicopter also responded, but could not spot the bikers in the woods from above.

Kanata resident Brian Clark, who lives on Huntmar Road, heard the sirens and helicopter circling. He then offered his lawn as a helicopter-landing pad.

Clark, who was familiar with the area and terrain according to paramedics, also used his ATV to bring paramedics into the dense bush and rocky terrain.

Then around 5:30 p.m., police came upon the patient located on the area's New Outback trail. Paramedics arrived 15 minutes later and began treatment on the mountain biker's leg.

The mountain biker received more treatment once paramedics reached an ambulance, but refused transportation to hospital.

Huntmar Road. was closed during Thursday's afternoon rush hour but reopened in the early evening.

213. "Jumps" obviously don't belong on trails....

Mike

http://www.bendbulletin.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20110924/NEWS0107/109240345/1006/NEWS01&nav_category=NEWS01

Injured mountain biker rescued

Published: September 24. 2011 4:00AM PST

A mountain biker who injured himself while riding near the Wanoga Sno Park was rescued Thursday evening, the Deschutes County Sheriffs Office said.

Perry Hertler, 40, of Milwaukee, was riding down the Tiddlywinks Trail when he failed to negotiate a jump, seriously injuring himself. A friend who had been riding with him called 911 and directed rescuers to their location.

Hertler was treated at the scene and flown to St. Charles-Bend for serious, but non-life-threatening injuries.

http://www.ktvz.com/news/29279571/detail.html

Injured Mtn. Biker Rescued West of Bend

From KTVZ.COM News Sources
POSTED: 9:15 am PDT September 23, 2011

BEND, Ore. -- A mountain biker from Wisconsin who was injured trying to make a jump on a trail west of Bend Thursday evening was rescued by officers and volunteers, authorities said.

Deschutes County sheriffs deputies and Search and Rescue, as well as Oregon State Police, were dispatched around 6:15 p.m. to the report of an injured mountain biker on the Tiddlywinks trail, out of Wanoga Sno-Park, said sheriffs Deputy Rhett Hemphill.

They learned Perry Hertler, 40, of Milwaukie, had been riding his mountain bike down the trail when he failed to negotiate a jump hed gone over and fell, causing serious injury, Hemphill said. A friend riding with him was able to call 911 and give their location.

Two sheriffs deputies, an OSP trooper and seven SAR members responded by mountain bike, ATV and on foot, he said.

Hertler was located and treated on scene by SAR medics, then placed in a wheeled ambu-sled and taken by ATV to the Wanoga Sno-Park, where he was moved to a waiting AirLink helicopter.

214. "In ironic twist, while her husband lay in his hospital bed yesterday, Cr Blumel was launching a major council project to promote mountain biking in the region."

http://www.sunshinecoastdaily.com.au/story/2011/09/26/cycle-crash-breaks-pelvis/

Cycle crash breaks pelvis

Kieran Campbell | 26th September 2011

Cr Debbie Blumel visits husband Ross with their daughters Bonnie, Ellie and Theresa after he crashed his bike and brike his pelvis.
John Mccutcheon

CAREERING through rocky terrain in the Coast hinterland, Ross Blumel suddenly found himself in real trouble.

Tossed over the handlebars of his mountain bike, he landed heavily, breaking his pelvis in three places.

Several kilometres away, his politician wife, Coast councillor Debbie Blumel, knew something was amiss.

Yesterday, by her husband's bedside in Nambour General Hospital, Cr Blumel said she sensed her husband of 30 years would run into trouble before he went riding on Saturday morning.

Mr Blumel said he considered himself lucky to have only broken his pelvis and not have a vertebrae injury that could have put him in a wheelchair for life.

The 53-year-old "over-ambitious" mountain biker said he would be back on two wheels after many weeks recovering at home.

"I've crashed before ... but this is the most debilitating, I think," he said.

"I just can't get up."

Medics rushed Mr Blumel from a mountain biking track at Pomona to the hospital, where a CT scan revealed the three breaks.

There is no brace holding him still but he is being medicated to ease the pain.

The best medical predictions are that he will be unable to move around for at least six weeks - a speedy recovery helped by his good health and fitness.

In ironic twist, while her husband lay in his hospital bed yesterday, Cr Blumel was launching a major council project to promote mountain biking in the region.

Despite seeing the sport's huge potential, she admitted she had been forced to give the sport away after a series of crashes, the most serious last Christmas when she broke a rib.

The avid road cyclist and campaigner for improvement of the Coast's bike riding facilities, said conquering mountain trails on two wheels was not the sport for her.

"I don't intend to do it again," Cr Blumel said.

"I'm just going to stick to road cycling now.

"I think (mountain bike riding) is very technical ... I don't really have the opportunities to master the skills so I think personally I will steer clear of it."

Cr Blumel was on a morning bike ride to Twin Waters when her husband was rushed to hospital.

"I had a sense it was going to happen and when it happened I was calm," Cr Blumel said.

"I've been married to this man for 30 years now. I knew when he left yesterday morning that something was going to happen."

The fall has not shaken Mr Blumel's confidence.

As soon as he recovers he will be back to Pomona to conquer the track that brought about his downfall.

And Cr Blumel said she had no plans to discourage him.

"I would never try to put the brakes on him," she said.

"It's in his nature and his character to do these things."

"It was an accident from him pushing the limits, which is what he went out to do.

"It was a risk he was prepared to take."

The councillor, who has ambitions to run as a mayoral candidate in next year's local government election, said she would reshuffle her diary in an attempt to have time to care for her husband.

"I've got some pretty big things coming up - I'm certainly going to have a look at my diary this week and review it.

"I'll be looking to see what his level of care is going to be.

"We've got three daughters as well and they're already fussing over him."

215. So much for the alleged "healthfulness" of mountain biking....

Mike

http://www.thebarrieexaminer.com/ArticleDisplay.aspx?e=3312292

Bike racer died of natural causes

ORO-MEDONTE TWP. - A 57-year-old Oshawa man who collapsed during a mountain bike event at Hardwood Ski and Bike over the weekend died of natural causes, an autopsy has concluded.

Henry Puchala of Oshawa was riding in the Epic 8 mountain bike race as part of a relay at Hardwood Hills Saturday afternoon. He was part of a four-person team in the event where participants were required to complete a 10- kilometre mountain bike loop.

He collapsed and race personnel used an on-site defibrillator while waiting for paramedics to arrive. He was rushed to Soldiers' Memorial Hospital in Orillia where he was pronounced dead.

216. http://santacruz.patch.com/articles/mountain-biker-airlifted-to-hospital

Mountain Biker Flown to Hospital

Rider crashed while riding trail off UC Santa Cruz's upper campus.

ByAaron Jacobsen
October 2, 2011

The helicopter took landed and took off from the field just off Empire Grade and Twin Gates.CreditAaron Jacobsen

A mountain biker crash on a trail just off on Chinquapin Rode Sunday afternoon, suffering severe enough injuries to receive helicopter transport to an out of county trauma center.

The unidentified male rider crashed while landing a jump on Zs trail, approximately a quarter mile from where the trail meets Chinquapin Rode, a dirt fire road through UC Santa Cruz's upper campus area, said a mountain biker on the trail that heard the crash and called emergency services.

According to Cal Fire Cpt. Josh Agustin, the rider suffered a head injury but was conscious when units arrived on the scene and his injuries did not appear life threatening. The victim may also have suffered a broken clavicle, according to Agustin.

217. http://www.lcsun-news.com/las_cruces-news/ci_19076944

Injured bike rider rescued from Franklin Mountains State Park (4:14 a.m.)

by Aileen B. Flores \ El Paso Times
Posted: 10/10/2011 04:14:52 AM MDT

An injured bike rider was rescued Sunday from the Franklin Mountains State Park.

A man in his late 50s who was mountain biking accidentally fell and injured his hip, said Battalion Chief Sam Pena, a spokesman for the El Paso Fire Department.

Pena said the man had a GPS on his phone and he was able to give rescuers his exact location. Rescue efforts initiated at about 5 p.m., Pena said.

"He did the right thing," Pena said. "One, he told people where he was going to go and when to expect him back. Two, he had a cell phone and luckily he was able to get a signal."

He was brought down the mountain by a group of 10 members of the combined Search and Rescue Team. Fire, police and park rangers assisted in the rescue.

The man was taken to Providence Memorial Hospital, according to fire dispatchers. The extent of his injuries was unknown as of Sunday night, Pena said.

Aileen B. Flores may be reached at aflores@elpasotimes.com; 546-6362.

218. http://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/news/editors-choice/2011/10/11/i-crashed-my-bike-so-hard-my-eye-turned-the-wrong-way-round-86908-23481104/

I crashed my bike so hard my eye turned the wrong way round

Oct 11 2011Brian Mciver

gordon dickson Image 1

ITS probably just as well Gordon Dickson cant remember what happened when he smashed into a rock so hard that his left eye was turned the wrong way round.

He also has no recollection of air ambulance paramedics battling to bring him back to life twice in the skies over the Lothians.

Gordon, 43, has been a cycle adventurer most of his life and has competed in mountain bike competitions all over Europe.

A self-employed joiner, married to Hazel, he often disappeared up mountains with the sole intention of hurtling down them at dangerous speeds.

In his many years of taking part in the sport, however, he had never sustained any serious injuries until he smashed his head on a rock in Glentress four years ago.

He broke bones all over his face and flat-lined twice.

All I know is I was out to do some racing that day and warming up, so did a practice run down the course with my mates, said Gordon, from Carluke, Lanarkshire.

To this day I have no memory of what happened next.

Its all come from friends who were there, doctors and my wife.

I just remember setting off and then its two weeks later and Im wondering what Im doing and where I am.

The first I realised how bad the accident had been was when I looked in the mirror and saw my bruising and scarring. It was a scary reflection.

Doctors believe Gordon must have taken a firm impact to the side of his head, with only his helmet saving his life.

He said: Around the eye socket was all smashed. They were worried I was going to lose it because it was so out of position.

The eye was reversed when I got to hospital it wasnt looking out, it was looking in and I had bit of a scare with it. But it came back around and its fine.

I also broke a few ribs and had other wounds but I managed to heal pretty quickly.

The doctors said there was technically brain damage, but nothing lasting or anything to worry about long term.

Within six months, Gordon was back on a bike.

And he was so grateful to the air ambulance paramedics who saved him, he decided to go to extreme lengths to say thank you competing in the toughest mountain bike race on earth to raise money.

In March, Gordon won a competition in What Mountain Bike magazine to race in Canadian wilderness challenge the TransRockies, which stretches across the mountains of Alberta.

And despite his own terrible injuries on the Glentress track, near Peebles, he decided to compete to raise funds for the Scottish Air Ambulance Service and UK biking charity the Stephen Murray Stay Strong Foundation.

Gordons brave return to the saddle saw him sail through the 600km ride, teaming up with English rider Mark Almond (above, left) for Team What Mountain Bike.

And every stretch of the way he was thinking about the air paramedics who had saved his life.

I know that without the Scottish Air Ambulance Service I wouldnt have survived my crash, said Gordon, who has so far raised almost 1000 for the
life-saving organisation.

I have always wanted to thank them and this seemed like the best way to do that making my own wee gesture really.

The sense of achievement when we crossed the finish line was immense.

Near the end, I saw a guy who had come off the bike and got a bad injury.

He was being airlifted away by the air ambulance and it made me realise what I was doing it for and made me even more grateful to the Scottish Air Ambulance guys who had saved my life.

For more information on the TransRockies race, visit www.transrockies.com

219. http://menmedia.co.uk/manchestereveningnews/news/s/1461556_dukinfield-teen-died-in-bmx-horror-day-after-final-a-level-exams

Dukinfield teen died in BMX horror day after final A-level exams

Lisa Gray

October 12, 2011
INSPIRATIONAL ... Jamie Helme-Sagar at his school prom (photo caption)

A teenager died after falling from his bike on a BMX track, the day after his final A level exam.

James Ryan Helme-Sagar, 17, visited the track from his Dukinfield home in June 2010.

He lost control on a jump and fell over his mountain bikeâ€™s handlebars, suffering head injuries.

220. http://www.insidehalton.com/news/article/1229122--his-accident-was-front-page-news

Inger MacKenzie, SPECIAL TO THE BEAVER
Oct 20, 2011 - 11:40 AM
His accident was front-page news

INGER MACKENZIE / SPECIAL...
He;s got the right...
Oakville resident Rob Buren with his daughter Zara. Buren is paralyzed as a result of a cycling accident in the trails of north Oakville three years ago. It has forever changed his life his direction and his view every day. He has turned the accident into inspiration with a positive attitude.

Attitude is everything for Oakvilles Rob Buren.

On a Sunday morning in October three years ago, an injured mountain biker was carried on a stretcher through the overgrown north Oakville trails to a waiting ambulance.

It was Buren.

Someone had built a jump on a hill in the forest. I thought I would give it a try and landed in an awkward way, Buren recalls today.

It forever changed his life.

We did not have a cell phone, so my friend raced to Dundas Street to seek help. Lying on the ground, looking up at the trees and the sky, I was unable to move my legs and feet.

The first thoughts that came to his mind, he said, were, I wont be able to dance with my girls at their wedding, or accomplish all I had planned for my life. What about me and my wife Sabrina?

His daughters Chloe and Zara were three and five years old at the time of the accident. More than once, their only birthday wish has been for their dad to walk again, and for his back to be healed.

An article and a photo from the day of the tragic accident was featured in the Oakville Beaver.

This is the story about what happened to the man on the stretcher on the front page of this paper. Its also about family, friends and community spirit, but most importantly about attitude.

Buren is a thoroughly charismatic, charming, athletic and a well spoken 40 year old.

It was not until he asked us to lift his lifeless legs out of his hand bike, so that he then effortlessly could lift himself up into the wheelchair, that we were reminded he is paralyzed from the waist down.

Of his wife Sabrina Haque, Buren said, She is my champion and advocate. She is the one who carries all the weight.

They met while they were both singing in a school musical at the University of Western Ontario, where Buren was studying sociology.

For his Masters Degree thesis in 1998, he built a website looking at the social impact of the Internet.

With a business spin on his sociology degree, he was hired by Microsoft as a senior marketing manager.

Buren spent the first months after the accident at Lyndhurst Rehabilitation Centre in Toronto. When he arrived back to his Oakville home in January 2009, he found the entire house renovated to fit his new life in a wheelchair. Some 50 friends, family members and neighbours had worked on the house.

They took all the carpets out, enlarged the door openings and made the bathrooms wheelchair accessible.

One neighbour, architect John Christie, spent his free time designing and getting an approval from the Town of Oakville to build an elevator in the garage. The elevator provides access to both the basement and the hallway.

The overwhelming support I received at my homecoming has continued ever since. This has touched both Sabrina and me and it keeps us going, said Buren.

After the accident, Buren never asked Why? Instead he said, I soon realized that to make the best out of the situation, I had to adapt.

In December 2008, Buren felt a numbing physical pain, a phantom pain that over time has only become worse.

I decided that to be able to deal with the pain, I had to build up endurance and resistance. By being distracted, I might be able to ignore the pain.

Buren had always had a passion for speed and anything on wheels, whether it was a motorcycle, a dirt bike, a snowmobile, a mountain bike or a speed bike. The freedom of moving on two wheels and the feeling of speed has become his best tool on his road to recovery.

His first priority was to get his drivers licence back. Only four months after he was paralyzed, Buren learned how to drive a car with hand pedals to operate the gas and brake.

In February 2009, he got a hand-bike, and began training. That month he also enjoyed skiing on a sit-ski in the Canadian Paraplegic Association of Ontario Ski Day in Collingwood. In June 2009, Buren was the very first person to take part in the Toronto-to-Niagara 200 km Ride to Conquer Cancer, on a hand-bike. He thanks his friend Brian Bourne for pushing him to get out and complete this race.

The following year a team of 70, including Sabrina, joined Buren and Bourne in completing this event and raising $280,000 for cancer.

In the Ottawa Fall Colours Half Marathon, he was again feeling the joy of speed, but this time in a wheelchair. His friend, Rick Vander Wal, who himself has been a paraplegic for 20 years, talked him into signing up for the Bermuda Full Marathon. They were the first wheelchair athletes to race in this marathon. Buren recounts how his hand was bloody as the skin wore off while pushing the wheelchair through the heat.

Buren knew he had to stay active, and said, Exercising gives me a shot of adrenalin.

Over the next year, he completed the Wasaga Beach Olympic Triathlon, the Oakville 10 km, the Los Angeles Marathon, an open water swim race north of Peterborough and the 24 Hours at Albion. In the latter race, he and Vander Wal took turns on an off-road dirt bike.

Last week, he raced on a GSXR1000 motorbike that was adapted for him.

Through being a motivational speaker, Buren shares his stories and wisdom. He is educating younger students through the SMART program; on how to decrease their chances of getting hurt.

He speaks to university students about how to cope and not to give up. He has also addressed the local chapter of The Rotary Club.

After pausing, and adjusting himself in his chair, Buren said, The biggest problem is not about not being able to walk. The biggest challenge is the neuropathic pain."

The pain, often referred to as phantom pain, lies below the injury and feels like everything is on fire. There is no means for how to eliminate this pain.

I have tried it all, medication, massage, chiropractor, physiotherapy, even meditation. Nothing helps to control that excruciating pain.

Burens wheelchair bike boasts the motto, Attitude is everything.

In the background, we hear the music and laughter of his two girls.

I cannot complain. I can be independent in my own home. I am not brain injured. I can think, I can get outdoors and be active.

From the moment I broke my back, I decided to focus on the things I can still do, rather than to focus on the things Ive lost. And Ive learned that the more ambitious my goals are in life, the more family, friends and strangers rally to achieve them.

In the big picture I do consider myself lucky. I can still hug my kids, said Buren.

221. http://www.gjsentinel.com/breaking/articles/man-62-killed-in-mountain-biking-accident/

Man, 62, killed in mountain biking accident
By Paul Shockley
Saturday, October 22, 2011

A man who was riding a mountain bike with a friend near De Beque died
Friday night from injuries suffered in a fall.

Steven D. Chesley, 62, of Rifle, was pronounced dead at the scene
after suffering a blunt-force neck injury during a fall, which
happened in mountains southwest of De Beque, according to the Mesa
County Coroners office. Chesley, described by the coroners office as
an accomplished mountain bike rider, hit the top of his head with
significant force, a news release said. He was wearing a helmet.

The death was ruled accidental.

Mesa County Sheriffs Department spokeswoman Lisa McCammon said
deputies were notified of the accident around 5:30 p.m.

222. http://www.whitbygazette.co.uk/news/local/helicopter_needed_for_dalby_bike_accident_1_3901227

Helicopter needed for Dalby bike accident

Published on Monday 24 October 2011 03:48

A MOUNTAIN biker with a badly broken leg was airlifted from Dalby Forest on Sunday.

Yorkshire Ambulance Service had requested help from the Great North Air Ambulance who took the man in his 50s to James Cook Hospital.

A spokesperson said: The helicopter crew had to administer powerful painkilling drugs before stabilising the leg.

They airlifted the patient to James Cook hospital in a stable condition. Again the service was able to be of vital assistance in the North Yorkshire area.

223. Mcleans Island cyclist dies

JO MCKENZIE-MCLEAN
Last updated 15:11 29/10/2011

A man is dead and another is in critical condition after they both suffered heart attacks within minutes of each other at a mountain bike event in Christchurch today.

St John Ambulance spokesman Ian Henderson said a 60-year-old man was riding in the middle of forest in McLeans Island when he had a heart attack and died at the scene about 11am.

A man in his 40s was found a short time later in a carpark after he had also suffered a heart attack.

"He was in a serious condition and was taken to hospital in a helicopter."

A Police Southern Communications spokesman said police were also at the scene.

The men were taking part in the popular "Giant 12 Hour Day/Nighter & 6 Hour Blast Mountain Bike Race" at McLeans Forest Park.
http://www.stuff.co.nz/the-press/news/5875809/Mcleans-Island-cyclist-dies

http://www.nzherald.co.nz/health/news/article.cfm?c_id=204&objectid=10762956

Two men suffer heart attacks during endurance bike race

By Kurt Bayer

5:31 PM Monday Oct 31, 2011

Two cyclists suffered heart attacks within minutes of each other, and one of the men died, during an endurance mountain bike race in Christchurch on Saturday.

Fitness fanatic Bob 'Hoppy' Hopkins, 61, was racing through McLeans Forest Park in the Giant 12 Hour Day/Nighter and 6 Hour Blast Mountain Bike Race when he suffered a fatal heart attack.

Fellow racers tried to resuscitate him on the track before emergency services arrived.

And minutes later, Nicholas Carter, 52, was also struck down with a heart attack and today is still in hospital in a serious condition.

St John Ambulance spokesman Ian Henderson confirmed that father-of-two Mr Hopkins, of Christchurch, died at the scene at around 11am on Saturday.

A Westpac Rescue Helicopter spokesman said Mr Carter went into cardiac arrest shortly after they had arrived to treat Mr Hopkins. He said the event had not been running long when the two men went into cardiac arrest, just before lunchtime.

The two incidents were "moments apart", he said.

Today, Mr Hopkins' family paid tribute to the 6ft-3in engineer who was a "great outdoors fanatic."

His ex-wife Sandy Galland said: "Hoppy was a really fit guy and didn't have any health problems so this came as a real shock to us all.

"He was a great outdoors fanatic - a huntsman, cyclist, runner, member of the Hash House Harriers, and a very experienced endurance racer, going right back to the very first Speights Coast to Coast. He was good mates with Robin Judkins and was involved in that from the very beginning.

"It's been a huge shock for us all. Nothing has really set in yet."

Ms Galland said fellow racers tried to resuscitate Mr Hopkins on the trail before emergency services arrived.

She said: "They gave him CPR until professionals got to him.

"He was larger than life, called a spade a spade, and would do anything for you. He was very passionate about sports, the outdoors, and teaching kids.

"He lived a very healthy lifestyle, but loved a party also.

"His children and his sports were his life. We're expecting a big funeral on Friday."

He leaves behind two daughters - Zara, 10, and 12-year-old Dawn, who said her father "taught us everything he knew."

Dawn Hopkins said: "On Saturday morning, we were having fun jet-skiing and playing in the water with friends and then we got a phone call about dad and our day went from great to terrible.

"Dad took us hunting and showed us how to do everything. He taught us really well.

"He always pushed us to do sports and to get right up there, and I will continue to play my sports because that is what he would have wanted.

"He will be missed heaps."

Race director Rod Hibberd of Blue Dog Events said the death will affect the Christchurch mountain biking community, which he described as being "very tight knit."

He said: "Riders all know each other and will be greatly saddened at the loss of a fellow rider. Like myself, I know everyone will be thinking of the family at this time."

224. http://www.therepublic.com/view/story/cca41aa770b645e8ae9e19c4789e21a4/MT--Firefighter-Death/

Miles City firefighter dies after mountain bike accident

THE ASSOCIATED PRESS
First Posted: October 29, 2011 - 11:27 am

Billings, Mont. Officials say a firefighter with Miles City Fire and Rescue died shortly after crashing on his mountain bike.

Capt. Tim McGlothlin died Thursday evening shortly after the crash in the Strawberry Hill Recreation Area near Miles City.

Battalion chief Scott Moore tells the Billings Gazette (http://bit.ly/uQwDoJ) that the 39-year-old McGlothlin was riding with several other firefighters when the crash occurred.

Moore says McGlothlin was a member of the state honor guard, headed up the Montana chapter of an international motorcycle organization, and was an officer for the International Association of Firefighters local union.

On Friday Miles City Mayor Joe Whalen ordered flags flown at half-staff in honor of McGlothlin.

___

Information from: Billings Gazette, Billingsgazette.com">

225. http://www.daijiworld.com/news/news_disp.asp?n_id=122064

NATO Chief Falls Off Bike, Fractures Shoulder

Brussels, Nov 15 (IANS): NATO Secretary-general Anders Fogh Rasmussen has fractured his left shoulder after falling off a mountain bike in Brussels.

The 58-year-old Fogh Rasmussen, an avid mountain biker, wrote Monday on his Facebook page that he suffered a "serious fall" and fractured his left shoulder, Xinhua reported.

"Dear friends, mountain-biking is a challenging sport," Rasmussen wrote.
The fall forced him to cancel a scheduled trip to a few countries.

"My left arm is now in plaster, fixed tightly and not allowed to move. Recovery will take some time and patience. Unfortunately, I had to cancel my trip to Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania this week," he wrote.

226. http://bb.nsmb.com/showthread.php?t=145589

Words to the wise: Ride with a buddy

Having had the better part of a month+ to contemplate my own idiocy I thought I'd post it up here for hopefully one person to learn from.

As I have a somewhat unconventional working schedule I'm forced to do a lot of riding on my own. Mostly the Shore but with some Squamish rides, despite my advancing age I'm relatively new to MTBing coming from the road world.

A few weeks back I had a meeting midweek in the afternoon in Squamish in the late PM; great, that'll allow me to get a ride in in the late AM and have plenty of time to shower and eat in advance. I've done a fair bit of riding in Squamish this summer (mostly XC) so I thought I'd hit Half Nelson for a few rips, which I hadn't ridden since the late Spring. Hit the road in good time, got the mandatory coffee at Galileo, made my way up the road to the lot at the foot of Half Nelson. Beautiful fall day, cool but not cold, and the conditions are dry. In other words, perfect. Throw the Camelback on, and start the grind up the FSR to the trailhead.

Which is roughly where my memory ends.

I have vague memories after that. A frustrated ambulance attendant writing answers to the five questions I kept asking, over and over again, and putting the paper in my lap (think "Memento"). My wife appearing at Lions Gate, extremely concerned. Our friend Steve showing up for support (he's my usual riding buddy, and a critical care doctor to boot). A trip to the CAT scan to scan my head. Frustration and not remembering what happened, and at myself for worrying my family and kids. Damnit, I'm pushing 40 with three kids. What the hell was I doing?

What happened according to the people involved: I was found wandering Half Nelson in a daze (ironically by a couple of off-duty members of Squamish Search and Rescue). Martin and Katy walked me down to the foot of the trail, where I (wisely) decided I wasn't good to drive. Martin then kindly drove me in my truck to Corsa -- apparently I suggested going there as I'm friends with Dave and Sandra. Typical, I crash and the first thing I want to do is go to a bike shop. Dave drove me to Squamish hospital, where they decided my brain was so fried I needed a CAT scan at Lions Gate (they have no unit up in Squamish, hence the ambulance ride). From there it was the trip down, the diagnosis that I got a good knock but no permanent damage (insert jokes here), and I was sent on my fuzzy-but-merry way to recover at home.

If I had to guess, my suspicion is that I hit the little whoops too hot. Not slow enough to ride over, and I lost control in the air.

The helmet? A Giro XAR (now replaced). You can see the cracks in the foam on the inside, as well as full dents on the side of the helmet. Definitely saved my skull.

Big thanks:
-Martin and Katy. Without them I might have been still be wandering the woods of Squamish, or even worse like an outtake from "Deliverance". I don't recall even seeing any cars in the lot when I left, so I'm lucky anyone was on the trail. Even luckier they were SAR.
-Dave and Sandra, who drove me to the hospital, held onto my bike, drove my truck back to the North Shore, and generally acted like family.
-The ever-patient ambulance attendants.
-The great medical team at Lions Gate.
-Steve, my buddy the doctor who was able to both comfort my wife and really explain what was going on.
-Jared from OGC, who was kind enough to help me replace my helmet ASAP.
-My wife and family. I owe them a debt of gratitude, for indulging this as well as even letting me ride again.

So learn from the mistakes of an old man. Ride with a buddy or at times when there's lots of people out there. Seems obvious, but we all take shortcuts to sneak rides in. Don't be me.

227. Date: Thu, 17 Nov 2011 21:21:37 -0800
Subject: Death of a Pedestrian due to....
From: Connie Berto

...a mountain biker, in San Francisco. This story was in the 16 Nov. 2011 'San Francisco Chronicle.' The poor woman -- being a tourist, she obviously didn't know that in San Francisco people are supposed to jump out of the way and let the biker just ride through. This is the same "entitlement" mentality we trail users are battling in Marin County. CB

---
"Bicyclist faces manslaughter charge in pedestrian's death."

"A bicyclist who hit and killed a pedestrian when he ran a red light along San Francisco's waterfront has been charged with misdemeanor vehicular manslaughter, authorities said Tuesday.

"Rudolph Ang, 23, of San Francisco collided with 68-year-old Dionette Cherney at Mission Street and the Embarcadero about 8:30 a.m. July 15, prosecutors said. Cherney, who was visiting from Washington, DC, died of head injuries at a hospital Aug. 11.

"Cherney was crossing the Embarcadero in a crosswalk with the green light at Mission when she was hit by Ang, who was travelling north, police said.

"Ang remained at the scene and was interviewed by police. There was no evidence he was drunk or on drugs, prosecutors said.

"Ang was charged with only a misdemeanor because investigators determined that he had not acted with criminal intent or gross negligence, said Stephanie Ong Stillman, a spokeswoman for DA George Gascon.

"Ang faces a maximum sentence of a year in jail if convicted. " (Email Henry K. Lee at hlee@sfchronicle.com)

-------------

228. http://wellington.scoop.co.nz/?p=40420

Helicopter rescues mountain-biker in Brooklyn and runner in Belmont

November 20, 2011

Press Release Life Flight Trust
The Life Flight Trust responded to two sports-related accidents with the Westpac Rescue Helicopter this morning.

At 1035 the helicopter was called to the mountain bike track near the wind turbine in Brooklyn. A Wellington Free Ambulance paramedic was winched to the scene where a 60 year old Johnsonville man was injured when he came off his mountain bike at speed.

The helicopter landed 400 metres from the injured man and then he was carried to the helicopter and transferred to the Wellington Hospital Emergency Department.

He sustained back and face injuries in the accident and is being treated at hospital.

About 1135 the helicopter flew from the roof of Wellington Hospital to Belmont Regional Park in Lower Hutt.

The paramedic was winched down to a 31 year old Wellington woman who injured her knee while running in the park.

Our pilot had his work cut out for him given the windy conditions in the area says Dave Greenberg, Life Flight crewman. If we were not able to winch it would have taken hours for ambulance crews to walk to the patient and then carry her back out so it was good we were able to accomplish the task.

The patient and paramedic were winched back into the helicopter and she was transfererd to the Wellington Hospital Emergency Department where she was treated and assessed.

229. http://monrovia.patch.com/articles/mountain-biker-injured-in-chantry-flat-area#photo-8493375

Updated: Mountain Biker Injured, Rescued in Chantry Flat Area

The call came to authorities at 10:04 a.m., according to county fire.
November 19, 2011
Update: Larry Smith, president of the Sierra Madre Search and Rescue Team, confirmed that the mountain biker was successfully airlifted from the Chantry Flat area at around noon Saturday. Smith said the biker crashed near Hoegee's Camp, and was with several of his friends, who assisted in the rescue operation. Eleven members of the Sierra Madre team were active, serving in the field and from the command center, Smith said.

Previously: Sierra Madre Search and Rescue, the Forest Service and the L.A. County Fire Department are swarming to the Chantry Flat area in the Angeles National Forest to aid an injured 25-year-old male mountain biker after he crashed his bike, according to officials with the County Fire Department and the Forest Service's command center.

A helicopter and ground units from multiple agencies are present in the area, with the helicopter attempting to hoist the bike rider -- who is conscious -- out of the area, said a Forest Service dispatcher.

No other details were available.

230. Ladysmith sidewalk's are for pedestrians only

Published: November 22, 2011 9:00 AM
Updated: November 22, 2011 9:38 AM

Editor;

I am writing you regarding children, youth and adults in Ladysmith riding on the sidewalks. For the past three years, I have been witness to near misses and potential accidents between pedestrians and riders of bikes while occupying the same sidewalk.

In April 2008, I crashed my mountain bike while riding in Chemainus and as a result of a head injury suffered in that crash, I cannot sense when someone comes up along my left hand side.

I have had bicycle riders come up behind me on the sidewalk and pass by me without the decency to announce themselves. This creates anxiety in me and triggers me back to the bike accident. I have had to go into local businesses in order to calm myself.

I have spoken to several businesses along First Avenue, city hall, RCMP, BCAA, and ICBC regarding the sidewalk bicycle riding and most agree people should not be riding on the sidewalks. But people are still continuing to ride on the sidewalk and it will only be a matter of time before someone is injured.

I have encountered several bicycle riders riding on the sidewalks in Ladysmith and have asked that they ride in the street as is correct. I have been verbally abused by both youth and adults, some with very young children with them.

The anxiety that is triggered by having someone come up beside me on a silent bike is too much to bear and I am increasingly fearful of walking on the downtown sidewalks. I am now also fearful of verbal threats from bicycle riders when I ask them to use the roadway.

Please, stop riding on the sidewalks, it is prohibited by the Town of Ladysmith, and people are getting hurt. Use the roadway as is proper and leave the sidewalks safer for pedestrians.

Lillian Blow

Ladysmith
http://www.bclocalnews.com/opinion/letters/134332348.html
Women mountain bikers usually suffer the worse injuries..

231. My Voice: Ivon Davidson

01 Nov, 2011 04:00 AM
Ivon Davidson was 33 when a mountain bike accident nearly killed him. His partner and carer Christine Linden talks about his artistic road to recovery.

Ivon is 38 and lives in Donvale. [Five years ago] he was riding a pushbike in Silvan National Park, east of Melbourne, just a casual ride, when he came off. He was on a steep slope and just came off and hit his head. He was mountain bike riding, which he loved. He still does, although he doesn’t have a bike any more.

Ivon had an all-over brain injury, which meant his whole brain was bruised by the incident. He was not given any chance of recovery; it was assumed he would pass away in the first few weeks. When he got past that stage, they assumed he would be left permanently unable to speak or eat, and that he would be placed in a nursing home, despite his age, as the injuries were so horrific.

He’s still recovering, he isn’t back to what he used to be, but in the past 12 months he has made a lot of progress. He can talk, he has started eating, he is learning to walk again and is able to take some steps. It’s just miraculous.

For us both it has been a complete life change. We were in our early 30s and looking to start a family and we have spent the past five years trying to help his recovery, that has been the one focus. I have balanced work and caring.

One thing that has helped Ivon has been his art. He loves painting, loves to draw. The thing for him is he is left-handed and the injuries haven’t allowed him to regain the use of his left hand so he has had to learn how to use his right hand for art. He is relearning to draw and write again.

It started out as therapy more than anything else, to help him reconnect. But he has improved out of sight; when he started out there was not much definition but now he is able to draw some pretty amazing pieces. And the best bit is he has enjoyed this aspect of his therapy.

His work was exhibited in September by Villa Maria, there is a group of people there who support him. A lot of people showed up and Ivon was ecstatic because some of it was auctioned off and he made a bit of money out of it. His work is also being shown in the Villa Maria 2012 art calendar.

It’s a long road to recovery but hopefully one day he can get back to his job as an accountant, he’s getting a bit bored with the therapy!
http://www.melbourneweeklyeastern.com.au/news/local/news/general/my-voice-ivon-davidson/2341899.aspx

232. ANOTHER Brain Injury Caused by Mountain Biking!

http://www.pinkbike.com/news/Seattle-BenefitFilm-Premiere-Mon-Nov-7th-Chop-Suey-2011.html

Seattle Benefit/Film Premiere Mon, Nov 7th @ Chop Suey

by Lacy Kemp
Nov 3, 2011

Contour and the Pacific Northwest mountain bike scene are rallying together this coming Monday for a benefit and fundraiser for Evan Choltco-Devlin. Evan was recently riding in Peru and suffered a brain injury after getting caught by the wind on a jump. If you live in the Seattle area and don't have any plans on Monday we'd love for you to join us at Chop Suey at 8pm. We'll be premiering the new 2nd Base Films movie From the Inside Out as well as raffling of items from tons of companies.

Donations from the raffle include product from:
Diamondback Bikes
Evil Bikes
Transition Bikes
Gravity
Fox Racing Shox (any fork of your choice. Zing!)
Oakley
Smith
Alpinestars
Kenda
Schawlbe
Big Mountain Bike Adventures
Recycled Cycles
Skullcandy

...and more. Tickets are $12 at the door. Chop Suey holds 500 people and we'd love to get as many people to the venue as possible. 100% of the proceeds will go to Evan's recovery costs. We're hoping to be able to make a donation to the Olympic Dirt Society as well.

You can view more info on Facebook or buy tickets directly from Chop Suey. The event is 21+.

233. ANOTHER Quadriplegic Mountain Biker!

http://www.flatheadnewsgroup.com/whitefishpilot/article_6b56ffa6-0573-11e1-860f-001cc4c002e0.html

Hope remains for injured mountain biker

Photo courtesy of Jeff Marquis

Jeff Marquis

Jeff Marquis stands at Logan Pass in Glacier National Park. The photo was taken about two weeks before his accident on Spencer Mountain.

Posted: Wednesday, November 2, 2011 10:53 am | Updated: 4:25 pm, Wed Nov 2, 2011.

Hope remains for injured mountain biker

BY HEIDI DESCH Whitefish Pilot Hagadone Corporation

In the video of Jeff Marquis you can see hope.

Hope that Marquis, who suffered a spinal cord injury in September, might continue to regain movement in his arms and legs. The video shows Marquis sitting on a physical therapy table with a brace around his neck. He is bent forward at the waist and then makes a jerky movement with his arms and shoulders as he sits upright.

Its pretty tiring, Marquis said from Craig Hospital in Denver, Colo., last week.

He was really tired his body is adjusting to the new demands on it, his brother Louis Marquis added. He is doing really well.

It was just more than a month ago that Marquis was mountain biking on Spencer Mountain outside of Whitefish. He took an unexpected fast line went over the handle bars and landed on the ground.

I lost feeling right away, he said.

Marquis called out for help. He had seen another rider earlier.

I told him not to move me, he said, but asked the rider to call 911.

The rescue crew arrived pretty quickly to the lower flanks of the mountain. Marquis, having taken a first responder course, was able to describe what was happening. He was fitted with a cervical collar and hauled out on a stretcher.

Marquis suffered a spinal cord injury and underwent surgery at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.

Hes now at Craig Hospital, a spinal cord and head injury rehabilitation center. His recovery continues with physical therapy.

Marquis has sensation throughout his body, but what he says is not normal feeling. In his upper body he can feel temperature and light touch. Feeling is less distinct in his lower body, but he says he can feel it when someone squeezes his foot.

Doctors expect him to remain in the hospital for the next four to six months as his physical therapy becomes more intense.

Hes lost quite a bit of weight,Louis said, but the hope is that his time in the hospital will be on the shorter end of the timeframe. Family members are taking turns staying with him.

A benefit for Marquis is set for Friday in Whitefish. His girlfriend Heather Cauffman is organizing the Pints for a Purpose and silent auction event at Great Northern Brewing Company. The night begins at 6 p.m. and free food is being catered by Tupelo. Marquis has worked as a sous chef at Tupelo Grille for the last four years.

The support feels pretty good Marquis said of the benefit.

We appreciate their support and everything Whitefish has done, Louis added. Whitefish has a lot of people really looking out for him.

Marquis family has also set up a special needs trust for him. Donations can be made to the Jeffrey M. Marquis S.N.T. at Wells Fargo Bank in Kalispell or mailed to Cauffman at P.O. Box 1352, Whitefish, MT 59937.

Marquis seems to be progressing quickly in recovery. Hes recently had a smaller tracheotomy put in, which means his ability to breath on his own is improving. He expects to move from an electric wheelchair to a non-motorized chair soon.

Nothing is promised in his recovery, but nothing says he might not gain either, Louis said.

Hope remains.

234. http://online.wsj.com/article/APc403b9a28a1748e4bc7d2f64f29612ff.html

Ex-mountain biking champ sentenced in NY

Associated Press

ALBANY, N.Y. A former world mountain biking champion caught in upstate New York driving a truck with 350 pounds of marijuana inside won't spend any time in prison.

A federal judge sentenced 38-year-old Melissa "Missy" Giove (gee-OH'-vee) of Chesapeake, Va., to six months of home detention and five years' probation on Wednesday.

Giove pleaded guilty to a drug charge stemming from her arrest in 2009, when authorities say she drove 350 pounds of marijuana from California to Saratoga County. Her lawyer said Giove turned to marijuana trafficking after head injuries ended her biking career and sapped her financially.

Prosecutors sought a prison sentence of 24 to 30 months.

A Wilton man involved in the pot ring pleaded guilty earlier to drug conspiracy. Authorities found nearly $1.5 million in cash inside his home.

235. Mountain biking accident leaves Guide Dogs for Blind official in coma

http://www.marinij.com/rosskentfieldgreenbrae/ci_19403043

Ross incident

By Gary Klien
Marin Independent Journal
Posted: 11/23/2011 06:03:51 PM PST

A top official at Guide Dogs for the Blind is in a coma after an unexplained incident near Phoenix Lake in Ross, according to close associates.

Susan Prnjak, a San Anselmo resident, was found unconscious the afternoon of Nov. 12 on the Shaver Grade Fire Road, said Ross fire Chief Tom Vallee. Her mountain bike was found nearby, and no one witnessed the crash, Vallee said.

Ross Valley paramedics took Prnjak to Marin General Hospital until she was stable enough for transfer to Kaiser Permanente Medical Center in Terra Linda. A Kaiser spokeswoman declined to comment on her condition, but Glenn Prescott, executive pastor of Prnjak's church, said she has remained in a coma and her prognosis is uncertain.

The church, Tiburon Baptist Church, has held two prayer vigils for Prnjak, a deacon and flutist at the church.

"Susan's really been a little bit of everything," Prescott said. "She's just a delightful, delightful person."

Jacqueline Perlmutter, a friend from Petaluma, described Prnjak as an avid outdoorswoman who often took treks by herself.

Friends have started an account at www.CaringBridge.org to share support and news. Prnjak, whose age was not available, does not have family members locally, Prescott and Perlmutter said.

Prnjak has been human resources director since 2006 at Guide Dogs for the Blind, the dog-training school with campuses in San Rafael and Portland. She is also past board president of the Marin Human Resources Forum, and former human resources director at Golden Gate Baptist Theological Seminary in Mill Valley.

Contact Gary Klien via email at gklien@marinij.com

236. http://www.voxy.co.nz/national/injured-mountain-biker-airlifted/5/108954

Injured mountain biker airlifted

Voxy News Engine
Sunday, 27 November, 2011 - 16:18

A 36 year old female from Blenheim was transported today 27 November 2011 at 1328 by the Summit Rescue Helicopter. The patient was mountainbiking in the Wither Hills near Blenheim when she fell from her bike and sustained leg injuries.

A St John Intensive Care Paramedic was hover loaded to the scene and treated the patient along with a Benheim St John team who had walked to the site. The patient was then hover loaded into the helicopter, as we were unable to land at the scene. The patient and the Blenheim St John crew were transported to a waiting Ambulance, so the patient could be transported to Blenheim Hospital. This allowed us to respond to a second job at Wakefield.

237. http://www.ocregister.com/news/canyon-328900-modjeska-ocfa.html

Mountain biker rescued in Modjeska Canyon

A helicopter was used to hoist an injured man to safety.
Share
By IAN HAMILTON / THE ORANGE COUNTY REGISTER

MODJESKA CANYON The Orange County Fire Authority used a helicopter to hoist an injured mountain biker from Modjeska Canyon on Sunday.

A call came in shortly before noon Sunday of a mountain biker injured on the Harding Truck Trail in Modjeska Canyon.

OCFA performed a hoist rescue of the male bicyclist, who had a potential head injury, and dropped him off at the intersection of Santiago Canyon Road and Modjeska Canyon Road, according to OCFA Battalion Chief Kris Concepcion.

The bicyclist was treated by OCFA paramedics and transported to a local hospital, Concepcion said, but did not have any additional details about his condition.

Contact the writer: 949-229-2426 or ihamilton@ocregister.com

238. http://www.grough.co.uk/magazine/2011/11/27/injured-mountain-biker-rescued-from-forest-trail

Injured mountain biker rescued from forest trail

Liz Roberts, Reporter
Sunday 27 November 2011 08:04 PM GMT
Last updated at Sunday 27 November 2011 08:05 PM GMT

A mountain biker on the Cwmcarn trail. Photo: Andy_C

A mountain biker was rescued after injuring herself on a downhill section of a popular course.

Three mountain rescue teams went to the riders aid after she suffered a suspected dislocated shoulder in a fall while on the Cwmcarn course in south Wales.

Rescuers were alerted today at 2.45pm. Central Beacons Mountain Rescue Team members, some of whom were already on the hills for a training exercise, were joined by colleagues from Brecon and Longtown MRTs at the site, north-west of Newport.

Rescuers treated the woman at the scene before taking her to a waiting ambulance which transported her to hospital.

239. http://www.portsmouth.co.uk/news/local/east-hampshire/clothes_sale_raises_more_than_2_000_for_paralysed_alex_1_3289862

Clothes sale raises more than 2,000 for paralysed Alex

114190-146_ALEX_SR_26/11/11 Friends of Alex Jones who was paralysed from the chest down in a mountain biking accident, come together in Napier Hall to raise money for a trust fund for him. Left to right. Zoe Palmer, Amy Conway, Gemma Jones, Tammy Shakespeare and Linda Rowledge. Picture:Steve Reid 114190-146

Published on Monday 28 November 2011 07:12

TOP clobber was snapped up at a charity sale in aid of a father of two left paralysed following a freak accident.

Adrenaline junkie Alex Jones was attempting a highly technical jump on his mountain bike when he came off and landed awkwardly, leaving him paralysed from the chest down.

Friends and family of the 38-year-old, from Horndean, have rallied round to support him and raise money for a special wheelchair when he leaves hospital that he can use on stony ground and in woodland.

Money is also needed to make adaptations to the family home and even to help them move if they have to.

Amy Conway was one of the organisers of the new and nearly-new clothes sale at Napier Hall, Horndean on Saturday, which raised a grand total of 2,140.

She said: It was absolutely amazing. We were worried we might not cover the cost of hiring the hall, but when we counted it up at the end we couldnt believe it. Thank you so much to everyone who came along or helped out.

Alexs wife Andrea and their two small boys were not at the event as they were by Alexs side at Stoke Mandeville Hospital, Buckinghamshire where he is undergoing intense rehabilitation.

He has already made progress and can shave himself, make telephone calls and use his computer.

Amy, 38, from Southsea, met Alex in Greece in 1997 when they worked together for Sunsail.

She said: His spirit has been amazing and everyone whos visited him has had their own spirits lifted by him.

He has a long road of recovery and rehab ahead of him and all the support he has received so far has been overwhelming for him and his family.

Readers of The News who themselves have the same spinal injuries as Alex got in touch with Andrea following the last article.

They have been amazing with their own stories and words of encouragement.

Three people a day are left paralysed like Alex so its not as rare as we first thought.

To find out more or donate please email ajaxcharity@hotmail.com.

240. "It's part of my quality of life".

Yeah, right.

Mike

http://www.news-leader.com/article/20111204/BUSINESS/112040350/Dynamic-Earth-risks-calculated

Springfield business leader gets new outlook after breaking neck

While he won't stop taking risks, he will assess them carefully.

11:00 PM, Dec. 3, 2011

I was doing a phone interview with local businessman Matt O'Reilly when he politely excused himself for a second.

"That was my 2-year-old daughter bringing me a bag of ice," O'Reilly said.

Curious, I asked if he had a sprained ankle.

Nope, nothing that simple.

In mid-October, O'Reilly -- one of Springfield's up-and-coming young business leaders -- endured a terrifying mountain biking accident on an Arkansas trail.

O'Reilly climbs mountains, jumps out of airplanes, snowboards and scuba dives. But he's also passionate about mountain biking and helping develop new bike trails in the Ozarks.

On his latest project -- a $20 million retail-apartment-office complex with an attached farmers market described in the story below -- he hopes to link a bike path to the nearby Springfield Conservation Center.

That trail probably won't have any built-in jumps like the one that broke his neck and ripped his shoulder apart during the ride in October.

He recalled taking the jump a little too slowly, the front of his bike dropping and pitching him forward.

With feet locked into the pedals, O'Reilly knew what was next.

"I jackhammered my neck and head straight into the ground," he recalled.

He heard his neck and shoulder crack.

"It was loud and nasty. I thought about my wife and our 21-month-old daughter; the first thing I thought was stupid -- like slap-me-in-the-face stupid."

His wife, Ashley, and two friends who were riding with him, rushed to help.

O'Reilly said his bike helmet cracked from the impact, likely saving his life. As he sat up, he felt several ribs pop back into place.

Ligaments and muscles that hold his right shoulder together were torn apart.

He could still move his feet and arms, and didn't yet know the top C7 vertebra in his neck had cracked all the way through.

"I went through the steps -- what would a wilderness first responder do?" he recalled.

After assessing his injuries, he opted to get back on his bike and ride slowly back to the car. An hour and a half later he was in a CT machine in Springfield, where doctors got a clear view of the damage.

They suddenly asked if he could wiggle his toes.

"I came out of the CT machine locked down on a board, with six people around me."

O'Reilly now knows if the two pieces of his cracked vertebra had moved, he could have suffered significant, perhaps permanent, nerve damage.

He underwent shoulder reconstruction surgery, and now wears a hard plastic neck brace that will immobilize his head and neck for several more weeks.

O'Reilly said he won't let the accident deter him from taking calculated risks in the future, whether involving his passion for extreme sports or making business decisions that affect Springfield.

"I've never made my decisions in life based on the worst thing that could happen," he said.

"It's unrealistic. You could choke on a salad or slip down some stairs."

However, O'Reilly said he'll assess risks more carefully in the future.

"But I'm not going to stop mountain biking, I'm not going to stop doing this stuff, it's part of who I am. It's part of my quality of life."

241. http://www.signonsandiego.com/news/2011/dec/03/helicopter-crew-rescues-two-mountain-bikers-at-lak/

Helicopter crew rescues two mountain bikers at Lake Hodges

Written by

Sandra Dibble

3:35 p.m., Dec. 3, 2011

ESCONDIDO Two mountain bike accidents in less than an hour at Lake Hodges kept a San Diego Fire-Rescue helicopter crew busy Saturday.

No sooner had they delivered the first cyclist to Palomar Medical Center than they were called back to hoist a second cyclist to safety.

Its not unusual to go out there for a rescue, but its unusual to do them back-to-back, said Capt. Tom Stephenson, a helicopter crew chief for the San Diego Fire-Rescue Department.

The first call came shortly after noon, after a 57-year-old mountain biker suffered head and shoulder injuries when he lost of control of his bike on a trail by Lake Hodges in the area of Via Rancho Parkway and Sunset Drive. The cyclist landed under some trees by a creek off the lake, then used his cellphone to call for help. San Diego and Escondido rescue crews responded.

Fire Capt. Tom Stephenson said that because of the terrain, the crew had to land a quarter-mile away and hike in to stabilize the bike rider. He was carried to a nearby clearing so he could be hoisted and flown to Palomar.

As they delivered the first victim, the same crew was to to return to Lake Hodges shortly after 1 p.m. Less than a mile from the first accident, a 25-year-old rider had fallen off his bike and suffered face, head and leg injuries. The bicyclist was flown to an ambulance waiting at the Lake Hodges boat dock, Stephenson said.

242. "Mountain biking is one of the most fun and exciting sports there is" -- well, except for all the injuries.... And the boringness of not being able to enjoy anything, due to having to pay attention to controlling the bike....

Mike

http://sports.yahoo.com/top/news?slug=ycn-10644225

Five of the Most Common Mountain Biking Injuries & How to Prevent Them

By K.C. Dermody, Yahoo! Contributor Network 10 hours, 21 minutes ago

Mountain biking is one of the most fun and exciting sports there is. It gives athletes and casual riders a great way to get back to nature and to feel like a kid again, in addition to being a great workout. Whether you're new to the sport or have been riding awhile, here is a look at some of the most common injuries in the sport of mountain biking and how they can be prevented.

Muscle cramps

Muscle cramps are a common injury for many athletes, and some are more prone to them than others. Preventing them is key. Be sure to stay hydrated before, during, and after your ride. For rides longer than 90 minutes, consider bringing sports drinks that contain electrolytes along for the ride. Avoid drinks with extra caffeine and sugar. Eating a banana before you head out the door is also said to help some.

Don't forget to stretch, but it's important to warm up first. Do some walking or light jogging for a few minutes, and then concentrate on stretching the muscles that cyclists use most, the hamstrings and quadriceps.

Foot injuries

Your shoes are one of the most important pieces of equipment you can own. Be sure they fit properly. Shoes that are too narrow can aggravate the nerves and metatarsals in the foot. The sesamoids, or "ball bearings of the foot," are are two small bones found beneath the first metatarsal bones. These can can inflame or rupture under the stress of cycling, but this can all be prevented by proper fitting shoes.

Knee pain

If you're experiencing knee pain, your pedals may need to be adjusted. Have them inspected, and m ake sure you're using the ball of your foot to pedal. Pain under the knee cap can be due to improper saddle height. Try raising your seat slightly to lessen the amount your knee has to bend.

Pain in the wrists or hands

One of the most common reasons for experiencing pain in the wrists or hands is a too-tight grip on the handlebars. Relax your grip, and also remove them from the handlebars occasionally and shake them out to help blood circulation.

Lower back pain

Lower back pain is common for beginners and those who haven't ridden for awhile. One of the best ways to prevent it is by strengthening your lower back and abs. Pilates is an excellent form of exercise that works to build your core, and achieve a stronger lower back and abdominal muscles. Consider practicing Pilates two or three days a week as a form of cross-training. At a minimum, be sure and stretch your back both before and after your ride.

K.C. Dermody has been an avid runner, hiker, and yoga enthusiast for twenty years, and as a trained yoga instructor she taught a variety of students from senior citizens to competitive athletes. She enjoys combining her passion for sports, emotional and physical well-being with her love of writing. Follow her at www.facebook.com/KCDermodyWriter or on Twitter: @kcdermody.

243. http://www.marinij.com/novato/ci_19524949

Sonoma County chopper rescues Novato cyclist

By Rob Rogers
Marin Independent Journal
Posted: 12/11/2011 12:47:50 PM PST

A Sonoma County sheriff's helicopter and San Rafael emergency services personnel rescued a Novato teen who apparently crashed Saturday while mountain biking in China Camp State Park.

San Rafael fire officials contacted the Sonoma County Sheriff's Department at about 11:50 a.m. Saturday after they were unable to locate the missing cyclist within the 1,514-acre state park along the shores of San Pablo Bay.

The crew of the Sonoma County 'copter, nicknamed "Henry 1," found the downed teen on the section of the Bay View Trail that runs through China Camp. The "Henry 1" crew then lowered Deputy Debbie Little, the helicopter's tactical flight officer, to the trail at the end of a 100-foot rope.

Little found the 14-year-old victim conscious, though suffering from injuries to his back and legs, apparently sustained when he had struck a tree along the trail while mountain biking. She and the other members of the "Henry 1" crew lifted the victim up to the helicopter, where pilot Paul Bradley flew him to John Muir Medical Center in Walnut Creek.

Paramedic Justin Barrow of the San Rafael Fire Department, which reached the scene during the rescue, remained with the victim and provided advanced life support during the flight.

The victim was last reported in stable condition with non-life threatening injuries at John Muir Medical Center, according to the Sonoma County Sheriff's Department, which declined to release his name because he is a juvenile.

http://www.pressdemocrat.com/article/20111211/ARTICLES/111219961

Sonoma County sheriff's helicopter rescues teen cyclist hurt on Marin trail

By RANDI ROSSMANN
THE PRESS DEMOCRAT

Published: Sunday, December 11, 2011 at 10:18 a.m.

Last Modified: Sunday, December 11, 2011 at 10:18 a.m.

The Sonoma County sheriff's helicopter crew rescued an injured 14-year-old Novato teen Saturday afternoon who had crashed his mountain bike while riding a Marin County trail, sheriff's officials reported.

The Sonoma County crew flew the teen to a Contra Costa County hospital.

The youth crashed Saturday morning while riding in China Camp State Park. He'd apparently been knocked unconscious after striking a tree and was thrown from his bike, said sheriff's Sgt. Ed Hoener.

San Rafael police called the Sonoma County Sheriff's Office for help at about noon.

China Camp borders San Pablo Bay in San Rafael. It includes 15 miles of hiking and biking trails.

The teen's location on a trail wasn't clear and San Rafael firefighters hadn't yet found him when the helicopter arrived. After about one minute over the park the helicopter crew spotted him and directed firefighters to a point on the Bay View Trail, Hoener said.

It appeared the teen had suffered injuries to his back and legs. He was conscious during his rescue but medical crews determined he'd passed out during the crash.

Because of his injuries, officials decided he should be flown out of the park. Helicopter pilot Paul Bradley lowered Deputy Debbie Little, the helicopter's tactical flight officer, to the boy.

He was brought onto the helicopter and flown to John Muir Medical Center in Walnut Creek.

The teen, whose name wasn't released, was listed in stable condition and didn't have life-threatening injuries, Hoener said.

244. http://www.pinkbike.com/news/The-Art-of-the-Bail-Anticipation-2011.html
http://www.pinkbike.com/video/230022/

I really don't think there is much more to say about mountain biking, except that they are becoming their own worst enemies...(this is the video that should scare parents away from allowing their children to become fodder for the insane bikers....Something has got to give....)

Mountain biking isn't "cool". It's just plain dumb!

245. ANOTHER Mountain Biker Death

http://www.nwemail.co.uk/news/town-in-shock-at-man-s-bike-death-1.907470?referrerPath=home/find_a_fortune_monday_10

Town in shock at man's bike death

Last updated at 15:29, Friday, 16 December 2011

A COMMUNITY is reeling after a businessman died while out mountain biking with friends.

Norman Barrow, 65, of Hallthwaites, was mountain biking with two friends in an area known locally as the mountain road near Ambleside on Wednesday.

Friends raised the alarm after Mr Barrow fell off his bike.

Ambulance crews were called to the scene at 7.40pm and Coniston Mountain Rescue Team also attended. By the time the team arrived at the scene he had died.

Mr Barrow worked at Whartons Garage in Duke Street, Millom, and was wellknown for his time as a scramble rider, during which he competed in events across the country.

Anthony Robinson, team leader with Coniston Mountain Rescue, said: We dont know exactly what happened. The group were mountain biking and one man came off his bike but we do not know if it was an accident or a medical condition.

When we arrived the man was dead at the scene. We were called by the ambulance service.

The crew had to walk because they could not get the ambulance along the track. We helped recover his body as the ambulance couldnt make it to the scene and we took him back to Coniston where he was collected by the undertaker.

Councillor Reg Heathcote described Mr Barrow as a popular man.

He said: I have known him all my life. He was always into motorbikes and worked hard at Whartons Garage.

He was always helpful if you went to the garage but motorbikes were his real passion.

Whenever you saw him he would give a wave. He was very sociable and the news has come as a nasty shock to everyone in the town. It is a very sad loss.

Staff at Whartons Garage said they felt too raw to comment.

Mr Barrows family did not wish to comment when the Evening Mail went to print.

Mr Barrow is survived by his wife Janet.

Funeral details have yet to be arranged.

246. ANOTHER Helicopter Rescue of a Mountain Biker

http://sierramadre.patch.com/articles/rescue-log-injured-biker-lost-hiker

Mountain Biker, Big Santa Anita Canyon: The team was called to a trail in Big Santa Anita Canyon on a report of a mountain biker over the side of the trail. The subject was discovered to have taken a substantial fall and was aided at the scene by SMSR team members, L.A. County Fire Department personnel, and U.S. Forest Service units. Despite marginal weather conditions, an L.A. County Fire Department helicopter was able to evacuate the subject and fly them to the hospital.

247. ANOTHER Mountain Biker Turns Himself into a Quadriplegic!

http://hamptonroads.com/2011/12/cyclists-pedal-help-out-paralyzed-friend

Cyclists pedal to help out paralyzed friend

Meredith Nicolls was paralyzed in 2004 after a mountain biking accident. (Courtsy of Cafe Rosso)

To learn more about the New Year's Day rides, visit miles4meredith.wordpress.com. To contribute, make checks payable to The Meredith Nicolls Health Fund and mail to: C. Meredith Nicolls Jr., Special Needs Trust SunTrust Bank, c/o Donald Ebner, 150 W. Main St., Norfolk, VA 23510.

Related

By Cindy Clayton
The Virginian-Pilot
December 26, 2011

When cyclists gather on New Year's Day in dual-location rides, it won't be the first time they've rallied to benefit an old friend. Or the second.

Since Meredith Nicolls Jr. was paralyzed in a bike accident in 2004, friends in the local cycling world have held rides and raised money by selling food to benefit a health fund established to help with his care.

The New Year's Day noon rides, dubbed Miles4Meredith, will include a 25-mile road ride that will leave from Mount Trashmore in Virginia Beach and a ride at Freedom Park in Williamsburg, organizer Dan Gibson said.

"Before he got hurt, Meredith went out of his way to help people," Gibson said. "I just wanted to let everybody know that he's still here and life goes on."

Gibson, who rode mountain bikes with Nicolls, put on a ride in 2008 at Mount Trashmore. In 2009, he expanded the event to include Williamsburg. The event has been on a hiatus the past two years while Gibson recovered from an injury. He hopes to expand to a third location in Richmond in 2013.

"We're so grateful for that," Nicolls' wife, Kathy, said. "Not only is the money graciously accepted, but it's allowing Meredith to still feel a part of that cycling community."

Nicolls was riding in the Tidewater Mountain Bike Challenge in 2004 in the Williamsburg area when he fell and suffered a spinal cord injury that left him paralyzed from the chest down.

It was a little more than a year before the chef and former co-owner of Cafe Rosso in Norfolk was able to go home from Richmond, where he was flown after the accident. His staff tried to keep the restaurant open until a grease fire closed it. Other chefs and friends in the restaurant community also raised money for Nicolls' health care.

Fellow mountain biker Steve Nevins said Nicolls is "one of those guys I don't think anyone doesn't like." Nevins is the race director for the annual Tidewater Mountain Bike Challenge. He recently held a silent auction to benefit Nicolls' health fund.

Nicolls used to volunteer to help with the event and maintain the course. He rode the trails with Nevins and other mountain bike cyclists, including Gibson.

"He came to mountain biking pretty late in life compared to the rest of us," Nevins said. "He quickly made friends in the cycling arena, and in just a few years, he managed to be very active" in the Eastern Virginia Mountain Bike Association.

It's a tight-knit community, the cyclists said.

"It gets people outdoors and it gets you into an environment that's somewhat like hiking but a little different," Nicolls said by phone.

He plans to attend the Mount Trashmore portion of the New Year's Day ride. Nicolls stays inside if the weather is rainy or too cold.

Nicolls attended the Tidewater Mountain Bike Challenge in October, the race in which he was injured seven years ago, but he describes himself as having "no bad feelings about riding a bike."

"The thing is, if I could get up and get on a bicycle right now, I'd do it," he said. "And I'd go right back to that race and ride in it."

Cindy Clayton, (757) 446-2377, cindy.clayton@pilotonline.com

248. Woman critical after mountain biking accident

So much for the "healthful, family-friendly" sport....

Mike

http://www.eyewitnessnews.co.za/Story.aspx?Id=79769

Woman critical after biking accident
Malungelo Booi

A woman was been airlifted to hospital on Sunday following a mountain biking incident at the Brandwacht Mountains near Stellenbosch.

Emergency personnel said it was unclear what happened, however it is suspected she tumbled over the handle bars of her mountain bike.

ER 24 spokesperson Vanessa Jackson said a medical helicopter was called in to airlift the woman.

We believe the woman was flung forward over the handle bars and she suffered a critical head injury. The paramedics immediately called in the ER24 Discovery Medicopter which airlifted her to Medi-Clinic Vergelegen," she said.

249. Date: Fri, 30 Dec 2011 17:07:45 -0800
Subject: Tom Shadyac's "I AM" came out of MTB accident!

Another friend sent me this one...only if every mountain biker was "scared straight" like this guy ;)
http://davidmfrey.com/2011/01/26/in-%E2%80%98i-am%E2%80%99-tom-shadyac-seeks-connection-with-the-audience-and-the-world/

It was a mountain bike accident that prompted the film?

Yes, I got a concussion that turned into post-concussion syndrome, which is a condition where the symptoms of the original concussion don’t go away. It’s quite torturous really, and after several months of isolation and pain, I didn’t think I was going to live very long. And when I faced my own death, and asked myself if there was anything I wanted to share before I went, I AM was born.
http://iamthedoc.com/

250. http://www.iol.co.za/blogs/kevin-mccallum-1.2505/crashing-ain-t-fun-it-hurts-it-s-daft-but-it-s-part-of-the-game-1.1207687

January 4 2012 at 11:34
Crashing aint fun, it hurts, its daft - but its part of the game

On a trail called the Zombie Birdhouse, I had my first crash on a mountain bike in 2011. Five minutes later, on a trail called The Green Mile, I had my second and last crash of 2011.

Twenty-five minutes later and the KTM Lycan had been packed up and put in the back of my car as I licked my wounds and wondered at the silliness and fun that is mountain biking.
They say that you are not a proper cyclist unless you have crashed. They can go and get knotted.

Id rather not be a cyclist who has crashed. Its not fun. It hurts. It leaves marks. It feels daft. People laugh at you. It makes you dirty. And it can break things. Like your dignity. Oh, and collar bones.
My crash at the Zombie Birdhouse trail at the Toyota Bike Park last week, was all my own fault.

A drop-off that led to a difficult section had me all of aquiver. I grabbed a little front brake when I shouldnt have and ate a lot more dirt than I wanted to, flipping over the top of the handlebars and landing in a heap on the deck. Absa Cape Epic training the hard way.

The second crash happened because I was going too quickly around a berm, tried to brake and ended up in a little ditch, and landed head first.

By the logic of those who feel that you are not a true cyclist until you have crashed, that must mean I am twice the cyclist I used to be.

Crashing is a fact of cycling. You will fall and you will get scratches or broken bones. A crash can kill you or leave you unable to ride again.

In May at the Giro dItalia, Wouter Weylandt, the Belgian on the Leopard-Trek team, crashed on a descent on the third stage. He had been travelling at around 80km/h when he turned to look over his left shoulder before a left bend, according to Manuel Cardoso the Team RadioShack rider who was behind Weylandt.

While looking behind, he hit with his left pedal or the left side of his handlebars on a small wall and was catapulted to the other side of the road when he hit again something. It must have been terrible.

The medical staff at the Giro were close by and reached Weylandt 20 seconds after he crashed, but the medical chief Giovanni Tredici said he was was already and clearly dead upon impact. I had never seen such a thing before, such a sudden death. Tredici described how because of the severe injuries he suffered his left leg may have been amputated. They worked on him for over 40 minutes, trying to resuscitate him, but he was gone.

In the Tour of Switzerland in June Mauricio Soler crashed on the sixth stage, also on a descent at around 80km/h, hitting a pavement, crashing into a spectator and then a fence.

The Movistar rider suffered cranioencephalic trauma with cerebral edema [in laymans terms, a severe head injury accompanied by excess fluid in the brain ed.]. He also had multiple fractures and hematomas, and was placed in a |medically induced coma, according to velonews.com.

He has undergone some 20 surgeries since the crash and is now able to speak, and has been moved back to Colombia, his homeland. Soler was riding for the South African Barloworld team when he won the King of the Mountains competition in 2007.

Four years ago Scot Gordon Dickson, an amateur mountain biker, crashed so hard that his left eye was turned the wrong way round.

Gordon, 43, has been a cycle adventurer most of his life and has competed in mountain bike competitions all over|Europe, reported the Daily Record. In his many years of taking part in the sport, however, he had never sustained any serious injuries until he smashed his head on a rock in Glentress four years ago.

He broke bones all over his face and flat-lined twice. All I know is I was out to do some racing that day and warming up, so did a practice run down the course with my mates, said Dickson.

To this day I have no memory of what happened next. Its all come from friends who were there, doctors and my wife. I just remember setting off and then its two weeks later and Im wondering what Im doing and where I am. The first I realised how bad the accident had been was when I looked in the mirror and saw my bruising and scarring. It was a scary reflection.

Doctors believe Dickson must have taken a firm impact to the side of his head, with only his helmet saving his life. Around the eye socket was all smashed. They were worried I was going to lose it because it was so out of position. The eye was reversed when I got to hospital it wasnt looking out, it was looking in and I had bit of a scare with it. But it came back around and its fine The doctors said there was technically brain damage, but nothing lasting or anything to worry about long term. Within six months, Gordon was back on a bike.

You can keep an eye on my training|programme for the Absa Cape Epic on|fittrack.co.za or by following me on Twitter (@KevinMcCallum

251. http://www.halifaxcourier.co.uk/news/local/rescue_team_hit_666th_call_out_1_4111121

Rescue team hit 666th call-out

Published on Wednesday 4 January 2012 16:00

AN injured mountain biker prompted the 666th call-out for Calder Valley Search and Rescue Team.

The volunteers were called to Ogden Water to a mountain biker who had chest injuries from an accident after a ride betwen Christmas and the New Year.

He had fallen from his bike while riding with a group on a bridleway and had suspected internal chest injuries.

It was their final callout of 2011.

The hurt biker was given pain relief by the teams medics and taken by Yorkshire Air Ambulance to hospital.

The serach and rescue squad were formed in 1966 and many said the winter of 2010 was one of their busiest ever but a mild winter in 2011 meant a slightly quieter time.

In 2011, the team, who are based in Mytholmroyd, were called out 53 times. In 2010, they were called out 67 times and the year before 44 times.

It costs 30,000 a year to keep the team running.

For more details on their work visit www.cvsrt.org.uk

252. Marin mountain biker dies 2 months after crash at Phoenix Lake

http ://www.marinij.com/rosskentfieldgreenbrae/ci_19691794

San Anselmo woman dies of injuries from Ross bike crash

By Gary Klien
Marin Independent Journal
Posted: 01/06/2012 05:49:49 PM PST

Susan Prnjak was found unconscious near Phoenix Lake on Nov. 12. (Photo: Guide Dogs for the Blind)

A San Anselmo woman who spent nearly two months in a coma after a cycling accident in Ross has died in the hospital.

Susan Prnjak, 45, died Tuesday night at Kaiser Permanente Medical Center in Terra Linda. The cause of death was complications of severe closed head trauma due to blunt impact to her head, said Sgt. Keith Boyd of the sheriff-coroner's office.

Prnjak, an avid mountain biker, was found unconscious Nov. 12 on the Shaver Grade Fire Road near Phoenix Lake. Her bike was found nearby, and she was wearing a helmet.

Ross Valley paramedics took Prnjak to Marin General Hospital until she was stable enough to be transferred to Kaiser.

The coroner's division has ruled the death accidental.

Prnjak had been human resources director since 2006 at Guide Dogs for the Blind, the dog-training school with campuses in San Rafael and Portland. She was also past board president of the Marin Human Resources Forum and former human resources director at Golden Gate Baptist Theological Seminary in Mill Valley.

"She was just so very near and dear to our hearts," said Joanne Ritter, a colleague at Guide Dogs. "We've been lighting candles by the pond on our campus for her as she's been going through this time. She was just so incredibly full of life and intensely positive and vibrant."

A memorial service is scheduled for 2 p.m. Jan. 15 at Tiburon Baptist Church, 445 Greenwood Beach Blvd., Tiburon.

253. http://www.vcstar.com/news/2012/jan/07/newbury-park-bike-accident-victim-remembered-as/

Newbury Park bike accident victim remembered as dedicated athlete, coach

By Cindy Von Quednow
Ventura County Star
Posted January 7, 2012 at 11:27 p.m.

A 19-year-old Newbury Park woman killed by a mountain biking accident on New Year's Eve was an avid water polo player who helped coach young women.

Sarah Galbawy was a student at Ventura College who played water polo in high school and college. She also was helping coach the girls water polo team at Newbury Park High School, from which she graduated in 2010.

"She was a great kid. It is such a tragedy to lose her," said Mary Giles, head coach of the Ventura College women's water polo team that included Galbawy. "I don't know if our team next year will feel totally complete without her. She was really a joy to be around and was an excellent player who worked hard."

Galbawy was mountain biking with her father near Frazier Park in Kern County when the accident occurred. A preliminary investigation shows she was riding downhill at about 20 mph when she lost control, hit a utility pole and went over the handlebars, said Ray Pruitt, a spokesman for the Kern County Sheriff's Office. Galbawy was flown to Kern Medical Center in Bakersfield, where she later died. An autopsy showed she died of multiple blunt-force injuries, Pruitt said.

Giles described Galbawy as an "ideal athlete" and helpful teammate who often baked cookies to pump up her fellow players during tournaments. Giles was happy to hear Galbawy had taken up coaching herself.

"She was a role model who was always doing the right thing," Giles said. "It is exciting for me as coach when you have an athlete you coached help other players in the community be better."

Giles attended a memorial held at the Newbury Park High swimming pool. She said it was a touching ceremony that paid tribute to Galbawy's life.

Dave Gleisberg, water polo head coach at Newbury Park, said the service was appropriate, given Galbawy's love of swimming and water polo. He said he coached Galbawy throughout high school and she started helping him coach last summer.

"She was the hardest-working player who never backed up from a challenge and was always positive about it," Gleisberg said.

He said Galbawy was a natural leader.

"She was a role model, but you knew she didn't have to show it off. You knew she was special just by meeting her and watching her play," Gleisberg said. "She never looked for the spotlight, so people were drawn to her."

Read more: http://www.vcstar.com/news/2012/jan/07/newbury-park-bike-accident-victim-remembered-as/#ixzz1itYQ9haw
- vcstar.com

254. This is a perfect example of why bikes don't belong on trails! The "thrills" that mountain bikers seek are harmful to everyone else. Even ringing a bell wouldn't prevent such a problem. Besides, who wants to hear bells, when the whole purpose of being there is to experience the peace and quiet of nature?!

Mike

August 15, 2011 Posted by TANDERSON in LIFESTYLE, LOCAL, OUTDOORS, REGIONAL, SPORTS
Call for safety from the Big Sky Mountain Bike
Alliance
On Sunday morning, July 17, Canyon Adventures led four customers on a guided horse
ride. Near the Beaver Creek crossing, the rear horse was spooked by an approaching
mountain biker, which caused a chain reaction, scattering the other frightened horses.
The biker claimed to have rung his bike bell to alert the horses of his presence, but it
went unheard. Two riders were thrown from their saddles and one horse impaled itself
on a metal fence post. When stopped, the biker was described as being indignant for
the horses .not being in control.. The biker fled unidentified. Unfortunately, one
customer cracked his rib and the injured horse will be out of commission for the rest of
the summer.
To those at Canyon Adventures, the Big Sky Mountain Bike Alliance wants to express
our deepest regrets. We discourage this type of behavior and expect all of our members
to practice trail-user friendliness. It disappoints us that a fellow two-wheeler would
endanger your guests, your horses, and the integrity of your business. At the least, we
ask this unknown biker to apologize.
We request that all mountain bikers when approaching horses slow down, get off bikes,
and notify the nearest equestrian as soon as possible. Horses don.t like surprises, so
please approach them with soft, yet audible voices. Guides at Canyon Adventures said
they will be happy to let you pass as soon as possible. Their suggested guidelines for
biker/equestrian interaction are on our website bigskytrails.org.
The more cooperation among all trail users, the more likelihood mountain bikes will be
permitted on trails. The U.S. Forest Service has already forbidden mountain bikes from
certain trails in our area. More are at risk of being lost, particularly if we don.t achieve
harmony among user groups.
For more information on the mission of the BSMBA, please visit bigskytrails.org.
Please note that the site is still under construction.
Ride on,

255. http://glendora.patch.com/articles/video-captures-mountain-bike-rescue#youtube_video-8893967

Video Captures Mountain Bike Rescue

Search & Rescue team members airlift an injured bicyclist in Marshall Canyon County Park.
January 13, 2012

A Youtube video captures the rescue of an injured bicyclist in the foothills of the Angeles National Forest Sunday, Jan. 8.

LA County Sheriff Air 5 Rescue and Search & Rescue ream members airlifted the bicyclist who fell from a bike trail in Marshall Canyon County Park in La Verne.

LASD paramedics hoisted the bicyclists into the helicopter and airlifted him to a hospital.

256. http://www.newsandstar.co.uk/news/mountain-biker-airlifted-to-hospital-after-lake-district-fells-fall-1.915246?referrerPath=news

Mountain biker airlifted to hospital after Lake District fells fall

Published at 10:03, Monday, 16 January 2012

A mountain biker was flown to hospital after falling and injuring his leg on a Lake District fell.

The Great North Air Ambulance Services Pride of Cumbria was dispatched to Blease Fell, near Keswick, to help a road ambulance crew at 11.25am yesterday.

Keswick Mountain Rescue Team helped carry him to the helicopter which flew him to the Cumberland Infirmary in Carlisle, where he was treated for a serious leg injury.

257. http://abclocal.go.com/kabc/story?section=news/local/los_angeles&id=8513246

Female mountain biker airlifted out of LA canyon

Friday, January 20, 2012

A woman mountain biking in Mandeville Canyon in the Brentwood area of Los Angeles had to be airlifted out after suffering an injury. (KABC Photo)

LOS ANGELES (KABC) -- A woman mountain biking in Mandeville Canyon in the Brentwood area of Los Angeles had to be airlifted out after suffering an injury.

The 54-year-old woman was biking near Mandeville Canyon Road and Westridge Road when she suffered an injury serious enough that Los Angeles City fire officials airlifted her out of the canyon by air ambulance.

She was transported to Ronald Reagan UCLA Medical Center. There's no word yet on what specific injury she suffered or what condition she's in.

258. http://www.stuff.co.nz/nelson-mail/news/6299414/Chopper-aids-injured-rider

Chopper aids injured rider

Last updated 13:00 23/01/2012

A 27-year-old woman who fell off her mountain bike on the Rameka Track in Golden Bay and suffered a serious leg injury, was one of the callouts the Nelson Marlborough Rescue Helicopter attended in the weekend.

St John team manager Jon Leach said the woman was winched into the helicopter about 5pm yesterday.

At the same time it received the call about the injured mountain biker, emergency workers were notified about a woman injured when a go-kart rolled in Wakefield.

Mr Leach said Nelson Marlborough Rescue Helicopter was able to send both its helicopters to the incidents.

An 18-year-old Scottish woman suffered a serious break to her arm in the accident at Wakefield. On Saturday the Nelson Marlborough Rescue Helicopter picked up a motocross rider injured in the Waihopai Valley.

The 50-year-old Renwick woman was flown to Wairau hospital at 2.30pm.

On the return trip to Nelson the helicopter flew to Halfmoon Bay, Kaikoura, to winch a 50-year-old Kaikoura woman from the bush. She had been hit in the leg by a falling rock and was in dense bush on a spur some 200 metres above a waterfall. She was flown to Christchurch Hospital.

On Saturday night the helicopter also picked up an 18-year-old English woman with arm injuries after a mountain bike accident in the Abel Tasman National Park.

259. http://www.stuff.co.nz/dominion-post/news/6301305/Mountain-biker-rescued-from-Akatarawa-Ranges

Mountain biker rescued from Akatarawa Ranges

Last updated 05:00 24/01/2012

A mountain biker suffered chest injuries yesterday after falling from his bike in the Akatarawa Ranges.

The Petone man, 37, was training with a group of riders for the upcoming Karapoti Classic mountain bike race when he fell near a peak known as the 'Devil's Staircase' around 4pm.

The area is the second largest climb in the Karapoti Classic, and is described as 'largely unridable' by event organisers, with competitors expected to carry their bikes for much of the stage.

A Westpac rescue helicopter winched the man out from the spot where he fell.

Life flight crewman Dave Greenberg said the team was able to fly directly to the man's location.

"We winched our paramedic down to the patient and after a quick assessment the pair were winched back into the helicopter and the patient flown to Wellington".

The man was last night being treated at Wellington Hospital.

260. Most mountain bikers are still in denial about the danger of mountain biking. The issue is never discussed in mountain biking forums. And humans claim to be able to think???

Mike

http://www.stuff.co.nz/the-press/news/press-communities/6316137/Brace-saves-teen-mountain-biking

Brace saves teen mountain biking

$600 well spent

CATE BROUGHTON
Last updated 08:48 26/01/2012

A 15-year-old with a passion for downhill mountainbiking has narrowly escaped paralysis, thanks to the neck brace he was wearing.

Caleb Manson is still coming to terms with the accident that almost cost him his life last November.

A routine run on a track at Victoria Park turned sour when he came too fast over a jump and slammed head-first into a tree.

The impact broke a vertebrae and damaged his spinal cord.

"I was coming up to a jump across a road and came a bit fast and went head-first into a tree."

Lying in the bush, he could not feel anything from his neck down.

"I had a lot of pain in my neck but I couldn't feel anything else so I wasn't sure what was going on.

"I had been aware of spinal injuries, and that's why I was wearing a neck brace."

Two joggers found him minutes later and called for help.

At the hospital scans revealed he had broken his C5 vertebrae - but not completely.

His doctors have since said the $600 neck brace his parents had bought him three months before saved him from paralysis.

After a week in hospital, including four days in intensive care, he was transferred to Burwood Hospital's spinal unit. On arrival, Caleb was not able to walk or hold a drink. He can now walk for five kilometres and has almost full function of his arms and hands.

When doctors told him he would have to abandon his sport for at least a year it was another painful blow.

But he is keen to promote the neck brace to downhill enthusiasts.

"I can't really recommend them enough."

Caleb's mother, Lee Manson, said as a nurse she had been aware of the risk of neck and spinal injuries.

"He was increasing his speeds and wanting to race and in the end we thought: 'We can't risk it'.

"And it was the best $600 we've ever spent, " she said.

261. http://www.voxy.co.nz/national/injured-mountain-biker-airlifted/5/114022

Injured mountain biker airlifted

Contributor:
Voxy News Engine
Saturday, 4 February, 2012 - 18:02

The Baytrust Rescue Helicopter was called to the Whakarewarewa Forest Saturday afternoon at approximately 16:25pm to assist the Rotorua St. John's Ambulance Service with an injured mountain biker.

The 34 year old Auckland man was mountain biking through the Whakarewarewa Forest, approximately 7kms to the southeast of Rotorua, with a small group of riders and came off his bike.

St. John's was initially called to the scene of the accident and tended to the man's injuries. Due to the remote location of the accident scene and the possiblity of spinal injury, the Baytrust Rescue Helicopter was called to the scene to airlift the man from the forest back to the Rotorua Hospital in a comfortable position.

262. http://www.stuff.co.nz/dominion-post/news/6370004/Bike-race-victim-competing-with-son

Bike race victim competing with son

SHANE COWLISHAW
Last updated 05:00 06/02/2012

A Wellington man who died of a heart attack during a mountainbike race was taking part in the event with his son.

James Craig, 53, was in the early stages of the Port Nicholson Poneke/College Sport Wellington Mountain Bike Championships at the Wainuiomata Mountain Bike Park when he stopped after feeling dizzy, then collapsed.

Another competitor stopped and attempted to resuscitate Mr Craig, but was unsuccessful.

Race organiser Mark Renall said Mr Craig's teenage son, Oliver, was competing in the junior section.

"I didn't know what he [Oliver] looked like ... it was terrible but I found him and just told him, 'I've got terrible news, you're father's died."'

It had been known that Mr Craig had a heart condition but it was terrible he had died while exercising, Mr Renall said.

"Most of the time mountain biking keeps you fit, but there's always that one in a 1000 chance."

Family friend Ian Paintin said Mr Craig, who worked in kitchen joinery and lived in Wellington, had suffered a heart attack about 10 years ago but since then had taken his second chance and improved his health through exercise.

With two young children and a wife, he realised he would not get far in his unfit state and embraced mountain biking.

"Jim was a guy who was really trying to get the best out of life ... I suspect if he hadn't turned his life around this would have happened a lot earlier. It's a risk you take. "

263. This was not covered in the local media at all but the following death notice came
from the News Press and the account after that from the KTLU website.
He died on Jan 31, 2012

SANBORN, Matthew Bruce: 42; of Santa Barbara; died Jan. 31; private viewing was held Friday at McDermott-Crockett Mortuary; service 4 p.m. today at Trinity Evangelical Lutheran Church; memorial contributions to Rancho Sordo Mudo, in care of Hope Community Church, 560 N. La Cumbre St., Santa Barbara 93100.

A Carpinteria man died after he crashed his bike while riding the Cold Spring Trail in Montecito late Tuesday (Jan 31) afternoon. Several other riders had stopped to help revive him, but to no avail. Matthew Sanborn, said to be in his early 40s, was reportedly wearing a helmet at the time of the accident. Its not clear if he lost control of his bike or had struck something on the trail. He had been living in Carpinteria for the past few years.

264. http://www.grough.co.uk/magazine/2012/03/22/mountain-biker-airlifted-after-forest-crash

Mountain biker airlifted after forest crash

John McHale, Reporter
Thursday 22 March 2012 02:36 PM GMT
Gisburn Forest. Photo: Tom Richardson CC-BY-SA-2.0

A mountain biker was airlifted to hospital after suffering an injury when he came off his machine.

Two mountain rescue teams went to the aid of the 35-year-old man who crashed at the popular Gisburn Forest site in Lancashire.

Bowland Pennine Mountain Rescue Team was joined by colleagues from the Cave Rescue Organisation after being alerted at 12.30pm today.

The biker lost control on a jump and hit a tree, suffering a serious ankle injury.

Paramedics treated the man at the scene and he was stretchered a short distance out of the forest to a waiting ambulance, which then drove him to the nearby air ambulance for the flight to hospital and further treatment.

265. http://m.mercurynews.com/sjm/db_259623/contentdetail.htm?contentguid=bnlifCJ8

Santa Rosa: Mountain bicyclist found unconscious in Annadel State Park dies
Bay City News Service
Posted: 03/22/2012 5:46 PM

A man who was found unconscious in Annadel State Park east of Santa Rosa on Wednesday afternoon died at Santa Rosa Memorial Hospital later that day.

The Sonoma County coroner's office today identified the man as 56-year-old Stanley Stawasz of Santa Rosa. An autopsy is scheduled for Friday morning.

The Bennett Valley Fire Department received a call around 4:45 p.m. Wednesday about a male mountain bike rider who was down at the intersection of the Canyon and Marsh trails in the park.

He was flown by REACH helicopter to Santa Rosa Memorial Hospital around 5:30 p.m., a Bennett Valley Fire Department spokesman said.

Stawasz died at the hospital at 5:51 p.m., according to the coroner's office.

266. http://www.stuff.co.nz/southland-times/news/6640558/Mountainbiker-dies

Mountainbiker dies

Last updated 17:25 26/03/2012

A man died while mountainbiking on farmland near the Snow Farm skifield in the Cardrona Valley around 2.30pm this afternoon.

A Wanaka police spokeswoman confirmed the man had died but could not not yet release the cause of death.

Spokesman for farm owner Sam Lee said the man was a member of a group that had sought permission to mountainbike on his family's farmland.

He believed the incident was not caused by a crash or collision while the man had been biking.

267. http://www.grough.co.uk/magazine/2012/03/25/mountain-biker-helps-injured-buddy-from-fell-before-rescue

Mountain biker helps injured buddy from fell before rescue

Liz Roberts, Reporter
Sunday 25 March 2012 09:10 PM GMT
The mountain biker was injured in the Kentmere valley

An injured mountain biker was rescued after her companion helped her part of the way down a fellside.

Kendal Mountain Rescue Team went to the aid of the woman after being alerted by police yesterday, Saturday, at 4pm.

The biker had injured her hip in the incident in the Kentmere valley.

A spokesperson for the rescue team said: Fortunately, her companion had helped her some distance down the fell before going ahead to call for help from the first house he came to in Kentmere.

We found them without difficulty at Hallow Bank Quarter where the casualty was treated by team members before being stretchered to one of our Land Rovers.

The team vehicle took the woman to Barley Bridge, Staveley, where it was met by an ambulance which took the cyclist to hospital.

The team also took the pairs mountain bikes to Kentmere village.

268. http://www.scene.co.nz/tourist-dies-minutes-after-starting-mountain-bike-ride/298174a1.page

Tourist dies minutes after starting mountain bike ride

27 Mar 2012

Queenstown Bike Taxis owner Jono Head

The British tourist who died while mountain biking was only a few minutes into his downhill excursion with Queenstown Bike Taxis.

Philip Ross Bergman, 26, collapsed shortly after 2pm yesterday (Monday) at Dirt Park which operates as ski resort Snow Park in winter in the Cardrona Valley.

Queenstown Bike Taxis owner Jono Head says he drove the man and a group of about 10 riders from Queenstown to the park.

Theyd been on their bikes for probably two or three minutes, stopped where two tracks join and walked 30-40m up the other track to have a look at a feature and then the young guys collapsed, he says.

Bergman's friends performed CPR immediately and contacted emergency services as well as Head, who was driving down the mountain access road.

The group that was with him did exceptionally well everything that should have happened did happen.

Detective sergeant Derek Shaw, from the Wanaka police, says Bergman came off his bike moments before the group stopped at an area known as the Rock Drop, where he collapsed.

It was more of a light tumble than a major crash, Shaw says.

We suspect the fall was a result of the medical event rather than his death being a result of injuries by the fall.

We dont believe that its a suspicious death in any way. The final outcome will be determined by the coroner.

Head, who regularly takes tours to Dirt Park, describes the terrain as steep, rocky and challenging.

But the section that they were on was pretty easy going it was the first run of the day so they would have been taking their time. Its just a huge shock to have somebody collapse like that, Head says.

Im happy to help out where I can and obviously thoughts are with the friends and family. If they need any form of assistance Id be happy to help them out.

Shaw says a Queenstown helicopter promptly flew to the area, and a paramedic on board pronounced Bergman dead at the scene.

Bergman had been living in North East Valley in Dunedin since travelling around New Zealand for the Rugby World Cup. Hed taken a trip to Queenstown for the weekend with mates, Shaw says.

Bergman was born in Australia but spent most of his life in the United Kingdom. Family in Perth and Herefordshire have been notified.

A post mortem is being carried out today.

http://www.odt.co.nz/news/queenstown-lakes/203154/tributes-flow-after-sudden-death-mountain-biker

Tributes flow after sudden death of mountain biker

Home » News » Queenstown Lakes

By Lucy Ibbotson on Wed, 28 Mar 2012

News: Queenstown Lakes

British tourist Philip Bergman, who died during a mountain biking trip on the Pisa Range on Monday. Photo supplied.

The British man who collapsed and died during a a mountain biking trip near Snow Park on the Pisa Range on Monday was a "top bloke" whose greatest passion was mountain biking, according to the friend who was with him when he died.

Tributes were flowing yesterday for Philip Ross Bergman (26), of Weston, Herefordshire, England, who came to New Zealand in September to follow the England team's Rugby World Cup matches and had lived in Dunedin since then.

Mr Bergman and friend John Consitt (30), from Cambridge, UK, were flatting together in Dunedin, and were among a group of 10 people taking part in the bike ride organised by Queenstown Bike Taxis.

The group had been biking for just a few minutes, around 2pm, when Mr Bergman had a minor fall from his bike at an area known as Rock Drop. He stood up and immediately collapsed.

"He started having like a seizure or a fit of some sort ... and it lasted for a few minutes," Mr Consitt said.

Mr Bergman was "struggling to breathe" and fellow cyclists, including Mr Consitt, and staff from Queenstown Bike Taxis carried out CPR on him after calling 111. A medical team arrived by air, but Mr Bergman was declared dead at the scene.

Sport, in particular mountain biking, was Mr Bergman's "passion", Mr Consitt said. He had been loving his time in New Zealand.

"I met him seven months ago in a hostel . . . he was always smiling and got on with everyone. He was just a top bloke."

Another friend, Lori Heinz (29), of Dunedin, described Mr Bergman as a "fantastic guy" who was mad about mountain biking.

"Not too many people get to pass away in the middle of doing something they love," she said.

Queenstown woman Ruby Mann (30) first met Mr Bergman during the Rugby World Cup and the pair tried snowboarding together for the first time. Mr Bergman had enjoyed it so much he had bought a season pass for the Queenstown skifields and was "very excited" about pursuing the sport further this winter.

Mr Bergman had worked for Crown Relocations in Dunedin since October and his employer, Dave Tozer, Crown's Otago/Southland area manager and Dunedin branch manager, described him as a "really popular person" within the company.

"It's been really really hard for everyone here to try and get their head around what's happened."

Those who knew Mr Bergman were not aware he had any pre-existing medical conditions.

"He's always come across as fit and healthy and active," Mr Consitt said.

Mr Consitt praised the other bikers who had helped with resuscitation attempts, especially Queenstown Bike Taxis owner Jono Head.

"He was fantastic and did everything that he could do and he was very professional."

Mr Bergman's father in Western Australia and his mother in the United Kingdom had been advised of his death and were "understandably devastated", Detective Sergeant Derek Shaw said. Support for the British-based family is being given via the British High Commission in Wellington, and Victim Support in New Zealand is assisting local friends.

A postmortem examination on Mr Bergman will be carried out in Dunedin.

The matter is not being treated as suspicious by police and has been referred to the Southern coroner.

lucy.ibbotson@odt.co.nz

269. http://www.examiner.com/mountain-biking-in-phoenix/mountain-biker-dies-during-ride-second-fatality-since-february

mountain biking | March 26, 2012

Mountain biker dies during ride - second fatality since February

Justin Schmid
Phoenix Mountain Biking Examiner
A mountain biker died during a ride Saturday at McDowell Mountain Regional Park, marking the second fatality on its trails this year.
According to park officials, a man was part of an out-of-town group visiting Arizona to watch spring training games and ride their mountain bikes. Its not clear if his crash was caused by a known heart problem or if he lost control of his bike. The crash happened on the lower Tonto Tank Trail.
The riders friends did not have cell phones and were not trained in cardiopulmonary resuscitation. Emergency responders were not able to revive the rider. A delayed response was believed to have resulted from not having a cell phone at the accident scene.
It is beyond sad that two mountain bikers, both experienced riders, would suffer fatal injuries this spring, says a source at the park. The first could be traced back to a mechanical failure. The cause of the second has not been determined.
Park staff also recommends that riders always check their equipment, ensuring that all components are secure and that all bolts and clamps are secure. Its also important to ride within your abilities.
The accident also underscores the importance of riding with a cell phone. Helmets and water are also essential for any ride.
Earlier in the day, local riders held a memorial ride for Ron Cadiente, the mountain biker who died during a February crash on the Competitive Track. Participants pitched in for the Ron Cadiente Memorial Fund. According to a post on MTBR.com, the event raised enough to fund a bench, a tree and a sign to honor Cadiente. There is also a Facebook page for the event.

Continue reading on Examiner.com Mountain biker dies during ride - second fatality since February - Phoenix mountain biking | Examiner.com http://www.examiner.com/mountain-biking-in-phoenix/mountain-biker-dies-during-ride-second-fatality-since-february#ixzz1qN0lF3At

270. http://www.thisisgloucestershire.co.uk/Mountain-biker-airlifted-hospital-Malverns-crash/story-15635131-detail/story.html

Mountain biker airlifted to hospital after Malverns crash

Tuesday, March 27, 2012

This is Gloucestershire

A MOUNTAIN bike rider from Newent fractured his collar bone in a crash on the Malvern Hills.

The 32-year-old had to be airlifted from the area after the accident at British Camp yesterday afternoon at 1.25pm.

Air ambulance

He had been coming down a moss and heather covered hillside when he came off his bike and rolled down the steep slope.

West Midlands Ambulance Service was alerted to the incident and the Midlands Air Ambulance from Strensham was sent to the scene.

A WMAS spokesman said: Unfortunately, the rider had suffered a nasty fracture to his collar bone. He was given pain relief before being airlifted to Worcestershire Royal Hospital.

Although he has suffered a nasty injury, he was fortunate not to have been more seriously hurt, as he was not wearing a cycle helmet at the time. The moss, heather and soft ground cushioned his fall.

A second incident took place on Pinnacle Hill on the east side of Malvern Hills just before 3.00pm.

A 64-year-old Malvern man had been launching his paraglider from the hillside when it got caught by a gust of wind. The man was dropped about six feet onto the ground and suffered a fractured dislocation of his left ankle.

The WMAS spokesman continued: Initially a paramedic in a rapid response vehicle and a community first responder were sent to the scene. Given the location they asked for an air ambulance and the Midlands Air Ambulance from Stensham, which was just finishing handing over the initial patient from the Malvern Hills, and flew straight back to the area.

The aircraft had to land a short distance away due to their being lots of other parachutes in the area. After the area was made safe, the helicopter repositioned closer to the patient.

The crew of the air ambulance helped reduce the fracture before the man was airlifted to the same hospital (Worcestershire Royal Hospital)

Last October, West Midlands Ambulance Service highlighted the issue of wearing cycle helmets.

The Trusts Medical Director, Dr Andy Carson, said: While wearing a helmet does not reduce the risk of injury entirely, it does significantly reduce the extent of injuries to the head, brain and those to the upper and mid face.

Cycle helmets do not need to be expensive but could make the difference between life and death. The cost is surely a price worth paying.

A high profile supporter of cycle helmets is former Olympic rowing gold medallist James Cracknell. In July 2010, he was cycling in a charity event near Phoenix in Arizona when he received a direct hit on the back of his head from the wing mirror of a fuel tanker which was travelling at around 70mph.

James suffered two skull fractures leaving his brain swollen and bruised. Even today he has not fully recovered. In his own words: If I hadnt been wearing a helmet, Id be dead! Find out more by watching his video: [see web page]

271. http://www.thewestmorlandgazette.co.uk/news/9617728.Mountain_bike_accidents_on_rise_in_Lake_District/

Mountain bike accidents on rise in Lake District

11:00am Thursday 29th March 2012 in News By Steven Bell , Reporter

Lake District mountain rescue teams have seen a significant increase in mountain bike accidents over the past year.

The annual report of the Lake District Search and Mountain Rescue Association (LDSMRA) published this week shows that the number of incidents and fatalities fell sharply in 2011.

Cumbrias 12 rescue teams were called out 424 times last year, compared to 600 in 2010 a decrease of 29 per cent.

And the number of deaths dropped 43 per cent down from 30 to 17.

Some 499 people needed help in 2011, down from 676 the previous year, with falls and people getting lost the most common calls.

The lower numbers are being put down to a drop in visitor numbers and a less severe winter.

However, mountain bike accidents, including one which led to a death, have jumped 160 per cent with 26 accidents in 2011, compared to ten last year.

Ged Feeney, incident report officer at LDSMRA, said such accidents were rising because of an increase in the number of mountain bike trails in the area and more people taking part.

People are taking up the sport and not realising the danger, said Mr Feeney.

If you hit a tree at 30mph the tree is going to win and there is a tendency for people to over-estimate their ability when assessing whether they go down a particular route.

We are advising caution when trying a new trail.

The latest incident happened on Saturday when Kendal Mountain Rescue Team was called to help a woman with an injured hip in Kentmere.

She was helped down from a fell by a friend before they called for help at Hallow Bank Quarter.

Team members treated the cyclist before carrying her to a Land Rover, which took her to a waiting ambulance at Barley Bridge, Staveley.

Kendal team leader Eddie Harrison said the cyclist was well equipped and that people should enjoy such activities.

Take all the safety procedures you can and enjoy it, said Mr Harrison. Accidents do happen, just take extra care and go prepared.

Ian Boydon, author of the Mountain Biking in the Lake District guidebook, said there were significant health benefits from mountain biking.

You do see more riders on the trails now than ten years ago and that will inevitably lead to more incidents, he said.

Mountain biking is fantastic and a great way to enjoy the spectacular landscape of the Lake District. However, people need to remember it is an extreme sport and they should ride within their abilities and wear safety gear such as helmets.

The report also revealed that water sports incidents had risen since 2010 with three of the seven call-outs last year being fatalities. Rescuers said it highlighted the need for training and supervision.

272. http://middletown-ct.patch.com/articles/website-aims-to-help-former-durham-man-injured-while-mountain-biking

Website Raises Money for Coginchaug Grad Hurt Mountain Biking in Calif.

Friends of Coginchaug High School graduate Mike Turner have created an online fundraiser to help him cover medical expenses after he was severely injured last weekend while mountain biking.

By Michael Hayes
March 31, 2012

Friends of a Coginchaug High School graduate injured while mountain biking in California last weekend have launched a website to help raise money to pay for his medical expenses.

28-year-old Michael Turner was mountain biking with a friend near his home in Three Rivers, CA, on March 24, when he lost his balance and hit his head on a fallen tree.

"I immediately reached for my head and it felt like there was a golf ball behind my jaw," Turner said in a phone interview from a hospital on Friday. "My friend, who was riding behind me, asked if I was okay and I went to answer him and I realized I could only move half my face."

Hospital tests revealed that Turner had been impaled by a 5-inch stick which had entered the back of his jaw and nearly pierced the base of his skull. The stick damaged a facial nerve, leaving the right side of his face paralyzed, doctors at the Community Regional Medical Center told him.

But Turner, a seasonal employee for the National Parks Service, said he spent the next four days waiting for the hospital to decide whether he would be transfered to UC Davis Medical Center, where specialsits could perform the surgery to remove the stick.

Eventually, he was denied because he lacked medical insurance.

Finally on Thursday, five days after the accident, Turner underwent 8-hours of surgery to remove the stick part of which he kept at CRMC.

The surgery was successful and Turner is expected to be released from the hospital today. He said he's been told it could take up to a year to fully recover.

In the meantime, Turner's friends have created a website youcaring.com to help him pay for his exisiting medical expenses and future bills.

"He's really a wonderful person and he works really hard," said Kristine Teets, who's known Turner since the two were graduate students at UConn. Teets said she created the website after talking with friends about what they could do to help Turner.

By Friday evening, the website had raised more than $10,000 for his medical expenses. The goal is $50,000, according to Teets.

"I think a lot of people our age right now are underemployed or not employed and don't have insurance," she said. "Hearing what happened to him just breaks your heart."

Turner, who was a member of Coginchaug's cross country and track teams before graduating in 2002, said he's not able to afford health insurance because of college loan debt, rent and other living expenses.

"This outpouring of support from strangers and loved ones is more than I could ever ask for," he said.

273. http://wellington.scoop.co.nz/?p=43806

Helicopter rescues mountain biker, injured in Belmont Park

March 31, 2012Latest Headlines, Police, PressRelease0 comments

Press Release Life Flight Trust
At 11:30am this morning the Life Flight Trust responded to Belmont Regional Park in Lower Hutt where a 62 year old man from Alicetown had been mountain biking with a group of friends when he fell from his bike while riding down a hill.

Life Flight responded with a Wellington Free Ambulance Paramedic on board the Westpac Rescue Helicopter. The helicopter was able to land next to the injured man.

A Wellington Free Ambulance Paramedic was already at the scene after driving there in a 4 wheel drive vehicle.

After being treated by the Paramedics at the scene, the patient was flown to Wellington Hospital Emergency Department where he was treated for his injuries.

The Life Flight Trust is a charity providing air rescue and air ambulance services. It operates the Wellington based Westpac Rescue Helicopter and a national air ambulance service. It relies on support from the public and sponsorship from partners such as Westpac to provide these services. Further information can be obtained from www.lifeflight.org.nz

274. http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-south-scotland-17583393

2 April 2012 Last updated at 04:36 ET

Innerleithen biker injured in forest crash

A mountain biker has been airlifted to hospital after a serious crash on a forest trail in the Scottish Borders.

The incident happened on Sunday morning on one of the popular routes at Innerleithen.

The male rider suffered a serious crash on a downhill section of the trails and is reported to have several broken bones.

He remains in hospital after the accident and his condition has been described as stable.

275. http://www.voxy.co.nz/national/injured-mountain-biker-airlifted/5/120077

Injured mountain biker airlifted

Voxy News Engine
Saturday, 7 April, 2012 - 17:29

A Life Flight Trust team has this morning airlifted an injured mountain biker from the Belmont Regional Park in Wellington.

The Westpac Rescue Helicopter, with a Wellington Free Ambulance paramedic onboard, was called at approximately 10.00am this morning.

The helicopter was able to land close to the patient who had fallen from his mountain bike after striking some hidden fence posts.

The rider, a 35 year old Wellington man, was given pain relief at the scene and then transported to Wellington Hospital Emergency Department, where he is being assessed for a suspected fractured collar bone.

276. http://cfjctv.com/story.php?id=8272

Mountain biker seriously injured in Kenna Cartwright park
Air Ambulance lands in park to take man to hospital
Last Updated: Saturday, April 21st, 2012 | 11:17am PDTStory by: Doug Herbert

A man was taken to Royal Inland Hospital this morning with serious injuries after a bad mountain biking crash in Kenna Cartwright park.

Assistant Fire Chief Mike Adams says Kamloops Fire and Rescue were called to the scene along with BC Ambulance around 830.

Adams says Ambulance officials then requested an air ambulance be brought in.

He says they were lucky there was an area nearby that could act as a landing zone.

Ambulance officials say the man's injuries are considered serious but non life threatening.

277. http://latimesblogs.latimes.com/lanow/2012/04/mountain-biker-dies-in-palm-springs-heat.html

Mountain biker dies in Palm Springs heat

April 21, 2012 | 8:59pm

A cyclist died in triple-digit heat while riding on a mountain bike trail in Palm Springs on Saturday afternoon, authorities said.

The cyclist was riding in the hills above the Araby Cove neighborhood when he became dehydrated and collapsed, police and fire authorities said. A paramedic with the Palm Springs Fire Department flew by helicopter to treat the downed cyclist and pronounced him dead on the trail.

Police are continuing an investigation but do not suspect foul play.

The temperature reached 105 degrees Saturday.

-- Kenneth R. Weiss

278. http://www.thebostonchannel.com/news/30937569/detail.html

Man Injured In Mountain Biking Accident

Victim Strikes Head After Flying Over Handle Bars

POSTED: 4:23 pm EDT April 22, 2012

GROTON, Mass. -- A Chelmsford man was hospitalized Sunday morning after a mountain biking accident in Groton.

Friends said Ed Dean, 53, was riding his bike in the woods off Cow Pond Brook Road at about 10 a.m. when he lost control and flipped over the handle bars, striking his head.

Dean told his friends to call 911 because he said he could not feel his lower extremities.

Dean was transported to UMass Memorial Medical Center where his condition is unknown.

Read more: http://www.thebostonchannel.com/news/30937569/detail.html#ixzz1sp5EyusD

279. http://www.eveningtribune.com/newsnow/x1364624718/State-police-report-fatality-in-weekend-mountain-bike-race

State police report fatality in weekend mountain bike race

By Staff reports
The Evening Tribune
Posted Apr 23, 2012 @ 02:33 PM

Bath-based state police reported today that a Rochester man died in a mountain bike race Sunday. Police aren't sure of the cause of death, but said nothing criminal is suspected.

The victim, Eric O'Brein, 46, was participating in a mountain bike race in the Prattsburgh-Wheeler area in Steuben County when he fell over on Canen Hill Road.

People attending the race discovered the man wasn't breathing and started administering CPR and called 911, according to state police.

The man was transported to Ira Davenport Hospital in Bath, where he was pronounced.

State police said O'Brein's family has been notified.

280. http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-17908231

Mountain biker Alex Kaiser found dead after competition practice

Police are investigating the cause of death of Alex Kaiser, 28.

A mountain biker who was reported missing after he had practised for a competition has been found dead.

Alex Kaiser, 28, from Bristol, had been taking part in a practice session ahead of a Welsh Downhill Mountain Biking Association competition.

His body was found by police on Monday inside a van at a car park near the competition venue in Rheola near Glynneath in south Wales.

Police are treating his death as unexplained.

The coroner has been informed.

Mr Kaiser, who was an electrical engineer, was last seen alive during practice for a Welsh Downhill Mountain Biking Association competition on Saturday.

Friends and family launched an appeal for Mr Kaiser when he failed to contact his fiancee when expected.

A search of the area was conducted by police, before they discovered his body in a silver VW Caddy van he had rented for the weekend.

Mr Kaiser had been due to get married in eight weeks.

Originally from Manchester, Mr Kaiser was on the committee of the Bristol Mountain Bike Club.

A spokesman for the group said: "Alex was found in his van.

"Unfortunately it looks like he passed away in his sleep. He was a valued member of our club and will be missed by many people."

Mr Kaiser was said to have been trying out a bike he had just bought during the downhill practice session in Rheola.

281. http://livermore.patch.com/articles/mountain-biker-rescued-after-falling-down-ravine

Mountain Biker Rescued After Falling Down Ravine

Man suffers moderate injuries and transported by helicopter to hospital.
ByKristofer Noceda
May 1, 2012

Firefighters on Tuesday rescued a mountain biker who fell down a ravine around the Arroyo Road area, officials said.

At 11:15 a.m., firefighters from Alameda County Fire Department's Station 8 and Livermore-Pleasanton Fire Department's Station 9 were sent to the 5500 block of Arroyo Road, near the Del Valle Dam, for a report of a man that fell down a ravine.

"The man was riding along a trail and unfortunately he ended up down a 25-foot ravine," said Captain Todd Rueppel, Engine 99 LPFD.

The biker suffered moderate injuries from the fall, Rueppel said.

When fire crews arrived on scene they had to hike up several hundred yards to get to the injured man.

Firefighters, who placed the man in a basket, used ropes to securely haul him out of the ravine, Rueppel said. The man was then flown by helicopter to a hospital.

The area was cleared of the incident at 12:40 p.m.

282. http://www.insidehalton.com/news/article/1349464--mountain-bike-rider-rescued

Mountain bike rider rescued

Mountain bike rider rescued. The male rider suffered the mishap on one of the trails and needed to be carried out in a backboard by Milton firefighters ,who assisted Halton EMS paramedics in the rescue . Graham Paine/Canadian Champion
Emergency crews responded to the upper trail system of Kelso Conservation Area, off of Steeles Avenue, for reports of an injured mountain bike rider with possible head and neck injuries Saturday around 7 p.m.

The male rider suffered the mishap on one of the mountain biking trails and needed to be carried out on a backboard by Milton firefighters, who assisted Halton EMS paramedics in the rescue.

The injured rider was transported to hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.

283. http://www.grough.co.uk/magazine/2012/05/07/mountain-biker-airlifted-after-suffering-chest-injuries

Mountain biker airlifted after suffering chest injuries

Liz Roberts, Reporter
Monday 07 May 2012 02:40 PM GMT

The accident happened near Hesbert Hall. Photo: Michael Graham CC-BY-SA-2.0

A mountain biker was airlifted to hospital after crashing at a popular forest venue.

The 39-year-old man came off his machine on a trail in Gisburn Forest in Lancashire, yesterday.

The biker suffered chest injuries in the accident near Hesbert Hall and Bowland Pennine Mountain Rescue Team went to his aid shortly before 2pm.

Paramedics from an air ambulance treated the man and he was then flown to hospital for further treatment.

284. http://www.theprovince.com/news/Mountain+biker+killed+Monday+Cypress+Mountain/6581546/story.html

Mountain biker killed on Cypress Mountain trail

By Cheryl Chan, The ProvinceMay 7, 2012 7:14 PM

The body of a mountain biker was recovered from a Cypress Mountain trail Monday afternoon. The death does not seem suspicious, said police.

Photograph by: Stuart Davis, PNG

The body of a mountain biker killed Monday afternoon on Cypress Mountain has been recovered.

The cyclist an unidentified man in his 40s was on the Coiler Trail, near the West Lake Access Road, at about the 10 km mark of Cypress Bowl Road with a friend when he was fatally injured.

At this stage of the investigation, nothing appears suspicious, said Const. Tammy Khorram of West Vancouver Police.

It sounds like a tragic biking accident.

It is not known yet whether the man was wearing a helmet. Police do not yet know what caused the trauma.

The friend is not injured.

The accident occurred in mountainous terrain, requiring the assistance of North Shore Search and Rescue to recover the body.

Police are withholding the identity of the man pending notification of kin.

The B.C. Coroners Service is also investigating.

More to come.

chchan@theprovince.com

http://metronews.ca/news/vancouver/218384/dead-mountain-biker-was-experienced-and-prepared-police/

May 9, 2012Updated: May 9, 2012 | 8:05 pm

Dead mountain biker was experienced and prepared: police

By Kate WebbMetro Vancouver

Metro/Courtesy T-H via Flickr A mountain biker died Monday after jumping over three metres off a wooden ladder bridge at Cypress Mountain, similar to this one, going over his handle bars and hitting a tree.

New details have emerged about the accident that killed a 43-year-old mountain biker at Cypress Mountain Monday.

West Vancouver Police say the Vancouver man was an experienced mountain biker who was well familiar with the terrain, riding a bike with full suspension, and wearing a full helmet, goggles, body armour and gloves.

He was riding with two friends when he attempted a jump in steep terrain on a trail called Coiler. The jump consists of a wooden ladder bridge that sends the rider over a log to a landing point nearly two metres down and three metres away from the takeoff point.

After he landed he flew over his handlebars and hit a tree. He died at the scene, despite the best efforts of his friends to save him.

It happened near the West Lake Access Road, around the 10-km mark on Cypress Bowl Road.

Police are calling it an unfortunate and tragic accident involving a very experienced and prepared rider.

285. Mountain Biker's Near Death Experience

Mountain biking carnage season has, once again, begun on our North Shore (the following incident happened on a DNV-jurisdiction Seymour Trail called "Neds Atomic Dustbin" -
North Shore Mountain Biking Forums (http://bb.nsmb.com/index.php)
- The Shore (http://bb.nsmb.com/forumdisplay.php?f=3)
- - Rider Down on Neds (http://bb.nsmb.com/showthread.php?t=148706)

HaamStacks 05-17-2012 12:50 AM

Rider Down on Neds
Big thanks to the riders who helped us out today.

Rudy made it out ok, with a broken clavicle, concussion and a deep gash on his right stomach/hip. Doc said that whatever cut him, had it not glanced off his pelvis, it would have sliced through the abdominal wall. Ugly.

Anyways, we are appreciative of all the help from passing riders. The camaraderie shown today was impressive to say the least.

Sharon 05-17-2012 09:09 AM

Glad you buddy is ok!

stimpy 05-17-2012 09:35 AM

Glad to hear he's ok. Didn't look too good when we rolled by. Thanks to NS rescue and fire fighters too! That's a long slog for them to get there with a stretcher!

AussieDreamZ 05-17-2012 09:52 AM

Healing vibes to your mate, I echo Stimpy, he did not look to good when my group swung buy either, so glad to hear it sounds like he'll heal up all good :)

286. http://www.gazettelive.co.uk/news/teesside-news/2012/05/18/teesside-dad-thanks-his-rescuers-after-bike-accident-84229-30996436/

Teesside dad thanks his rescuers after bike accident

by Sophie Barley, Evening Gazette
May 18 2012

A MAN left injured for two hours in Guisborough Woods after a horror bike accident has thanked the team that rescued him.

Dad-of-one James Hopper, 38, fell forward over the handlebars of his friends mountain bike, breaking his wrist and elbow. He tried to walk the four miles back to the visitor centre but collapsed after 200 yards.

The North-east Air Ambulance service and the Cleveland Mountain Rescue Team attempted to get to Mr Hopper but struggled because of his location.

The mountain rescue team eventually got there and transferred Mr Hopper to an ambulance which took him to James Cook University Hospital in Middlesbrough.

He said: We were quite far into the wood and there was nowhere for the helicopter to stop.

The gates at the Pinchinthorpe Visitor Centre were locked so the mountain rescue team couldnt get into the woods that way meaning they had to use a different route.

I want to thank both crews for coming out. I do feel very lucky - my mate Darren Gofton, who was with me, was great too. He kept speaking to the mountain rescue team and the ambulance on the phone while we waited.

Mr Hopper, of Middlesbrough, dad to Lauren, 13, is a support worker at the Mind Project which works with young people who have learning difficulties and autism.

He is a keen mountain biker and regularly rides in Guisborough Woods. He said: We go out most weekends. When the accident happened I was on my friend Robertos bike. The brakes on his bike are a lot stronger than mine.

I fell forward over the handlebars and put my arms out to land.

At first I thought I would be able to walk but I collapsed. I then just went in and out of consciousness.

I remember seeing the helicopter hovering above and my friend saying thats not going to be able to land there. The accident hasnt put me off biking though.

The Gazette reported the incident on Tuesday as part of a double drama for the Cleveland team who received two call-outs with the space of a few hours.

At the time spokesman Barry Warrington said: Our ability to respond is a reflection of the number of volunteers and resources that we are able to mobilise.

287. http://www.nzherald.co.nz/sport/news/article.cfm?c_id=4&objectid=10806984

Mountain biking: Joseph breaks wrist

2:53 PM Saturday May 19, 2012

The Olympic aspirations of mountain biker Rosara Joseph received a blow when she broke her wrist in practice for this weekend's world cup event in France. Photo / Ross Setford.

The Olympic aspirations of mountain biker Rosara Joseph received a blow when she broke her wrist in practice for this weekend's world cup event in France.

The 30-year-old Beijing Olympian suffered the injury in preparations for Monday's race at La Bresse, which is the final qualifying opportunity for the London Olympics.

Joseph, locked in a battle with fellow New Zealander Karen Hanlen for the solitary spot in the team for the cross country, has broken two bones in her wrist.

She told BikeNZ she had been taken to hospital where she will have a screw inserted into the wrist.

Joseph, who finished in the top 10 in Beijing, expects to be out of action for six weeks to eight weeks.

"It's a real blow for Rosara who was getting back to best form," BikeNZ's Andy Reid said. "I understand that La Bresse is an extremely challenging course both physically and technically and it is very disappointing news.

"That said, we are still looking for a really strong showing from Karen this weekend to show that last week's 26th placing, on the back of some mechanical problems, was an aberration.

And we definitely do not want any more injuries."

Mr Reid said he will get a more accurate medical appraisal following Joseph's surgery. The selectors will meet once the final quotas have been announced by UCI to determine the nomination of women's representative for London to present to the New Zealand Olympic Committee.

The under-23 racing, featuring three Kiwis, is on Sunday, with Hanlen the sole New Zealand now racing in the elite class on Monday.

288. http://www.kbnd.com/page.php?page_id=60247&article_id=12648
Mountain Biker Hurt Near Phil's Trail
Saturday, May 19th 2012 08:17am

On May 18, 2012 at about 2:10 p.m., 911 dispatch received a report of an injured mountain bike rider on the Whoops mountain bike trail, south of Skyliners Road. Deputies from the Deschutes County Sheriffs Office, personnel from the Deschutes County Sheriffs Office Search and Rescue (SAR) unit and US Forest Service personnel responded to the scene.

The initial investigation revealed that Mr. Sanders was riding down the Whoops trail when he failed to negotiate a turn and his mountain bike left the trail, launching him about 15 feet into the air before striking a tree. He was assessed and stabilized at the scene by SAR personnel and transported via ATV Ambu-sled litter approximately 1 mile to Skyliners Road. He was then transported via Air Link to Saint Charles Medical Center-Bend with serious injuries. Skyliners Road was closed for about 30 minutes.

http://www.ktvz.com/news/31085820/detail.html

Portland Mtn. Biker Injured on 'Whoops' TrailFrom KTVZ.COM News Sources

POSTED: 9:16 pm PDT May 18, 2012

BEND, Ore. -- A Portland man mountain biking on the “Whoops” trail

west of Bend was seriously injured Friday afternoon when he failed to

make a turn and left the trail. The crash threw him about 15 feet in

the air before he struck a tree, Deschutes County sheriff’s deputies

said.

Shortly after 2 p.m., 911 dispatchers got a report of the injured

mountain biker on the trail south of Skyliners Road, said sheriff’s

Deputy Mike Biondi, assistant search and rescue coordinator.

Sheriff’s deputies, personnel from the Sheriff’s Search and Rescue

unit and U.S. Forest Service personnel went to the scene.

Bernard Sanders, 33, of Portland, was assessed and stabilized at the

scene by SAR personnel and brought by ATV “ambu-sled” litter about a

mile to Skyliners Road. A waiting AirLink helicopter flew Sanders to

St. Charles Medical Center-Bend with serious injuries, Biondi said.

The rescue operation shut Skyliners Road for about 30 minutes, the deputy said.

289. http://sananselmofairfax.patch.com/articles/mountain-biker-takes-hard-fall-at-tamarancho

Mountain Biker Takes Hard Fall at Tamarancho

Rescue helicopter lands but isn't required for 51-year-old rider with possible broken ribs.
ByBrent Ainsworth
May 20, 2012
A 51-year-old San Francisco man crashed his mountain bike Sunday afternoon at Camp Tamarancho in Fairfax, prompting a response from Marin County Fire, Ross Valley Fire and a helicopter, sources said.

The man hit the edge of a railroad tie on the Serpentine Trail and went over the handlebars, suffering impact on his side and face, said Captain Bill Rivera of Marin County Fire.

"His nose was bloody and he had possible broken ribs on his right side, so we C-spined him and sent him to Marin General (Hospital)," Rivera said. "We treated for the worst and hoped for the best."

A rescue helicopter landed at the Camp Tamarancho grounds but was not needed, Rivera said. The crash took place about a quarter mile to the south of the Tamarancho cafeteria, he said.

290. http://www.therepublic.com/view/local_story/Man_critically_injured_in_Brow_1337613553/

Man injured in Brown County mountain biking accident

Staff Reports editorial@therepublic.com
First Posted: May 21, 2012 - 11:19 am
1:17 p.m. update

Alan Keeling, 48, of Crestwood, Ky., is in good condition today at IU Health Methodist Hospital in Indianapolis.

Original story

NASHVILLE, Ind. A Kentucky man was critically injured in a mountain biking accident at Brown County State Park.

Alan Keeling, 48, of Crestwood, Ky., was slammed face first into a fallen log after he was thrown from his mountain bike at about 4 p.m. Sunday while riding the trails at the state park, according to Indiana conservation officers.

Keeling was wearing a helmet, but he struck the log lower on his head. He suffered face and skull fractures and was flown to IU Health Methodist Hospital in Indianapolis for treatment.

Indiana Conservation Officer Brent Bohbrink investigated the accident. Nashville Volunteer Fire Department, Columbus Regional Hospital EMS and state park personnel assisted at the scene.

291. http://www.dailycamera.com/boulder-county-news/ci_20686236/boulder-county-sheriffs-office-biker-rescued-link-trail

Boulder County Sheriff's Office: Biker rescued on Link Trail

By Mitchell Byars, Camera Staff Writerdailycamera.com
Posted: 05/23/2012 07:36:08 AM MDT
May 23, 2012 1:48 PM GMTUpdated: 05/23/2012 07:47:22 AM MDT

Officials rescued a Boulder High student after he sustained a head injury while mountain biking on the Link Trail Tuesday, according to a release.

The Boulder County Sheriff's Office received the call at 6:18 p.m. Tuesday. According to the release, a 16-year-old male and his 15-year-old friend -- both students at Boulder High -- rode their bikes from Boulder up to Link Trail, located between Boulder Canyon Drive and the Betasso Preserve near 37800 Boulder Canyon Drive.

While on their way back down the trail, the victim attempted to jump over a tree stump, but his front wheel hit a rock when he landed and he fell over his handle bars. He was wearing a helmet, but was briefly knocked unconscious.

A passing mountain biker came across the accident and continued down the trail until he got cell service and called 911. Officials with the Boulder County Sheriff's Office, the Fourmile Fire Department, Rocky Mountain Rescue Group and AMR responded.

Rescuers reached the victim at 6:37 and were able to get him back down the trail and onto an ambulance by 7:18 p.m.

The victim was taken to Boulder Community Hospital. Officials did not release his current condition.

292. http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-cumbria-18217993

Mountain biker critical after Grizedale Forest fall

The man had to be stabilised before he could be moved

A 31-year-old man is in a critical condition after coming off his mountain bike in Cumbria.

The cyclist, from Cheshire, suffered serious head, neck and back injuries during the fall in Grizedale Forest.

He was taken by air ambulance for treatment at James Cook Hospital in Middlesbrough where he is "critically ill".

A spokesman for the Great North Air Ambulance Service said the man had to be stabilised before he could be moved.

293. http://www.timescall.com/news/ci_20714839/mountain-biker-injures-leg-heil-ranch-trail

Mountain biker injures leg on Heil Ranch trail

Longmont Times-Calltimescall.com
Posted: 05/26/2012 09:25:10 AM MDT
May 26, 2012 4:53 PM GMTUpdated: 05/26/2012 10:53:59 AM MDT

LYONS A 49-year-old Westminster man injured his leg while cycling on the Heil Valley Ranch Open Space's Wapiti Trail on Friday and was transported to Boulder Community Hospital.

The cyclist, identified by the Boulder County Sheriff's Office as Floyd Blankenship, was evacuated by members of the Rocky Mountain Rescue Group to a waiting AMR ambulance. A sheriff's office news release said that Blankenship's injuries were not life threatening.

The Lefthand Fire District, Boulder County park rangers, the sheriff's office, Rocky Mountain Rescue and AMR were dispatched to the Boulder County open space area south of Lyons at about 5:15 p.m. Friday.

294. http://www.canberratimes.com.au/act-news/mountain-biker-lucky-to-survive-20m-fall-20120526-1zc6t.html

Mountain biker lucky to survive 20m fall

May 27, 2012

A MOUNTAIN biker had a lucky escape after he fell 20 metres while riding in Stromlo Forest yesterday.

The 35-year-old man sustained serious injuries to his face, head and back from the fall. The ACT Ambulance Service deployed its specialised four-wheel-drive ambulance to retrieve and treat the man, who was transported to the Canberra Hospital in a stable condition.

The tracks at Stromlo Forest have been described as rocky and gruelling by mountain bikers.

295. http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-bristol-18203475

Charity ride planned in memory of mountain biker Alex Kaiser

Mr Kaiser was due to marry Sarah Hoare on 7 July

The friends of a mountain biker who was last seen alive practising for a competition are planning a charity bike ride from Manchester to Bristol.

Alex Kaiser, 28, from Bristol, went missing during a practice session ahead of a Welsh Downhill Mountain Biking Association competition last month.

His body was found by police in his van at a car park near the competition venue in Rheola in south Wales.

He was due to marry his fiancee Sarah Hoare on 7 July.

Miss Hoare said Mr Kaiser, an electrical engineer, is believed to have suffered from Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy.

The disorder, which can be brought on by strenuous exercise, is an enlargement and abnormality of the heart muscle that can cause an abnormal rhythm.

'Fantastic man'

About 35 of Mr Kaiser's friends plan to cycle 185 miles (298km) from Manchester, where he was originally from, to Bristol over three days, with others planning to cycle parts of the route.

They will be raising money for charities the Cardiomyopathy Association and Cardiac Risk in the Young.

Miss Hoare, 29, said: "Alex had an amazing approach to life, he was extremely positive and had a can-do attitude.

"We thought we needed to do something that was active, something that involved bikes.

"I thought doing this kind of cycle ride from the place where he was born and is buried to where we were due to get married would be a really exciting way to remember such a fantastic man.

"He'd absolutely have bought into it straight away and said 'I'll do it in two days, rather than three'."

The riders plan to set off from Manchester on 5 July, and arrive in Bristol for a memorial service at the farm where the couple were due to be married.

296. http://www.peninsuladailynews.com/article/20120527/news/305279994/farmer-nash-huber-recovering-after-mountain-bike-fall

Farmer Nash Huber recovering after mountain bike fall

By Jeff Chew
Peninsula Daily News

5/26/12 -05:39 PM

SEQUIM Well-known organic farmer Nash Huber, who owns Nashs Organic Produce, was recovering at home Saturday after suffering a broken jaw, a broken nose and a minor neck injury in a fall off his mountain bike that also knocked out two teeth.

Huber, 71, who frequently rides with a group of biking friends on Burnt Hill in the Olympic foothills south of Sequim, took a tumble off his bike on a steep hill a week ago Thursday, said his wife, Patty McManus, on Saturday.

Airlifted to hospital

He was airlifted to Harborview Medical Center in Seattle, where he spent two days in intensive care before he was discharged.

He returned to Harborview on Thursday for jaw surgery and will soon receive two dental implants, McManus said, adding that he will be wearing a neck brace for the next few weeks.

Hes in good shape, and hes healthy, McManus said. I have every confidence he will recover.

The doctors were very, very grateful that hes in such good shape.

Huber was at his home Saturday in the Dungeness area to the north of downtown Sequim and was able to walk around, she said.

He now has a titanium plate in his jaw it matches his bike, McManus quipped.

She credited Hubers biking buddy Ron Thompson, who has taken a wilderness survival course, with assisting Huber.

She said Thompson directed other riders with the group to guide rescuers with Clallam County Fire District No. 3, based in Sequim, to the scene.

We are grateful to him, McManus said of Thompson.

He was able to stabilize Nash.

Get-well card

Kia Armstrong, marketing manager at Nashs Organic Produce, was collecting signatures on butcher paper Saturday at Nashs booth at the Juan de Fuca Festival of the Arts in Port Angeles for a get-well card.

McManus said she expects her husband to hop back on his bike after he recovers.

He is in good shape because he rides his bike, she said.

________

Sequim-Dungeness Valley Editor Jeff Chew can be reached at 360-681-2390 or at jeff.chew@peninsuladailynews.com.

297. http://www.pressdemocrat.com/article/20120602/ARTICLES/120609898/1350?Title=Injured-cyclist-airlifted-from-Annadel-State-Park

Injured cyclist airlifted from Annadel State Park

By MARY CALLAHAN
THE PRESS DEMOCRAT

Published: Saturday, June 2, 2012 at 11:44 a.m.

A bicyclist who crashed and dislocated a shoulder while riding in Annadel State Park on Saturday was airlifted from a remote hillside trail to an ambulance waiting at Spring Lake Regional Park, emergency personnel said.

The unidentified man crashed and hurt himself late Saturday morning on Marsh Trail, about a half mile up from Canyon Trail, emergency dispatchers said.

To eliminate the time emergency medics would need to hike in and carry the bicyclist out, the Sonoma County sheriffs helicoper crew dropped a paramedic into the site who splinted the patient, packaged him up and delivered him in a basket on a long line to the ambulance waiting at Spring Lake, Bennett Valley Fire Engineer Travis Browne said.

The man, whose name was not available, was then driven to Santa Rosa Memorial Hospital for treatment, Browne said.

298. Danielle Baker's Photography Project on Scars and their Stories
http://nsmb.com/5283-vid-karla/
http://www.differentbikes.ca/images/uploads/blogs/north-vancouver/Baker_Danielle_Scars.jpg

299. http://www.alaskadispatch.com/article/moose-spree-kicking-stepping-invading-anchorage-bikers

Moose in a spree of kicking, stepping on invading Anchorage bikers

Craig Medred | Jun 08, 2012

Related

Alaska's fat-bike mania spreads its tire track across world

Mad moose are continuing to put the fear of nature into mountain bikers in Anchorage's Kincaid Park. At least four people have been kicked or stepped on by aggressive moose in recent days, and many more have been threatened.

Well-known Alaska rider Darcy Davis said she was happy she was the one who got stomped Tuesday and not the 12-year-old behind her. Davis had just led a group of cyclists out from a crowded parking lot not far from Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport onto some new single-track trails to watch a bike race.

"I was under the naive impression that I hadn't heard of anyone having trouble for a while, so it was OK," she said. "We were not riding real fast, just cruising along. We came around a corner, and this cow moose with baby in tow came charging at me."

Davis had just enough time jump off her bike to duck and cover.

Rider trampled

"It was remarkably quick," she said. "Like, holy crap. I survived this, and it was over ... and my bike is OK."

The moose basically trampled the woman as the riders behind her scattered to give it room to flee. "My arms got kicked,'' Davis said a couple days later. "I'm sore, but I'm feeling better. I'm pretty lucky."

A moose sent cyclist Carla Smith to the hospital on May 26. But for the helmet she was wearing, she believes she might be dead.

"During my attack," she reported, "I was on my right side in the fetal position and was able to curl up enough to protect my vital organs. Getting my head beat pretty good made me think I was done for, but the bike helmet saved my life ... my injuries included a hematoma on the back of my left thigh the size of a cantelope (still healing almost two weeks later), along with a 3-inch deep contusion a little lower that needed to be stapled.

"We were thinking she must have had a branch on her hoof that stabbed my leg, or perhaps a sharp hoof. My legs are bruised up and down from her stomping me and my bike helmet is cracked and dented in," Smith reported.

All of this despites Smith's efforts to escape after a chance, close-range encounter with a cow and calf: "I got off the bike and lunged into/under a spruce tree since it was the only security around besides under my bike. (But) she stomped the crap out of me, my head, my shoulder, my legs. My friend was riding behind me and was finally able to yell at her enough so she would leave me."

Once mad moose get pumped up on adrenaline, they don't much seem to care if you are trying to get out of the way or not. Cyclist Bruce Ross tells a story similar to that of Smith. He, too, tried to get out of the way only to have a moose do a two-step on him repeatedly. He was sore for days. Most riders are aware of how dangerous moose can be. They have stomped two people to death in recent years in Anchorage.

"We were thinking we'd be safe," said Darcy's husband, Mark. "There were a ton of people out there" for the bike race. Many people thought that might encourage the moose, usually human-fearing creatures, to retreat to quiet corners of the park and hide. But it obviously didn't work out that way.

Sometimes it doesn't.

Anchorage touts itself as home to The Big Wild Life, but sometimes it can be a little too wild. Darcy is not the first member of the Davis family to suffer an ugly encounter with a large, wild animal in town. Her daughter, Petra, nearly died after being mauled by a grizzly bear during a bike race four years ago.

Petra, then 15, eventually got back on the bike and is now racing again. The moose stomping of her mother did, however, leave her a little rattled.

"I guess, to be honest, it was harder on Petra than Marcy," Mark said. Marcy said the Davises are now thinking about avoiding Kincaid for a while.

Mama moose fearless

"There were moose encounters all over the park (Tuesday)," she said. "I think they're just super agitated now. And often you can't ride Kincaid without encountering a moose. There's a ton of moose out there."

Jessy Coltrane, area wildlife biologist for the Alaska Department of Fish and Game, said most of the moose attacking people have been protective cows with calves. Mama Moose are known to be as fearless as Mama Grizzlies, and sometimes even more cantankerous. But they aren't the only moose that have been known to get aggressive with people. Bull moose are notoriously aggressive during the fall breeding season called the rut. Young moose newly shooed off by their mothers can be testy, too. And any moose having a bad day or a bad week can potentially turn dangerous.

One regular rider at Kincaid Wednesday logged onto the website MTBR.com to report witnessing problems with "an aggressive young male moose for the last several days. I observed a couple of ladies trail running on the ski trail that parallels Good Greeff get stalked by this young male and then charged on Friday 6/1."

Good Greeff is a new section of narrow, single-track trail named for the volunteer who oversaw its construction, Ryan Greeff. There has been some speculation that moose in the area are agitated because, after decades of adapting to life in the quiet spaces between winter trails busy with cross-country skiers, they are now finding their space invaded by fast-moving mountain bikers. The single-track bike trails built last summer were designed to minimize conflicts with the ski trails, but they have generated problems of their own.

Everyone is hopeful those problems will start to fade as moose calves grow bigger and can more easily follow their mothers out of the way of mountain bike traffic. Despite the aggressive incidents of late, most moose would rather flee than fight. It is much the same for bears.

Slow down, ride cautiously

Coltrane said it might just be a good idea for mountain bikers to slow down and be extra careful for a few more weeks, or ride the now snow-free Nordic ski trails. Those trails are wider, straighter and have better sight lines to allow people to spot moose. Singletrack trails are narrow, twisty and just about ideal for a surprise encounter between wildlife and a fast-moving mountain bike rider.

Smith echoes those comments. She advises against riding the singletrack with its bad sightlines until the moose calves are bigger, riding with friends, and maybe carrying some bear spray to drive a moose away if it attacks someone. Wildlife biologists say the spray works as well on moose as on bears.

Josh Durand of the Anchorage Parks and Recreation Department, himself a mountain biker, posted warnings to Kincaid single-track riders Wednesday night.

"I think I might even have seen (the problem moose)," he said Thursday. "There's definitely more than one moose out there, but most complaints that I heard were about one cow with a calf. It seems localized to the Toilet Bowl area."

Toilet Bowl is a sculpted and banked trail that flows downhill. A good rider can swirl down it almost as smoothly as water goes down the toilet. Such riding, unfortunately, might not be such a good idea at the moment.

"I think a lot of this (problem) has to do with the speed of the mountain bikers and how fast they can come up on things," Durand said. They have now been warned, he added.

"The signs talk about aggressive moose in the area. I put them up at all entrances to the single track," he said. The signs advise mountain bikers to ride defensively and stay alert. Whether the warnings will help remains to be seen. The new single-track trails are so beautifully designed for mountain biking they all but beg people to go as fast as they can.

Contact Craig Medred at craig(at)alaskadispatch.com

300. So much for the protection afforded by a helmet!

Mike

http://www.buxtonadvertiser.co.uk/news/local/mountain-biker-seriously-injured-1-4635264

Mountain biker seriously injured

Published on Tuesday 12 June 2012 09:30

AN mountain biker was airlifted to hospital with serious head injuries following an incident on Longstone Edge on Sunday morning.

The 47-year-old man from Sheffield, riding with a group of friends, apparently braked to avoid an oncoming vehicle and went over the handlebars, hitting the hard surface track.

Despite wearing a helmet he sustained serious head injuries, and was treated on site by doctors, paramedics from two air ambulances which had landed nearby and a mountain rescue team doctor.

Medical intervention was required on site and the casualty was flown to the Northern General Hospital, Sheffield for further treatment.

Neil Carruthers, Buxton Mountain Rescue Team Leader said: This gentleman was very ill and we worked with the East Midlands Ambulance Service, medical crews from the Derbyshire, Leicestershire and Rutland Air Ambulance and the Notts and Lincolnshire Air Ambulance to stabilise him and get him to hospital care as soon as possible.

301. If an "experienced mountain biker" can crash and injure himself, what does that say about the safety of mountain biking? It doesn't exist!

Mike

http://www.ktvz.com/news/31189677/detail.html

Idaho Mtn. Biker Hurt in Crash West of Bend

SAR Rescues Boise Man on Tiddlywinks Trail

From KTVZ.COM News Sources
POSTED: 9:38 pm PDT June 13, 2012

BEND, Ore. -- An Idaho man mountain biking west of Bend crashed on a trail Wednesday and was taken to the hospital for treatment of non-life-threatening injuries, authorities said.

Deschutes County 911 got a call around 2:20 p.m. from a mountain biker who had been riding the Tiddlywinks Trail southeast of Wanoga Butte and came across another biker who had just crashed while riding in a wooped (big bumps) section of the trail, said sheriffs Deputy Jim Whitcomb, assistant search and rescue coordinator.

GPS coordinates were provided, based on the reporting partys 911 phone call to dispatch, Whitcomb said.

Eight Sheriffs Search and Rescue volunteers responded to the scene, assisted by Bend Fire paramedics, the deputy said. SAR personnel reached the scene by ATVs and mountain bikes, he added.

Deputies said the crash by Peter Ware, 46, of Boise, an experienced mountain biker, may have been due to unfamiliarity of the trail.

Ware, who had been wearing a bike helmet, said he briefly misjudged the trails terrain, Whitcomb said.

SAR personnel brought Ware by ATV ambu-sled to the intersection of Century Drive and Forest Road 4613, where an ambulance took him to St. Charles Medical Center-Bend, Whitcomb said.

302. http://www.koinlocal6.com/news/local/story/Crash-in-mountain-bike-race-leaves-Portland-man/uTxKcgIAvU2DqJ1bPnYmOg.cspx

Crash in mountain bike race leaves Portland man paralyzed

Reported by:Carla Casta񯼢r> Email: ccastano@koin.com
Published: 6/15 7:04 pm

PORTLAND, Ore. -- A Portland man has been left paralyzed from the chest down after a crash during a Portland mountain bike race this week.

Mat Barton, 31, crashed his bicycle during a short track single-speed race at Portland International Raceway Monday. Barton is currently in the Intensive Care Unit at Legacy Emanuel Medical Center.

"It's just hard to imagine what it's going to be like from here," longtime friend Collin Winn said Friday.

Winn and Barton have been friends since their high school days in California.

"He's involved in all the different styles of racing, Winn said. He works for a bike company. It really is his whole life, his passion.

"It was a very freak kind of accident," Winn went on to say. "He went over a hill, and went over his handlebars in such a way that he wasn't able to break his fall. He landed on his head and immediately broke his lower back."

Barton has undergone surgery to stabilize his spine, but doctors believe the paralysis is likely permanent.

"One day youre riding bikes with him, and they next day youre getting all these phone calls saying he's not likely to ever ride again," Winn added.

Winn says Barton was always wearing a huge smile and made fast friends.

"He's very kind very gracious with his time," Winn said.

Friends have set up a website where donations can be made to help with treatment and recovery expenses.

"It was only launched about 48 hours ago. $15,000 has already been raised," Winn said.

Friends say its a way to help a man known for helping others, after a very unusual crash.

"Nothing like this has happened in competitive racing in Portland since 1980," said Winn. "So it's very, very rare. Freak occurrence."

To learn more about the rehabilitation fund set up for Barton visit www.bartonpdx.com

303. How many more mountain bikers have to die, before we outlaw the sport? If mountain biking were a drug (it IS), it would long ago have been banned from the market!

Mike

http://www.stuff.co.nz/national/7159347/Lower-Hutt-mountain-biker-found-dead

Lower Hutt mountain biker found dead

HANK SCHOUTEN
Last updated 15:52 23/06/2012
Lance Kaiki

A Lower Hutt mountain biker, who was reported missing yesterday, has been found dead in the Belmont Regional Park this afternoon.

Lance Kaiki was located near a cycling track and Detective Sergeant Nick Pritchard, of the Hutt Valley Police, said it looked as though he had crashed.

However, it would be over to the coroner to establish the cause of death.

Kaiki, 43, was last seen around 2.20pm on Thursday when he was going for a ride in the park.

Police began searching for him yesterday.

304. http://www.peeblesshirenews.com/news/roundup/articles/2012/06/27/431134-tweed-valley-mountain-rescue-team-help-wounded-biker/

Tweed Valley Mountain Rescue Team help wounded biker.

Coral Condeco Published 27 Jun 2012 09:30 0 Comments

A MALE mountain biker had to be rescued from the 'Make or Brake' section of the Downhill Track in Innerleithen on Sunday after sustaining injuries to his legs.

At 1210hrs on Sunday June, 24 the Tweed Valley Mountain Rescue Team (TVMRT) was paged by Lothian and Borders Police requesting that the Team provide assistance to the Scottish Ambulance Service in the evacuation of an injured mountain bike rider.

The first TVMRT Member arrived on scene at 1230, only 20 minutes after the initial call from the Police - the rest of the Team members followed shortly afterwards.

The rider, a male from Edinburgh in his twenties, had fallen from his bike and had sustained an injury to his left knee and a suspected fracture to his lower left leg.

Although the Ambulance Service were in attendance with two paramedics, the casualty's location made extraction difficult and TVMRT were tasked with evacuating the casualty to a location where a transfer could be made to a 'Road' ambulance for onward transportation to hospital.

Tweed Valley MRT have 40 team members who are unpaid but very highly trained volunteers, on call 24 hours a day, 365 days a year to render assistance to lost or injured people in mountainous or remote areas.

The man was soon recovered and taken to Borders General Hospital after being transferred to the Ambulance Service vehicle.

Steve Penny, TVMRT Team Leader, said: "The team is pleased to have been able to assist in the evacuation of this gentleman. This incident demonstrates once again that TVMRTs volunteers are able to mobilise to an incident in a very short period of time to provide assistance."

For more information or to find out how you can support Tweed Valley Mountain Rescue Team please log onto www.tweedvalleymrt.org.uk

305. http://www.sfgate.com/business/prweb/article/Recent-Study-Takes-Aim-at-Mountain-Bike-Injuries-3678011.php

Recent Study Takes Aim at Mountain Bike Injuries

Published 07:00 a.m., Monday, July 2, 2012

A retrospective chart review was performed of mountain bikers presenting to the Whistler Health Clinic in British Columbia between May 16 and October 12, 2009. The findings published in Wilderness & Environmental Medicine (http://www.wemjournal.org) demonstrate serious risks associated with mountain biking and highlight the need for continued research into appropriate safety equipment and risk avoidance measures.

Salt Lake City, Utah (PRWEB) July 02, 2012

In the last 30 years, the sport of mountain biking has soared exponentially in popularity. It is estimated that in 2009 38 million Americans regularly took part in the sport, sometimes called free-riding, where the rider navigates steep slopes and technical terrain.

In a study published in the latest issue of Wilderness & Environmental Medicine (http://www.wemjournal.org), Ashwell, et al, investigated 898 cases of mountain bike park cyclist who presented to the Whistler Health Clinic in Whister, British Columbia, during a 5-month period. Eight-six percent of those injured were male. And, although the majority of patient injuries were rated as mild to moderate in severity, 12.3% of riders experienced injuries that were considered potentially threatening to life, limb, or function and 9.5% required transfer to a higher level of care.

The results of this research are the first attempt at describing the epidemiology of injury associated with lift-accessed free-ride mountain biking. They demonstrate the spectrum of morbidity of such injuries. The Whistler study findings suggest planning for increased staffing for injuries on weekends and during the month of August, and highlight the need for improved upper extremity protection and more effective head injury protection for this sport. The authors of this study suggest that given the relative rarity of injury from bike-to-bike crashes, injury prevention strategies will need to focus on methods for maintaining control of the bike. Additionally, the authors conclude that "further research should include exposure information as well as specific information about which trail features are associated with injury, evaluate the long-term outcomes after bike park injuries, assess the costs of care after injury, and attempt to identify acceptable injury rates in this increasingly popular sport."

The free full-text online article may be accessed at http://www.wemjournal.org. Wilderness & Environmental Medicine is published by Elsevier Inc., for the Wilderness Medical Society, Salt Lake City, Utah. http://wms.org.

The Wilderness Medical Society (WMS), a 501(c)3 organization, is the world's leading organization devoted to wilderness medical challenges and education. Founded in 1983, the WMS has long-standing commitment to education and research, sponsoring accredited continuing medical education conferences, and publishing a peer-reviewed quarterly medical journal Wilderness and Environmental Medicine.

For the original version on PRWeb visit: http://www.prweb.com/releases/prweb2012/7/prweb9645517.htm

306. It seems to me that they did him a FAVOR: preventing him from injuring his brain again!

Mike

http://www.thisisderbyshire.co.uk/Thieves-snatch-injured-Scott-s-bike-lies/story-16496766-detail/story.html

Thieves snatch injured Scott's bike as he lies recovering in hospital

Saturday, July 07, 2012

Derby Telegraph
Follow

THIEVES have stolen a mountain bike from a young rider while he is recovering in hospital after suffering brain injuries in a crash.

Scott Shepherd has been in hospital since being hurt in a downhill mountain bike race, in Kent, on May 8 last year.

Scott Shepherd is pictured in action at the race in Kent where he crashed last year. Below, Scott and his mountain bike which has now been stolen.

His family say the 27-year-old is beginning to improve and showing signs of communication, but yesterday one of his mountain bikes was stolen from where it was being kept at sister Lisa Shepherd's home in Allenton.

She was in bed at the house in Marina Drive when she heard dogs barking next door in the early hours.

The 31-year-old said: "I got up and went outside to have a look. This must have been about 1am on Friday morning. I couldn't see anything but it was unusual to hear the dogs bark.

"I went out again about 5.30am and saw the shed door was wide open and Scott's bike was gone."

She estimated that the grey, full-suspension "Specialized" mountain bike was worth about 1,000.

She said: "The shed had been locked with a padlock but the whole clasp had been forced open, as if with a crowbar. I rang the police straight away but I just felt sick. I felt such shock that someone could do this, take his bike while he is still in hospital."

After the accident, Scott was initially kept at Royal Hospital London where his parents Karen Wild and Stefan Shepherd kept a 24-hour vigil at his bedside at Royal Hospital London.

In January, he was moved to the Royal Leamington Spa Rehabilitation Hospital, where some of the country's top neuro-consultants are helping him gain more strength and movement.

Last November, doctors said they believed Scott had locked-in syndrome a condition that leaves a patient aware and awake but unable to move, except for the eyes.

It is unlikely he will ever fully recover but Lisa said: said: "He has started to show signs of communication.

"He is still quite poorly but he has started to try and talk to us and can let us know things like yes and no.

"It's not consistent but he is a lot more responsive than he was two months ago."

Police are urging anyone with information about the theft of the bike to call them on 0345 123 3333 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

307. How many more people have to die, before mountain biking is banned??? If he were on foot, it is very unlikely that he would have fallen.

Mike

http://austrianindependent.com/news/General_News/2012-07-09/11652/Man_dies_in_150_metre_bike_plunge_

09. 07. 12. - 15:03

Man dies in 150 metre bike plunge

A 31-year old man was killed when he lost his balance on his mountain bike and plunged 150 metres down a mountain in Zillertal in the Austrian Tirol.

The German tourist was taking a mountain bike tour enroute to Mayrhofen when he stopped to wait for a fellow biker.

But as he entered a left curve he lost his balance and fell backwards 150 metres down a steep mountain face.

The man was dead when rescue teams reached him.

308. http://www.stuff.co.nz/dominion-post/news/hutt-valley/7269742/Teen-mountain-biker-critical-after-crash

Mountain biker's life support turned off

KATIE CHAPMAN AND SEAMUS BOYER
Last updated 10:30 15/07/2012
Jim Chipp/Hutt News
TRAGEDY: Zelius Venter, 14, of St Patrick's College Sillverstream competing at the Wellington Cross Country Championships in May earlier this year.

Hutt Valley

Hit-and-run victim was lying on road$1600 for bus driver's drinking suspensionWainui kohanga reo ordered to pay rentLower Hutt to retain technology centreGoulds closure shocks staff Wainui hit-and-run driver foundCrushed boyracer car to help teach safetyThree-car crash on Western Hutt RoadArmed police raid Lower Hutt homeHutt Door knocking fundraiser arrested

The 14-year-old mountain biker who collided with a car near Upper Hutt last week has died.

Life support was switched off for Zelius Venter last night.

Family had been waiting for relatives overseas to arrive home before facing the gruelling task of switching off his life support.

The St Patrick's College in Silverstream pupil slammed into the side of a ute about 4.30pm on Thursday in Canons Point, about 7km from Totara Park. He suffered serious head and chest injuries and was flown to Wellington Hospital in a critical condition.

The driver of the ute, a 53-year-old from Upper Hutt, told police he had caught a glimpse of a mountain biker hurtling down a track moments before the impact.

"He tried to swerve to avoid him, but the cyclist struck him in the side of the vehicle," said Detective Sergeant Dean Simpson.

Hutt Valley area commander Inspector Mike Hill said the area was popular for mountain bikers, as well as off road vehicles and logging trucks. Zelius and the driver were heading in the same direction, but they met at a Y intersection.

It was a "horrible, tragic" event where "moments either side" could have made a difference, he said.

No charges have been laid but police investigations are continuing.

Tributes have already began to flow online, with more than 1500 people already supporting a "R.I.P. Zelius Venter 13/07/2012" page on Facebook.

Messages told of an an outgoing and athletic teenager.

Amy Louise Austin wrote: "Rest In peace buddy. You were such a down to earth and outgoing kid who was so athletic and who always had that cheeky little grin on ya face. I will always remember meeting you on the running track and seeing you win the race and fist pumping the air, so keep that winning streak going up there mate but RIP."

Earlier this year, Zelius won the under-15 800m race for St Patrick's Silverstream and came fourth in the 1500m during the McEvedy Shield athletics competition.

309. Sent: Tuesday, July 17, 2012 8:14 AM
Subject: [ACE] Rider paralized, horse spooked by mt. bike racer on WST

ACE members,

There was a serious Trail Alert up on Park Watch this past week to alert
other trail users that a one-time permit was given to allow a 100-mile
mt. bike race on the Western States (Tevis) Trail.

This trail is considered one of the most treacherous in the nation with
no access for safety personnel. Because of that reason, mt. bikes aren't
allowed on most of it, let alone those who are racing at high speeds.
Last year the permit was requested and ultimately wasn't given. But,
this year, despite the outcry from the trail-using community, a
different (larger) promoter was given a permit.

And, the very worst happened.

Crystal Costa didn't realize there were racing mt. bikes on the trail
and was riding her Tevis-trained horse with two others. She was close to
Francisco's when the mt. bike racers come by. One of the mt. bikers was
going too fast, crashed his bike and scared her horse. In his fright,
her horse stepped on one of his boots and it twisted, frightening him
further. Crystal was thrown into brush and rock and landed on her back.

She was helicoptered out. She had to wait three hours for a helicopter
because all of them were fighting the Robbers fire. The cyclist who
caused her accident stayed with her the whole time.

She has a badly broken back and is facing paralysis. She will be in the
hospital for a minimum of a month.

This accident shouldn't have happened. The WST is clearly not safe for
an extreme sport mt. biking event to share with other trail users. The
land managers who allowed this race were closing their eyes to the real
dangers - and Crystal paid the ultimate price.

310. http://www.standard.net/stories/2012/07/21/biker-flown-hospital-ogden-valley

Biker flown to hospital from Ogden Valley

By JaNae Francis

Standard-Examiner staff

Sat, 07/21/2012 - 10:55pm

HUNTSVILLE A 55-year-old man was taken by helicopter to an area hospital just after noon Saturday after he crashed on a mountain bike.

Weber County Sheriff's Cpl. Josh Gard said the man crashed three-quarters of a mile west of the old Maples Campground trail road near Snowbasin.

Responding to the scene was Gard and three firefighters from Station 65 in Huntsville.

Gard said the man was unable to walk and had a lot of pain in his leg.

The emergency workers carried the man on a board about a quarter mile to a yurt.

Gard said the man was from a local city.

311. http://www.grough.co.uk/magazine/2012/07/29/teen-mountain-biker-airlifted-to-hospital-after-crash

Teen mountain biker airlifted to hospital after crash

John McHale, Reporter
Sunday 29 July 2012 12:29 PM GMT

Whelpstone Crag, Gisburn Forest. Photo: Tom Richardson CC-BY-SA-2.0

A mountain biker was airlifted to hospital after injuring himself in a crash at a popular Lancashire site.

The 15-year-old boy suffered a dislocated shoulder in the incident today in Gisburn Forest.

Members of the Clapham-based Cave Rescue Organisation were called out to the scene on Bigfoot Slab, Whelpstone Crag, at 10am.

A small team went to the boys aid and paramedics treated the teenager at the site before CRO members stretchered him a short distance to an air ambulance which flew him to hospital for further treatment.

Members of the Bowland Pennine Mountain Rescue Team who were also on their way to the incident turned back once they were told the boy was safely in the helicopter.

The incident was the CROs 43rd callout of the year.

312. http://www.cyclingnews.com/news/langvad-out-of-olympic-mountain-bike-race

Broken ribs sideline Danish rider

Denmark's Annika Langvad will not compete in the 2012 London Olympic Games due to injuries suffered during a race in France according to ekstrabladet.dk. Mountain biker Langvad crashed and broke ribs while racing two weeks ago.

"It's a very bitter pill to swallow. I have put much effort into the preparations, and then it all disappears in one second in a crash in France a few weeks ago," said Langvad to ekstrabladet.dk

The Danish racer tried to compete in the Val d'Isere World Cup in France, but she realized she was too affected by her broken ribs.

Danish Cycling's Lars Bonde said withdrawing Langvad from the Olympic mountain bike race is the right thing to do because she will not be able to compete at her best with broken ribs in London. He expressed hope that she will try again in Rio in four years at the next Olympic Games.

Last week, Maja Wloszczowska (Poland) had to withdraw from the Olympics due to a broken foot and ankle.

Follow Cyclingnews on Twitter for the very latest coverage of events taking place in the cycling world - twitter.com/cyclingnewsfeed

To catch up on the latest rankings visit the IG Pro Cycling Index at: www.cyclingnews.com/ig

313. This is a VERY revealing article! It is also very rare for a mountain biker to promote such a study!

"The study, published in the journal Wilderness and Environmental Medicine, says the number of injuries they counted is probably an under-estimate since seriously injured riders bypass the Whistler clinic so their records were not included in the analysis."

"a general rule of thumb is that one in 1,000 skiers is injured, one in 100 snowboarders, and one in 10 downhill cyclists. That makes downhill mountain biking far more dangerous than skiing"

"Males ... go out there with bravado and when they end up at the clinic, they even want to take pictures of their gory injuries, so they can share them on Facebook"

"while the resort strongly recommends new riders take lessons - and in fact offers instruction for only a minor fee in addition to the lift ticket - many riders decline such instruction"

"Riders think it's not cool to be wearing the pads now. They see their heroes in YouTube videos wearing nothing but T-shirts and jeans and these are their role models"

"injuries are a 'common and expected' part of mountain biking"

Mike

http://www.vancouversun.com/news/Downhill+cycling+risky+adrenalin+boost+study+shows/7062765/story.html

Downhill cycling is a risky adrenalin boost, study shows

Analysis of injuries at Whistler Mountain Bike Park counts 2,000 injuries among 898 cyclists during five-month period

By Pamela Fayerman, Vancouver SunAugust 9, 2012

Downhill cycling, in which riders navigate down rough, seriously steep slopes, is a risky pursuit at the Whistler Mountain Bike Park.

A study by four B.C. and American researchers showed 898 riders suffered nearly 2,000 injuries in a single, five-month cycling season when riders can load their bikes on chairlifts and then ride down the gnarly terrain.

More than 12 per cent of the injuries were potentially threatening to life and/or limb. Broken bones, concussions, internal bleeding, organ dam-age, and even a case of quadriplegia, were some of the more serious injuries during the 2009 season at the resort.

Most of the injured were men with a median age of 26. Most were hurt when they lost control and fell off their bikes, usually over the handlebars. Collisions with other riders were unusual.

The incidence of injuries among all riders couldn't be determined because mountain operators didn't share the total number of cyclists. But of the 898 injured over a 149-day period, 8.5 per cent were serious enough to require helicopter or ground ambulance trans-port to hospitals in Squamish or Metro Vancouver. The Whistler Health Care Centre treats about 19,000 patients a year, so the 898 bike park cases represent nearly five per cent of all cases. The study reviewed the charts of injured riders who went to the health centre between May 16 and Oct. 12, 2009. (This year, the bike park is open May 18 to Oct. 8). One of the authors, Zachary Ashwell, proposed the study because he was an enthusiastic mountain biker at Whistler as well as being a medical student at George Washington University in Washington, D.C.

The study, published in the journal Wilderness and Environmental Medicine, says the number of injuries they counted is probably an under-estimate since seriously injured riders bypass the Whistler clinic so their records were not included in the analysis.

Laura Gallant, a media relations spokeswoman for Whistler Blackcomb Mountain, said she couldn't comment on the study because "we haven't finalized our messaging yet. It's a sensitive topic for us because it involves the guest experience." Dr. Annie Gareau, an emergency room specialist at the Whistler clinic and co-author of the study, said a general rule of thumb is that one in 1,000 skiers is injured, one in 100 snowboarders, and one in 10 downhill cyclists. That makes downhill mountain biking far more dangerous than skiing and highlights the need for more research on safety equipment and risk avoidance measures, she said.

August is the peak month for both cyclists and injuries, so the clinic is adding more nurses and doctors for part of the month.

"It might be a good idea to compel inexperienced riders to take instruction," she said, noting that although women account for about 25 per cent of downhill cyclists, 86 per cent of the injured were men.

"That's probably because women take fewer risks but they also take lessons before they go out there. Males, on the other hand, go out there with bravado and when they end up at the clinic, they even want to take pictures of their gory injuries, so they can share them on Facebook," she said.

Gareau, who helps patrol the mountain to stabilize and transport the injured, credits the mountain operators with compiling data, monitoring injuries and changing the terrain when particular spots are associated with more injuries.

But while the resort strongly recommends new riders take lessons - and in fact offers instruction for only a minor fee in addition to the lift ticket - many riders decline such instruction, she said.

Park riders are required to wear helmets but full face shields, helmets and additional body armour are merely "strongly encouraged." Although body armour was once a distinctive trademark of downhill riding, Gareau said a newly emerging and disturbing trend is not wearing guards. The study data showed 382 riders had 420 fractures, mainly to upper extremities, such as ribs, wrists and shoulders.

"Riders think it's not cool to be wearing the pads now. They see their heroes in YouTube videos wearing nothing but T-shirts and jeans and these are their role models," Gareau said.

While the current study design couldn't assess whether body armour protected against injuries, since hospital charts didn't have that information, Gareau said it does help prevent serious cuts and bruises.

One of the most intriguing findings of the study was that afternoon hours are the worst for injuries; Gareau thinks that has to do with riders being hungry, dehydrated and fatigued.

The Whistler Mountain Bike Park website states up front that injuries are a "common and expected" part of mountain biking. Full face helmets, full-length gloves, biking armour and a full suspension bike are all recommended as is one functioning brake per wheel.

Sun health issues reporter pfayerman@vancouversun.com

314. http://www.halifaxcourier.co.uk/news/local/mountain-biker-in-100ft-fall-at-shibden-head-1-4819370

Mountain biker in 100ft fall at Shibden Head

Published on Thursday 9 August 2012 18:03

Members of the Calder Valley Moorland Rescue Association were called out this afternoon to help save a teenage cyclist who had fallen 100 feet down a ravine off Pennine Close, at Shibden Head, Queensbury.

The 18-year-old had been mountain biking with friends when he hit a rock and was catapulted down the incline.

Ambulance and fire crews from Illingworth, Halifax, also attended but it took over two hours to safely haul the patient back up to the ambulance.

He was taken to Huddersfield Royal Infirmary where he was being treated for serious leg injuries.

The teenager is believed to come from the Queensbury area.

315. If the experts can't avoid getting injured, what hope is there for everyone else?

Mike

http://www.examiner.com/article/batty-to-compete-olympic-women-s-mountain-biking-competition-injured

Batty to compete in Olympic women's mountain biking competition injured

2012 Olympics
August 11, 2012
By: Jeremy Freeborn

According to CTV, Emily Batty of Oshawa, Ontario will be competing in today's women's mountain biking race with a broken collarbone.

Batty apparently broke her collarbone while training on Tuesday. Batty finished in eighth place at the 2011 Women's World Mountain Biking Championships in Champery, Switzerland, but made national headlines in March when she finished in second place at a World Cup race in Pietermaritzburg, South Africa.

Batty is one of two athletes competing for Canada in Saturday's race. Catharine Pendrel of Fredericton, New Brunswick is the gold medal favourite, the defending world champion and ranked number one in the world at the present time.

Canada has a rich history in women's mountain biking at the Olympic Games. Alison Sydor of Edmonton won the Olympic silver medal at the 1996 Olympic Games in Atlanta and Marie-Helene Premont of Quebec City won the silver medal at the 2004 Olympic Games in Athens.

316. "Unfortunately, with mountain biking, there's always those days when you're going to crash."

Yeah, we know. And maybe DIE.

Mike

http://auburnjournal.com/detail/216152.html?content_source=&category_id=2&search_filter=&user_id=&event_mode=&event_ts_from=&event_ts_to=&list_type=&order_by=&order_sort=&content_class=1&sub_type=&town_id=

Mountain biker flown out of American River Canyon
Maynard sustained head injuries
By Amber Marra, Journal Staff Writer
Michael Kirby/Auburn Journal
Rex Maynard, 68, of Auburn, was flown out of the American River Canyon Monday afternoon after a mountain bike accident.

An Auburn man was flown via helicopter out of the American River Canyon Monday when he fell over the side of a trail on his mountain bike.

Rex Maynard, 68, was riding his mountain bike with a friend on the Lake Clementine Trail near the Foresthill Bridge when he lost control, left the trail on the right side and tumbled 70 feet down a rocky hill, according to Supervising Ranger Scott Liske with the Auburn State Recreation Area. The accident happened around 2 p.m.

As of Monday immediately following the rescue Liske could only say that Maynard suffered lacerations to the head due to the accident.

"After looking at the rock field he's very lucky he was wearing a helmet because it probably saved his life," Liske said.

Becky Morris, Maynard's wife, said her husband is an avid mountain biker and that "he would never get on a bike without a helmet." Morris also said Maynard has ridden the Lake Clementine Trail extensively and that he never lost consciousness after the accident.

"He's 68 going on 12 as far as his activity level is concerned," Morris said.

Maynard has also finished the Western States Trail Run multiple times and rode in the Coolest 24 Mountain Bike Race recently in Soda Springs.

Maynard was flown out via a California Highway Patrol helicopter, which landed on the Old Foresthill Road Bridge so he could be evaluated before being flown to Sutter Roseville Medical Center.

Liske said it was safer for Maynard and fire and rescue personnel to use a hoist technique on Monday because creating a rope system to get him out would have taken longer due to the steepness of the terrain.

"It's very simple for them to perform a hoist. The patient is put on a backboard and secured into a bag and when they land on the bridge he'll be evaluated to see if he needs to be transported by air or ground," Liske said.

Jon Hartman was mountain biking with Maynard when the accident happened. Hartman didn't see his friend go over the hill because he was behind him and around a corner, but was able to spot Maynard down the hill by his white bike helmet.

"He's been riding for years. This is a fluke thing that's out of context for him," Hartman said. "Unfortunately, with mountain biking, there's always those days when you're going to crash."

The Journal is waiting for Maynard's status via Robin Montgomery, spokesperson for Sutter Roseville Medical Center.

Contact Amber Marra at amberm@goldcountrymedia.com. Follow her on Twitter @Amber_AJNews.

317. "Maynard is a seasoned mountain biker"

If "seasoned mountain bikers" aren't safe, what about our kids? And other novices? This is insanity....

Mike

http://auburnjournal.com/detail/216403.html?content_source=&category_id=2&search_filter=&user_id=&event_mode=&event_ts_from=&event_ts_to=&list_type=&order_by=&order_sort=&content_class=1&sub_type=&town_id=

Downed mountain biker in fair condition
Maynard tumbled 70 feet Monday afternoon
Staff Report

Rex Maynard, 68, of Auburn, is in "fair" condition at Sutter Roseville Medical Center after a mountain bike crash Monday afternoon, according to Robin Montgomery, spokesperson for the hospital.

Maynard was riding his bike with a friend on the Lake Clementine Trail near the Foresthill Bridge when he lost control, left the trail on the right side and tumbled 70 feet down a rocky hill. He was flown out of the American River Canyon via helicopter shortly after.

Maynard is a seasoned mountain biker and has finished the Western States Trail run multiple times. He has also been instrumental in clean up efforts of the American River Canyon and the Auburn State Recreation Area.

A voice message left by Maynard's wife, Becky Morris, on their home machine said Wednesday that none of his injuries from the accident are life threatening.

318. http://www.chicagotribune.com/news/local/ct-tl-0823-new-lenox-good-citizen-20120823,0,3651621.story

New Lenox Youths that Helped Injured Biker Get Award

Boy Scout Troop 44 was hiking in the Palos preserves when they helped biker

By Barbara Dargis, Special to the Tribune

August 23, 2012

A troop of local boy scouts, who seized an opportunity to put oath into action when they helped an injured biker, earned the Good Citizenship award from New Lenox Mayor Tim Baldermann this month.

The opportunity came on the morning of July 14 when 13 boys from New Lenox Boy Scout Troop 44 crossed paths with Andy Matthews, 48, at Red Gate Woods in the Palos preserves of the Forest Preserve District of Cook County. Matthews, a mountain biker from Evanston, was practicing for a competition and the scouts, ranging in age from 11 to 13, were engaged in a 5-mile hike required for a merit badge.

Mathews had taken a fall with injuries that led to a new right-eye socket, three metal plates and 24 screws in his face.
Maps
New Lenox, IL, USA

"Perhaps the only other person I would rather have met up with that day would have been a plastic surgeon," quipped the now-recovered Matthews at the Aug. 13 New Lenox village board meeting. "But as luck would have it, I had the scouts. And I am grateful for that."

Matthews had made the 30-mile drive from Evanston because Red Gate Woods is known as a good site for mountain biking, he said. But just a few miles into his ride, Matthews said he went "head over handle bars" and smashed his face on a rock. Just a few minutes later, the troop of hiking scouts noticed Matthews, who was up and walking but "in need of help," recalled Nick Ruskowsky, a scout with Troop 44.

The scouts walked Matthews to his car at his request, said Kevin Pilipchuk, one of two scout fathers who had accompanied the boys on the hike that day. Matthews said he did not seek immediate help for his injuries.

Ruskowsky, 12, said he and fellow scouts did not think the whole ordeal that day "was such a big deal." He said lending a hand to someone in need "is just what scouts do."

319. "mountain bikers ... often speed by the snakes without seeing them"

You mean they aren't enjoying nature?!

Mike

http://www.coloradoan.com/article/20120825/NEWS01/308250021/Mountain-biker-bitten-by-rattlesnake-rare-attack?nclick_check=1

Mountain biker bitten by rattlesnake in rare attack

9:10 PM, Aug 25, 2012 |

A bicyclist rides her bike Wednesday on the trail at Kathy Fromme Prairie Natural Area. A sign was posted warning users of the area to watch out for rattlesnakes. / V. Richard Haro/The Coloradoan

Written by
David Young

First aid for snake bites:

Remain calm so as not to increase circulation and spread the venom.
Immediately remove anything from the body that may cause increased swelling below the bite area (rings, watch, shoes, tight clothing, etc.)
If possible, wash the wound with soap and water. If available, a Sawyer Extractor Pump may be used to remove some of the venom. Be familiar with the instructions before you need to use it.
Immobilize the bite area, keeping it in a neutral to below-the-heart position.
Get to the hospital immediately. The use of approved antivenin is the most effective treatment. If possible, have another person drive and call ahead to the hospital and poison center.
Source: Rocky Mountain Poison and Drug CenterWhat Not To Do:

Do not use a tourniquet.
Do not make an incision at the bite site.
Do not suck out the venom with your mouth as this may increase the risk of infection.
Do not pack the limb in ice.
*Source: www.ext.colostate.edu

Rattlesnake bites by the numbers

2009: 6
2010: 6
2011: 4
Year to date July 2012: 2
Source: Poudre Valley Health System

A lot of risks come with mountain bike riding the Front Range. Broken bones, dehydration, flat tires, jagged rocks and cactus are all threats that accompany any ride. However, there is another risk that may go overlooked because it isnt always as obvious: snakes.

With summer coming to a close, it is a prime time for rattlesnake activity along the Front Range as they prepare to mate before going into hibernation later this year.

For the second time in 15 years, a mountain biker riding along Devils Backbone in Larimer County was bitten by a rattlesnake two weeks ago. A rattlesnake sitting just off the path struck him in the lower leg as he rode past, said Travis Rollins, operations manager for the Larimer County Department of Natural Resources.

The man continued riding, thinking he had been stuck by a yucca plant, before the pain sunk in and he saw the puncture wounds. He then went back and saw the snake coiled near the trail, Rollins said.

The man was riding with his nephew near sunset when the attack occurred outside of cell phone range. The man was able to ride to the trailhead where he was taken to the hospital and treated.

Mating season

In the heat of the summer, trail users are less likely to see a snake than they are now. Bob Reed, U.S. Geological Survey Research Wildlife Biologist, said this time of year is the peak of rattlesnake activity because the males are searching for a mate.

Last week, Reed came across a rattlesnake on a rock in the middle of the trail while riding his mountain bike behind Hughes Stadium. Reed let the snake alone and avoided becoming a bite statistic.

When it comes to rattlesnake bites, there are legitimate types, where the person is struck without knowing the snake was there, and illegitimate types, where a person typically a young male will see the snake and try to mess with it.

Illegitimate is where a human interacts with a snake, he said. Most are males between 18 to 30. Its more a testosterone problem than a venom problem.

Approximately 75 percent of all snakebites occur in people ages 19 to 30 years old. Approximately 40 percent of all snakebites occur in people who are handling or playing with snakes, and 40 percent of all people bitten had a blood alcohol level of greater than 0.1 percent. Sixty-five percent of snakebites occur on the hand or fingers; 24 percent on the foot or ankle; and 11 percent elsewhere, according to city of Boulder records.

The number of rattlers out there is tied to the number of rodents available to eat. Reed said it is too early to tell what the rattlesnake population looks like for this year but said it has been very hot and dry this summer, meaning there may be less food for snakes.

To have a mountain biker bitten while riding is rare, said Reed, who rides Devils Backbone often. I dont think there is a need to be scared of these snakes or alter where you go based on them, he said. (Bites) are pretty darn uncommon.

Rattlesnakes do a good job of warning people that they are going to attack with their rattle, said Reed.

If bitten, remain as calm as possible and try not to move, Rollins said. Call for help and try to get to the hospital as quickly as possible.

Snake attacks rare

The odds of being attacked by a snake are slim. When it comes to mountain bikers, they often speed by the snakes without seeing them. Rollins noted there also may be an unknown number of strikes that are not reported or missed.

For the thousands of hikers or walkers that use Larimer Countys trails each year, there only have been 5 reported rattlesnake bites in his 15 years here, Rollins said. The Larimer County Department of Natural Resources does not keep official records of snakebites, said Senior Ranger Steve Gibson.

Expanding outside the trail system, there have been fewer people who have sought medical treatment for rattlesnake bites to date this year than in previous years. Poudre Valley Health System has treated two people this year with antivenin for rattlesnake bites, compared to four people in 2011, six in 2010 and six in 2009.

Poisonous snakebites result in 12 to 15 deaths per year in the United States. There are two main families of poisonous snakes in the United States and Canada: pit vipers and coral snakes. Pit vipers include rattlesnakes, copperheads and cottonmouths, or water moccasins, according to city of Boulder records.

Some mountain bikers are acutely aware of snakes while riding.

Devin Hirning, of Fort Collins, is an avid mountain biker who has a healthy fear of rattlesnakes as he rides with his two boys ages 9 and 10 years old. Hirning often rides Devils Backbone and has seen snakes along the trails.

My biggest concern is because of the kids, he said. My two boys, they freak out.

While Hirning leaves it to his kids to decide if they want to ride, he will stick to heavily used trails to avoid rattlesnakes and has considered riding with Snake Guardz, a protective leg covering that shields from rattlesnake fangs.

320. So much for the alleged healthfulness of mountain biking....

Mike

http://wtaq.com/news/articles/2012/aug/26/mountain-biker-dies-at-hospital-after-collapsing-during-race-in-suamico/

Mountain biker dies at hospital after collapsing during race in Suamico

Sunday, August 26, 2012 5:32 p.m. CDT

SUAMICO, WI (WTAQ) - A 38-year-old man from Manitowoc collapsed and later died during a mountain biking competition Sunday.

The man was a participant in the Reforestation Ramble Cross-Country Mountain Bike Race in Suamico.

The Brown County Sheriffs Department did not immediately release the man name until family could be notified.

Around 12:30 p.m. the biker collapsed after stopping at a first-aid station along the route.

The man was pronounced dead at the hospital.

The race involved more than 600 competitors from kids to adults.

http://www.htrnews.com/viewart/20120827/MAN0101/120827009/Manitowoc-man-collapses-dies-during-mountain-biking-event

Manitowoc man collapses, dies during mountain biking event

7:48 AM, Aug 27, 2012 |

SUAMICO — A 38-year-old Manitowoc man is dead after competing in a mountain bike race in Brown County.

According to the county sheriff’s department, Robert Schuette was cycling up a steep hill during the race at Brown County Reforestation Camp Sunday. He got off his bike and told a nurse that he couldn’t catch his breath.

WLUK-TV reports (http://bit.ly/SKjiFR) he was transported to a hospital where he was pronounced dead. It says he suffered a heart attack.

More than 600 competitors took part in the 12-mile race organized by Wisconsin Off Road Series.

321. An update to that Whistler mountain bike injury study, Corrie:
http://blogs.vancouversun.com/2012/08/17/whistler-mountain-officials-accidents-do-happen-with-downhill-biking-heres-how-to-mitigate-them/
Make sure you read the two comments below the story....(copied here)

anon182538632

10:11 AM on 8/18/2012

good on you, pamela...keep pushing those tough questions under the noses of those who won't truly answer up.

last winter i was in a whistler hospital (walk in) due to a skiing collision...needed a rib x-ray done...

while there i asked the attending doctor how it was during the summer time, comparing the injuries and visits to those of mtn bikers....the doctor looked at me, snickered and quipped 'Around here it's not called the bike park: it's known instead as 'the trauma park'....enough said.

-----------------------------------------

realitybites

9:57 AM on 8/18/2012

Here's a fast way to reduce these unnecessary accidents that burden the health care system for everyone: make these adrenalin junkies post a bond before they recklessly toss their body down the hill, and pay for their own injuries.

----------------------------------------------------------------------

Also, in the article, Whistler inadvertently mentions that mountain bike trails are unsustainable: (check out the buzz word, reroute, which is essentially new trail building -- "trail changes" and "adjust/resurface" trails may also be newer buzz words for unsustainable mtb trails..)

Patrol and trails crews routinely:
Adjust and resurface trails
Re-route trails
Test sections of trails
Post signage for all re-routes, drops, technical trails, and trail changes
Listen to rider / guest feedback and respond

322. http://www.scotsman.com/news/scottish-news/top-stories/helicopter-to-the-rescue-after-forest-mountain-bike-crash-1-2495556

Helicopter to the rescue after forest mountain bike crash

Published on Thursday 30 August 2012 00:00

A RESCUE helicopter had to be brought in to pull a badly injured mountain biker to safety yesterday.

The 40-year-old man was in a group of three on the Dalbeattie Forest mountain bike trail, one of the 7stanes centres in South Scotland.

The man from Wales, who has not been named, came off his bike more than a mile from the finish of the trail.

He suffered head and back and possible spinal injuries.

Two friends who were with the victim managed to alert the emergency services by mobile phone.

However, due to the remoteness of the scene of the accident in the forest, the ambulance was unable to get to the man and paramedics had to walk to where the victim had been thrown off his bike.

The cyclist was given painkilling injections as the group awaited the arrival of a Royal Navy Sea King Rescue helicopter HMS Gannet.

A medic was lowered and the man was then airlifted 20 miles to Dumfries and Galloway Royal Infirmary.

A Dumfries and Galloway Police spokesman said: The man fell of his mountain bike and suffered head and back injuries.

Because the ambulance was unable to get to the scene it was decided to call in the rescue helicopter.

The Dalbeattie part of the 7stanes seven mountain biking centres spanning the south of Scotland attracts hundreds of people each year.

323. It is EXTREMELY RARE for a mountain biker to openly discuss the danger that mountain biking poses to the riders (and others)!

Mike

To: bbtc group <bbtcmembers@yahoogroups.com>
From: Preston and Meg <prestonmeg@frontier.com>
List-Subscribe: <mailto:bbtcmembers-subscribe@yahoogroups.com>
Date: Tue, 28 Aug 2012 20:48:25 -0700
Subject: The Dark Side

We know that BBTC er I mean EMBA trails coordinator extraordinaire Mike
Westra broke his leg up at Whistler this year.
Although I know Mike and have often enjoyed his company at Duthie and on
the trail, I can't say we're close. Even though hearing the news was a
bit of a gut punch, at the same time there is a certain anodyne distance
from the reality. Not always so -

The Legend, Janitha, and I were up at Whistler this last weekend.
Armando! was supposed to join us but some work scheduling snafu got in
the way at the last minute.
We had a great weekend, riding Friday night, Saturday, and....Sunday.
I've ridden with Janitha lots this summer and knew he'd do just fine.
But I was really impressed with Len's progression. Taking a Shaums March
clinic and renting a "real" bike for the weekend had him really railing
the mountain. I didn't realize he hadn't been there since riding the
opening of the park in 1998 !
I even got them to try a few of the mellower double diamond runs.

Even though we were a bit burnt, Sunday morning dawned sunny and
enthusiastic. We started as per our wont on Garbanzo as soon as it
opened, aching muscles but smiling faces.

Coming down Freight Train over a rather innocuous jump, we came across
an individual writhing in pain and face down. One other person had got
there first and we began securing the trail and trying to contact the
patrol as well as assessing this guy. Despite the full face helmet he
had some impact damage to his mouth but by his moaning and thrashing we
knew it was worse. Its haunted me all week, and I only looked at i
briefly, but I saw both of his forearm bones sticking several inches out
of the top of his arm, meat hanging off them and his hand hanging very
unnaturally below. Ugh...I admit I felt a bit nauseous a few minutes
later trying to get it out of my mind. The battlefield cries from his
shattered body and psyche added to the pain of the scene. The patrol got
there reasonably fast, thanks to janitha's cell phone, and we moved on.
We figured he didn't get any drugs until after a good assessment and the
helicopter took at least another 25 minutes to land by which time we
were back to riding.

But, you know...our heart wasn't in it. Our bravado had left us and
wasn't to be found and we went for an early lunch and headed home.

Circling back to Mike, I have a new emotional appreciation for the pain
and suffering of him laying on A-line, broken.

Combined with the teenage kid with the dislocated shoulders I helped
down the course at Port Angeles last spring, I'm beginning to get a bit
spooked - this DH stuff seems kind of dangerous.

324. http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-19416059

Mountain biker seriously injured

A cyclist from Wales has been airlifted to hospital after suffering serious injuries in a mountain bike crash in Scotland.

The 40-year-old man was in a group of three riders in the Dalbeattie Forest, near Dumfries, when he came off his bike near the end of a trail.

He was airlifted to Dumfries and Galloway Royal Infirmary with head, back and possible spinal injuries.

It is not known at present where in Wales the man is from.

The three men were riding the Dalbeattie Forest mountain bike trail, one of the 7stanes centres in south Scotland.

The injured man's two friends managed to call the emergency services using their mobile phones, but because of the remoteness of the area the ambulance was unable to get to the scene.

Paramedics had to walk to the victim, and he was given pain killing injections as they waited for the Sea King rescue helicopter.

A Dumfries and Galloway Police spokesman said: "The man fell off his mountain bike and suffered head and back injuries.

"Because the ambulance was unable to get to the scene it was decided to call in the rescue helicopter."

325. http://www.pentictonwesternnews.com/news/167762205.html

Update: Kaleden man dead after mountain-bike accident

Search manager Cindy Smith of Penticton Search and Rescue watches as BC Ambulance Service paramedics and a member of her team move an injured man to an ambulance following a mountain biking accident on the KVR Trail Monday. Pilot Eric Stoof watches the progress of Smith and the victim as he lowers them to the ground following the air evacuation.

By Mark Brett - Penticton Western News
Published: August 28, 2012 4:00 PM
Updated: August 31, 2012 2:55 PM

UPDATED: AUGUST 31, 2012

The mountain biker who had to be rescued after an accident Monday on a rugged trail near Naramata has died.

He has been identified by the BC Coroners Service as 60-year-old Guy Joseph Du Vent of Kaleden.

Du Vent was injured on the Three Blind Mice trail and was airlifted to Kelowna General Hospital where he died on Wednesday. His family has asked for privacy.

POSTED: AUGUST 28, 2012

An avid Penticton mountain biker reportedly suffered serious head injuries as a result of an accident Monday morning on the KVR Trail.

The unidentified male cyclist, believed to be in his 60s, was airlifted by long line and helicopter from the crash site just east of Naramata Road about 6 p.m. Monday.

The victim is thought to have been taken to Kelowna General Hospital, however, his condition was not available at press time.

He had been reported missing several hours earlier by his wife when he failed to meet her at a parking lot near Poplar Grove Road.

A total of 17 members of Penticton Search and Rescue were mobilized in mid-afternoon and were just starting out when they received word the man had been found on one of the maze of trails that wind their way through the hilly region known as the Three Blind Mice.

His friend called the RCMP to let them know he located him, that he was injured and needed to be evacuated as soon as possible, said search manager Cindy Smith. Were not sure how long he had been laying there for, but there is a good possibility it could have been four or five hours.

Once his location was determined, it was decided to get medical aid there as quickly as possible and evacuate him by the most efficient means, which was by helicopter.

We had already arranged to have the HETS (Helicopter External Transport System) high angle rope rescue team ready in the event we found him and he was injured, said Smith, who was with the man during the several minute flight out of the region. He was communicating with the team on the ground that was helping package him but not a lot, he was definitely struggling at that point.

In the air you just try to reassure them that it won't be a long time and everything will be OK.

The Penticton SAR utilizes the services of Eclipse Helicopters and has done extensive training over the years with the company.

At this stage, it is not know if the cyclist was wearing a helmet, however, Smith advises anyone who is riding or hiking to always be prepared with the proper equipment and leave detailed information about the planned routes.

326. To: bbtcmembers@yahoogroups.com, mwestra2 <mwestra2@yahoo.com>
From: tony <espee4441@yahoo.com>
List-Subscribe: <mailto:bbtcmembers-subscribe@yahoogroups.com>
Date: Thu, 30 Aug 2012 14:18:15 -0700 (PDT)
Subject: Re: The Dark Side

¦nbsp; I feel your pain, literally. Kind of slipped my mind in the first post I
wrote yesterday because remembering how much it hurts isn't always a
fun thing. If memory is correct, there was a video of your mishap, and
it wasn't fun to watch. I wish you the best of luck in your recovery in
every way.

My first leg break resulted in me seeing my femur (and tib-fib broke as
well) stick out of the side of my leg for fifteen minutes, until the FD
came and cut me out of my car. Watching it jump back inside of my leg
hurt even more. As horrific as that was and now having twenty three
screws¦nbsp; and five rods in my leg, the second leg break was more fearful
for me and lasting since it happened on my Ibis TrialsComp directly in
front of Bothell Ski and Bikes old location and that made me damn shy
about trying anything of serious off-road value for the first three
years afterwards. The second accident barely even registered on the pain
scale, but the psychological toll was much more immense than the first
time.

Your advice is great, btw. I never was good at jumps, so this weekend
doing Whistler's "Crank it Up" on my full rigid Stumpie Team I had to
basically crawl through several sections since the whole bottom portion
is made for catching air.¦nbsp; "B-Line" is the way to go, easy and flowy.
I'll take that nowadays as I'm getting old.

Tony Pawley

Coupeville

--- On Thu, 8/30/12, mwestra2 <mwestra2@yahoo.com> wrote:

From: mwestra2 <mwestra2@yahoo.com>
Subject: Re: The Dark Side
To: bbtcmembers@yahoogroups.com
Date: Thursday, August 30, 2012, 1:21 PM

Don't fear the dark side. I'm done with jumps, though! I wish I could paint a picture of Ramboesque manliness fighting back the pain, but nada. My lower leg went numb, the adrenaline kicked in, a bike patrol dude just happened to be only a minute or 2 behind me, he called it... tibial plateau fracture (that means whatever you do, don't try to walk out)... so I just relaxed there by the side of the trail waiting for the backboard.

327. Mountain bikers are a danger to themselves: http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=endscreen&v=5EAcljh4cxw&NR=1

Mountain bikers are a danger to others: http://www.globaltvedmonton.com/woman+injured+by+bike+on+river+valley+trail+speaks+out/6442701011/story.html

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WTHUQlZrxBI

328. http://www.ocregister.com/news/biker-370294-laguna-injured.html

Injured bicyclist rescued from Laguna Canyon trail

By ANDREW GALVIN / THE ORANGE COUNTY REGISTER

LAGUNA BEACH An injured mountain biker was lifted by helicopter from a remote trail in Laguna Canyon on Monday morning, fire officials said.

Laguna Beach Fire Department received a 911 call from a companion of the injured biker at 9:45 a.m., said Capt. A. Weinert. Getting to the biker required a half-mile hike up a "very steep, very remote" trail known as the PG trail, he said.

An Orange County Fire Authority helicopter then lifted the bicyclist, a male in his 20s, to a more accessible spot. The man, who suffered a leg injury, was treated by OCFA paramedics, Weinert said.

Contact the writer: 714-796-7956 or agalvin@ocregister.com

329. http://www.edmontonjournal.com/Wednesday+letters+editor/7124199/story.html

Wednesdays letters to the editor

Edmonton JournalAugust 21, 2012

Painful memory of valley crash

Re: Broken bones and hospital stay a costly lesson in valley-path risks, by Helen Shea, Letters, Aug. 21.I know how Helen Shea feels. Six years ago I was strolling in a dog park with my daughter and her dog when I was mowed down from behind by a cyclist.

I was sent flying in the air and used my shoulder to protect my head from hitting the concrete. I was given first aid by strangers until an ambulance arrived to take me to the hospital.

In all the commotion, the cyclist who hit me took off and escaped any responsibility. I later needed surgery to rebuild my shoulder.

I agree that cyclists can be careless on walking trails. I share Sheas frustration and concern and wish her the very best in her recovery.

Lina Urso, Edmonton

Too many close calls

Helen Sheas letter struck a chord with me. I spend a lot of time traversing our gorgeous river valley trails on foot.

Although most cyclists are careful, enough other cyclists seem to think they own the shared trails. I have witnessed some cyclists zipping by at speeds that could have resulted in a catastrophe had a collision occurred.

Until someone comes up with a safer solution, I will be walking on the left side of any trails. At least then I can see the cyclists coming.

Darrel Lucas, Edmonton

330. http://www.ktvb.com/news/local/Mountain-biker-airlifted-after-crash-near-Bogus-Basin-169122136.html

Helicopter crew rescues injured mountain biker

by Matt Standal

KTVB.COM

Posted on September 9, 2012 at 8:05 PM

Updated today at 2:05 PM

Mountain biker crashes near Shafer Butte

BOISE -- A helicopter crew from Air St. Luke's worked with rescuers from the Ada County Paramedics and Boise Fire Dept. to rescue an injured mountain biker on Sunday near Shafer Butte.

Ada County Sheriff's Office spokesperson Andrea Dearden reports the man suffered serious injuries in a crash around 1 p.m. near the 'Hard Guy' trail. The trail is east of the Bogus Basin recreation area near the Boise Ridge Road.

Dearden says the man's riding partner was able to call 911 and guide rescuers to the general location of the crash.

While rescuers searched for the man on the ground, a helicopter crew from Air St. Luke's was eventually able to locate the cyclist from the air. The helicopter crew was then able to land in the area and rescue him.

Dearden says the man was lying in water and reportedly unable to move.

He was taken an area hospital with serious, but not life-threatening injuries.

http://www.idahostatesman.com/2012/09/09/2265138/mountain-biker-seriously-injured.html

Mountain biker seriously injured in crash taken by air ambulance to Boise hospital

Published: September 9, 2012
2012-09-09T23:40:43Z
Idaho_Statesman

Ada County emergency personnel were dispatched at 1:06 p.m. Sunday to aid an injured mountain biker who crashed on a trail in the northwest Boise Foothills, off of Bogus Basin Road. The bicyclist's friend called 911 for help, an Ada County dispatcher said.

Boise firefighters and Ada County paramedics used ATVs to search for the bicyclist, who had been riding on a trail known as Hardguy. He was found in a remote location of the Dry Creek drainage where the terrain was difficult, and emergency responders could not reach him.

An air ambulance was able to land near the cyclist, who was lying in water and reportedly unable to move. His injuries are serious but not considered life-threatening.

The man was loaded into the helicopter at about 3 p.m. and taken to a Boise hospital. No other information was immediately available Sunday afternoon.

Read more here: http://www.idahostatesman.com/2012/09/09/2265138/mountain-biker-seriously-injured.html#storylink=cpy

331. http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-north-west-wales-19541190

Snowdonia injured mountain bikers airlifted to hospital

Two mountain bikers who crashed in separate incidents in Snowdonia have been flown to hospital with suspected spinal injuries, say rescue services.

A Sea King helicopter from RAF Valley, Anglesey, landed at Coed y Brenin, near Dolgellau, on Sunday, to pick up the first injured cyclist.

It then flew straight to Blaenau Ffestiniog, Gwynedd, where the second mountain biker was winched aboard.

Both were flown to Ysbyty Gwynedd hospital at Bangor.

332. http://www.ksby.com/news/mountain-biker-dies-on-top-of-popular-trail-in-santa-barbara/

Mountain biker dies on top of popular trail in Santa Barbara

Posted: Sep 14, 2012 4:42 PM

The Santa Barbara County Sheriff received a distress call around 12:50 Friday afternoon from a mountain biker suffering from a medical condition.

A search and rescue team looked for the hiker and found her dead body at the top of Romero Canyon Trail in Santa Barbara County.

Deputies say the female mountain biker died because of a medical condition.

333. Death caused by hitting an illegal trail structure: https://mjvande.info/mtb_death.jpg

334. http://www.sfgate.com/bayarea/article/Bicyclist-rescued-after-falling-off-cliff-3880886.php

Bicyclist rescued after falling off cliff

Ellen Huet

Updated 12:25 p.m., Thursday, September 20, 2012

Read more: http://www.sfgate.com/bayarea/article/Bicyclist-rescued-after-falling-off-cliff-3880886.php#ixzz274fadxtx

(09-20) 10:31 PDT DALY CITY -- A man who fell off a beach cliff while mountain biking near Daly City on Wednesday was rescued with only minor to moderate injuries, authorities said.

The man, whose name was not released, was riding a mountain bike along a narrow hiking path near Westline and Skyline drives in Daly City when he fell around 6 p.m., said Matt Lucett, a spokesman for the North County Fire Authority.

Fire crews responded to the top of the 40-foot cliff and found the man at the beach near the bottom, Lucett said. The rescuers used ropes and pulleys to lower down paramedics who checked the man and found nothing serious. The man, who is about 20 years old, was hoisted back up and taken to San Francisco General Hospital for an evaluation, Lucett said.

Ellen Huet is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. E-mail: ehuet@sfchronicle.com

Read more: http://www.sfgate.com/bayarea/article/Bicyclist-rescued-after-falling-off-cliff-3880886.php#ixzz274fJdB6U

http://www.mercurynews.com/san-mateo-county-times/ci_21592170/mountain-biker-plunges-over-peninsula-cliff-survives-authorities

Daly City: Mountain biker plunges over 40-foot cliff, survives

By Joshua Melvin

jmelvin@bayareanewsgroup.commercurynews.com

Posted: 09/20/2012 10:17:56 AM PDT

September 21, 2012 2:41 AM GMTUpdated: 09/20/2012 07:41:30 PM PDT

DALY CITY -- A mountain biker is lucky to be alive after he lost control of his bike Wednesday evening and plummeted 40 feet down a cliff, authorities said.

The man was riding on a narrow cliff-side path near Westline and Skyline drives when he and his bike shot over the edge and ended up on a beach below that had been softened by low tide, said North County Fire Authority spokesman Matt Lucett. The man, who was not identified, was rushed to San Francisco General Hospital as a precaution.

"He is really lucky," said Lucett. "They didn't find any life-threatening injuries."

It's not clear what caused the biker to lose control, but Lucett said there is a lot of ice plant along the trail that can be slippery.

Someone called from a cellphone to alert authorities to the man's fall, and rescue crews headed out to the cliff around 6 p.m.

They bundled the man up and hoisted him up the cliff because there was no path to get down to the beach. The incident was over around 7:30 p.m.

Contact Joshua Melvin at 650-348-4335. Follow him at Twitter.com/melvinreport.

335. http://www.sun-sentinel.com/news/broward/fl-mountain-bike-injury-20120921,0,6418056.story

Injured mountain biker seeks to collect from county

By Brittany Wallman, Sun Sentinel

5:45 p.m. EDT, September 21, 2012

A woman who was mountain-biking on trails at the popular Quiet Waters Park in Deerfield Beach says she flew over the handlebars and landed almost head-first on the ground, seriously injuring her spine.

Broward County taxpayers will pay $17,500 to the woman under a proposed settlement to be voted on Thursday by the Broward County Commission.

The bike rider, whose name and date of injury were not released by county officials while the case is under settlement negotiations, said she fractured her cervical vertebrae and had $81,000 in medical bills.

County officials say the woman "is considered a trespasser'" on the trails because she did not sign the required legal waiver nor watch a safety video before heading out to ride. They say she was riding on a "raised apparatus" and fell off it.

"The county disputes any negligence in this accident," a summary memo advises county commissioners.

The trails are safe "to someone who knows what they're doing," said mountain biker David Williams, 64, of Fort Lauderdale, who noted that they're marked with signs for beginner, intermediate or advanced riders. "It took me two years before I stopped leaving DNA on the trail.''

Williams rides in Broward's parks four times a week, he said. He also volunteers at parks for the county, rebuilding trails. He was briefed about the woman's claim by county risk managers, he said, who sought his opinion on the trail's difficulty.

"It was a novice person trying something she shouldn't have been trying,'' Williams said. "I'm sorry. I have very little sympathy for someone who causes their own injury and wants to blame it on someone else."

Broward's biking community is vast, especially for such a flat locale. Williams said about 22,500 riders have registered in the past two and a half years to ride the county's paths.

bwallman@tribune.com or 954-356-4541.

336. Apparently, riding a trail "countless times" is no protection against serious injury!

Mike

http://www.svherald.com/content/news/2012/09/25/330907

Cycling community steps up for injured mountain biker

SIERRA VISTA Local bicyclists and mountain bikers are coming together this weekend with a bicycle swap meet and barbecue event to help one of their own, following a nasty spill that left the full-time student unable to work.
It was Sept. 11 when Robert Kelsey was riding on the Brown Canyon Trail, a path he had ridden countless times before, and in fact had been one of several people who conducted restoration work on the trail just a week before.
"I was actually preparing for an event next month called the Tour of the White Mountains," Kelsey said. "I had completed one lap and was feeling good, and I was coming around to my second lap and had just reached the peak of the second lap, where I actually ran into Angela (Wood) and her folks."

337. http://www.grough.co.uk/magazine/2012/09/30/mountain-biker-rescued-after-falling-on-grizedale-forest-north-face-trail

Mountain biker rescued after falling on Grizedale Forest North Face Trail

John McHale, Reporter
Sunday 30 September 2012 07:38 PM GMT

The rider was rescued after falling off his bike in Grizedale Forest.

A mountain biker was rescued after falling from his machine on a popular forest track.

The man fell while on the North Face Trail in Grizedale Forest in the Lake District today.

Coniston Mountain Rescue Team was called out at 2.15pm and 14 members went to the riders aid.

A spokesperson for the team said: The man was treated by paramedics from North West Ambulance Service and team members for a lower leg injury and stretchered to a waiting land ambulance for onward transport to Furness General Hospital, Barrow in Furness.

The North Face Trail is a 16km (10-mile) single-track loop in nine sections and is red-graded with a recently introduced black-graded downhill section.

338. "I was riding really well - until I crashed. No matter how "well" one rides, or how much experience one has, mountain biking will always be dangerous, because nature is inherently random and unpredictable.

Mike

http://www.mtexpress.com/index2.php?ID=2005144159

Commissioner recovering from bike crash

Backcountry rescue brings McCleary off cliff

By KATHERINE WUTZ
Express Staff Writer

Blaine County Commissioner Angenie McCleary displays her cast at the Blaine County Democrats Oktoberfest rally at Forest Service Park in Ketchum on Saturday afternoon. McCleary attended the event only a day after a mountain bike crash near Griffin Butte resulted in a dislocated elbow and a rescue organized by the Ketchum Sun Valley Backcountry Medical Rescue Team. Photo by Willy Cook

Blaine County Commissioner Angenie McCleary was back at work Monday following a mountain bike crash that dislocated her elbow and resulted in a backcountry rescue.

McCleary said the crash occurred Friday afternoon near the top of the Adams Gulch Loop near Griffin Butte.

She said she was biking alone when she brought the bike over a rock and made an unstable landing that propelled her off the trail.

I was very pleased that day because it was such a beautiful day, and I was riding really welluntil I crashed, she said with a laugh.

She said that after the unstable landing, she caught a pedal and went off the trail and over the cliff, dislocating her elbow when she attempted to catch herself with both arms. McCleary said she sustained no other injuries.

"I didn't break anything," she said. "I was really lucky."

She said that at first after her fall, she suspected that she could walk the remainder of the trail and simply go to a doctors office when she got down. But after calling on her cell phone to two doctors offices with no response, McCleary said she felt herself going in and out of consciousness.

At that point I felt that I couldnt move at all, and I was barely conscious, so I thought it was a good idea to call 911, she said.

Ketchum Fire Department Chief Mike Elle said the area where McCleary was found was six miles from the trailhead, near a similar rescue that occurred last year when a biker went off the trail and down a cliff, fracturing his skull.

Theres a tricky spot there, he said. Even when youre really good, you tip over and go downhill.

I was very pleased that day because it was such a beautiful day, and I was riding really well
until I crashed.
Angenie McCleary

Elle and McCleary said a trail runner passed McCleary and realized she needed help, and came and stayed with her through the duration of the rescue.

Ketchum Sun Valley Backcountry Medical Rescue Team members Miles Canfield, Greg Martin and Don Nurge were dispatched at 12:56 p.m., reaching the trailhead at 1:24 p.m. and reaching McCleary around 2 p.m.

The three were the first to arrive on scene, with Nurge steering a motorcycle that also held Canfield and medical equipment. Elle said crews from the Ketchum and Sun Valley fire departments also responded with backcountry rescue gear and a four-wheeled backcountry rescue vehicle.

McCleary said that even though she was in and out of consciousness, she did receive a text message saying a technical rescue team had been dispatched. She said she regularly receives those messages as a county commissioner, but that it was reassuring to know that the team was coming. From there, she said, everything went smoothly.

From a personal perspective, it was nice to have everything go smoothly, she said. It was really reassuring to see what a high-quality emergency response we have.

Elle said McCleary was transported to St. Luke's Wood River by air ambulance roughly two and a half hours after the accident occurred.

McCleary was set to run in the Twin Cities Marathon on Sunday with her friend Johanna Olson, who is running the marathon as a celebration of life in the face of her 15-year struggle with brain cancer. McCleary committed to the marathon before the bike crash, and said she still hopes to run with Olsonthough not for any kind of personal best time.

Normally I would not care about running a marathon after an injury like this, she said. But there are 40 of us going to support her, [and] its not like I have to run fast.

McCleary said she would likely run alongside Olson, who plans to run for four minutes and walk for one minute through the entire marathon.

Kate Wutz: kwutz@mtexpress.com

339. http://abcnews.go.com/blogs/headlines/2012/10/mountain-bike-star-cam-zink-captures-frightening-fall-on-helmet-cam/

Oct 12, 2012 1:57pm

Mountain Bike Star Cam Zink Captures Frightening Fall on Helmet-Cam

An 80-foot fall by freestyle mountain bike star Cam Zink that was captured on his helmet camera is giving non-thrill seekers a first-hand look at what its like to navigate one of the sports most treacherous events.

Zinks death-defying fall happened last weekend during the Red Bull Rampage, a semi-annual downhill mountain bike contest near Virgin, Utah, that is considered the sports most challenging.

Zink, 26, was making his third and final practice run on the 65-foot Canyon Gap to Flat jump late Saturday when he overshot the landing ramp and, after a long free-fall in the air, crashed to the ground.

The sun was in my eyes and it was hard to see the curve of the ramp and judge it properly so I went off how much Id braked the run before, Zink, of Reno, Nevada, told ABCNews.com today. As soon as I came off the lip I knew I was in trouble.

Thanks to quick-thinking by Zink and his decade of experience as a professional biker, the only injury he suffered was bruising to his heels.

Since I was going over the [bike] bars I just had to eject and accordion myself, he said. You dont want to stiffen up so you just brace yourself and let it happen. My heels took the brunt of the impact. Theyre the only thing that really hurts.

In the video,first posted on Zinks Facebook page, Zink can be heard screaming, Oh my God, oh my God, just before he crashes to the ground. In the background, an emergency responder can be seen rushing immediately to his aid.

This was one was really scary because as soon as I came off the jump I knew I was in trouble and it was a really long time in the air knowing that something bad was going to happen, Zink said. Ive never heard myself so loud when I knew that I was going to crash.

Zink won the Rampage in 2010 in a contest that was highlighted by his 360-degree turn off a 40-foot drop. He was excused from the qualifying rounds this year and automatically entered into the Oct. 7 final as a past champion, a spokeswoman for the Red Bull Rampage event told ABCNews.com.

Although Zink only bruised his heels in the crash, his injuries kept him out of competing in the final this year.

Canadian biker Kurt Sorge was crowned the champion at this years event.

Zink, who said he is still tip-toeing because of the pain in his heels, says he hopes to get back on the bike soon. The Red Bull Rampage event was the last competition of the year so he has time, he says, to play it by ear, when it comes to his recovery.

These guys are professional athletes and they know the risks going into it, the Red Bull spokeswoman said of freestyle mountain biking as a sport. This isnt a type of thing a novice would do. These guys wear their padding and protection but theyre fearless and brave and thats what makes this event so exciting.

340. "Every cyclist breaks their collarbone at some point in their career, I think."

Nope, I haven't yet. :)

Mike

http://www.canberratimes.com.au/sport/cycling/teammates-finish-lap-as-batterley-rides-off-to-hospital-20121015-27n9t.html

Teammates finish lap as Batterley rides off to hospital

Date
October 16, 2012

David Polkinghorne

An X-ray showing Ian Batterley's broken collarbone after his first-lap crash at last weekend's 24-hour mountain bike championships at Stromlo Forest Park. brokenshoulder.jpg

Officially, Ian Batterley's Australian 24-hour mountain biking championships ended after just one lap, but in reality he fell agonisingly short of completing it.

Batterley went over a jump at Stromlo Forest Park and his bike ''basically collapsed underneath him'' upon landing, within shouting distance of the finish line, breaking his collarbone in the process.

His AECOM teammates saw it happen and a couple of quick-thinking paramedics, who were also competing, rushed to give assistance.

With Batterley taken to hospital and his front wheel destroyed, his teammates carried his bike to the finish line to complete his lap.

Batterley was still waiting to undergo surgery yesterday but teammate Marcus Sainsbury predicted he would be back to finish his lap next year.

His injury reduced the team of six to four, after another team member broke his finger before the event.

''He's obviously disappointed he didn't get to finish a lap,'' Sainsbury said. ''At least his teammates made the first lap count by getting his bike across the line.

''Officially it will go down in the record books that he's done a lap anyway I think everyone's keen to do it again next year, obviously a couple of us have got different motivation to wanting to complete it next year in terms of finishing unfinished business.''

When you combine mud, rain, rocks, mountain bikes and nearly 2000 people trying to stay awake for 24 hours, there's always going to be injuries - which makes the handful of broken bones suffered in the 24-hour championships at the weekend a ''good result''.

Canberra Off-Road Cyclists president Sarah O'Callaghan said she knew of only four broken bones - two collarbones, one leg and a shoulder.

O'Callaghan said such injuries were just part of the sport.

''To a degree that's racing and they were all in different spots [on the course]. But the other 1900 riders managed to not break themselves,'' she said. ''Every cyclist breaks their collarbone at some point in their career, I think.''

Jason English won his fifth consecutive men's solo title, while Liz Smith won the women's.

Next year the world championships will be held at Stromlo.

Read more: http://www.canberratimes.com.au/sport/cycling/teammates-finish-lap-as-batterley-rides-off-to-hospital-20121015-27n9t.html#ixzz29QyoY3uF

341. The Epidemiology of Mountain Bike Park Injuries at the
Whistler Bike Park, British Columbia (BC), Canada
http://download.journals.elsevierhealth.com/pdfs/journals/1080-6032/PIIS1080603212000154.pdf
downloaded from this site...a downhill mountain biking nurse...
http://canadiandhgirls.wordpress.com/author/daniceuyesugi/

342. http://www.dailytidings.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20121020/OPINION04/210200302/-1/NEWSMAP

Letter at Length

Posted: 2:00 AM October 20, 2012

Mountain bikers pose safety threat

Jackson Dempsey being charged with reckless endangerment against a mountain biker may be justified, but it is also ironic.

I often hike the trails above Ashland and am always on high alert listening for mountain bikers coming down the trail. They come so fast that I often have to jump off the trail into the brush to avoid being hit.

My experience is that most mountain bikers try to slow down, we exchange greetings as they ride through, and they often let me know how many are in their party. However, recently I was hiking on the Catwalk trail and a mountain biker, racing very fast, seemed to come out of nowhere and crashed into me.

Although he was braking hard at the last second, as I tried to avoid the collision and jumped off the trail, he veered and hit me and pushed both of us into a tree alongside the trail. I was very shaken up and my arm was scraped up. The biker apologized, but he would only give me his first name before riding off.

I believe the mountain biker who hit me was going at a reckless speed because he could not stop within his sight distance. The biker's speed was no accident as he had the intention of going very fast (being a racer, maybe as fast as he could).

Driving a car at 100 miles per hour on the freeway is considered reckless even if the driver does not intend to hurt anyone. I believe the mountain biker's speed was intentional, he could not control a stop, and was therefore reckless. He caused the collision that injured me. I can only think what would have happened if a 10-year old child was hiking 15 feet in front of her parents.

I immediately called 911 and talked with a Jackson County sheriff's deputy, then subsequently talked with the Forest Service enforcement officer, as this happened on Forest Service property. With my description and the help of the Forest Service officer, we were able to identify a local racer. The officer contacted the racer, who admitted that he was the one who collided with me.

Here's the irony: the Forest Service enforcement officer told me there was nothing he could do because he does not have jurisdiction for a person-on-person crime on Forest Service property, and the Sheriff's Office has suggested it was just an accident and I wasn't hurt very badly. So I have no recourse for being hit and injured by a biker racing down a mixed-use trail on Forest Service land.

It seems bikers are protected if they are injured on a Forest Service trail, but my experience indicates hikers do not have the same right of equal protection under the law.

So hikers, beware if you are on trails shared with mountain bikers, because apparently it is open season on hikers. I hope someone does not get more seriously hurt before some mountain bikers realize they need to slow down.

Mark Amrhein

Ashland

343. http://www.grough.co.uk/magazine/2012/10/20/injured-mountain-biker-airlifted-after-gisburn-forest-crash

Injured mountain biker airlifted after Gisburn Forest crash

Liz Roberts, Reporter
Saturday 20 October 2012 07:14 PM GMT

The incident happened near the Stocks Reservoir causeway. Photo: Raymond Knapman CC-BY-SA-2.0

A mountain biker was rescued after suffering head injuries in a crash at a Lancashire forest.

The 29-year-old also dislocated his shoulder in the incident today in Gisburn Forest.

The Clapham-based Cave Rescue Organisation and Bowland Pennine Mountain Rescue Team were both called out after being alerted about 1.45pm.

The rider crashed near the causeway that crosses Stocks Reservoir.

He was treated by paramedics then stretchered from the scene by rescuers to a waiting air ambulance near St Jamess Church, Stocks. The helicopter then airlifted the biker to hospital.

It was the CROs 63rd incident this year.

344. http://www.theprovince.com/news/Mountain+biker+dies+after+crash+Penticton+trail/7426862/story.html

Mountain biker dies after crash on Penticton trail

The ProvinceOctober 22, 2012

A Penticton search and rescue team prepares to head to the trail where a 52-year-old mountain biker died Sunday on Three Blind Mice trail in Penticton.

Photograph by: John Moorhouse, THE CANADIAN PRESS

A mountain biker is dead after a crash on a popular hillside trail network in Penticton.

The 52-year-old man was wearing a helmet when he crashed Sunday morning on the Three Blind Mice trail, Cindy Smith of Penticton Search and Rescue said Monday.

Its the second time in less than two months that a mountain biker has been killed on that trail.

The B.C. Coroners Service is investigating.

This was not an extreme area by any means but accidents do happen fairly often up there".

http://www.pentictonwesternnews.com/news/175508561.html

Crash claims Penticton veterinarian's life

Dog handler Steve Ritchey (right) and Charlie wait with other members of Penticton Search and Rescue near the scene of a mountain biking accident Sunday which claimed the life of a Penticton veterinarian.

By Mark Brett - Penticton Western News
Published: October 23, 2012 4:00 PM
Updated: October 23, 2012 4:10 PM

A lover of life, Dr. Robert Allan Mason was remembered this week as a gentle, caring man whose compassion touched all who knew him.

Tragically, Sunday morning the 53-year-old veterinary specialist died as a result of injuries suffered in a mountain-biking accident in the spider-web maze of trails called The Three Blind Mice on the hillsides above Naramata Bench.

He was just somebody who was always thinking about other people first, said Dr. Grant Nixon, a friend and colleague of 16 years. He really had an attitude of gratitude in his life and was never in a bad mood.

A good example is when you called his phone and got his answering machine, at the end of it he said, I hope you have an awesome day and make someone elses day awesome too.

The pair often worked together at the Lindsey Veterinary Hospital where Mason based himself after moving to the city a number of years ago, simply because he loved the Okanagan lifestyle so much.

According to Nixon, another example of his friends caring nature was his commitment to participating each year in the annual Ride2Survive event.

Raising money for cancer research, in a single day cyclists pedal the 400-kilometre, 12,000-foot climb between Kelowna and Delta.

That really was what Rob was all about, said Nixon.

Along with his work in Penticton, the internationally recognized internal medicine specialist also spent several days a month at a Victoria clinic and another in Winfield.

Previously he had worked at practices in Seattle, Wash. and Vancouver.

This week Masons family released a brief statement about the accident:

On Sunday, Oct. 21, Rob Mason set out on a mountain bike ride with four of his close friends and training partners.

It was a prime day for a mountain bike ride on Three Blind Mice with perfect biking conditions.

During the ride, Rob, an avid triathlete, and his friends set out on the trail they had ridden many times before. During the ride, the group stopped a few times for nutrition and water breaks and shared stories and laughs as they always did. Rob was his normal humorous self, telling stories like no one else could. Shortly after the last stop, an accident occurred on his bike.

Emergency crews and his wife Mary-Ellen were notified and Robs close friends stayed by his side. Mary-Ellen was by Robs side until paramedics arrived. Shortly after paramedics arrived, they pronounced Rob had succumbed to his injuries and passed away. At this time, out of respect to Mary-Ellen and her familys privacy, we ask that all well wishes go to: we.love.rob.mason@gmail.com.

This was the second fatal accident on the same trail in less than two months. In late August, Guy Joseph Du Vent of Twin Lakes died of injuries after a fall from his bike.

While Mason did not compete in mountain biking, he instead used it as a cross-training exercise for his real passion, the Ironman Canada race which he took part in again this year.

Nixon, also an avid cyclist, added that on the trails Mason was not a risk taker and always wore his helmet, which emergency personnel and the Coroners Service confirmed after the accident.

Immediately following the incident a B.C. Air Ambulance helicopter was called to the scene and a short time later members of Penticton Search and Rescue were dispatched.

Search manager Cindy Smith said the mishap took place on a moderate section of trail.

This was not an extreme area by any means but accidents do happen fairly often up there, but theyre not usually as serious, said Smith afterwards. People are often able to self rescue or have friends help them out.

Its the nature of the sport but it is just tragic that its been such extreme accidents for two people this year.

Friends and family are invited to a celebration of Masons life Saturday at Bench 1775 Winery located at 1775 Naramata Rd. starting at 1:30 p.m.

Those attending are advised to dress for outside conditions. People are also asked, in lieu of flowers, to make a donation to the Ride2Survive program which can be done at: ride2survive.ca.

Rob was a wonderful friend and a brilliant veterinarian and will be greatly missed, said Nixon.

345. http://www.thenownews.com/news/Weekend+crews+busy+handling+fires+rescues/7545037/story.html#ixzz2CiXYyAce

Weekend crews busy handling fires, rescues

By Jeremy Deutsch, Coquitlam NowNovember 14, 2012

Investigators are considering a weekend fire at an abandoned house in Port Coquitlam to be suspicious.

Photograph by: NOW , file

It was a busy long weekend for emergency and rescue personnel in the Tri-Cities.

Investigators are considering a weekend fire at an abandoned house in Port Coquitlam to be suspicious. Fire crews were called to the two-storey home at 2024 Suffolk Ave. at 1: 30 a.m. Sunday.

Flames and heavy smoke were already showing when crews arrived at the scene. There was no one living in the home and the services had been shut off.

"It seemed a little suspicious that it was going that well in a place with no services and supposedly no one living in it," said PoCo fire chief Nick Delmonico, adding the exact cause of the blaze hasn't been determined.

There were no injures, but a good portion of the home was destroyed by flames.

Delmonico noted the department does occasionally deal with fires at abandoned homes, suggesting they're usually the result of squatters trying to cook or keep warm.

Meanwhile, members of Coquitlam Search and Rescue had their hands full with two rescues on Nov 11.

According to the organization's website, the first search started the night before when the team was contacted by Coquitlam RCMP to look for two missing boaters on Pitt Lake.

A campfire was spotted by air along the river, but ground crews attempting to reach the area were stopped by high water in the Pitt River. At daybreak, two SAR members assisted the missing boaters by winching their boat off the gravel bar they were stranded on.

Later that afternoon, Coquitlam SAR was called out to help rescue an injured mountain biker on the "Slayer" trail on Burke Mountain. The woman had broken her leg.

A dozen SAR members responded with first aid equipment and a stretcher.

The woman was eventually carried out to a waiting ambulance.

jdeutsch@thenownews.com

346. http://www.thenorthernecho.co.uk/news/10069938.Mountain_bike_rider_airlifted_to_hospital/

Mountain bike rider airlifted to hospital

5:52pm Sunday 25th November 2012 in News By Graeme Hetherington
The Sea King helicopter near Osmotherley

A MOUNTAIN biker had to be airlifted from the North York Moors after injuring himself when he came off his bike yesterday (Saturday).

The 50-year-old, from the Northallerton area, was flown in a RAF Sea King helicopter to Middlesbroughs James Cook University Hospital but difficult weather conditions meant he was transferred to the accident and emergency unit at Leeds General Infirmary.

Members of the Cleveland Mountain Rescue Team, who were involved in a two day casualty care training programme on the moors, received a call from the North Yorkshire Ambulance Service to go to the aid of the injured mountain biker at Cod Beck above Osmotherley at 11.35am.

The man had been coming down one of the tracks on the moor when he had fallen off his bike.

North Yorkshire road Ambulance paramedics were first on scene and called for assistance from the Great North Air Ambulance but due to fog in the Teesside area the helicopter was unable to take off so the RAF Sea King helicopter was scrambled.

The mountain rescue volunteers were on hand to carry the injured man to waiting helicopter.

Malcolm Selby, leader of the Cleveland Mountain Rescue Service, said: This was a multi-agency rescue in which the Yorkshire Ambulance Service, the RAF Sea King and the Cleveland Mountain Rescue Team all worked together to get the injured biker off the moor and to hospital as quickly as possible.

When the call out came through we stopped the training programme in order to go to the assistance of the mountain biker.

"We had 26 team members involved in the incident. They provided casualty care to the biker, stopped traffic movement to ensure a safe landing for the Sea King helicopter and carried the biker off the moor and on to the aircraft as quickly as possible.

347. For some unexplained reason, mountain bikers regale in these kinds of carnage videos...they post them with regularity, but this one takes the prize.
Mountain biking is a "fun and healthy" sport....yeah, right... (inside and outside of the forest
http://www.pinkbike.com/news/2012-54-Fails-Friday-Mind-Spark.html
(watch to the end -- shots of a mountain bike structure falling apart in a forest, a guy smacking into a tree, lots eating dirt, a groin "owie", and the usual insanity performed by mountain bikers. All these shots are of guys on mountain bikes. I don't understand how women can be attracted to this sport)

348. http://tucsonvelo.com/photos/ua-student-breaks-leg-mountain-biking-rides-with-one-leg-instead/15234

UA student breaks leg mountain biking; rides with one leg instead

Posted on January 17th, 2013 by Michael McKisson (Publisher/Editor)

Meet Murphy Woodhouse, a University of Arizona graduate student in journalism and dedicated bicyclist.

Several weeks ago Woodhouse fell and broke his leg while mountain biking in Sweetwater. As it turns out the break was the good kind of break and meant he would heal fairly quickly. It did require he wear a brace that prevented him from bending his knee.

That didnt stop him from riding his bike, though.

Instead, Woodhouse went to BICAS, removed his left crank and added a foot peg and board to act as a platform for his foot.

Woodhouse said there was no way he wasnt going to find a way to ride his bike. He said hed go crazy if he couldnt ride. He used this setup for several weeks to get around to almost everywhere he needed to go. Thats dedication.

In the last few days Woodhouses brace was removed and he is, once again, riding with both legs.

349. http://www.radionz.co.nz/news/national/126801/body-confirmed-as-german-mountainbiker's

Body confirmed as German mountainbiker's

Updated at 2:43 pm on 30 January 2013

Christchurch police have confirmed a body found in a part is that of missing German woman Britta Kappel.

The 30-year-old was last seen setting out for a mountain bike ride in Bottle Lake Forest Park in the city's eastern suburbs on Tuesday morning.

Ms Kappel's body was found shortly after 10.30am on Wednesday.

Police say there is no indication of any suspicious circumstances and the death will be referred to the Coroner.

350. http://www.chicoer.com/ci_22524654/12-45-p-m-update-highway-32-be

2:20 p.m. update: Mountain biker rescued by helicopter

Staff Reportschicoer.com
Posted: 02/05/2013 01:04:50 PM PST

Cal Fire helicopter today carries injured mountain biker out... (Bill Husa/Chico Enterprise-Record)

CHICO A 30-year-old man was rescued by helicopter today after crashing his bicycle while riding the South Rim Trail.

A Cal Fire helicopter from Vina arrived at around 1:30 p.m. to do a "short haul," where the injured person is hauled to a landing zone in a basket suspended beneath the helicopter by a cable.

WATCH VIDEO of helicopter rescue

At about 2:10 p.m., the Enloe Medical Center FlightCare helicopter transported the victim to the hospital after he was hauled out of the canyon.

Rescue personnel hiked down to locate and treat the bicyclist, and are expected to take about 45 minutes to hike back up. The biker's condition is unknown.

The California Highway Patrol closed part of Highway 32 for a few minutes today near 10-Mile House Trail the green gate into upper Bidwell Park to allow for the rescue.

http://www.chicoer.com/news/ci_22552928/mountain-biker-injured-park-fall-be-released-soon

Mountain biker injured in park fall to be released soon

By ALMENDRA CARPIZO Staff Writerchicoer.com
Posted: 02/08/2013 06:54:16 PM PST

CHICO The mountain biker rescued by helicopters from upper Bidwell Park Tuesday is recovering at Enloe Medical Center and will be released shortly.

James Whittaker, 39, of Susanville, fractured four spinous processes and will be on bed rest for a minimum of eight weeks after falling off of his bicycle while riding the South Rim Trail at about 10:50 a.m. Tuesday.

Whittaker landed on his back over a log after his front tire washed out propelling him over his handlebars.

Brian Tiford of Westwood, was with Whittaker at the time and called 9-1-1 after realizing he was unable to hike back out.

Firefighters hiked for about 45 minutes, locating Whittaker and Tiford by getting the longitude and latitude from the cellphone used to place the emergency call.

Whittaker has been mountain biking all his life, but has been serious about the sport in the last five years, said his wife Aura. He visits Bidwell Park about once a month or every couple of months.

Whittaker was suppose to leave the hospital on Thursday, but because of a bad reaction to pain medicine he stayed, she said.

The rescue, which took about three hours, included senior park ranger Jessica Erdahl, two CHP officers, a Chico fire division chief, a Chico fire engine and rescue team, an engine from Cal Fire, Butte County EMS and two helicopters.

351. "The Dipper is a family-friendly Grade 2, 2.5km trail."

Oh, yeah!

Mike

http://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/news/article.cfm?c_id=1&objectid=10864190

Mountain bike hero does CPR on cyclist

1:07 PM Friday Feb 8, 2013

A man remains in a critical condition after an accident while mountain biking in Whakarewarewa Forest. Photo / Ben Fraser

A 70-year-old man seriously injured in Whakarewarewa Forest was given a "fighting chance" after a passing mountain biker performed CPR before paramedics arrived.

The Englishman remains in a critical condition in Waikato Hospital's intensive care unit after he fell from his bike on the Dipper mountain bike trail about midday on Wednesday.

It is believed he braked suddenly approaching a downhill on The Dipper and went over the handlebars.

Mountain Bike Rotorua director Tak Mutu said he was alerted to the mishap by a friend.

Mr Mutu said the incident highlighted the need for first aid equipment to be kept at his business.

The company, based at the Waipa car park, has seven staff qualified in pre-hospital emergency care who know the trails and access points and, because of its location, is often the first to hear of accidents in the Whakarewarewa Forest.

Mr Mutu said two staff were already at another accident where someone had a possible neck fracture when the call came in about the man.

"I got a call from a friend who said the guy was in really bad shape."

Mr Mutu said when he got to the accident site the helicopter had arrived and another mountain biker had started CPR.

"He was doing everything he should have done," Mr Mutu said.

"He did a great job.

"He gave this guy a fighting chance of living." Mr Mutu said the trail the man was on was an easy track.

The Dipper is a family-friendly Grade 2, 2.5km trail.

St John crews stabilised the man at the scene before he was flown to Rotorua Hospital by the BayTrust Rescue Helicopter before being transferred to Waikato Hospital later in the day by the Westpac Waikato Air Ambulance.

Last month, MBR and local mountain biker Wendy Ardern started a fundraising effort to buy first aid equipment to be kept at the business because of its "unofficial" role in responding to accidents in the forest.

They are trying to raise $6000 to $7000 to buy new stabilisation equipment, as well as pain relief such as oxygen, something to shelter injured riders and, ideally, a defibrillator.

Mr Mutu said the incident highlighted the need for such equipment.

"It highlighted that the gear is necessary and it needs to be there."

352. http://www.montereyherald.com/news/ci_22618333/police-briefs-mountain-biker-runs-off-trail-at

Police briefs: Mountain biker runs off trail at Toro Regional Park

The Monterey County Heraldmontereyherald.com
Posted: 02/18/2013 10:33:47 PM PST
February 19, 2013 5:33 PM GMTUpdated: 02/19/2013 09:33:41 AM PST

TORO PARK

Biker runs off trail at Toro Regional Park

A 48-year-old man was rescued by firefighters after his mountain bike ran off a trail at Toro Regional Park Monday.

Firefighters said they were called at 3:30 p.m. A rescue team drove into the park, then hiked down to the injured cyclist. They placed him on a litter, carried him up and took him in an all-terrain vehicle to an ambulance for transport to Salinas Valley Memorial Hospital.

353. http://www.voxy.co.nz/national/mountain-biker-winched-remote-bush-lake-tarawera/5/149105

Mountain biker winched from remote bush on Lake Tarawera

Contributor:
Fuseworks Media
Monday, 4 March, 2013 - 17:26

At 2.15pm Monday, the Rotorua based BayTrust Rescue helicopter was despatched to a remote bush area near the hot water beach area on Lake Tarawera to assist a mountain biker. The 52 year old woman from Adelaide (Australia) had come off her bike and was unable to move due to her injuries.

Details of her exact location were sketchy due to limited communications in the area, however the group was spotted from the helicopter. An advanced Paramedic from St John was winched into the site to assess the woman using the "First Sovereign Trust Rescue Winch". Once stabilised the woman was placed on a stretcher and winched aboard the helicopter and flown to Rotorua Hospital in a comfortable condition with suspected leg injuries.

354. http://www.dailynews.com/news/ci_22760076/injured-mountain-biker-airlifted-from-encino-ucla

Injured mountain-biker airlifted from Encino to UCLA

City News Servicedailynews.com
Posted: 03/10/2013 12:35:00 PM PDT
March 10, 2013 7:39 PM GMTUpdated: 03/10/2013 12:38:25 PM PDT

ENCINO -- A 31-year-old woman suffered serious injuries today while riding a mountain bike on a dirt road off Mulholland Drive, a fire official said.

Firefighters and paramedics were dispatched to the stricken bicyclist at 10:52 a.m., said Erik Scott of the Los Angeles City Fire Department.

Scott said the biker was taken by helicopter to UCLA Medical Center in serious condition.

The incident occurred near the old Nike missile base on San Vicente Mountain, south of the Encino Reservoir, according to the fire department.

355. http://www.edhat.com/site/tidbit.cfm?nid=110387

Source: Santa Barbara Sheriff's Department

SHERIFF'S SEARCH AND RESCUE TEAM ASSISTS INJURED MOUNTAIN BIKER

On Sunday, March 10, the Santa Barbara County Sheriff's Search and Rescue (SBCSAR) team came to the assistance of an injured mountain biker approximately 3.5 miles up the Romero Canyon Trail in Montecito.

The man in his 50s was mid-ride around noon when he fell from his bike, traumatically injuring his head and spine. The subject suffered a brief loss of consciousness, and a person on the trail called 9-1- 1 for help. Twelve SBCSAR team members and six firefighters from the Montecito Fire Department responded to the Romero Canyon Trailhead on Romero Canyon Road. County Air Support Unit Copter 3 was deployed to assist locating the subject. Rescuers drove up the Edison Fire Road and hiked into the mountain biker's location on a single-track trail.

Paramedics from the Montecito Fire Department and Emergency Medical Technicians from SBCSAR began medical care of the mountain biker as they secured him onto a backboard and into a stretcher known as a Stokes basket. Rescuers then carried him down the single-track trail to the rescue vehicles and drove him to the trailhead on Romero Canyon Road. An ambulance from AMR transported him to Cottage Hospital for further care.

SBCSAR is an all-volunteer unit of the Santa Barbara County Sheriff's Office. The team consists of 38 members, including 25 Emergency Medical Technicians, all of whom are on call 24/7.

356. http://glendora.patch.com/articles/mountain-biker-rescued-near-glendora-mountain-road

Mountain Biker Rescued Near Glendora Mountain Road

The patient was airlifted out of the Angeles National Forest Tuesday.
ByHazel Lodevico-To'o
March 12, 2013

Air 5 clearing the scene enroute to the hospital.

An injured mountain biker suffered possible head injuries in a fall off Glendora Ridge Road Tuesday.

Los Angeles County Fire received the call at around 12:18 p.m. and were at the scene at Glendora Ridge Road near Glendora Mountain Road by 12:39 p.m.

The patient, described only as a mountain biker, was airlifted from a ravine in the Angeles National Forest, according to Lt. David Vega of the San Dimas Sheriffs station. A medic with Air Rescue 5 had to be lowered down to the patient.

The patient suffered possible head injuries in the fall, but the condition status of the victim is unknown at the time.

357. http://www.voxy.co.nz/national/mountain-biker-airlifted-after-fall/5/150215

Mountain biker airlifted after fall

Contributor:
Fuseworks Media
Saturday, 16 March, 2013 - 18:48

A 51 year old Nelson man was winched from the Kaiteriteri Mountain Bike park this afternoon by the Nelson Marlborough Rescue Helicopter. The man had been riding with friends and had fallen from his bike landing on his left hip. He was winched out of the track with the onboard Intensive Care Paramedic and flown to Nelson hospital in a moderate condition.

358. Mountain Biker Breaks Neck While Riding an Illegal Trail!

"He hit a root". Imagine that! What a surprize!

Mike

http://www.pressdemocrat.com/article/20130318/ARTICLES/130319569/1033/news?Title=2-mile-hike-leads-rescuers-to-injured-Annadel-mountain-biker

Firefighters rescue injured mountain biker at Annadel State Park

By RANDI ROSSMANN
THE PRESS DEMOCRAT

Published: Monday, March 18, 2013 at 8:55 a.m.

Last Modified: Monday, March 18, 2013 at 8:55 a.m.

Bennett Valley firefighters Sunday night rescued a seriously injured mountain biker who'd crashed deep into Annadel State Park.

Four firefighters hiked about 2 rugged miles to get to the rider. Three of them shared a 100-pound plus load of medical supplies and a patient litter, said Bennett Valley fire Lt. Travis Browne.

The man, who feared he'd broken his neck, had to be carried about a quarter mile along a narrow, difficult track to an awaiting CHP helicopter, Browne said.

The helicopter flew him to Santa Rosa Memorial Hospital. He was identified only as a 40-year-old from Sonoma County.

The man had been riding Sunday afternoon with his two young sons and six other adults when the crash occurred.

He hit a root, went over his handlebars and struck his forehead, causing serious injuries, said Browne.

The 911 call for help was made at 6:46 p.m. by one of the riders.

Bennett Valley firefighters frequently are called to the huge east Santa Rosa park for lost or injured hikers and bikers. Sunday's four-man crew responded with a pickup truck loaded with equipment for such park rescues.

They got into the park via Woodview Drive and drove to the Canyon and Marsh trail head where they began hiking.

They were met by some of the victim's friends and his sons. The boys and multiple bikes were taken out by Santa Rosa firefighters.

One friend guided firefighters to the injured man, who otherwise would have been tough to find as the group had been riding on an unofficial trail, said Browne.

They got to him at about 7:30 p.m. He was on the ground cold but conscious.

He told firefighters he might have broken his neck and while he still could move, numbness was spreading.

He was in a severe amount of pain, said Browne Time was of the essence to get him out of there.

They stabilized him, made him as comfortable as possible and strapped him to the litter.

Browne estimated the man weighed about 200 pounds. The firefighters had help from five others, two from the helicopter crew and three men who'd been riding with the victim.

It was dark. Flashlights lit the way.

With a man on each corner, periodically they switched sides and switched carriers along a trail made more challenging as they had to watch for roots, loose rocks and maneuver sharp turns and steep changes in elevation.

The helicopter was waiting in an open area and quickly took the man aloft.

The firefighters then had to hike back up to the crash site and reclaim their gear before hiking back out the two-plus miles to their pickup.

But after going to the hospital the helicopter returned, picked them up and shortened the effort.

For me it was the most technical rescue we've had for quite some time, said Brown, 32.

We're hoping everything turns out all right for the patient, he said.

359. http://milford-ma.patch.com/articles/police-log-mountain-biker-injured-on-vietnam-trails

Police Log: Mountain Biker Injured on Vietnam Trails

The following information was provided by the Milford Police Department. Charges do not indicate a conviction.
ByMary MacDonald

Thursday, April 4

3:29 p.m.: EMTs responded to the Vietnam trail area off Cedar Street, where a mountain biker had a dislocated shoulder and a head injury. He was walking out to the street to meet them. The 45-year-old was taken to Milford Regional Medical Center.

360. As the song says, "When will they ever learn?"

Mike

http://www.blackhillsfox.com/2013/04/06/A-Rapid-City-man-is-dead-after-mountain-bike-incident

A Rapid City man is dead after mountain bike incident
Saturday, 06 April 2013 15:23
The Pennington County Sheriff's Office says a 21-year-old Rapid City man is dead after he lost control of his mountain bike and stuck a tree.

The Sheriff's Office says the incident happened Saturday afternoon while the man was out mountain biking with a friend on trails near Rockerville. Authorities say the 'experienced mountain biker' was wearing a helmet at the time of impact and suffered from blunt force trauma. He was transported to Rapid City Regional Hospital where he was pronounced dead. The incident remains under investigation.

Brendyn Medina

http://rapidcityjournal.com/news/mountain-biker-in-fatal-accident-identified/article_6812ba03-c5f1-5551-bba3-94bae1808109.html

Mountain biker in fatal accident identified

Jennifer Naylor Gesick Journal staff

The Rapid City man who died Saturday in a mountain biking accident near Rockerville has been identified as Curtis James VanOsdel, 21.

VanOsdel was riding down a steep hill on a U.S. Forest Service Trail commonly referred to a the Phoenix. He hit a rock, lost control of his bike, came off the bike and hit a tree, according to Pennington County Sheriff's Sgt. Greg Foster.

VanOsdel suffered a serious head injury. He was pronounced dead upon arrival at Rapid City Regional Hospital.

He was wearing a helmet and was said to be an experienced rider. "It was just a tragic accident," Foster said.

A notice was posted about the accident to other mountain bikers by the Black Hills Mountain Bike Association on its website Sunday. The association asked riders to stay off the trails on Storm Mountain, where the accident occurred.

"With the tragic events of Saturday, April 6, we are asking that riders please refrain from using the trails at Storm Mtn until further notice," the website said. "Our thoughts are with the rider's family."

President of BHMBA Roger St. Pierre said the group was asking riders to stay off the trails to give law enforcement a 24 hour window to do any forensic investigating.

VanOsdel's obituary can be found on page A6.

361. http ://www.avvo.com/legal-answers/while-mountain-biking-in-a-state-park-i-hit-a-hike-1165650.html

Asked 19 days ago - Irvine, CA (That would be approx March 21, 2013)

While mountain biking in a state park I hit a hiker. Initially he
thought it was sprained ankle. found to be fracture. have

notified my Homeowners policy. The injured told me he had a high
deductible and asked if we could discuss this. I told him yes, he said
soft cast for 2 weeks and hard cast 4-6weeks. My feeling is that if
deductible is less than or equal to $2,500.00 I should just pay. If so
what kind of doc is used to prevent later claims? What would be your
advice regarding this whole situation? Thanx

Save Attorney answers (8)
Licensed in CA Steven Mark SweatPro&Contact this lawyerEmailVisit
websiteBeverly Hills Personal Injury Lawyer
Contributor Level 195
Lawyers agree
Answered 19 days ago. Be careful here. If you don't get a full and
complete and enforceable release from him, it may not be effective.
Then, if you want to turn it over to your insurance later, your
efforts to "settle on your own" may affect coverage. s

362. http://www.azcentral.com/community/phoenix/articles/20130418phoenix-piestewa-peak-airlift-mountain-biking-injury-abrk.html?nclick_check=1

1 airlifted off Piestewa Peak after mountain-biking injury

By Domenico NicosiaThe Arizona Republic- 12 News Breaking News TeamThu Apr 18, 2013 9:03 PM

One person was being airlifted from Piestewa Peak in Phoenix after an apparent injury while mountain biking Thursday evening.

Phoenix firefighters with headlamps stabilized the person before preparing to fly the person off of the mountain on a stretcher, according to 12 News.

Piestewa Peak is in the Phoenix Mountains Preserve near Arizona 51 and Lincoln Drive.

363. http://www.daily-times.com/farmington-news/ci_23068523/members-pv-baseball-team-help-injured-biker

Members of PV baseball team help injured biker

By James Fenton The Daily Timesdaily-times.com
Updated: 04/20/2013 12:43:47 AM MDT

FARMINGTON A woman whose job includes helping kids in need got some unexpected help of her own last Friday night.

Ruth Baldwin, an assistant public defender in Aztec, went mountain biking right after work with her colleagues - husband Keith and friends Ellen and Stephen Wayne - in the Farmington hills off Hood Mesa Drive.

A handful of hours later, Baldwin was riding in the dark to get help for Ellen Wayne who had badly hurt her arm in a fall along the Seven Sisters Trail.

When the accident happened, Baldwin's husband had returned to his car to get help. Over an hour later, he hadn't returned.

That's when Ruth decided to ride down the hilly trails to get some help.

Wayne waited with her husband in the cooling dusk, fearing her arm was broken.

Baldwin had no cell phone. Her bike had no working light. But she was determined to get help.

After several wrong turns and wary glances at the inky black sky, Ruth saw a truck pull over and heard the driver ask if she needed help.

In the truck were members of the Piedra Vista baseball team and friends Wyatt Weaver, Tyler Williamson, Tyler Archuletta, Zach Ahlgrim, Tristan Dwinell, and Jamie Jones. At about 9:30 p.m. they saw Ruth on her mountain bike hurtling down Hood Mesa Trail, near College Drive.

Weaver, 16, recalled the odd sight of Baldwin riding in the dark without any light to help her see.

"We were just being teens on a Friday night, driving around and then we saw this lady on a bike barely visible in the dark," Weaver said. "We pulled over and asked her if she needed help, and she said she needed a phone. She was panicked, upset a little bit."

Archuletta, 16, handed his phone to Baldwin and turned the heater on in the cab of the truck and offered her a seat.

"I was so relieved to find somebody to help, I was so cold and lost - a bit out of it by that point," Baldwin said. "They were so sweet, refusing to leave. They kept me company talking about their baseball team at PV school and all kinds of things - TRON, mountain biking."

The teens stayed put with Baldwin for nearly an hour before her husband returned.

"They let me use their cell phones, kept me safe and stayed with me quite some time until help came," Baldwin recalled. "I was truly inspired with their Good Samaritan attitudes and cannot express how grateful I am that they were there that night."

Wayne's broken left arm was splinted at San Juan Regional Medical Center over the weekend and set in a cast Monday morning.

"The irony is that I didn't want to go since we had all planned to go for a lengthy ride that Saturday," she said. "It was fun until it wasn't fun anymore, obviously."

Although it likely will take six to eight weeks for her arm to heal, Wayne is relieved that she has her writing hand available. But mountain biking has dropped a bit on her list of things to do - at least on Fridays after work.

The teens see their act of kindness as nothing out of the ordinary.

"If we were in a similar situation, we'd hope someone would try to help," Weaver said. "It's always nice when you're having something happen like that to see a friendly face."

James Fenton can be reached at jfenton@daily-times.com; 505-564-4621. Follow him on Twitter @FentonDT

364. Date: Sun, 21 Apr 2013 22:26:10 -0700 (PDT)
From: Henrietta Stern <henri.stern@ymail.com>
Subject: [morca] MORCA Mary to the Rescue at SeaOtter
To: MORCA <morca@googlegroups.com>
List-Subscribe: <http://groups.google.com/group/morca/subscribe?hl=en_US>

Here's a Shout-Out to MORCA board member Mary Pozzi, and Cat 3 rider who was the only person Sunday morning who stopped and dropped out of her first SeaOtter race to help a 12-year old boy who had crashed and broken his arm on the upper third of Trail 49 heading northward toward Eucalyptus Road.

She found him crying on the side of the trail holding his arm in pain. Evidently some other racer had dragged his bike off the trail and left him there. The poor kid was from Florida and probably had no idea where he was. His dad was waiting for him at the feed zone, many miles ahead and no cell service.

Mary escorted the boy down the trail, carrying both her bike and his, and flagged down a passing pickup truck, which fortunately was a medic. Then she called the dad and left a message that his son was hurt, but OK, and she was with him. She then rode up with the kid in the back of a pickup truck to the main medical tent, where he was reunited with his dad.

Hurray for Mary! I bet that kid really appreciated Mary as his guardian angel for the day.

I say Mary should get a free race entry next year so she can complete her first SeaOtter race! She has earned it (as well as her many hours of volunteering, including patrolling the track Sat night for the Magic Shine event).

woo hoo!!
hs

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365. http://www.seacoastonline.com/articles/20130427-NEWS-304270327

Injured mountain biker rescued in Exeter

By Jeff McMenemy
news@seacoastonline.com
April 27, 2013 2:00 AM

EXETER Town firefighters rescued a man who suffered "serious head and back injuries," from the Oakland Forest Friday afternoon and then temporarily closed Route 27 so he could be MedFlighted to a Boston hospital, Fire Chief Brian Comeau said Friday night.

"We believe he had an accident on his mountain bike, and fell from his bike and hit a rock," Comeau said.

Town firefighters went into the woods off Route 101 after receiving the call at around 2:30 p.m., and located the injured man near a large swampy area. Comeau said the conservation area, which is full of trails, is marked by sometimes hilly and rough terrain that can turn swampy.

Firefighters decided to bring the helicopter in to have the man MedFlighted because of the seriousness of his injuries and how quickly it responds, Comeau said.

"Because of the head and the back injuries, which are considered of a very serious nature, we try to get the highest standard of care we can," Comeau said. "Boston MedFlight is roughly just 20 minutes away and we figured by the time we got him out of the woods, we could have him to a Boston hospital in a short amount of time."

Firefighters used a stokes basket, which is a stretcher used for rescues in tight spaces, like the woods, because it is just big enough to hold one person who can then be strapped in, while allowing several people to help carry the victim, Comeau said.

The fire chief did not have the name or age of the victim Friday night, but believes he is a local man.

The person riding with the victim called 911 and helped firefighters find the pair.

Comeau said it took 45 minutes to get the man out of the woods.

He cautioned against anyone riding out there alone.

366. Date: Mon, 29 Apr 2013 07:57:44 -0700
Subject: Cyclist airlifted from Annadel State Park (California) after crash

A cyclist was recovering Sunday after she was airlifted out of Annadel State Park with injuries from a crash. Crystal Smith, 32, of Santa Rosa crashed on Canyon Trail near Lake Trail Saturday, State Parks Supervising Ranger Neill Fogarty said.

Bennett Valley firefighters were called to the park at 6:20 p.m. She was experiencing neck and upper back pain, trouble breathing and other injuries that led paramedics to opt to have her taken from the park by helicopter, Bennett Valley Fire Lt. Travis Browne said. The Sonoma County sheriff's helicopter flew Smith to Santa Rosa Memorial Hospital. She was recovering at home Sunday.

367. http://www.seacoastonline.com/articles/20130503-NEWS-305030373

Donations on Web site don't aid injured biker
May 03, 2013 2:00 AM

EXETER A mountain biker seriously injured last Friday while riding in Oakland Forest remains in the intensive care unit at the Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center in Boston.

A hospital spokesperson said Steve Shope was listed in good condition on Thursday afternoon.

According to the website set up by his family, Shope of Newfields has been battling a fever over the last few days but it had receded by Thursday. The family also wanted to clarify that the "donations" tab on the online journal Web site caringbridge.org/visit/steveshope are for donations to the website. Those donations do not go to Shope.

Shope was rescued from the forest by firefighters on April 26 after falling from his bike and hitting his head on a rock. He careened over his handlebars and broke his neck and seriously damaged his spinal cord during the accident. He was sent by MedFlight helicopter to Boston because of the seriousness of the injuries.

Aaron Sanborn

368. http://www.swrnn.com/2013/05/09/brentwood-injured-mountain-biker-airlifted-to-safety/

Brentwood: Injured mountain biker airlifted to safety

By City News Service, on May 9, 2013, at 10:56 am

A man was injured today while riding a mountain bike on a trail in the Westridge-Canyonback Wilderness Park near Brentwood, authorities said.

(Flickr/Mark Holloway)

Firefighters sent to the area near Mandeville Fire Road just after 9 a.m. employed a helicopter to take the 59-year-old man to a hospital to treat a neck injury, according to Brian Humphrey of the Los Angeles Fire Department.

369. http://www.kjct8.com/news/woman-wrecked-on-mountain-bike/-/163152/20086058/-/126372h/-/index.html

Woman wrecked on mountain bike

Deputies and fire department use boat for rescue

Author: KJCT8.com Staff
POSTED: 03:42 PM MDT May 09, 2013 UPDATED: 07:25 PM MDT May 09, 2013
LOMA, Colo. -

A woman went over a ledge on her mountain bike in Loma Thursday afternoon and a boat was used to bring her to safety, according to the Mesa County Sheriff's Department.

The incident happened in the Salt Creek area, near Troy Bilt Loop off I-70 near mile marker 11.

Deputies said the woman was mountain biking and suffered some sort of injury; possibly a broken arm or ribs.

The woman was in a difficult area for emergency crews to access, so they put a boat in the Colorado River from the Loma Boat Launch to bring her to safety.

The Lower Valley Fire District and the Mesa County Sheriff's Office responded to the incident.

370. http://claremont-laverne.patch.com/articles/hiker-finds-injured-cyclist-in-wilderness-park

Hiker Finds Injured Mountain Biker in Wilderness Park

A 65-year-old man was seriously injured after falling off his bicycle on Burbank Trail.
By Gina Tenorio
May 7, 2013

An injured mountain biker was airlifted off the mountain Monday after suffering serious injuries in a fall inside Claremont Wilderness Park.

The incident was reported to Claremont Police about 6:45 p.m. The cyclist, a 65-year-old man from Ontario, was found by a hiker on the Burbank Trail, said Claremont Police Lt. Shelly Vander Veen.

He had suffered abrasions to his body and a laceration on his face, Vander Veen said. The injuries were serious enough for authorities to take him by helicopter to USC Medical Center in Los Angeles.

Wilderness Park is a popular destination for hikers and cyclists and does have some steep and rugged terrain.

371. http://missionviejo.patch.com/articles/firefighters-attempting-santiago-canyon-rescue

Mountain Biker Airlifted from Santiago Canyon with Head Injury

A man was flown to Mission Hospital after falling from his mountain bike.
By Peter Schelden
May 13, 2013

http://missionviejo.patch.com/articles/firefighters-attempting-santiago-canyon-rescue/media_attachments/edit?upload_started=1368468453

A 40-year-old mountain biker is being treated at Mission Hospital after being injured from a fall on Cactus Hill Trail near Santiago Canyon Road inside Whiting Wilderness Park.

The man suffered a head injury and broken arm and was air-lifted to Mission Hospital, said Orange County Fire Authority spokesman Jon Muir.

Firefighters were called at 9:48 a.m. by cell phone with seven people including other mountain bikers around the injured man, Muir said.

Rescuers used a Kawasaki Mule offroad vehicle, ground crews and a helicopter to reach the man.

"It was very difficult to get to that location," Muir said.

The victim was airlifted around 10:50 a.m., the spokesman said

372. http://www.thefreepress.ca/news/207272781.html

Fernie Search and Rescue recover injured biker

By Angela Treharne - The Free Press
Published: May 13, 2013 2:00 PM

A mountain biker was carried off the trails on a spine board yesterday afternoon after falling off his bike and hitting a tree.

The 52-year-old man, from Calgary, was with a group of bikers on the Ridgemont Trails when he fell while riding downhill on the R Trail.

He went over the handlebars and hit a tree, injuring his hip and back, and was not able to move. His friends called 911 and because of the location, Fernie Search and Rescue were called to recover the man.

We were able to drive up the Ridgemont hill and leave our truck there, said Simon Piney from Fernie Search and Rescue. "Then seven of us headed up the trails to find the biker.

Because of the way he had fallen, we were concerned for his back, even though it was mainly his hip giving him pain, so we decided to put him on a spine board.

The Search and Rescue members were also able to give the man Entonox, commonly known as laughing gas, to help with the pain. Several Search and Rescue members qualified to administer the gas last year.

The training certainly paid off for this man, said Piney.

The man was carried down to the truck and taken to hospital where he had X-rays and will be sent for a CAT scan.

373. Those pesky trees sure do get in the way! What a sad case!

Mike

http://ulsterherald.com/2013/05/17/mountain-biker-seriously-injured-in-gortin-glen-crash/

Mountain biker seriously injured in Gortin Glens

May 17, 2013 at 12:01 pm

Scott McAleer, who is recovering at home after his biking accident in the Gortin Glens.

A teenage mountain biker has called for the creation of proper trails in the Gortin Glens after a serious crash last week has left him needing medication for the rest of his life.

Scott McAleer, 15, was cycling with friends on Bank Holiday Monday when he collided with a tree and ruptured his spleen.
Finding difficulty breathing, his father rushed him to the Urgent Care and Treatment Centre in Omagh and he was sent immediately to Enniskillen hospital.

A scan quickly discovered he was bleeding internally and had lost two and a half litres of blood.
Although he had no visible bruises or marks, Scott ruptured his spleen in five places and was rushed to surgery at the South West Acute Hospital to have it removed.

This means that Scott will be more susceptible to catching infections and being sick and has been told by doctors he will have to take medication for the rest of his life.

The former motocross rider said, I have been riding in the glens for the past three or four years and had been on this trail countless times. Last Monday I landed wrong and went flying into the tree and ruptured my spleen in five places. I thought I had maybe broken ribs as I found it very hard to breath.

A few hours after the accident I was in theatre having my spleen removed.

The bad news for Scott, however, is that he won't be able to get back out on his mountain bike for at least another couple of months.

After being discharged from hospital on Saturday, the Drumragh College pupil said he hopes the trails could be upgraded in the future to make safer for others.

Mountain biking has really taken off and is becoming really popular. The Gortin Glens is on our doorstep and is great but I would love to see proper, safe trails found in other areas as the tree I hit would probably have been cleared.

I know accidents can happen to anyone but anything that can be done to make the trails safer and prevent somebody being seriously injured would be great to see.

I have been to Blessingbourne and had planned to go to Davagh Forest where the trails are specially designed and this makes a huge difference to safety. I cant wait to get back out on my bike in the glens in a couple of months as I really do love it.

Survey to look at potential of forest park

Gortin Glens Forest Park could become a centre for outdoor tourism activities in the coming years.
An Omagh District Council study is currently investigating the potential of creating purpose built walking and mountain bike trails as well as a high rope courses.

Chris Scott, from Outdoor Adventure NI, told the Ulster Herald this has the potential to attract a huge volume of tourists to the area.
He also believes it would have wider economic benefits for the entire community. Chris organised for a council delegation to travel to the Lake District a few months ago to see similar developments.

Providing an update of the plans, a council spokesperson said, Omagh District Council has agreed to commission Outdoor Recreation NI to undertake a feasibility study to look at the way forward for developing outdoor tourism activities at Gortin Glen Forest Park. This work is being taken forward in partnership with all relevant stakeholders including Forestry Services.

Chris also highlighted the success of the investment in outdoor trails in areas like Rostrever and most recently Davagh Forest near Cookstown.

He said the natural resources already make the Gortin Glens an attractive location for similar development.

The outdoor activities consultant said, Omagh council approached us to look at Gortin Glens in a more holistic way, not just in terms of mountain biking but also walking, trails, culture trails, high rope courses to make it an activity hub for the area. We brought a group of councillors and council staff on a very successful trip to the Lake District and gave them a really good feel what was required.

There is massive potential for the Gortin Glens and is exactly what this area needs. There are lots of bits and pieces of recreation in the area but a large centre like this will help draw people in and enjoy the forest park but also enjoy the other surrounding areas.

374. http://www.thesatellite.com.au/news/crash-hasnt-stunted-extreme-biking-passion/1872758/

Crash hasnt stunted extreme biking passion

Stuart Cumming
18th May 2013 10:06 AM

LUCKY BREAK: Downhill mountain bike rider Liam Paiaro stands beside his bike while recovering from three broken vertebrae. Supplied

A MOUNTAIN biking crash almost cost former Toowoomba rider Liam Paiaro his ability to walk.

But instead of shying away from the adrenaline-raising pursuit, the 22-year-old is already talking of his next downhill dash.

Mr Paiaro landed head first after misjudging a 20-metre jump at Toowoomba's Jubilee Park mountain bike track last Sunday.

The impact fractured the T4, T5 and T7 vertebra in his back, but was not enough to sever his spinal cord.

"As soon as I was in the air I knew I was gone," the former Downlands College student said.

"I don't remember the impact on the ground.

"I was apparently on the ground convulsing."

He had some relief prior to being winched from the steep terrain into the RACQ CareFlight helicopter because he could feel his feet.

After landing at Toowoomba Hospital, he spent the next 24 hours in the same position on his back.

Staff also tended to his broken left hand.

Mr Paiaro was walking around out of hospital by Tuesday morning.

"I'm pretty lucky."

The desire to hurtle down steep hills has not left Mr Paiaro.

"I've ridden that track 100 times.

"The adrenaline is awesome and you get a good group of mates out of it. Toowoomba is the best legalised track in south-east Queensland. They've done a very good job there."

Toowoomba Mountain Bike Club president Ryan Myler said his club had grown from 37 members in April last year to 120 members.

He said there were good safety protocols in place on race days in case of crashes such as Mr Paiaro's.

"The reality is the guys sign up for it," Mr Myler said.

"They accept the risk because they love doing what they do."

He was grateful for CareFlight's efforts and has donated $500 from the club, with a view to making ongoing contributions.

375. http://www.eagletribune.com/latestnews/x701047462/Mountain-biker-airlifted-to-Boston-hospital

May 20, 2013
Mountain biker airlifted to Boston hospital

By Paul Tennant ptennant@eagletribune.com The Eagle Tribune Mon May 20, 2013, 12:13 AM EDT

NORTH ANDOVER Wearing a helmet may have saved the life of a 29-year-old New Hampshire man who suffered serious injuries when he fell from his mountain bicycle in the woods of Harold Parker State Forest yesterday, according to fire Lt. Graham Rowe.

The unidentified biker went over his handle bars while heading down a steep grade on a section of the Bay Circuit Trail and his head hit a rock, Rowe said. The man suffered head and neck injuries but was alert when rescuers got to him, at least a mile into the woods, Rowe said.

The injured man was riding with two friends when the accident occurred, according to Rowe. One of the friends had a cell phone and called 911. Because the mishap took place near the Andover Sportsmens Club, the person who made the call thought they were in that town, Rowe explained.

The Andover dispatcher checked the GPS coordinates from the call and determined they were actually in North Andover. The North Andover Police and Fire departments got the call at 10:30 a.m.

North Andover and Andover firefighters responded, as well as North Andover police Officer Eric Sewade, who is assigned to the bike patrol. Rangers from the state Department of Conservation and Recreation also joined in the effort, Rowe said.

Six firefighters went into the woods to rescue the injured man. Sewade and one of the victims friends rode their mountain bikes and were helpful in guiding rescuers through the woods, Rowe said. When they got to the victim, they placed him on a backboard, then carried him to Old Cart Way.

It took a little time to get him out, Rowe said. From Old Cart Way, an ambulance took the victim to Reynolds Field on Johnson Street, where a helicopter waited to bring him to a Boston hospital.

The entire effort took about an hour and a half, Rowe said. It was fortunate that the victim was accompanied by two friends and that they had a cell phone with which to call 911, he noted. Judging by the dent in the victims helmet, he would have suffered a much more serious injury had he not been wearing it, Rowe said.

Thank God it happened in the day, he added, noting that rescuing an injured person in the woods when its dark can be treacherous.

Everybody worked well together, he said of a rescue that involved public safety personnel from two towns.

376. http://sport.iafrica.com/others/860026.html

SA cyclist critical after crash

Mon, 20 May 2013 9:04 AM

Champion cyclist Shaun Ward is in a critical, but stable condition in hospital, after falling on his head during a cycling event, Beeld reported on Monday.

He was reportedly participating in the North West Mountain Biking Championship, near Potchefstroom, when he lost control of his bike, fell off, and landed on his head. Two doctors treated him at the scene until paramedics arrived.

He was sedated and connected to a ventilator, his friends told the newspaper.

"If he had not been wearing his helmet, it could have been fatal," orthopaedic surgeon Dr Hannes Jonker was quoted as telling Beeld.

"I suspect he sustained a brain haemorrhage, but we did what we could," he said.

Ward (27) of Potchefstroom, won the Burger Cycling Tour and the Panorama Tour in 2012.

According to the newspaper, he was initially taken to the Potchefstroom Mediclinic, but was later transferred to the Garden City Clinic, in Johannesburg.

377. http://www.thedenverchannel.com/news/local-news/mountain-bike-racer-injured-on-power-line-trail-during-indian-creek-rocky-mountain-endurance-series

Mountain bike racer injured on Power Line Trail during Indian Creek Rocky Mountain Endurance Series

Douglas County Sheriff's Office
Posted: 05/20/2013
Deb Stanley

DOUGLAS COUNTY, Colo. - A mountain biker injured in the Indian Creek Rocky Mountain Endurance Series had to be airlifted to the hospital on Saturday.

Deputies said the cyclist was on the Power Line Trail southwest of Roxborough State Park when he hit a log and fell forward.

The Douglas County Sheriff's Office said the man landed on his face.

Douglas County Search and Rescue was volunteering at the race. They worked with West Metro Fire and AirLife to get the man in a rescue basket, then to a waiting helicopter.

It took almost three hours from the initial call until the time the man was loaded onto the AirLife helicopter for transport to Swedish Hospital.

The 41-year-old man's name and condition have not been released, but officials said his injuries were not life-threatening.

378. http://www.mtexpress.com/index2.php?ID=2005147473#.UaBtJpfn_mQ

Valley resident dies while mountain biking

Abromeit helped form local and national avalanche forecasting centers

By GREG MOORE
Express Staff Writer

     Longtime Wood River Valley resident Doug Abromeit, 65, died Sunday, May 19, while mountain biking on the Wolftone Creek trail in the Deer Creek area northwest of Hailey.

     Sheriff Gene Ramsey said Abromeit was riding ahead of two companions shortly before 1 p.m. when he fell over. His companions tried to revive him but were unsuccessful.

     Blaine County Coroner Russ Mikel said he has not yet received results of an autopsy being conducted in Boise, but said Abromeit appears to have died of a natural cause.

     Abromeit worked as the snow ranger at Alta and Little Cottonwood Canyon in Utah during the 1980s. In 1989, he helped initiate the U.S. Forest Service National Avalanche Center. He went to work for the Ketchum Ranger District in 1994 as Sawtooth National Forest snow ranger, permit administrator and avalanche specialist.

     In 1995, Abromeit initiated the Sawtooth National Forest Avalanche Center. In 1999, he was named full-time director of the National Avalanche Center, but continued to work from Ketchum. He retired from that position in 2011.

     At the time of his death, Abromeit was still playing an important role with the National Avalanche School as instructor, field session coordinator and liaison with ski area managers and snow safety personnel. He also was a member of the National Avalanche School steering committee.

Greg Moore: gmoore@mtexpress.com

http://www.ktvb.com/news/Avalanche-forecaster-dies-in-Idaho-while-cycling-208833721.html

Avalanche forecaster dies while mountain biking near Hailey

Doug Abromeit

by Associated Press and KTVB.COM

KTVB.COM

Posted on May 24, 2013 at 10:19 AM

HAILEY, Idaho -- A retired ranger who helped start the U.S. Forest Service National Avalanche Center died while mountain biking near his home in Idaho.

Doug Abromeit of Hailey was 65.

Two friends riding with Abromeit say he fell from his bike during an afternoon ride. Blaine County Sheriff Gene Ramsey says their attempts to revive him were unsuccessful.

Blaine County Coroner Russ Mikel says Abromeit, a hardy outdoorsman who hiked high mountain peaks in mid-winter during his Forest Service career, appears to have died of natural causes.

Longtime friend Bruce Tremper is the Director of the Utah Avalanche Center. Tremper told KTVB that Abromeit passed away doing something he loved.

"He was always out having a good time. He was always backcountry skiing, climbing, mountain biking," Tremper said.

Throughout his career, Abromeit worked as a ski patroller and smokejumper.

He retired from his post as director of the National Avalanche Center in 2011.

The center's locations across the West provide information for backcountry travelers to help limit deaths and injuries in snow slides.

Doug Abromeit of the National Avalanche Center talks about the Snowbird 2008 accident and the USFS/NAC perspective on avalanche accidents and near misses. Courtesy YouTube

Here's a Facebook post authored by Bruce Tremper, dedicated to his friend's life:

Doug Abromeit, retired director of the Forest Service National Avalanche Center, died suddenly on Sunday near Sun Valley while he was riding his mountain bike with friends. The cause of death is still uncertain, but he was ahead of his friends and when they caught up they found him lying on the ground still in his bike clips and no sign of trauma. Idaho requires an autopsy of unwitnessed deaths, so there may be more answers soon.

I met Doug in the fall of 1986 when I moved to Utah from Montana by way of Alaska to take over as the director of the Utah Avalanche Center. Doug was the new snow ranger for Little Cottonwood Canyon. We hiked the Flagstaff ridgeline across the canyon from Alta with several other key figures, Duain Bowles, Al Soucie, Roger Atkins, Brad Meiklejohn, and Dougs omnipresent dog Julio. Doug instantly won me over with his mellow, easygoing charm. Like a friendly golden retriever in the city park, everyone seemed to gather around him.

Ive been lucky enough to work with Doug for the past 27 years on a wide variety of projects. He moved snow ranger to the national coordinator of the military weapons program for avalanche control, which later became the Forest Service National Avalanche Center. He often described it as being a program with a big name and a very small staff, as he was the only employee until Karl Birkeland joined him 12 years ago.

Doug had a wide influence on the avalanche community not only by his superb organization of the national military weapons program for avalanche control but by mentoring the creation of many different avalanche centers in the U.S. He also represented the avalanche community and the Forest Service on countless national committees and organizations.

I miss him, not only as a good friend but collaborating with him on avalanche projects. In fact, I was supposed to call him last Monday to collaborate on a couple other projects, and my wife Susi and I were planning to stop by Sun Valley in a couple weeks on our way to Montana and pay Doug a visit. But, alas, its not to be.

As my 96-year-old, live-in mother-in-law from the Czech Republic often says in her thick accent, Look zee beauty, and every time I leave the house she says Enjoy every minute. Doug certainly did not have a problem following her advice as he lived his 65 years to the fullest, always fit and healthy and an avid backcountry skier, climber and mountain biker. He seldom let his work interfere with his enjoyment of life.

379. http://www.grough.co.uk/magazine/2013/05/25/injured-mountain-biker-and-walker-rescued-after-lakeland-injuries

Injured mountain biker and walker rescued after Lakeland injuries

John McHale, Reporter
Saturday 25 May 2013 10:12 PM GMT

The mountain biker was injured neaer Black Sail youth hostel at the head of Ennerdale

A mountain biker was rescued from a Lakeland valley after injuring himself.

The 48-year-old man was near the remote Black Sail Youth Hostel in Ennerdale when he suffered a leg injury.

Cockermouth Mountain Rescue Team was alerted today, Saturday and went to the bikers aid.

He was treated at the scene by the rescuers then taken by one of the teams vehicles to Bowness Knott where a waiting ambulance took him to hospital.

Earlier in the day, the team was called out to a 23-year-old woman from London who injured her ankle while walking on the path beside Buttermere lake.

She was treated by team members then stretchered to a waiting ambulance at Gatesgarth.

380. http://www.thewestmorlandgazette.co.uk/news/10445469.Mountain_biker_flown_to_hospital_after_losing_consciousness_in_fall/

Mountain biker flown to hospital after losing consciousness in fall

11:25am Monday 27th May 2013 in News

A MOUNTAIN biker was airlifted to hospital after he fell while riding in Great Langdale yesterday.

The Great North Air Ambulances Pride of Cumbria helicopter was called to the accident on Sunday at 2.20pm.

The 25-year-old from Manchester had been knocked out but regained consciousness as he was treated at the scene by Langdale Ambleside Mountain Rescue Team volunteers and an air ambulance doctor.

He was winched from the scene by an RAF Sea King and then flown to hospital in Newcastle with head injuries. He was described as in a stable condition.

381. http://www.valleycentral.com/news/story.aspx?id=902399#.UaORnZfn_mQ

Mountain biker injured on Brownsville trail

by Sergio Chapa

Posted: 05.26.2013 at 8:54 PM

Authorities are investigating an accident that left a bicyclist injured at a mountain biking trail in Brownsville.

It all happened at the Monte Bella Trail in northwest Brownsville just after 7:00 PM Sunday.

A man who appeared to be in his 20s reportedly injured himself at a ramp used for stunts.

Paramedics and police had to drive into the trail and walked the rest of the way.

The man's medical condition was not immediately known but he was seen being taken out on a stretcher with the neck brace.

382. http://rapidcityjournal.com/news/cyclist-injured-at-black-hills-fat-tire-festival/article_d6c7c136-363c-5ddc-9f7d-78d4faa499af.html

Cyclist injured at Black Hills Fat Tire Festival

John Lee McLaughlin Journal staff

Pennington County Search and Rescue, the Keystone Ambulance Service, and the Rapid City and Rockerville fire departments responded to a mountain bike wreck at the Black Hills Fat Tire Festival Sunday afternoon. The cyclist may have broken his neck on the final jump of a downhill race.

2013-05-27T15:31:00Z Cyclist injured at Black Hills Fat Tire FestivalJohn Lee McLaughlin Journal staff Rapid City Journal
May 27, 2013 3:31 pm John Lee McLaughlin Journal staff

A mountain biker may have broken his neck Sunday afternoon during a downhill race at the Black Hills Fat Tire Festival.

Witnesses said Mike Day of Atlanta, Ga., failed to negotiate the final jump of the Phoenix downhill mountain bike trail within the Storm Mountain trail network near Rockerville.

Emergency first responders couldn't comment on the severity of the Day's injuries nor confirm his identity. The initial dispatch indicated a spinal injury to his neck.

"Just had a bike wreck, that's all I can tell you," said Gary Sortland, assistant chief of the Rockerville Volunteer Fire Department, at the scene.

Martin Stover, a volunteer at the event, said Day was on one of the festival's loaner cross-country bikes and nosedived on the trail's final jump, which spans a 15-foot gap.

"He shouldn't have been doing the jump," Stover said. "If you don't make it, you're going to drop seven to eight feet."

He said Day was familiar with the trail. He may not, however, have been familiar enough with the test bike he was riding. Stover said the wreck produced the first serious injury of the event this year.

Day was transported to the Rapid City Regional Hospital by ambulance.

383. http://www.krextv.com/news/around-the-region/recue-209120951.html

911 Call Helps Crews Find Injured Mountain Biker

byKREX News Room
byKristina Kuestner

Story Created: May 27, 2013 at 10:42 PM MDT
PITKIN COUNTY, Colo.- Authorities say a 911 call helps crews recover an injured mountain biker on Buttermilk Mountain.

The Pitkin County Sheriff's Office, Mountain Rescue Aspen, Aspen Police, Aspen Ambulance, and Aspen Fire responded to an injured mountain biker on Government Trail around 11 a.m. Monday.

Officials say a 43-year-old female fell in an area known as The Root near Tiehack.

The patient was able to call 911 for help, and was in severe pain with an injury to her right hip.

Mountain Rescue Aspen and the Aspen Fire District teamed up to locate, access and transport the patient.

The patient was stabilized and taken to Aspen Valley Hospital for treatment.

384. http://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/news/article.cfm?c_id=1&objectid=10888346

Biker's body found after police search called off, inquest hears

By Matthew Backhouse @Mbackhouse Email Matthew

4:01 PM Tuesday Jun 4, 2013

Lance Kaiki. Photo / Supplied

A mountain biker who plunged 9m to his death was not found until the next day after police decided to call off an area search, a coroner's finding has detailed.

Lower Hutt man Lance Kaiki, 43, was reported missing by his wife Debbie after he failed to return from a ride in the Belmont Forest Park, less than 5km from his Petone home, on June 21 last year.

Mrs Kaiki had dropped her husband off at the park about 2.20pm and expected him home about 40 minutes later. She called police when he had not returned by 10pm.

His body was not discovered until 12.45pm the next day.

Police searched the area until early the next morning, but did not resume the search at daylight after reaching the conclusion he was no longer in the park.

The search resumed later the next day, but by then a cousin had found Mr Kaiki's body face-down in a stream, slumped over a metal pipe, at the bottom of steep cliff.

His bike was found a metre away, caught up in rocks and trees by the stream.

Sergeant Anthony Harmer, who led the search, said police had placed too much weight on cellphone data which suggested Mr Kaiki was no longer in the Belmont Forest Park.

He also acknowledged an immediate daytime search of the park would have found Mr Kaiki before his family did.

Coroner Garry Evans said it was unfortunate Mr Kaiki's body was not found sooner, although it was understandable the discovery was delayed due to the terrain in the area.

He said police had learned lessons arising from Mr Kaiki's disappearance and death.

Mr Kaiki was found to have died after he accidentally fell from a ridge while cycling the Mill Stream track.

His mountain bike was in mid-gear, which suggested the steep gradient of the track had caught Mr Kaiki unprepared, forcing him to stop near the top of an incline.

It was likely he put his foot out to steady himself and fell 9m to the stream below.

The cause of death was found to be blunt force trauma to Mr Kaiki's head, neck and torso.

At the time of his death, his wife Debbie said he had loved the outdoors.

"He was looking forward to this bike ride and he was so happy that day. I said to him, `will you be safe?' He said `yes' and we said our goodbyes.''

385. http://www.theglobeandmail.com/sports/more-sports/canadian-marathoner-reid-coolsaet-breaks-collarbone-in-mountain-bike-crash/article12380924/

Canadian marathoner Reid Coolsaet breaks collarbone in mountain bike crash Add to ...

LORI EWING

GUELPH, Ont. The Canadian Press

Published Thursday, Jun. 06 2013, 12:45 PM EDT

Barely a week after Reid Coolsaet announced his plan to take aim at Canadas marathon record, he sat in a Hamilton hospital awaiting surgery to put the pieces of his collarbone back together.

The 33-year-old distance runner suffered a major setback when he crashed while mountain biking on Wednesday and shattered his collarbone.

Athletics Marathoner Coolsaets quest for the Holy Grail

But the Hamilton native is cautiously optimistic hell still be able to race the Scotiabank Toronto Waterfront Marathon this fall. And if not, hell re-jig his racing calendar.

Im just kind of thinking that things happen for a reason I guess, Coolsaet said in a phone interview Thursday. I have a pretty positive outlook that Ill come back from this. It just might not be the same timeline as I originally thought.

If Im miraculously running at the beginning of July, I can pretty much do the same schedule that I thought I was going to do minus June and July races.

Coolsaet had been training with the Canadian marathon record in his sights and announced on May 29 that he would race in the 2013 Scotiabank Toronto race. At the same race in 2011, he ran two hours 10 minutes 55 seconds, narrowly missing Jerome Draytons 38-year-old record the oldest on Canadian running history books of 2:10:09.

Scotiabank will pay $38,000 in prize money $1,000 for every year Draytons record has stood for a record run.

Coolsaet was mountain biking Wednesday in the trails around Guelph Lakes when he noticed his shoe was undone. He hit the brakes. The bike stopped, but he didnt.

I still remember flying in the air thinking it felt like I was sailing pretty far, Coolsaet wrote on a blog post. I hit the ground with my left shoulder and heard a crack.

Coolsaet included a gruesome picture of his X-ray on his blog. Theres a gaping chasm where his collarbone should be. He also suffered torn ligaments.

Right when I saw (the X-rays) I thought How the hell is that supposed to join back together, Coolsaet wrote.

Coolsaet was initially told to wait a week to see how the fracture healed. He texted the X-ray to several doctors he knows in Hamilton. Hours later he was in hospital getting prepped for surgery, which was to include the insertion of a hook plate which will be removed in about six months.

He was told he can resume running in about six weeks. If thats not enough time to prepare for the Oct. 20 marathon in Toronto, hell aim for another race.

Coolsaet says the good thing about marathons is that theres a decent race somewhere in the world at almost any time of the year.

So its not like other sports seasons, that if youre trying to run a fast steeple(chase) in December, theres just not one available, Coolsaet said. So thats kind of the good part about the marathon, is that I can still, whenever I figure out when Im fit and I can put a training plan into place, I can take a marathon. Right now Im still hoping that Scotiabank will work. But I have to keep my mind open.

Coolsaet plans to get back on the bike the stationary bike to train until he can run again.

But I think as far as biking, stationary bike, it shouldnt be too long, he said. The reason I say that is I fractured it and biked home 30 minutes. So if I can bike with it like that, I should be able to bike with it once its kind of pieced together.

Coolsaet has come back from fluky injuries before. Late in 2008, he slipped on a patch of ice and broke his foot.

386. http://www.rotoruadailypost.co.nz/news/injury-doesnt-faze-windsurfer-72/1895333/

72-year-old injured while mountain biking

Alison King
5th Jun 2013 7:59 AM

A man was taken to hospital after crashing his bike on the Creek track in Rotorua File

A Rotorua man smashed his chest against a log while mountain biking, and in hospital asked when he would be allowed to go windsurfing again.

Ian Horlor, 72, windsurfs every day and is also a member of the weekly Wise Riding group. The group is for mountain bikers aged over 60 and meets every Tuesday at the Waipa Car Park. Yesterday he was riding with his daughter, Lisa, who leads the group, and fellow mountain biker Bryan Eckersley when he crashed on the Creek track.

Miss Horlor has praised the actions of Mountain Bike Rotorua, who came to her father's aid after she dialled 111.

"I'm usually good in situations like that but I was a complete wombat because it was my dad," Miss Horlor said.

"I just panicked I guess. They did everything they could, if I didn't have them I would have felt very much on my own."

After she made her 111 call, a call was then put through to Mountain Bike Rotorua to get into the forest to stabilise Mr Horlor while the ambulance was on its way. Tuhua Mutu helped Mr Horlor while Brad O'Malley guided the ambulance in.

"I work in the forest, my job is to coach and guide and that crew is always first on the scene," Miss Horlor said.

"They're highly-trained. They were with dad for an hour. At the end of the day they have a business to run but they dropped everything."

Mr Horlor was taken to Rotorua Hospital and treated for hypothermia as well as chest injuries.

"He's super, super fit. The first thing he asked was when he can go windsurfing again. We know he'll get better really fast."

Mr Eckersley said they were only 20 minutes into their ride when his friend slipped and crashed.

"We were having a good ride," he said.

"We went down onto Creek track and there's a wooden bridge at the bottom. I don't know if his wheel slipped but he went off the side and landed with his chest against the log. He's got the skills but it's just one of those things. It was a bit slippery - you need to get that bit right."

387. http://www.theprovince.com/news/Mountain+biker+found+dead+North+Shore+trail/8506922/story.html

Mountain biker found dead on North Shore trail

By Cheryl Chan, The Province June 11, 2013

A mountain biker has died on a North Shore trail Monday. North Shore Search and Rescue was asked by the B.C. Coroner Service to help recover the body of the biker at around 4 p.m., confirmed spokesman Tim Jones.

Photograph by: North Shore Rescue, Facebook

A mountain biker has died on a North Shore trail Monday.

North Shore Search and Rescue was asked by the B.C. Coroner Service to help recover the body of the biker at around 4 p.m., confirmed spokesman Tim Jones.

The accident occurred on the Pipeline trail, considered a moderate trail with some steep sections and small drops.

Crews used a chopper to carry out a longline recovery, said Jones.

Jones referred questions about the circumstances of the accident to the Coroners Service.

A spokesperson for the Coroners Service was not immediately available Monday night.

Read more: http://www.theprovince.com/news/Mountain+biker+found+dead+North+Shore+trail/8506922/story.html#ixzz2VxgmNqlm

http://www.vancouversun.com/news/Idaho+mountain+biker+dies+Lynn+Headwaters+Regional+Park/8505478/story.html

Idaho mountain biker who died in Lynn Headwaters Regional Park identified

Vancouver Sun June 11, 2013

Lynn Headwaters in North Vancouver is one of Metro Vancouver's 22 regional parks.

Photograph by: Wayne Leidenfrost, PNG, Vancouver Sun

METRO VANCOUVER - A mountain biker who died on North Vancouvers Lynn Headwaters Regional Park Monday after falling off a balance board has been identified as Jeffrey Fields.

The 38-year-old man from Boise, Idaho was found unresponsive on the Pipeline Trail on Mount Fromme at about noon by two other mountain bikers.

Attempts by the RCMP and North Shore Search and Rescue to revive the man failed.

De Jong said the man, who was wearing a helmet, was crossing a balance board used for a mountain biking skill test, but fell. He suffered head and neck injuries, but De Jong couldnt say if that was the reason he died.

Coroner Barb McLintock says the family of Fields has been notified of his death. The Coroners Service and RCMP continue to investigate.

Read more: http://www.vancouversun.com/news/Idaho+mountain+biker+dies+Lynn+Headwaters+Regional+Park/8505478/story.html#ixzz2VxjeoEN5

http://www.legacy.com/obituaries/idahostatesman/obituary.aspx?pid=165303912

Dr. Jeffrey David Fields

Obituary

Dr. Jeffrey David Fields
September 26, 1974 - June 10, 2013
Dr. Jeffrey David Fields, of Boise, Idaho, passed away on June 10, 2013.
He was born on September 26, 1974 in Muncie, Indiana to parents Cynthia and David Fields. After graduating from Wapahani High School, Jeff attended the Air Force Academy for 3 years and then went on to obtain a Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry at the University of Notre Dame in 1998. He also earned a minor in sculpture art. Jeff received his medical degree from the Indiana University School of Medicine in 2004. He completed both his Family Medicine residency and Sports Medicine Fellowship in Indianapolis, IN.
He has worked with the Indianapolis Colts, the Mixed Martial Arts circuit, and served as team physician for Marian University and several high school sports teams. He provided family and sports medicine care to residents of the Treasure Valley at St. Luke's Capital City Family Medicine.
Jeff and his family moved to Boise in 2010 for their tremendous love of the outdoors. As an accomplished athlete and outdoorsman, Jeff could often be found biking in the Boise foothills, skiing at Bogus Basin, exercising in his garage, and camping in the Idaho wilderness with his family. He also greatly enjoyed traveling and exploring cultures, cuisine, and vistas around the world.
Jeff is survived by his wife, Dr. Helen Jia-Ru Kuo, and daughters Scarlet Yi-An Fields (age 3), Naomi Yi-Jia Fields (age 2), and a baby daughter due in October; parents Cynthia and David Fields; and sister Cortney Coombs.
A local ceremony celebrating Jeff's life will be held in Boise this Saturday, June 15 from 9 to 11 a.m. at Municipal Park, #2 Chestnut Picnic Site, 500 S. Walnut St. Another ceremony will be held in his hometown of Selma, Indiana on Saturday, June 22.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that any contributions be given to his childrens' college fund. Please send checks payable to Helen Kuo, PO Box 767, Boise, ID 83701

Read more here: http://www.legacy.com/obituaries/idahostatesman/obituary.aspx?pid=165303912#storylink=cpy

388. http://www.revelstoketimesreview.com/news/211432561.html

Revelstoke mountain biker recovering after being rescued from Enderby Cliffs

A Revelstoke man was injured while mountain biking near the Enderby Cliffs on Wednesday.
Published: June 13, 2013 11:00 AM

By Roger Knox, Vernon Morning Star

A cell phone is a handy device to have when out in the back country, if theres cell coverage available.

A Revelstoke mountain biker will confirm that.

The man in his 20s was with three other friends mountain biking on the Enderby Cliffs Wednesday at 3:30 p.m. when he hit a tree stump and suffered a serious puncture wound to his leg.

The group had two cell phones with them. One of the phones battery died, but thanks to the other being charged, they were able to phone for help.

We got the call from B.C. Ambulance asking us to respond and retrieve the guy, said Leigh Pearson with Vernon Search and Rescue.

As the injured biker was near the top of the cliffs, search and rescue looked at three options of getting to the man.

They could hike up the trail, which would have resulted in a long, time-consuming jaunt back down with the injured cyclist.

They could get to the man via the back of the mountain using ATVs, but that, too, would have taken considerable time.

So search and rescue called in a helicopter, specifically a machine from Kelowna-based Valhalla Helicopters, on a recommendation from Vernon helicopter companies whose machines were all out on business calls.

We had to carry the injured cyclist about 100 metres to where the helicopter could land and loaded him on, said Pearson. His friends did a good job of stabilizing the injury until we got there. The helicopter landed at the bottom of the mountain, at the parking lot for the trail, and the ambulance was waiting there.

The helicopter guy did a tremendous job for us. It was very slick. It didnt take much time from the time we got to him.

The mountain biker was taken to the hospital in Salmon Arm where he was treated for his injury. He has since returned to Revelstoke, where he is recovering at home.

Pearson highly recommends anybody going out into the back country to take their cell phone, but make sure it has a good battery that is fully charged.

And be aware that once you get out of the valley bottom, cell coverage disappears quickly.

These guys were fortunate that there was a cell tower fairly close by so they had decent coverage, said Pearson, adding that areas such as east of Lumby on Highway 6 have virtually no cell phone coverage.

People dont realize that, he said. They take it for granted that cell phone coverage is everywhere when it isnt.

389. http://www.kidderminstershuttle.co.uk/news/local/10481926.Ramblers_come_to_biker_s_rescue/?ref=nt

Ramblers come to biker's rescue

7:00am Friday 14th June 2013 in Local

A MOUNTAIN biker who broke both his arms after crashing during a ride has praised ramblers who rushed to his aid.

Greg OShaughnessy, of Kidderminster, said the incident could have been a lot worse had the walkers not come to his rescue.

He explained he was aware of rumours about tensions between the groups and about ramblers putting sticks on cycle routes,but said he could not have done without them after the crash.

Mr OShaughnessy had been cycling along a track at Coopers Mill, near Bewdley, with his friend Alan Cadwallader on June 2 when he suddenly lost control of the bike.

I tried to aim for some soft bushes and I failed to see a 12ft drop, which I just cycled over the edge of and landed on concrete, he said.

I was unable to help myself.

I had two broken arms and my helmet was cracked so it was lucky I was wearing it.

He added about 10 ramblers stopped in their tracks and kept him warm with blankets and cardigans as he went into shock.

Some of them had to cycle off on my bike to get a phone signal to call an ambulance,

Mr OShaughnessy said.

Some of the walkers helped [Alan]to get the bikes home. I was very grateful for their actions.

Had they not been on the scene, we would have been in trouble because [Alan] wouldve got lost trying to find a signal.

Without them,I wouldve been lying there for two or three hours.

He added he wanted to say thank you to the ramblers for their actions following the accident at about 3pm.

They gave up their afternoon and without their help it couldve been different, he said.

I know what goes on with sticks being put on our tracks but its never affected me on a cycle and all I can say is on that particular day I could not have done without them.

390. http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-south-scotland-22903392

Kirroughtree trail rescue for injured mountain biker

The incident happened on the cycling trail at Kirroughtree

A mountain rescue team was called out to help get a biker to hospital after he was injured on a south of Scotland trail.

The incident happened at about 17:40 on Thursday on the 7 Stanes track at Kirroughtree near Newton Stewart.

Trees in the area prevented a helicopter crew from winching the casualty from the scene.

Galloway Mountain Rescue Team helped get the man to hospital for treatment for ankle and wrist injuries.

Team leader Mike McCann, who assisted with the rescue, said five team members had responded to the call from their Newton Stewart base using a Land Rover ambulance.

He said they were able to drive along a rough, unused track to get within half a mile of the casualty.

"He was already prepared for evacuation and we assisted the ambulance crew and Royal Navy air crew to recover him to our Land Rover," he said.

"We then transported him through the forest to an awaiting ambulance for the onward journey to Dumfries and Galloway Royal Infirmary."

http://www.gallowaygazette.co.uk/news/local-headlines/injured-cyclist-rescued-from-forest-1-2966612

Injured cyclist rescued from forest

Published on 14/06/2013 09:32

Galloway Mountain Rescue Team were called out to a tricky evactuation on Thursday after a cyclist came off his mountain bike on one of the 7Stanes routes at Kirroughtree.

An ambulance and air ambulance were already in attendance and Rescue 177 from HMS Gannet was also on scene. Trees and other hazards at the location prevented the helicopter crew from winching the casualty from the scene of the accident.

Team Leader Mike McCann, who assisted with the rescue, said: Once again our Land Rover ambulance proved it was a worthy investment for the team. Five team personnel responded in the vehicle from our Newton Stewart base managing to traverse a very rough, unused track to within half a mile of the casualty. He was already prepared for evacuation and we assisted the ambulance crew and Royal Navy air crew to recover him to our Land Rover. We then transported him through the forest to an awaiting ambulance for the onward journey to Dumfries and Galloway Royal Infirmary.

The injured mountain biker, who isnt local to the area, is believed to have sustained injuries to his ankle and wrist.

For more information about the voluntary activities of Galloway MRT including details of incidents, training, walk routes and much more, visit www.gallowaymrt.org.uk.

391. ["Those mountain bike trails are pretty gnarly"

It sounds like the sheriff is a mountain biker. "Gnarly" trails either shouldn't exist, or shouldn't be open to bikes, for obvious reasons.

Mike]

http://www.pressdemocrat.com/article/20130616/articles/130619668

Sheriff's helicopter airlifts injured cyclist from Sugarloaf Ridge State Park

By MEG McCONAHEY
THE PRESS DEMOCRAT

Published: Sunday, June 16, 2013 at 2:21 p.m.

Last Modified: Sunday, June 16, 2013 at 2:21 p.m.

A 48-year-old mountain biker was airlifted out of Sugarloaf Ridge State Park Sunday morning after crashing on a trail near the summit of Bald Mountain.

The Sheriff's Helicopter Henry 1 was dispatched to the park near Kenwood about 11:20 a.m.

He doesn't know how he crashed. It's real steep and those mountain bike trails are pretty gnarly, said Sheriff's Deputy Chris Mahoney.

Although the cyclist was able to stand, rescue crews, concerned about a possible head injury, opted to helicopter the man to Santa Rosa Memorial Hospital rather than wait for an ambulance, Mahoney said.

Head injuries could ultimately result in death. They're serious enough so we didn't waste any time, he said.

The cyclist was on an approved trail, he said.

392. http://www.castanet.net/edition/news-story-93770-21-.htm

Mountain biker injured on trail

by Deborah Pfeiffer - Story: 93770
Jun 18, 2013 / 5:28 am

File photo of a rescue from last year.

A mountain biker was injured Sunday while riding on the Three Blind Mice trail network.

Penticton Search and Rescue Manager Dale Jorgensen said they were asked to assist in getting the man out by BC Ambulance at around 11:30 a.m.

Initially, they planned to bring him out by a helicopter with a long line, but were able to bring him out on foot.

Assistance was provided by the Penticton Fire Department and BC Ambulance.

Jorgensen said he did not know the full extent of the man's injuries, he was taken to an area hospital.

Two mountain bikers died while riding in the same area, above Naramata Road, last year.

It is recommended for more advanced riders, said Jorgensen. He further advised that cyclists not ride on the trails by themselves.

393. http://www.marinij.com/novato/ci_23515305/novato-horse-riders-thrown-injured-after-run-illegal

Novato horse riders thrown, injured, after run-in with illegal mountain bikers on trail

By Gary Klien
Marin Independent Journalmarinij.com
Posted: 06/22/2013 09:14:54 AM PDT

An injured horse rider in Novato is lifted to an ambulance Thursday by Henry 1, the helicopter of the Sonoma County Sheriff's Office. The rider, Lisa Zeppegno, was thrown from her horse in open space off Indian Valley Road. (Sonoma County Sheriff's Office)

Marin authorities are trying to identify two young mountain bikers who illegally whipped down a rural Novato trail, causing two women to be thrown from their horses and injuring a horse that fled in a panic.

Lisa Zeppegno, who suffered spinal injuries in the incident, said the mountain bikers ignored their pleas for help and rode off. She was airlifted from the remote area some two hours later.

"I could've been killed," said Zeppegno, 44, of Oakland. "They came so fast and out of nowhere that the horses were spooked. I'm just lucky the horse didn't run over me."

The incident left the county's park director seething and vowing to hold the bicyclists and their parents accountable.

"Why aren't
these kids being taught more responsibility?" said Linda Dahl, director and general manager of Marin County Parks. "Clearly they don't care. And I'm here to tell you, they're going to start caring."

The incident was reported at about 4 p.m. Thursday in the Indian Tree Preserve near the end of Vineyard Road, where Zeppegno and a friend, Nicole Devito, were riding slowly on a narrow trail. The women sponsor horses at Willow Tree Stables.

Zeppegno said the mountain bikers came around a blind corner, terrifying the animals. Both women were bucked off their horses, and Zeppegno's horse, Coco, ran away.

Zeppegno said the cyclists, who appeared to be 12 to 14 years old, did not stick around.

"Nicole was screaming at them and begging them to stay because we needed help, and they just left," she said.

Devito, who was not injured as badly as her immobile friend, was able to get reception on her cellphone and called for assistance.

Novato paramedics responded on a fire road, but the area was so remote they had to climb down more than a mile to reach the women, said Novato fire Capt. Dmitri Menzel.

The fire department called for Henry 1, the helicopter from the Sonoma County Sheriff's Office. The helicopter crew sent a medic down on a long line to attach Zeppegno to a stretcher.

Zeppegno was moved to an ambulance and taken to Kaiser Permanente Medical Center in Santa Rosa. She learned she had compression fractures of her L1 and L2 lumbar vertabrae and her sacrum, the bone at the base of her spine.

Zeppegno, who was released Friday afternoon, said it could take six to eight weeks to have normal mobility. She is an acupuncturist.

"I'm going to lose a lot of income, and I'm worried about that," she said.

Devito, a 47-year-old Oakland resident, suffered neck pain and minor injuries but did not require hospitalization.

The disappearance of Coco the horse, an 8-year-old Belgian draft quarter horse cross, set off an extensive search because she would die without food, water and relief from the heat.

The search group included members of the county Open Space District, Marin Search and Rescue and the sheriff's volunteer mounted posse.

Also assisting the search was Tom Boss of the Marin County Bicycle Coalition. He said the organization has been trying to educate mountain bikers about the trail rules.

"The majority of the mountain bikers are riding trails that they're supposed to be on," said Boss, a Forest Knolls resident. "You get an incident like this, it paints all the users in a bad light."

Coco remained missing until Friday afternoon, when she was found by Ian McLorg, a seasonal ranger. The horse suffered from deep gashes on her nose and in her armpit, said Monte Kruger, co-owner of the horse and of Willow Tree Stables.

"She's going to require pretty extensive veterinary care," said Kruger, who runs the stable with her husband, Curt. "She's in shock. Her flanks are quivering. Her respiration is up. She's dehydrated. She's been in a gully for 24 hours with no food or water."

County authorities are working to identify the illegal mountain bikers who fled the scene. The Krugers urged them and their parents to come forward.

"There's humongous issues here and serious damages and consequences," Curt Kruger said. "Very often the parents protect the kids 'Oh, they're just playing out there.'"

The Open Space District's website says bikes are banned on district lands "except upon fire protection roads, designated bicycle pathways or public roads not signed against such use."

Monte Kruger said she sees illegal bike riders about twice a week.

Dahl, the parks director, said she has heard young mountain bikers openly brag at public meetings about riding on illegal trails, saying they considered the fines to be "user fees." Fines and penalties for illegal biking in open space range from $199 for the first offense to $615 for the third and subsequent offenses.

She did not have statistics on the number of reported incidents, but said Indian Valley and Mount Burdell are becoming increasing problem areas.

"It's dangerous for the animals, it's dangerous for the people, and it's very disturbing to us," she said. "We're going to follow through. We're going to have a community conversation about this."

394. http://www.wvgazette.com/News/201307010032

July 1, 2013
Indiana woman injured in Gorge biking accident

By Staff reports
The Charleston Gazette

FAYETTEVILLE, W.Va. -- An Indiana woman injured Sunday when she struck a tree in a mountain biking accident in the New River Gorge was being treated for upper back and neck injuries in a Charleston hospital after being evacuated from the Arrowhead Trail System in Fayette County on a wheeled litter.

After receiving treatment at the scene of the accident from National Park Service rangers and Jan Care Ambulance and Fayetteville Fire Department personnel, the 46-year-old woman carried about one mile to an access road, and then taken to a landing zone where a HealthNet helicopter transferred her to Charleston.

Other details of the accident were not immediately available.

395. http://www.stuff.co.nz/marlborough-express/news/8866300/Biker-rescued-from-Wither-Hills

Biker rescued from Wither Hills

STEVE MASON
Last updated 06:48 02/07/2013

The Nelson Marlborough Rescue Helicopter was returning from Wellington about 4.40pm when it was diverted back to Blenheim to a mountain bike accident on the Wither Hills walkway.

A 25-year-old mountain biker from Palmetston North had suffered head and shoulder injuries when he crashed off his bike.

A helicopter service spokesman said St John Ambulance and a Rural Fire crew had been able to get to the man scene by four-wheel-drive vehicle and provide inital care but the man's injuries and the terrain meant it was not practical to get him out by vehicle.

The rescue helicopter was able to land at the scene and lift the patient for the flight to Wairau Hospital, in Blenheim. His condition was not available this morning.

396. http://www.malibutimes.com/news/article_1d04156c-e5de-11e2-b1a5-001a4bcf887a.html

The Malibu Times

Planning commissioner seriously injured in mountain biking accident

Doctor says helmet saved Mikke Pierson's life.

Planning commissioner Mikke Pierson

Posted: Saturday, July 6, 2013 6:45 am

Planning commissioner seriously injured in mountain biking accident By Melissa Caskey / melissa@malibutimes.com The Mailbu Times

Malibu planning commissioner Mikke Pierson suffered a punctured lung, several broken bones and a concussion in a mountain biking accident in the Santa Monica Mountains on the Fourth of July, his wife Maggie Pierson confirmed. He is expected to make a slow but full recovery.

Pierson was mountain biking with a group that normally meets up once a week when he landed hard on his head after picking up too much speed on a steep portion of Malibu's Backbone trail and flying about 35 feet in the air, his wife said.

"He said he was going probably 30 miles an hour," Maggie Pierson said.

Fortunately, he was wearing a helmet which likely saved his life, according to his doctor.

The accident left him with a concussion and major injuries to his left side, including a dislocated elbow, punctured lung, broken rib, broken hand and fractured hip. Recovery has been estimated at about six weeks, his wife said.

The doctor was concerned with the punctured lung but the planning commissioner seemed to make progress overnight Thursday. There was also concern that the hip fracture would require surgery.

"I think we're out of the woods with those things now," Maggie Pierson said.

Her husband is recovering at Los Robles Hospital in Thousand Oaks and could be released as soon as Monday, after which he will meet with a hand specialist to schedule surgery on his elbow and hand.

"I'm really optimistic because he really got his positive spirit back today," his wife said Friday evening.

Pierson, who lives in Paradise Cove and owns a surf shop in Santa Monica, was appointed to the Malibu Planning Commission last May by Councilwoman Laura Rosenthal. His wife said he will likely be able to attend the next commission's next meeting on July 29.

"Getting out to visit the properties might be more of a challenge," Maggie Pierson said. "But reviewing the documents and that sort of thing should be fine."

397. http://www.summitdaily.com/news/7361837-113/family-zeke-died-mountain

News
July 18, 2013

Vail Mountain School student Zeke Pierce dies in biking accident

VAIL A Vail Mountain School student has died from injuries sustained in a mountain-biking accident last weekend.

Zeke Pierce, a high school student at the school, was injured Saturday on Vail Mountain. Family friend Susan Washing said Pierce was initially treated at Vail Valley Medical Center, then flown to Valley View Hospital in Glenwood Springs. He was in a medically-induced coma at Childrens Hospital in Denver when he died....

398. http://www.manchestereveningnews.co.uk/news/greater-manchester-news/mountain-biker-dies-peak-district-5377131

Mountain biker dies in Peak District fall

28 Jul 2013 21:03

Mountain rescuers was called to Laddow Rocks, near Crowden, yesterday afternoon

The Peak District is popular with mountain bikers

A mountain biker has died after a fall in the Peak District.

Mountain rescuers was called to Laddow Rocks, near Crowden, yesterday afternoon.

Neale Pinkerton, from Kinder Mountain Rescue Team, said: "Unfortunately the rider did not survive the fall. Our thoughts and best wishes go out to his family and friends."

399. http://www.seacoastonline.com/articles/20130729-NEWS-307290323

'I want to ride again': Paralyzed Newfields man home after bike accident

Steve Shope of Newfields endured a catastrophic injury while mountain biking on a trail in late April of this year. Shope fractured his neck at level C-6, spent three months at Boston hospitals, and is now back home with his family, where he is adapting to a much different life in a wheelchair.Rich Beauchesne/rbeauchesne@seacoastonline.com

By Jeff McMenemy
jmcmenemy@seacoastonline.com
July 29, 2013 2:00 AM

NEWFIELDS Steve Shope returned home last week after spending almost three months in two different hospitals after breaking his neck in an April 26 mountain bike accident in Exeter.

"I'm very happy. I'm not a big fan of hospitals," Shope said during a recent interview at his home.

But Shope returned home a changed man. The small-business owner, volunteer firefighter, town official and mountain biking enthusiast is now paralyzed from the chest down.

He can breathe and talk on his own, and he is learning how to operate his voice-activated cell phone and hands-free laptop.

But he acknowledges the changes he has endured have been severe.

"That's been hard, not being able to do anything on my own," Shope said. "I need to have someone with me 24 hours a day to do anything."

But the spirit of adventure and determination that has endeared him to a remarkable circle of devoted friends in Newfields and Exeter will not let him accept life the way it is now.

"I'm determined to get the use of my arms and eventually my legs back. I've only been dealing with this for a matter of weeks, but I don't want to live life as a quadriplegic. I want to ... eventually be able to ride again," Shope said.

He repeated that sentiment several times during the interview, smiling at one point and saying life in a wheelchair was "not for me."

His friends believe that if there's anyone who can make what some believe is only a dream become a reality, it's Shope.

Greg Corson is one of Shope's best friends and mountain bike riding buddies who helped create a Web site, Steve Shope Trail to Recovery, at www.trailtorecovery.com, which is raising money for Shope's ongoing medical needs.

Like Shope, he is hopeful his friend will recover from the traumatic injuries he suffered.

"If there's a miracle out there for somebody, he'll earn it," Corson said. "He's going to work very, very hard to get better."

Shope, who Corson said is called "Sarge" by his friends for his take-charge attitude, said Shope persuaded the van driver who drove the former Newfields first responder home from the hospital to his house last week to stop before they got to his house.

"There were 25 bicyclists, children and adults, who were riding around the van and some 200 yards from his home, he asks the driver if he can ride his wheelchair home with this pack of bikes. It was fantastic," Corson said.

Corson said Steve and his wife, Julie, along with all of their friends, cannot thank the community enough for their financial support.

But he said Shope's ongoing care and need for personal assistance will require ongoing fund-raising.

"There's been outstanding support from people, but we will continue to hold events to raise money for Steve and his family," Corson said.

Jennifer MacPherson, a neighbor of the family, saw Shope on Monday night.

"His spirit and his will to get better are an inspiration to all of us," she said Tuesday night. "He looks good and even though he's living with this horrific injury, he's determined to get better."

Like many others in town, MacPherson pointed to Shope's "phenomenal close circle of friends."

She said Shope's personality and his willingness to help others has his friends committed to raising money for him and his wife for as long as it's needed.

"Oh my God, he's just the best guy," MacPherson said. "You never saw Steve without him waving and smiling."

Mike Baillargeon, the fund-raising coordinator for the Exeter Lions Club, said Shope is "probably one of the nicest people you're ever going to meet."

Shope has a long history of volunteerism and public service, and when Baillargeon heard about the accident, he knew he had to help.

"He's got one of those outgoing personalities," Baillargeon said. "When he walks in a room, he brightens a room."

That's why the Lions Club, which also serves the town of Newfields, is holding a 5K walk on Aug. 22 to raise money for Shope and his family.

"It's going to cost a lot of money to get him to where he needs to be," Baillargeon said.

He said Shope has done countless things for the community being a volunteer firefighter, serving on a town board and working hard to clean up the bike trails where he spent so much time.

"As a community, we need to stick together and help those in need," he said this week. "Steve is someone who's served this community without having to be asked, and now it's time to give back."

Registration for the event, which will start at the Newfields Fire Department at 7 Pissassic Road, is scheduled for 4:30 to 5:30 p.m. The walk starts at 5:30 and it costs $20 per walker with all proceeds going to the Shope family.

After the walk, the Newfields Fire Department is holding a cookout to benefit the family.

Helen Rist, principal of Newfields Elementary School, said students there decided to hold a coin drive before the end of the year to raise money.

"A lot of the families at the school and the children know Steve, he's highly involved with the town and the school," Rist said last week.

They hoped to raise $500, but raised more than $2,000 instead, she said.

When Shope passed the school, which is located near his house on his drive home, he saw a sign out front welcoming him home.

"That was our goal, to let him know the whole community is thinking about him," Rist said.

She said the town has rallied behind Shope and his family, in no small part because of the type of town Newfields is.

"It's very much a Norman Rockwell kind of community and the school is the center of the town," she said.

Shope said Sunday the response to his accident has been "overwhelming."

"We've had people who don't even know me who've donated time and materials for the house," he said. "People who've worked hours and hours on getting it handicapped-accessible."

Shope credited Newfields for being "a very tight-knit community," but said he has received a lot of support from Exeter, too.

"I was on the Exeter Trails Committee and many people from Exeter have reached out to me since the accident," Shope said.

Asked if he is comfortable now that he's home from the hospital, Shope said, "Overall I'm comfortable, but I get these nerve pains, which you learn to deal with."

He is hopeful the "spinal shock" he suffered when he crashed into a rock and broke his neck will wear off in time.

But his doctors were noncommittal about that possibility, he said.

"The doctors don't say very much about that, but when I was at Spaulding, I saw some remarkable recoveries," Shope said.

Shope acknowledged he struggled with his emotions after suffering his injuries while in the hospital, as anyone would.

"I think it is normal to be depressed after an accident such as this, and I started to get stronger when I saw all the support from my family and friends, and even from people that I have never met," he said.

Still, he acknowledges the financial issues he and his family face are considerable.

"We will have to hire personal care assistants, possibly for a number of years," he said.

But he also wants to get back to work, because he and his wife, Julie, have run their own company, Exeter Environmental Associates, for years.

But the most important thing Shope is dealing with now is trying to get better.

"I don't want to live my life as a quadriplegic," he said. "That's why I'm so determined to get better and get the use of my arms and legs back."

In addition to the 5K walk, The Newfields Volunteer Fire Department is donating all the proceeds from its annual golf tournament to Shope and his family.

The tournament will feature an 8 a.m. shotgun start at the Exeter Country Club on Saturday, Sept. 14.

Tickets are $90 per person and many sponsorships and raffle donations are available.

A link to the golf outing will be added to the www.trailtorecovery.com Web site.

400. http://www.wbiw.com/local/archive/2013/07/man-dies-while-biking-in-brown-county-state-park.php

Man Dies While Biking In Brown County State Park
Updated July 29, 2013 6:32 AM

(BROWN CO.) - Indiana Conservation Officers are investigating the death of 58-year-old Phillip Hunter, of Indianapolis, who died at Brown County State Park while mountain biking.

Hunter was biking on Trail B in the park and had spoken with other bike riders just before those same riders found him unresponsive on the trail and called 911.

Indiana Conservation Officers were notified at 12:39 p.m. and Brown County Coroner Rob Ayers says Hunter was pronounced dead at the scene.

No foul play is suspected and Ayers believes Hunter died of a heart attack.

401. http://www.derbyshiretimes.co.uk/news/local/mountain-biker-dies-after-falling-at-laddow-rocks-in-peak-district-1-5905062

Mountain biker dies after falling at Laddow Rocks in Peak District

Published on the 30 July

Published 30/07/2013 17:29

A 46-year-old mountain biker has died after falling up to 80 foot (24 metres) at Laddow Rocks, north of Crowden, on Sunday.

Kinder and Glossop mountain rescue teams were called out to Black Hill, and spent more than six hours trying to rescue the cyclist, from West Yorkshire, who was out with friends.

Neale Pinkerton, of Kinder Mountain Rescue, said: Unfortunately the rider did not survive the fall. Our thoughts and best wishes go out to his family and friends.

402. "Crashed while mountain biking-didn't faint, didn't cry, and yes that white part is my mandible"

http://imgur.com/r/mountainbiking/khU9L9P

403. http://www.pressdemocrat.com/article/20130731/articles/130739937?title=Annadel-mountain-biker-airlifted-after-major-injury-crash

Mountain biker suffers major injuries in Annadel State Park crash

By MATT BROWN
THE PRESS DEMOCRAT

July 31, 2013, 8:32 AM

A mountain biker crashed face first into a rock in Annadel State Park on Tuesday suffering major head injuries and requiring a helicopter evacuation, the CHP said.

The 22-year-old male was riding on the South Burma trail when the accident occurred around 6:30 p.m.

Bennett Valley Fire personnel arrived first on scene, about one mile up the trail, and called in a CHP air-unit rescue.

It was not terribly steep, said Rene Torres, a Bennett Valley Fire company officer who responded to the call. Speed was a factor.

Torres said the man was riding a brand-new mountain bike with shocks. He was wearing a helmet, which had a small crack in it, Torres said. Most of the injuries were to the rider's face, he said.

A H-30 helicopter could not land on the rocky, wooded terrain and hovered 75 feet in the air while an officer was lowered on a rope to the injured biker, CHP officer Tom Lipsey said.

After securing the biker, he was flown to a nearby meadow, where he was loaded into the helicopter. He was flown to Santa Rosa Memorial Hospital, where he was treated for major non-life-threatening injuries, the CHP said.

Annadel State Park's varied terrain is popular with mountain bikers of all skill levels. A mountain biking website describes the South Burma trail as a moderately technical single track through mixed forest and open meadows with some rocky sections.

Mountain biking injuries are common in the park, Torres said. Bennett Valley Fire recently treated a mountain biker with a broken neck, he said.

You can reach Staff Writer Matt Brown at 521-5206 or matt.brown@pressdemocrat.com.

404. http://www.friscoenterprise.com/articles/2013/08/02/frisco_enterprise/news/231.txt

Girl dies in Frisco bicycle accident (updated)

Frisco police investigate the site where 8-year-old Kaylee Kampschroeder fell from her mountain bike in Northwest Community Park. Kaylee later died from internal injuries suffered in the accident. Photo courtesy of Paul Johns.

By Anthony Tosie, atosie@starlocalnews.com, @anthonytosie on Twitter

Published: Friday, August 2, 2013 8:52 AM CDT

Editor's Note: This article was originally published at 4:17 p.m. July 28. It has been updated to include additional information.

An 8-year-old girl died Saturday morning after a bicycle-related accident in a Frisco park near Lone Star High School.

Frisco fire and police units responded to the accident, which took place at Northwest Community Park, shortly after 9 a.m. The girl, identified by the Dallas County Medical Examiner's Office as Kaylee Kampschroeder of Krugerville, was taken to Children's Medical Center of Dallas by CareFlite helicopter and was pronounced dead at the hospital.

Frisco police investigate the site where 8-year-old Kaylee Kampschroeder fell from her mountain bike in Northwest Community Park. Kaylee later died from internal injuries suffered in the accident. Photo courtesy of Paul Johns.

The medical examiner ruled Kaylee's death as accidental, caused by blunt force trauma from her fall, which damaged internal organs.

Authorities said Kaylee fell off her bike while riding on a trail in the park; she was wearing a helmet at the time of the accident. Online records indicate Kaylee had experience participating in a mountain bike championship event.

Pam Jackson, president of the Dallas Off-Road Bicycle Association, said she met Kaylee at a Christmas light bike ride in Plano in December 2011. Jackson rode with a group that included Kaylee's family, noting that the 8-year-old shared a passion for cycling with her parents.

"It is hard to lose any member of our mountain bike community, but losing a child hurts even more. Speaking for myself, I am heartbroken for Kerry, Michelle [Kaylee's father and mother] and the rest of their family," she said. "From calls and comments made, I am sure the rest of the Dallas mountain biking community mourns the loss of Kaylee. My hearts and prayers go out to the Kampschroeder family and Kaylee's friends."

Jackson added that Kaylee's parents indicated their daughter had planned on competing in DORBA races later this year.

Kaylee attended elementary school in Aubrey, where friends encouraged others to wear a pink ribbon in her honor. Pink ribbons were also tied to multiple Northwest signs.

Northwest Community Park opened in October with 5 miles of hike-and-bike trails. The trails, designed for mountain bikes but also open to walkers and runners, were built and are maintained by DORBA, Shawnee Trail Cycling Club and Frisco Cycling Club.

The park's trails are separated into three loops, with the longest loop, described as "beginner friendly," measuring 2.5 miles in length. Two shorter loops include tighter turns and larger hills.

Northwest's trails were closed in the days following the accident, though a makeshift memorial was created where people placed flowers throughout the week. A prayer vigil was held Wednesday afternoon followed by a remembrance bike ride in Kaylee's honor.

405. http://www.rotoruadailypost.co.nz/news/medical-equipment-on-hand/1951891/

Medical equipment on hand

Alison King
19th Jul 2013 5:17 PM

New first aid equipment is now available at Mountain Bike Rotorua (MBR), Waipa. Pictured are MBR director Tak Mutu and Barbara Jenks, who helped get the equipment.

Medical emergencies of all kinds in the Whakarewarewa Forest can now be responded to with top-of-the-line equipment.

Seven months on from the launch of a fundraising campaign, medical equipment valued at thousands of dollars is now available for use. The kit includes a backboard, defibrillator, splints, neck braces and much more.

It was made possible after a funding application to First Sovereign following an initial appeal for donations. It is being stored by Mountain Bike Rotorua (MBR), which is the central hub for visitors to the Waipa car park.

"It's going to make a big difference to everyone we take out," said MBR and Multi-Day Adventures director Tak Mutu.

"We now have a scoop, which means we can get people straight into a helicopter if needed."

The appeal was launched in January after Rotorua mountain biker Wendy Ardern came across a rider on the Challenge trail who had fallen, breaking his ribs and complaining of a sore back.

An ambulance was called and a trained MBR staff member arrived, but when it began to rain they could do nothing but hold a plastic bag over the man's head to try and keep him dry. "I thought that's not right, they need someone to do something," said Mrs Ardern in January.

She approached Mr Mutu and together they drew up an equipment wishlist and an appeal was launched. The project was then adopted by the Rotorua Mountain Bike Club with Mrs Ardern at the helm.

Mrs Ardern also approached her friend Barbara Jenks, who helped with the funding application. A funding application was approved and now the equipment has all been bought, including two-way radios. Alcon has donated free transmission for the radio system.

"It's really exciting," said Mrs Jenks. "I've got MBR in my phone so if I fall off my bike I can call them. It's nice to know there are people here who can help you when you need it."

There is also a first aid kit at Planet Bike, which is on Waipa Bypass Rd and nearer to the Hill Rd car park.

406. http://www.grough.co.uk/magazine/2013/07/18/mountain-biker-airlifted-after-garburn-pass-fall

Mountain biker airlifted after Garburn Pass fall

John McHale, Reporter
Wednesday 17 July 2013 11:54 PM GMT

The mountain biker injured himself on the Garburn Pass. Photo: Adie Jackson CC-BY-SA-2.0

A mountain biker was airlifted to hospital after falling from his machine in the Lake District.

The cyclist suffered a dislocated shoulder when he came off his machine on the Garburn Pass at Kentmere on Tuesday.

Kendal Mountain Rescue Team was called out at 6.15pm and the North West Air Ambulance also flew to the scene.

407. http://www.newsfix.ca/2013/07/13/mountain-biking-can-lead-to-infertility-in-men/

Mountain Biking Can Lead to Infertility in Men

By April Clarkson

If youre a serious mountain biker, make sure your bike has good suspension and shock absorbersor risk damage to your reproductive system!

Researchers from the University Hospital in Innsbruck, Austria, examined a group of 45 serious mountain bikers, ages 17 to 44, and a control group of 31 non-bikers, ages 15 to 37. They examined the mens scrotums using ultrasound, and found that 43 of the 45 bikers had unusual findings, compared to just five of the non-bikers.

The Austrian researchers reported that 38 men had non-cancerous tumors, many of which were painful. Twenty-two men had cysts containing sperm (spermatoceles), which can become infected, and 20 had calcifications of the epididymis (which stores sperm) that could also become infected and swollen.

Other scrotal problems included fluid-filled cysts (hydroceles) in 17 men and twisted veins in four of them. The five non-bikers all had spermatoceles, which are more common as men grow older. These conditions often require treatment, either with antibiotics or with surgery.

Although the researchers didnt do sperm counts, they noted that many of these conditions could lead to fertility problems and even impotence brought on by damage to the nerves and blood vessels in the area. They added that while this study included serious bikers, recreational bikers may also experience the same kinds of problems.

Proper fit of a bicycle is critical to avoid scrotal damage, emphasized the researchers, including seat height, angle, and tilt. Padding in the saddle and bike shorts, as well as wearing an athletic supporter, may also help. The damage is caused by vibration and jarring, so the best way to avoid problems is to use a full-suspension bike with a shock system and shock absorbers in the seat, so the bike absorbs the impact instead of the body. Its also a good idea to take frequent rests while riding.

408. http://www.bendbulletin.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20130818/NEWS0107/308180365/1001/NEWS01&nav_category=NEWS01

Mountain biker dies on trail

Published: August 18. 2013 4:00AM PST

A 62-year-old man was found dead Saturday on the Lava/Edison mountain bike trail near Little Lava Lake.

According to the Deschutes County Sheriffs Office, friends of the man called 911 to report he had collapsed shortly before 2 p.m. Those riding with the man attempted CPR, but paramedics arriving on the scene pronounced him dead.

The Sheriffs Office is withholding the man's name until his family can be notified.

http://www.bendbulletin.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20130819/NEWS0107/308190319/1001/NEWS01&nav_category=NEWS01

Mountain biker who died on trail identified

Published: August 19. 2013 4:00AM PST

The 62-year-old man who died biking on the Lava/Edison mountain bike trail Friday has been identified as Wesley C. Pierson, 62, of Redmond.

The man collapsed while riding near Little Lava Lake. According to the Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office, Pierson’s friends called 911 to report that he collapsed shortly before 2 p.m. Someone in Pierson’s riding party performed CPR until paramedics arrived.

After attempting to revive Pierson, paramedics pronounced him dead at the scene.

An investigation into the death is underway.

409. http://www.shropshirelive.com/2013/08/25/mountain-biker-injured-at-south-shropshire-event/

Mountain biker injured at south Shropshire event

A man who fell from his mountain bike in south Shropshire hitting his head avoided being knocked unconscious by his helmet.

He fell from his bike at a mountain biking event off Lower Wood Road, Ludlow to where West Midlands Ambulance Service was called shortly after 4pm yesterday.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokesman said: The events on-site medical team had already immobilised the man who is in his thirties. He was said to have fallen from his bike while going downhill at speed. He hit his head and his helmet was badly damaged; cracked in three places, but he hadnt been knocked unconscious. Although wearing helmets would have been compulsory at an organised event, an incident such as it shows why it is important for all cyclists to wear them.

He did have lower back pain and, in addition to having been immobilised, he was given pain relief by the land and air ambulance crews and was flown to Royal Shrewsbury Hospital for further assessment and treatment.
An advanced community paramedic in a rapid response vehicle, an ambulance crew and the Midlands Air Ambulance from Staffordshire attended.

410. http://www.themountainmail.com/free_content/article_ac0a88a6-0e59-11e3-b668-0019bb30f31a.html

Salida mountain biker sustains neck injury

Posted: Monday, August 26, 2013 8:13 am

Salida mountain biker sustains neck injury Anthony Himes, Mail Staff Writer TheMountainMail.com | 0 comments

Chaffee County Search and Rescue South rescued Ramsey Lama, Salida, from the Monarch Crest Trail on Monarch Pass Saturday after he fell while mountain biking.

Dana Porter of Search and Rescue South reported Lama was adjusting a shock on his bike when he struck a rock, causing him to fall. He suffered an unstable neck injury in the fall near the Greens Creek Trail intersection.

Lamas friend Barry Blocker, Salida, was able to use his In Reach Satellite communicator to call for help. Porter said many other bystanders helped keep Lama still and stable.

Search and Rescue South mobilized with seven rescuers. Members on two trail motorcycles reached Lama north of the Greens Creek shelter.

Porter said Lama was flown from Monarch Crest by Flight For Life around 2 p.m. and was transported to St. Anthonys Hospital in Lakewood.

411. http://www.voxy.co.nz/national/injured-mountain-biker-airlifted/5/165911

Injured mountain biker airlifted

Contributor:
Fuseworks Media
Wednesday, 28 August, 2013 - 19:41

Tonight just after 5pm the Rotorua based Bay Trust Rescue Helicopter was dispatched to Whakarewarewa Forest to assist an injured mountain bike rider. The 49 year old New Plymouth man fell from his bike and suffered severe pelvic injuries.

The crash site was near Mount Moerangi on a steep face and covered in heavy bush. Due to the inaccessibility of the crash site and lack of suitable landing areas, the man had to be winched to the helicopter using the First Sovereign Winch.

Local St John Paramedics stabilised the man on scene and he was airlifted back to Rotorua Hospital for further treatment and observation.

412. http://www.grough.co.uk/magazine/2013/09/09/mountain-biker-dies-after-fall-on-skiddaw

Mountain biker dies after fall on Skiddaw

John McHale, Reporter
Monday 09 September 2013 03:14 PM GMT

The biker's body was found on Lonscale Fell. Photo: Gareth Jones CC-BY-SA-2.0

A mountain biker has died after falling on a Lake District mountain.

The 60-year-old was reported missing in the early hours of today after failing to return from a trip on Skiddaw.

Keswick Mountain Rescue Team was alerted at 1.50am and team members began a search of the fell, along with six handlers and animals from Lake District Mountain Rescue Search Dogs.

Rescuers concentrated their search on the area between Dash Falls, Skiddaw House and Keswick.

A Keswick MRT spokesperson said: The missing mans body was found after 2 hours, by a search dog attached to Patterdale MRT, 60m down a steep rocky gully close to Lonscale Fell.

He had obviously fallen a long way and had suffered multiple fatal injuries.

His bike was found fairly close to a rocky path section on Lonscale Fell which is notoriously slippery when wet, which has led to previous accidents.

The team had to set up a lowering system to recover his body 400m down to the track below, at which point he could be handed over to the relevant authorities.

The 5-hour rescue operation involved 12 Keswick MRT members.

In June last year, Michael Farthing of Penrith died after falling 200m, from a track in the Glenderaterra valley, below Lonscale Fell.

The 64-year-olds body was spotted by walkers on a steep, rocky section of path.

413. http://durangoherald.com/article/20130909/NEWS01/130909520/0/s/Fall-seriously-injures-mountain-biker-along-the-Colorado-Trail

Fall seriously injures mountain biker along the Colorado Trail

By Shane Benjamin Herald staff writer

Article Last Updated: Tuesday, September 10, 2013 12:12am

A mountain biker fell and suffered a serious injury Monday near Kennebec Pass along the Colorado Trail.

The 27-year-old man is from France, said Butch Knowlton, director of La Plata County Search and Rescue.

His identity and condition were not immediately available Monday afternoon.

The man and his friend met a couple from Switzerland before beginning their mountain bike ride. The French men were more experienced and went ahead of the Swiss couple, Knowlton said.

The Swiss couple rolled up on the French men to find one lying on the trail, he said.

The woman from Switzerland knew some French and was able to act as an interpreter for dispatchers and rescue workers.

She called 911 at 10:53 a.m. about a mile east of Kennebec Pass. Rescue members reached the man at 11:57 a.m.

Several people helped carry him almost a half mile from the trail to a location where a Flight for Life helicopter was able to land. Those involved included rescue members, trail users, the Flight for Life crew, the Swiss couple and a La Plata County Sheriffs Office deputy.

The man remained unconscious and unresponsive the whole time rescue workers assisted him, Knowlton said.

The exact nature of his injury was unknown, but it was likely a head injury, Knowlton said.

He was wearing a helmet.

414. Those darn trees! Always getting in the way....

Mike

http://www.northumberlandtoday.com/2013/09/10/local-firefighter-hurt-in-biking-accident

Local firefighter hurt in biking accident 0

By Pete Fisher, Northumberland Today

Tuesday, September 10, 20133:01:45 EDT PM

COBOURG - A Cobourg firefighter was seriously injured while riding a riding a bicycle through Northumberland Forest on Monday.

Acting Captain Kevin Schroeder was riding with a mountain bike with Scott Stoakley along the trails off Beagle Club Road on Monday morning when the mishap occurred.

Stoakley who has been an avid road and trail bicycle rider for 15 years, spoke with Northumberland Today and said it was the first time the two were riding together.

Schroeder was riding about 300 feet behind Stoakley, coming down a hill, when Stoakley heard the crash.

"He just said he was coming down the hill and hit a tree" approximately two kilometres from the roadway, Stoakley said.

"When I went back to him I said, is it bad? and Kevin said, Yeah, I think so. You better call 9-1-1. So I did."

Its believed Schroeder went over the handlebars and struck a tree.

With emergency services on their way, Stoakley knew he had to meet them by the road. The hardest part was leaving Schroeder alone.

"I didnt want to because I figured he would go into shock," Stoakley said.

The cyclist met up with a firefighter who was first to arrive at Beagle Club and Dunbar roads. Stoakley said gave him directions to the scene then bicycled back to be with Schroeder.

Northumberland Emergency Services and the Alnwick-Haldimand Township Fire Department arrived a short time later.

Firefighters used a Gator (off-road vehicle) to the accident site. Schroeder, who had been wearing a helmet, remained conscious.

After placing him on a backboard and onto a stokes basket, the firefighters decided it would be better if they carried Schroeder to the ambulance rather than place him on the off road vehicle for the ride.

"We didnt want to jostle him around," one firefighter said.

Firefighters and Stoakley took turns carrying Schroeder out on a backboard over nearly two kilometres.

"He is approximately 185 pounds. After taking turns carrying him out on the stretcher, by the end he felt like he was 400 pounds," said Stoakley, who had his praise for the firefighters.

"They were amazing. They had what to do right down."

Schroeder was taken to Northumberland Hills Hospital and was later transferred to Sunnybrook hospital in Toronto.

He did not sustain any paralysis but has a broken bone in his neck, injuries to his lower back and four broken ribs.

Texting from his bed, Schroeder told Northumberland Today it will be a "long road back."

Schroeder has been a member of the fire department for approximately 20 years and has been president of the local firefighter association for approximately five years. He is under the command of Captain Mark Diminie.

"When I came into work yesterday at 6 p.m. we were informed that Acting Captain Schroeder had been injured doing some mountain biking through Northumberland Forest," Diminie said.

"The first thing we think about is his health, his wife and children. Our concerns definitely go out to them."

Diminie said his fellow firefighter is a "valued member of the fire department."

For the last several years Schroeder has taken part in the swim across Rice Lake to raise funds for Jessies Journey for Muscular Dystrophy.

"He definitely likes to reach out and help other people so its hard when you see somebody like that does get injured, Diminie said.

At every fire department the men and women will say they consider themselves a family. The Cobourg Fire Department is no different.

"We consider ourselves a family. When you work with the guys all day and all night seven days a week you become very close, Diminie said. And like any family you have good times and bad times, but when somebody is hurt or needs help, we will definitely be there for Kevin and his family."

Late Tuesday afternoon word came that Schroeder may be transferred to the hospital in Cobourg in the next few days.

peter.fisher@sunmedia.ca

415. http://www.voxy.co.nz/national/injured-mountain-biker-airlifted/5/167647

Injured mountain biker airlifted

Contributor: Fuseworks Media
Saturday, 14 September, 2013 - 19:32

A 69 year old man from Kaiterteri was winched this afternoon from the Heaphy Track by the Nelson Marlborough Rescue Helicopter. The male had been mountain biking with a group of others and during their ride had fallen from his bike, injuring himself and therefore unable to continue his ride.

Due to the dense bush cover an Intensive Care Paramedic was winched into the Aorere shelter and then treated the man on scene for his injuries. They were both then winched aboard the helicopter and flown to Nelson ED.

416. http://www.postindependent.com/news/7645940-113/baker-bike-broken-neck

“I’m definitely not going to mountain bike any more.”

417. http://www.denverpost.com/news/ci_24136733/injured-mountain-biker-rescued-outside-aspen

Injured mountain biker rescued outside Aspen

The Associated Press
Posted: 09/19/2013 10:05:14 PM MDT | Updated: about 12 hours ago

ASPEN, Colo.An injured mountain biker has been rescued from a remote area near Triangle Peak outside Aspen.

The Pitkin County Sheriff's Department says a search-and-rescue team reached the man Thursday afternoon, and he was taken by helicopter to a Denver hospital.

The man's name and the nature of his injuries weren't released.

418. http://www.geelongadvertiser.com.au/article/2013/09/23/373390_news.html

You Yangs rider flown to hospital

Courtney Crane | September 23rd, 2013

A MAN has been flown to hospital in a critical condition after suffering a cardiac arrest and head injuries during a downhill mountain biking competition in the You Yangs yesterday.

Sean Craig fell from his bike on a flat section of the track while competing in the over-35s category of the You Yangs Mountain Bike Club's annual Cressy Descent.

Paramedic Ron Baars said Mr Craig, aged in his 30s, had been revived by first-aid personnel before ambulance crews reached the remote scene about 1pm.

"He's had a head injury from a front-on strike and he was found to be in cardiac arrest by the first crew who reached him, so they've given him a shock and he has been sedated and intubated by paramedics," he said.

Mr Craig was taken to The Alfred hospital in Melbourne by helicopter.

You Yangs Mountain Bike Club vice-president Dave Brown said it was not known if Mr Craig had been competing as an individual or if he was associated with a mountain bike club.

Mr Brown said a nearby track marshall had discovered Mr Craig on the ground not breathing after hearing about the crash.

Many of the 250 riders due to take part in the competition had their races cancelled following the incident.

"People often get broken bones in this sport but this is really out of the ordinary," Mr Brown said.

"It seems something's gone wrong while riding which has made him come off, but no one actually saw it happen."

Riders told the Geelong Advertiser that Mr Craig had fallen on one of the flattest and easiest sections of the track, which includes rock gardens and steep descents on loose dirt tracks.

http://www.geelongadvertiser.com.au/article/2013/09/24/373507_news.html

Injured mountain biker out of coma

Courtney Crane | September 24th, 2013

You Yangs rider flown to hospital

A MAN who suffered a cardiac arrest and head injuries during a biking competition in the You Yangs yesterday is in a serious but stable condition at The Alfred hospital.

Sean Craig was flown to hospital after he fell from his bike on a flat section of the track while competing in the over-35s category of the You Yangs Mountain Bike Club's annual Cressy Descent.

Paramedic Ron Baars said Mr Craig, aged in his 30s, had been revived by first-aid personnel before ambulance crews reached the remote scene about 1pm.

Club president Ian Mortenson visited Mr Craig in hospital yesterday.

"The good news being he is out of his coma and conscious," Mr Mortenson said.

"He is likely to be released from intensive care this evening and moved to the cardiac ward for further tests and diagnosis of what caused his heart attack.

"His sister said he keeps asking when he can go home and get his bike because he needs to go back to the You Yangs and race his mate and beat him to prove he is the fastest.

"His family appreciates everyone's concern and is grateful for all the sympathy and kind messages of support. They would particularly like to thank the guys who performed CPR."

Mr Mortenson said four serious incidents had happened within five minutes of racing on Sunday. Other riders suffered injuries including heavy concussion and a fractured radius.

He praised the quick actions of the track marshall and Victorian First Aid Services medics who responded to Mr Craig.

"On the eve of the 2013-14 Victorian DH Series this is a serious reminder that mountain biking is a risky sport and that all involved should have ambulance cover as a bare minimum," he said.

- with DANNY LANNEN and ANDRIA COZZA

419. http://www.derbyshiretimes.co.uk/news/grassroots/mountain-biker-injured-in-crash-1-6077247

Mountain biker injured in crash

Published on the 23 September 2013 12:53

A female mountain biker sustained serious head injuries after a crash on Sunday.

The 23-year-old, who had been out riding with five friends, came off her bike at the top of Jacobs Ladder.

Owing to the severity of her injuries an RAF Sea King helicopter attended.

The rider was winched into the aircraft and taken to Sheffields Northern General Hospital for treatment.

Sixteen members of Buxton Mountain Rescue Team were called to an incident involving an injured mountain biker on Sunday evening. The incident site was between Edale Cross and the top of Jacobs Ladder, rescue personnel were bussed to the bottom of Jacobs Ladder and deployed on foot with equipment to the scene.

On arrival we located a party of five mountain bikers, one of which, a 23 year old female from Belper, Derbyshire had sustained serious head injuries after coming off her bike.

She was treated on site by team members including a team paramedic. Her injuries were such that an aerial evacuation was requested.

An RAF Sea King helicopter attended, however he couldnt land on at the casualty site. The winchman was lowered and both the casualty and the team paramedic were winched into the aircraft and flown to the Northern General Hospital, Sheffield for further treatment.

The remainder of the mountain biker group and team personnel returned to Edale. We then deployed a couple of team members to collect our paramedic and equipment from Sheffield.

420. http://www.stgeorgeutah.com/news/archive/2013/09/27/avm-life-flight-transports-man-mountain-biking-accident/

Life Flight transports man injured in mountain biking accident

Written by Alexa Verdugo Morgan on September 27, 2013 in Community News, Life, Local News, News, Outdoors

ST. GEORGE - Local authorities assisted the victim of a mountain biking accident on the Chuckwalla Trail Thursday afternoon.

At approximately 6:20 p.m., the Washington County Sheriffs Office, Washington County Sheriff Search and Rescue, St. George Fire Department, Gold Cross Ambulance and Life Flight responded to a medical call on the Chuckwalla Trail (on state Route 18, just north of Snow Canyon Boulevard in the Red Cliffs Desert Reserve).

The victim, a man in his 20s, had wrecked his mountain bike and sustained a compound fracture to his leg. Life Flight located the man on the trail and transported him to Dixie Regional Medical Center just after 7 p.m.

Deputy Darrel Cashin of the Washington County Sheriffs Office said that he was found by a hiking group, who called for help. The man was riding alone and no one else was injured in the incident.

Email: avmorgan@stgnews.com

421. http://www.grough.co.uk/magazine/2013/09/30/injured-peak-mountain-biker-airlifted-after-fall-on-wessenden-track

Injured Peak mountain biker airlifted after fall on Wessenden track

John McHale, Reporter
Monday 30 September 2013 12:36 AM GMT

The Holme Valley team in action during the Wessenden incident. Photo: Holme Valley MRT

A mountain biker was airlifted to hospital after suffering a suspected dislocated elbow after coming off her machine in the Peak District.

The 28-year-old was cycling in Wessenden, south of Marsden in West Yorkshire, on Saturday afternoon when she fell from her bike.

Holme Valley Mountain Rescue Team was called out to the incident near Wessenden Lodge.

A team spokesperson said: Initially a crew from Yorkshire Ambulance Service was called to the scene, but HVMRT was mobilised due to the remoteness of the location.

The teams Land Rover was driven up Wessenden track to get a stretcher and personnel as close to the scene as possible.

The Yorkshire Air Ambulance was also called in, and the helicopter landed in the valley below the accident site.

The casualty was treated at the scene by paramedics before being placed on a mountain rescue stretcher and carried down a steep embankment to the waiting helicopter by members of the Holme Valley Mountain Rescue Team.

She was then flown to Huddersfield Royal Infirmary for treatment.

The team spokesperson said: The site of the accident was about a quarter of a mile up the track above Wessenden Lodge.

Vehicles can only get as far as the lodge before the track narrows so the situation was providing problems for the ambulance crew.

The casualty was being looked after by some passing walkers and the ambulance paramedics arrived on the scene on foot to provide treatment.

The air ambulance was called in, but at that location the track skirts along the steep side of the valley, so the only place it could land was on a flat area of ground some distance below the site.

Once the ambulance crew had stabilised the casualty we were able to transfer her to our stretcher and carry her down the embankment to the helicopter.

Fourteen members of Holme Valley team were called out to the incident.

422. http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-24323908

29 September 2013 Last updated at 11:18 ET

Mountain biker, 16, airlifted after Capel Curig fall in river

A 16-year-old boy has been airlifted to hospital after falling into a Snowdonia river following a crash on his mountain bike.

Emergency services were called to Capel Curing, Conwy county, after the youngster hit a tree and fell from his bike into the River Llugwy.

He was placed on a spinal board by emergency services and flown to Ysbyty Gwynedd in Bangor.

The extent of the teenager's injuries is not known.

423. "As for John, he's well on the way to getting back on his mountain bike."

That's an addiction!

Mike

http://www.stuff.co.nz/auckland/local-news/rodney-times/9235091/Helicopter-to-the-rescue

Helicopter to the rescue

Last updated 05:00 03/10/2013

MENDING UP: Mountain biker John Hunter is recuperating after being rescued by the Westpac rescue helicopter following his collision with a tree stump.

John Hunter knew something was really wrong after he fell off his mountain bike and couldn't open his mouth to talk.

The back wheel of his bike slid out from under him and he rolled three or four metres downhill, hitting the left-hand side of his face on a tree stump.

"It was just one of those freak accident things," the Dairy Flat 54-year-old says.

"I immediately heard a cracking noise and thought I'd broken my jaw but it was my cheek bone.

"I could have lost my sight or suffered permanent nerve damage because my cheekbone had basically broken away and dropped down into my jaw," he says.

John had been on a ride with four others in Woodhill Forest on August 18 and they weren't anywhere an ambulance could easily get to.

The Westpac rescue helicopter picked him up and took him to North Shore Hospital.

John says he can't thank them enough for the "brilliant" service and staff who kept him informed every step of the way.

"They were there pretty quickly and I'd found a pine cone underneath me that I was squeezing really hard to try and distract myself from the excruciating pain in my face," he says.

Rescue staff were concerned John had suffered a neck or back injury.

"They gave me some morphine before putting me on a stretcher and walking to a fire break road where the helicopter was.

"I don't know what would have happened if they hadn't come."

John's story is the kind that inspired premium taxi company Corporate Cabs to sponsor one of the Auckland Westpac rescue helicopter missions for the second time.

Corporate Cabs chief executive Colin Samson says the service is such a vital one that it was at the top of the list for the company when it considered how it could help in the community.

Helicopter trust chief executive Greg Barrow appreciates the sponsorship.

"Our two helicopters - which have a pilot, paramedic, trauma doctor and crewman on board - do about 800 missions a year.

"We get 35 per cent of our operational funding from the government but we rely heavily on our sponsors such as Corporate Cabs and the general public for the service," he says.

As for John, he's well on the way to getting back on his mountain bike.

424. http://www.conwaydailysun.com/index.php/sports/college/109329-biking-road-anxiety

Biking: Road anxiety

Published Date: Thursday, 03 October 2013 03:56

On Sunday, a Maine cyclist on a three-wheel bicycle was hit and killed by a pickup truck while riding in Corinth.

Two bicyclists died in Hampton after being struck by a motorist earlier in September during the popular Granite State Wheelmen Tri-State Seacoast Century Ride.

August saw a cyclist die in Nashua after colliding with a tractor-trailer.

In June, a cyclist was killed when he was hit by a tractor-trailer in Hanover, Maine during the outstanding Trek Across Maine.

A Facebook video goes viral when a Maine cyclist posts an altercation he had with a motorist over the Martin's Point Bridge between Portland and Falmouth resulting in the driver, a television host, losing key sponsors.

Cyclists are questioning whether they should be riding roads. Many only ride during particular times of day or season when traffic is diminished. There are those who shun pavement, shifting from thin tired rigs to mountain bikes. And those who favor secluded rail trails.

As the late great Warren Zevon sang, "Life'll kill ya." Death spares no one, regardless of what they're doing when it's check out time.

Nearly 700 bicyclists died in traffic accidents in the United States in 2011. The U.S. Department of Transportation's National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reported 677 deaths and some 48,000 injuries to bicyclists from motor vehicle traffic crashes accounting for 2 percent of all traffic fatalities and 2 percent of injuries for the year.

The number of bicyclists killed in 2011 was 9 percent higher than the 623 killed in 2010. But it is also less than the 786 killed in 2005.

The majority of fatalities occurred between 4 p.m. and 7:59 p.m. while the average age of a cyclist killed in traffic was 43, a steady increase in the average age since 2002 when it was 36. The age group with the highest fatality rate was 45-54 while the highest injury rate was in the 16-20 age group.

In New Hampshire, there were 90 total traffic deaths in 2011, with 4 of them bicyclists. In Maine, 136 people died in a traffic accident. None were cyclists.

The accidents are tragic but also offer cyclists and motorists a chance for introspection. Is it because of more vehicles on the road? More bicyclists? Larger trucks? More devices and distractions? Or are these tragedies just life's awful collateral damage?

And is mountain biking a safe alternative?

Though data wasn't as easy to find as it was for road riders, one study published in the Journal of the Wilderness Medical Society based on data supplied by British Columbia's Whistler Health Clinic based on mountain bikers treated between May 16 and Oct. 12, 2009 found 1,759 injuries. There were some 420 fractures in 382 patients with some 11 percent receiving traumatic brain injury. The clinic services the area of Whistler-Blackcomb with its active mountain bike park including downhill riding with bikers serviced by chairlifts. The study found 95 percent of the riders didn't wear padding.

In the Vancouver Sun, one doctor said a general rule of thumb is that one in 1,000 skiers are injured, one in 100 snowboarders, and one in 10 downhill cyclists.

Are downhillers mountain bikers? Yes. Does this study reflect the average mountain biker? No. But valley mountain bikers know there be trail demons by those copious rocks, roots, trees, blow-downs, dips and other obstacles just waiting to separate you from your bike. Oh, and be careful during hunting season.

Frankly, everything in life has its risks.

So it all comes down to awareness, anticipation and preparation. Most motorists aren't cyclists, but most cyclists are motorists. On the road everyone must be aware. Though cyclists and motorists must all obey the rules of the road, cyclists carry the bigger burden and should don helmets, wear brightly colored clothing, and use lights (consider a flashing red one during the day). Cyclists must anticipate motorists and vice versa.

Motorists need to give cyclists three feet of clearance on the road and be looking for them when opening a car door or pulling from a parking space.

All must be cognizant of other users on the road (everyone must signal) and learn to share.

425. http://www.sunlive.co.nz/news/54887-mountain-biker-seriously-injured.html

Mountain biker seriously injured

Posted at 9:01am Saturday 05th Oct, 2013

A 13-year-old is in Waikato Hospital after sustaining serious injuries when he fell from his mountain bike in the Whakarewarewa forest.

The Whangarei teenager was biking in the forest on the outskirts of Rotorua when he took a tumble from his bike about 1pm yesterday.

St John paramedics were called to the scene but the teen had to be winched using the First Sovereign Trust Rescue Winch on the BayTrust Rescue Helicopter so he could be flown to hospital.

Pilot and base manager Barry Vincent says he was stabilised by the chopper crew after being winched out and then due to the serious nature of his injuries he was airlifted directly to Waikato hospital in serious condition.

This is the second time in 24 hours the winch has been used to assist people with serious injuries.

426. http://www.heraldsun.com.au/news/victoria/man-placed-in-induced-coma-after-falling-off-bike-in-rowville/story-e6frf7kx-1225951210724

Man placed in induced coma after falling off bike in Rowville

by: Jessica Craven
From: Herald Sun
November 10, 2010 5:15PM

A BIKE rider has been placed in an induced coma after he fell off and hit his head on rocky terrain at Rowville.

Paramedics were called to a popular mountain bike track at Churchill Park just after 12.30pm.

Intensive care paramedic Russell Nelson said the man in his early 30s landed heavily on rocky ground.

"Its believed that the man was coming on a downhill and miscalculated a jump. He came down face-first onto rocky terrain," Mr Nelson said.

"Thankfully he wasnt riding alone, and his mates called for help.

"He was in a difficult area to access and we had to trek for about 15 minutes in quite steep terrain to reach him.

Paramedics stabilised the man at the scene then flew him to the Alfred Hospital in a stable condition.

"It probably wasnt so much the drop that he took, but the speed that he approached it at. He took most of the impact on his cheekbone. There didnt appear to be any fractures but it was the force that was transmitted through to his brain that was the issue," Mr Nelson said.

427. http://www.examiner.co.uk/news/west-yorkshire-news/tragedy-moors--mountain-biker-6147483

Tragedy on the moors as mountain biker dies at Dunford Bridge

7 Oct 2013 09:40

A mountain biker has died on the moors above Holmfirth

Woodhead Mountain Rescue team

A mountain biker has died on the moors above Holmfirth.

The biker collapsed while taking part in a charity ride from Old Trafford to Bramall Lane football stadiums just before 1pm yesterday.

He was with a group of friends when the tragedy happened at Salters Brook near Dunford Bridge on the Woodhead Pass.

The group was cycling the trans-Pennine trail.

Huddersfield-based Woodhead Mountain Rescue Team were called out to help.

The middle-aged man has not been named.

428. http://www.thecomet.net/news/cyclists_injured_in_shefford_1_2852799

Cyclists injured in Shefford

Two cyclists were taken to hospital yesterday

Julie Lucas Monday, October 7, 2013
9:32 AM

Two cyclists were injured over the weekend.

The two men, who came off their bikes in Rowney Warren, Shefford, were believed to have been mountain biking. The area has a popular mountain bike course.

The East of England Ambulance Service (EEAST) and the East Anglian Air Ambulance (EAAA) were alerted at 1.56pm, yestereday (Sunday).

Both men were taken by two EEAST ambulance crews to Bedford Southwing Hospital with non-life threatening injuries.

429. http://www.canberratimes.com.au/act-news/nowra-man-dead-after-mount-stromlo-mountain-biking-incident-20131011-2vdtx.html

Nowra man dead after Mount Stromlo mountain biking incident

ACT News
October 11, 2013 - 11:42PM

A 46-year-old Nowra man died of severe head injuries after a mountain-bike accident on Mt Stromlo on Friday afternoon.

Defence said the man was a Navy competitor in the Australian Defence Cycling Club 2013 Cycling Carnival.
It is understood the father, based at HMAS Albatross, lost control of his bike on a downhill track and crashed.

Defence said the incident happened about 2.25pm, and medical staff provided immediate first aid.

The man crashed during compulsory registration for an unrelated event, the weekends World Solo 24-hour Mountain Bike Championships, which will involve about 300 riders from at least 16 countries. The riders who were registering did not witness the accident, which took place a few hundred metres away.

"The member was seriously injured and was taken by ambulance to Canberra Hospital where he was pronounced dead," defence said.

"The members family has been notified and is receiving all appropriate support services. The Navy extends its sincerest condolences to the members family and his friends following this very sad and tragic accident."

430. http://www.castanet.net/news/Penticton/100888/Injured-mountain-biker-airlifted

Injured mountain biker airlifted

by Adam Proskiw - Kelowna - Story: 100888
Oct 19, 2013 / 4:18 pm

Photo: Deborah Pfeiffer - Penticton

A middle-aged man was airlifted to hospital after a mountain biking accident near the popular Three Blind Mice biking trail off Naramata Road Saturday afternoon.

According to Penticton SAR manager Ryanne Volrich, the call came in at 11:30 a.m. and by 12:53, a SAR helicopter had located the man and was flying him to Penticton Regional Hospital with suspected internal injuries.

It would have been a bumpy ride out in a stretcher, so we decided to use the helicopter, said Volrich.

Because of the low-lying cloud in the area, a ground team was also on standby, which included 17 members of Penticton SAR.

The man, who is an experienced rider, was with a friend at the time of the accident and was able to call 911. He remained on the phone with SAR dispatch during the rescue.

He did the right thing, said Ryanne. Its much better when we can stay in contact with the person while we are getting to them. Were even more prepared that way.

The man is currently being examined at Penticton Regional Hospital but his injuries are not expected to be life-threatening.

431. http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-tayside-central-24651612

Mountain biker rescued in Bridge of Allan woods

The 40-year-old was found injured in the Mine Woods, Bridge of Allan

A mountain biker has been rescued and taken to hospital after falling from his bike.

The cyclist was found injured in Mine Woods, Bridge of Allan, on Wednesday after police were contacted at 19:00.

The 40-year-old had been reported missing by his family, after leaving home in the Causewayhead area of Stirling to go cycling in the Sheriffmuir and Dumyat area at 16:00.

He was taken to Forth Valley Royal Infirmary for treatment.

He was found after an extensive search involving officers, the Police Scotland helicopter and the Ochil Mountain Rescue Team.

432. [So much for the healthfulness of mountain biking. Can one be healthy and dead?

Mike]

http://www.freep.com/article/20131105/NEWS06/311050065/Michigan-mountain-biker-dies-during-race

Michigan mountain biker dies during race

7:03 AM, November 5, 2013

Associated Press

Filed Under
Local News
Michigan news

An official says a participant in an annual northern Michigan mountain bike race died during the event.

Iceman Cometh race director Steve Brown tells the Traverse City Record-Eagle that the rider went down with roughly 3 miles remaining in Saturday's 29-mile race from Kalkaska to Traverse City. Brown says the rider died of cardiac arrest.

The rider's name wasn't released. The newspaper reports it's the first death in the more than two decades that the race has been run.

433. The mountain bikers knew it was dangerous, but did nothing to fix it! I also wonder about their flippant trail naming custom, and what it is supposed to signify.

Mike

http://www.couriermail.com.au/news/queensland/cyclist-killed-after-crashing-into-tree-on-mt-coot-tha-track/story-fnihsrf2-1226765788809

A CYCLIST has died after crashing into a tree on a popular bushwalking track on Brisbane's Mt Coot-tha.

Initial reports indicate emergency services received a Triple-0 call about 6.50am, alerting them to an unconscious bike rider about 500m into the Powerful Owl Circuit at Mt Coo-tha.

Paramedics and fire crews rushed to the scene near Channel 9s studios, but efforts to revive the cyclist were unsuccessful.

The Powerful owl track is very steep in parts.

One mountain biker who has tackled the track many times said it was steep and "dangerous in parts".

"I've almost come to grief there," the rider told couriermail.com.au.

"You can hit high speeds coming down and there are a series of jumps. If you miscalculate, it can be nasty."

434. http://www.sunshinecoastdaily.com.au/news/injured-mountain-biker-winched-parklands-state-for/2096210/

Injured mountain biker winched from Parklands State Forest

26th Nov 2013 2:40 PM

A TEENAGE mountain bike rider has been winched to safety by the RACQ CareFlight Rescue helicopter following a crash in the Parklands State Forest west of Bli Bli this morning.

The woman, an experienced cyclist, was riding with friends through the forest track when she came off the bike suffering a suspected pelvic and hip injury.

CareFlight's Doctor and Paramedic initially responded to the scene via road to assist local Queensland Ambulance Service Paramedics on-scene. Once assessed, it was determined the patient needed to be urgently extracted and the RACQ CareFlight Rescue helicopter was called in to perform a winch rescue.

The woman, from Ninderry, was loaded into a stretcher and winched up into the aircraft, accompanied up the wire by the Flight Paramedic.

She was then flown to Nambour General Hospital for further treatment, travelling in a stable condition.

435. http://eurosport.yahoo.com/blogs/blazin-saddles/sensational-bike-video-released-despite-star-crippling-injuries-045306252.html

Road Bike Party video released despite stars horrifying injuries

By Eurosport | Blazin' Saddles Fri, Dec 10, 2010 23:55 EST

When international mountain bike trials legend Martyn Ashton suffered a severe spinal injury during a demonstration at Silverstone in September, it seemed as though his latest project would never see the light of day.

Left without feeling in his legs and confined to a wheelchair by the horrific, "life-changing" accident, Ashton's starring role in the filming of Road Bike Party 2 - the sequel to the hugely popular viral video Road Bike Party - came to an abrupt end.

But thanks to two other massive names in the world of trials riding, filming got back under way and the completed version has now been released, to the delight of both Ashton and his fans.

As Ashton puts it at the beginning of the video: "I had an incredible route to ride, but as in life things don't always go to plan. Luckily I've got some amazing friends to help me out."

Following the accident, which happened just before shooting was scheduled to finish, Chris Akrigg and Danny MacAskill endeavoured to work with film-maker Robin Kitchin to complete the project, and the results are nothing short of spectacular.

Its very different to what I planned but Im really starting to love it and care for it, Ashton said of the finished article, which features a 15,000 Colnago C59 Italia road bike, the likes of which are not intended to be used for this kind of stunt biking.

Its a brilliant collection. You can lose the fact that were on a road bike as it just looks like a great piece of riding.

"The first Road Bike Party was all about it being a road bike but this one, the road bike doesnt get a chance. The stuff that we do collectively is beyond what would be normal for a trials bike. Its exceptional," added the former world champion.

The original film had over nine million views since its launch in 2012. The sequel had already amassed over 650,000 views within 24 hours of its release.

436. http://www.getreading.co.uk/news/local-news/mountain-biker-dies-after-suffering-6429870

Mountain biker dies after suffering medical episode in Swinley Forest

19 Dec 2013 09:19

The man was found by a group of bikers on the Blue 10 run in the forest in Nine Mile Ride on Saturday

A mountain biker has died after suffering a medical episode in Swinley Forest

A mountain biker has died after suffering a medical episode while riding the Swinley Forest trails.

The man, believed to be in his 50s, from Wokingham, was found by a group of bikers on the Blue 10 run in the forest in Nine Mile Ride on Saturday.

A Thames Valley Police spokeswoman said the man had suffered a medical episode rather than had an accident.

The coroner confirmed the man died of natural causes and an inquest will not be opened.

Riders have laid flowers at the scene and have posted tributes on the Swinley Forest Mountain Bikers Facebook page.

Ben Pinnick, a mountain biker from Crowthorne, praised other riders, who were first on the scene, for their quick-thinking after they administered CPR.

He said: Unfortunately in this case there was nothing that could be done.

He is now urging other bikers to carry identification while riding in the forest in case of accidents.

Mr Pinnick said: There are three things people can do to make sure, if there is an accident, that theyre treated to as quickly and as safely as possible.

First of all, have an ID card or tag on you when I heard about what happened at the weekend I ordered myself one.

Secondly, if youre going out alone make sure you tell someone where youre going and how long you expect to be.

I always tell my wife which run Im going to be on so if I am gone longer than expected she can call someone who knows the area.

Lastly, there are a number of information points around the forest which have emergency contacts, including a 24/7 ranger.

Youre just as likely to come across an accident while riding as be in one so make sure you know the numbers.

A Crown Estate spokeswoman, which manages Swinley Forest, said: The estate is aware of the sad situation and is liaising closely with the police.

437. http://www.stuff.co.nz/nelson-mail/news/9548114/Helmet-saves-young-mountainbiker

Helmet saves young mountainbiker

Last updated 13:00 23/12/2013

A mountainbiker who fell down a steep bank avoided serious brain injury thanks to his helmet.

A 14-year-old boy was airlifted to Nelson Hospital yesterday afternoon after he fell off his mountainbike and down the five-metre bank in the upper Wairoa Gorge area, east of Wakefield, a Nelson Marlborough Rescue Helicopter spokesman said.

Paramedic Gary Tobin said the boy was one of two bikers travelling down a steep bank when he lost control, went over the handle bars and landed heavily on his back.

"His helmet definitely took quite a hit, he was very lucky."

The boy is in a stable condition in the children's ward at Nelson Hospital.

438. http://singletrackworld.com/forum/topic/rider-down-leeds

KingofBiscuits - Member

I saw he was in some sort of trouble, staggering with bike on Norfolk Terrace. By the time I'd stopped the car and got out he had collapsed and was face down. Realised quite quickly it was serious and rang 999. Did what I could, helped where I could when the paramedics arrived. Never felt so helpless and useless. He never regained consciousness. Very sad. Have spoken to the Police since and left my details.

439. http://www.stuff.co.nz/dominion-post/news/hawkes-bay/9558142/Mountain-biker-falls-down-cliff

Mountain biker falls down cliff

Last updated 16:47 27/12/2013

Hawke's Bay

A mountain biker has been airlifted from Te Mata Peak near Havelock North this afternoon after falling down a cliff face.

The Lowe Corporation Rescue Helicopter was called out around 1pm to the scene of the accident, where the biker, a 20-year-old man, had suffered back injuries and concussion.

The helicopter was able to land close the scene and take him to the helicopter by stretcher. He was airlifted to Hawkes Bay Regional Hospital.

440. http://www.grough.co.uk/magazine/2013/12/27/mountain-biker-suffers-broken-leg-in-gisburn-forest-fall

Mountain biker suffers broken leg in Gisburn Forest fall

John McHale, Reporter
Friday 27 December 2013 04:36 PM GMT

Members of the Cave Rescue Organisation joined colleagues from the Bowland Pennine team at the incident

A mountain biker was rescued after suffering a suspected broken leg at a popular Lancashire site.

The 28-year-old man came off his bike on the Sheep Hill boardwalk in Gisburn Forest.

Bowland Pennine Mountain Rescue Team was joined by members of the Cave Rescue Organisation following the incident about 11.10am today.

He was treated at the scene by rescuers and paramedics then stretchered out of the forest to a waiting ambulance by members of both rescue teams.

441. http://www.stgeorgeutah.com/news/archive/2013/12/27/eda-fallen-70-year-old-mountain-biker-receives-cpr-life-flight/

Fallen 70-year-old mountain biker receives CPR, Life Flight

Written by Drew Allred on December 27, 2013 in Local News, News - No comments
Rescue personnel at the scene of a mountain biking accident near the Green Valley Gap area at approximately 3:30 p.m. on Friday, St. George, Utah, Dec. 27, 2013 | Photo by Drew Allred, St. George News

ST. GEORGE A man reported to be 70 years old was transported by Life Flight from a popular mountain biking area known as the Green Valley Gap on the edge of the Green Valley suburbs in St. George today at approximately 3:30 p.m. after falling off his bike.

The man fell off his mountain bike at the bottom of a ravine just west of the Canyon View Drive, Plantation Drive intersection where there are numerous ATV trails, biking trails and biking jumps criss-crossing the area.

Emergency personnel from the St. George Police Department, St. George Fire Department, Gold Cross Ambulance, and Life Flight responded and administered CPR for approximately 15-20 minutes before Life Flight flew him from the scene to the Dixie Regional Medical Center.

He just flipped and landed kind of funny, Scott Reid said. He watched the accident take place from approximately 300 feet east of the wreck site, he said. Since there is a ditch nearby the wreck site, he may have ran over that and toppled over, Reid said.

Reid witnessed the man fall and became alarmed after the man didnt get back up. He said he asked two men packing up their car next to him if they knew the man and the men told him that it was their friend; one of them went down to check on him. The man who went down to check then started waving his hands frantically and called 911 in a panic, Reid said.

Emergency personnel soon showed up and immediately started giving CPR. They continued giving CPR for approximately 15-20 minutes, Reid said, until they flew him away in the Life Flight helicopter continuing to administer CPR.

Emergency personnel had very little information at the scene. There had been a mountain biking accident, St. George Police Officer Travis Willinger said, and the man was 70 years old.

The gentleman crashed on his bike or had some sort of medical condition, Willinger said.

442. http://www.pressdemocrat.com/article/20131228/articles/131229601

Biker at Annadel dies of heart attack

By CATHY BUSSEWITZ
THE PRESS DEMOCRAT

December 28, 2013, 6:26 PM

by Taboolaby Taboola

A mountain biker riding at Annadel State Park had a heart attack and died Saturday afternoon, according to a park ranger.

The man, who was believed to be in his 60s and from Santa Rosa, died on Marsh Trail, said Neill Fogarty, supervising ranger.

The call for assistance came a little before 3:30 p.m., Fogarty said. He was about to set out on Richardson Fire Road with rescue workers from Bennett Valley Fire Department when they heard that the Sheriffs helicopter Henry One had reached the victim.

The man, whose name was not immediately released, was believed to have died at the scene, Fogarty said.

I really feel for the family, Fogarty said. Its three days after Christmas.

Annadel State Park, which sees about 1,000 mountain bikers a day, can be a difficult workout because of the rugged terrain, he said.

Its happened before up here. Its pretty strenuous and rigorous, Fogarty said.

Dispatchers at the Sheriffs Office did not immediately release information about the accident.

You can reach Staff Writer Cathy Bussewitz at 521-5276 or cathy.bussewitz@pressdemocrat.com.

443. http://www.bicycleretailer.com/retail-news/2013/12/30/mid-atlantic-trails-advocate-and-racer-scott-scudamore-dies#.UsInhp3TnIU

Mid-Atlantic trails advocate and racer Scott Scudamore dies

Published December 30, 2013
by BRAIN Staff

CHARLOTTESVILLE, VA (BRAIN) Scott Scudamore, a mountain bike athlete, advocate, event organizer and retail store employee, died Dec. 28 from complications from a mountain bike accident he suffered in September.

Scudamore was retired from a 20-year Air Force career and 21 years with Hewlett Packard. Besides being active in the Mid Atlantic Off-Road Enthusiasts (MORE), he worked part-time at Blue Ridge Cyclery in Charlottesville and was a member of IMBA's Regional Leadership Advisory Council. He competed in triathlons and XTERRA events.

On Sept. 22, Scudamore crashed while mountain biking with his wife, son-in-law, granddaughter and other friends at Bryce Mountain ski resort in Basye, Virginia. The crash left him paralyzed below his neck. Although he made progress in rehab in the fall, in recent weeks he struggled with infection, delirium, and ultimately pneumonia, according to a note left by his family on Scudfries.org, a website set up to support him following the crash.

The family said there be two viewings at Thacker Brothers Lake Monticello Funeral Home in Palmyra, Virginia. The first will be Friday from 6-8 p.m. The second will be Saturday, from 9 a.m noon.

A funeral service will follow the viewing on Saturday at 3 p.m. at Grace And Glory Lutheran Church (683 Thomas Jefferson Parkway, Palmyra, Virginia.)

In lieu of flowers the Scudamores asked friends to donate to one of Scudamore's favorite charities, Trails for Youth or the Lake Monticello Volunteer Rescue Squad.

444. http://www.expressandstar.com/news/2014/01/02/mountain-biker-injured-on-cannock-chase/

January 2, 2014 5:58 pm
Mountain biker injured on Cannock Chase

A mountain biker has been airlifted to hospital after being injured on a Cannock Chase bike trail.

Paramedics were called to an isolated area of the Red Monkey Trail at the beauty spot just before 2pm.

Local rangers from the Forestry Commission helped them find the man.

West Midlands Ambulance Service spokesman Steve Parry said: Crews responded to an incident in which a man had reportedly fallen from his bike on one of the chase mountain bike trails.

A man in his forties was treated by ambulance staff for a pelvic injury. The patient was immobilised with the use of a neck collar and spinal board before being airlifted to Derby Royal Infirmary for further assessment and treatment

445. http://www.adn.com/2014/01/03/3257658/community-helps-put-anchorage.html

Community helps put Anchorage mountain biker on road to recovery

By BETH BRAGG

bbragg@adn.comJanuary 3, 2014 Updated 17 hours ago
2014-01-04T09:56:31Z
By BETH BRAGG Anchorage_Daily_News

Luke Simpson was seriously injured in a mountain biking accident Nov. 4, 2013. Simpson is seen here with his two kids, Kate, (left) now 4 and Will, now 7. COURTESY OF THE SIMPSON FAMILY

Kris Simpson finds silver linings on the white letter board in her husband's hospital room. Luke Simpson can't hear and can't talk, but he can see, read and blink, and so in the weeks after his mountain bike accident at Kincaid Park he was able to deliver a message Kris continues to hold near and dear:

I OK.

He spelled out that simple sentence by blinking when the appropriate letter was pointed to on the letter board. Later came a message for 4-year-old daughter Kate:

I SORRY.

Later still came his Christmas shopping list for Kate and 7-year-old son Will:

SLED.

They are words of hope to Kris. Two months ago, on the single-track bike trails she and Luke helped build, Luke's life nearly ended. He was critically injured when he was thrown over the handlebars of his mountain bike and landed on the far side of a double jump. Artery damage led to a debilitating stroke.

This week, silver linings yielded what passes as sunny news for a family changed forever by a traumatic brain injury.

On Thursday, Kris wired $100,000 to Craig Hospital in Denver after learning that a bed is available there for Luke.

On Saturday, a record field of participants will compete in the 22-mile and 44-mile Frosty Bottom fat-tire bike race, a fundraiser for the Simpsons.

And as early as Monday, the family may be on its way to Colorado, a journey made manageable by the kindness of friends, colleagues and even strangers.

Nearly $200,000 has been raised for Simpson, 42, an active figure in Anchorage's bicycling and construction communities. He's an avid cyclist who, as owner of Finishing Edge Curb & Sidewalk, is the sponsor of a summertime hill climb series. His work in concrete construction takes him all over Alaska.

The goal is to raise another $100,000, said friend and neighbor Tim Alderson, who is helping coordinate fundraising efforts. Simpson's insurance will cover 30 days, or one-third, of the stay at Craig Hospital; $180,000 is needed to cover the rest, Kris said. Then there are the costs of continuing care, adaptive equipment and modifications to the family's Anchorage home.

"They don't expect him to walk when he comes home," Kris said this week. "They don't have a magic wand. But they will assess him and figure out what his potential is and try to help him come home. They have fancy communication devices he can use. I still think he might be able to talk again -- his vocal chords are fine. He can make noises. He's moving his mouth a little bit and can also move his left leg and foot and toe.

"... There's hope. There's hope for progress.''

HEAD OVER HANDLEBARS

On the first Monday in November, Simpson spent the afternoon mountain biking with a couple of friends on the new single-track bike trails at Kincaid Park. His friends were riding ahead on a trail called Candy Mountain when they heard the crash.

They found Simpson, who was wearing a helmet, on the downslope of the second jump of a double jump. Doctors think he landed on his head after being catapulted over his handlebars on the first jump.

His nose was broken and his face bleeding. He was non-responsive. Kincaid Park isn't the easiest place in town to get a cell signal, yet friends managed to call and get help quickly.

The damage was extensive. "He broke his C-1, C-7 and T-1," Kris said, referring to cervical and thoracic vertabrae. "He fractured the base of his skull, his sinuses and the bone behind the nose. He broke his wrist and he broke his ribs."

The skull fracture and damage to the C-1 damaged three of the four arteries that go to the head, causing a stroke that put Simpson into unconsciousness in the early days after the accident, Kris said. How much of Simpson's condition is a consequence of the stroke is unknown, but Kris suspects it played a significant role.

As serious as his condition remains, things looked grimmer at the beginning. Simpson never responded when people spoke to him, suggesting a possible loss of cognitive function. Then doctors realized he was deaf.

"They say that's very rare," Kris said. "They haven't figured out why or if it's permanent."

Simpson raises or lowers his eyes to answer yes or no to questions written on a board. For more complex questions, the letter board is used and he spells out responses one letter and one blink at a time.

"Sometimes in the morning he's doing pretty good and I do feel like he's having a conversation with me," Kris said. "Other times he seems more tired."

She chokes up when she tells the "I SORRY" story. In those two words, Kris said, Simpson was apologizing to daughter Kate "for getting hurt and not having the same life that we always had.

"I still almost cry when telling you that," she said.

BIGGER JUMPS AND BIGGER BERMS

Some 16 miles of single-track trails have been built in recent years at Kincaid, the effort of Singletrack Advocates, a group formed in 2004 to build and maintain such trails in Anchorage.

Luke and Kris Simpson have been among the volunteer laborers, working last summer on a new network of trails. Although they did not work on Candy Mountain, they know it well.

"I was on that exact same trail that morning," Kris said.

Single-track trails can be inherently dangerous -- carved out of the woods, they are narrow with multiple jumps and turns.

"I think for most of the people who ride out there, there's the realization that you hate to think about it but there's a potential danger of riding those kinds of trails," said Bill Fleming, co-owner of Chain Reaction and the director of Saturday's Frosty Bottom.

Fleming said the newer trails at Kincaid, a network of six to seven miles that opened last summer, are gnarlier than the older trails on the park's south side.

"The new trails have bigger jumps and bigger berms," he said. "You get a lot more air on the new trails than the old trails."

Fleming isn't aware of any accidents as severe as Simpson's on any of the city's 25 miles of single-track trails at Kincaid and Hillside. Nor has he heard any calls for changes to the trails in the aftermath of Simpson's accident.

"I haven't heard anybody say they should be modified or regulated in a different way, and I don't think Luke would want that to happen -- he was adventurous," Fleming said.

Kris Simpson wavered when asked if all of the features of the trails should stay the way they are.

"I don't know about that," she said.

AN OUTPOURING

Almost as soon as Simpson was hurt, fundraising began. Within 10 days, more than $100,000 had been raised.

"We put it out there and it kind of went viral," Alderson said. "We've gotten contributions from all over the country. His story's really touched a lot of people."

The Simpsons travel in many circles. Will attends O'Malley Elementary. Luke is a big part of the construction community. Kris was an engineer for BP before she became a stay-at-home mom. Together they are part of the bike community.

Donations have come from people in all of those circles and beyond.

"It's really overwhelming," Kris said. "It makes me cry when I think of it. It makes me feel like we are really a part of this community. There's been a lot of different people (offering help) -- people in the construction industry, friends, people I have no idea who they are."

At times Luke's hospital room has bustled like Grand Central Station, so many friends and family are there. Will and Kate celebrated Christmas at his bedside.

"They're very aware," Kris said. "They have a pretty good sense of what's going on."

The Simpsons are an active family -- Luke is also a skier and climber, Alderson said, although his passion in recent years has been cycling. But Kris said the accident has made her wary.

"Even when the kids are jumping on the bed," she said, "I say 'Please stop jumping on the bed; we can only have one person in the hospital.' "

Luke is from Washington, Kris is from Minnesota and both made their way to Alaska separately. They met through friends in 2001, married in 2004 and intend to return to Anchorage after Luke's stay at Craig Hospital ends.

"I don't think we could leave Anchorage after this," Kris said.

Reach Beth Bragg at bbragg@adn.com or 257-4335.

Read more here: http://www.adn.com/2014/01/03/3257658/community-helps-put-anchorage.html#storylink=cpy

446. http://www.stuff.co.nz/timaru-herald/news/9584230/Biker-injured-in-high-country-fall

Biker injured in high country fall

ALEXIA JOHNSTON
Last updated 13:00 07/01/2014

An injured mountainbiker has been rescued by helicopter after sustaining face and neck injuries near Lake Ohau.

The 63-year-old Ashburton woman was cycling on one of the Ahuriri mountain bike tracks when she fell about 6.30pm yesterday.

A Westpac Rescue Helicopter spokesperson said the woman's facial injuries were ''quite serious'' and would take a significant amount of time to recover from.

She was taken to Christchurch Hospital.

447. http://www.rte.ie/ten/news/2014/0106/496225-actor-matt-damon-injured-over-christmas/

Actor Matt Damon broke his collarbone over the festive period during a mountain-biking outing.

The 43-year-old Bourne Identity star was spotted at LAX Airport in Los Angeles on Saturday (04Jan14) sporting a sling on his left arm.

Speaking to reporters after landing, Damon explained his injury, saying, "I broke my collarbone... I was trying to mountain-bike."

The father-of- three recently switched US coasts as he moved from New York to Los Angeles.

448. Tara Llanes: Mountain Biker Turned Paraplegic

http://www.pinkbike.com/news/Characters-7-Tara-Llanes-The-Warrior-2013.html?utm_source=MailingList&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=PB+Best+-+December+2013

449. Mountain Biker Nearly Bleeds to Death

http://www.pinkbike.com/news/Video-CGs-Bloody-Crash.html?utm_source=MailingList&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=PB+Best+-+December+2013

450. I'm speechless!

http://www.independent.ie/irish-news/courts/man-awarded-27k-after-being-injured-in-ambulance-30030932.html

"A 37-year-old delivery man, who was injured while he was being taken to hospital in an ambulance after falling off his mountain bike, has been awarded €27,700 damages in the Circuit Civil Court...."

"Mr Burns said he had been cycling down a hill on his bike in the Bray area, when he fell head first and hit a rock and temporarily lost consciousness.... The HSE alleged Mr Burns was not wearing a cycling helmet when he hit the rock...."

The "eyebrow-raising" story continues... you have to read it for yourself... :P

451. http://www.stuff.co.nz/nelson-mail/news/9770680/Renowned-scientist-dies-suddenly

A Motueka scientist and Member of the New Zealand Order of Merit has died suddenly while mountainbiking.

Tony Whitaker dedicated his working life to studying New Zealand and Pacific amphibians. He was also deeply involved in several conservation projects and biosecurity work...

Mr Whitaker said then that one of his achievements in New Zealand had been becoming the first person to recognise that rodents were a problem for native lizards.

(But the guy could not see past his mtbing blindness to realize his mtn bike was also a problem??! I can't feel sorry for people like this...Are they all that daft?[a friend])

Renowned scientist dies suddenly

Last updated 13:00 27/02/2014

A Motueka scientist and Member of the New Zealand Order of Merit has died suddenly while mountainbiking.

Tony Whitaker dedicated his working life to studying New Zealand and Pacific amphibians. He was also deeply involved in several conservation projects and biosecurity work, and in his spare time, along with his wife Viv, established and maintained a notable garden at Craigholm, in the Motueka Valley.

Mr Whitaker has discovered many new species and has one named after him - Whitaker's skink (Cyclodina whitakeri). He received his award in the Queen's Birthday honours in 2010.

Mr Whitaker said then that one of his achievements in New Zealand had been becoming the first person to recognise that rodents were a problem for native lizards.

"Back when I first started on that in the 1960s, they thought rats and mice didn't eat lizards so they weren't a problem."

Asked what had inspired him to be a herpetologist, Mr Whitaker said: "It's just like anything. Why do people collect stamps or become engineers? It's just something that intrigues me."

Born in 1944, Mr Whitaker lived at Craigholm, near Orinoco, for more than 30 years. He is credited with devising new methods of finding and surveying lizards, and made significant observations on their biology and ecology.

He has been involved with numerous conservation programmes for threatened species and helped to improve New Zealand's biosecurity by developing a fast identification process for snakes and other reptiles intercepted at the border.

Mr Whitaker's work has been published in academic journals and he has written books, notably New Zealand Frogs and Reptiles, written with Brian Gill, published in 1996 and reprinted in 2001.

Mr Whitaker began his career as as a research technician (and later scientist), specialising in lizards, with the Ecology Division of DSIR in 1966.

He left the agency 11 years later, having developed a significant reptile and frog collection which grew to 2751 specimens, including 2646 from New Zealand. The latter included 1516 skinks, 1119 geckos and 11 frogs.

Before he left, Mr Whitaker and his colleagues decided the collection would best be placed in the care of the National Museum.

The collection was the single largest contribution to Te Papa's significant herpetofauna collection.

Mr Whitaker died while riding his bike on Saturday. He is survived by Viv and their children Kim and Mike.

452. http://losangeles.cbslocal.com/2014/03/02/mountain-biker-who-went-missing-in-corona-found-dead/

Mountain Biker Who Went Missing In Corona Found Dead

March 2, 2014 2:40 PM

CORONA (CBSLA.com) A mountain biker, who went missing after starting an 18-mile bike ride in the city of Corona Saturday, has been found dead.

Authorities said Andres Marin began the bike ride at the Skyline Trailhead about 7 a.m. Saturday.

By 5:30 p.m., he called his family to tell them that he was lost, the Riverside County Sheriff-Coroner said in a written statement.

The statement said Marin told his family he would try to make it down the hill before it got dark.

A search was launched about 6 p.m. and continued into the night.

Authorities say Marin was subsequently found dead.

No further details were provided.

453. http://www.thestarpress.com/article/BG/20140305/SPORTS0601/303050025/IU-strength-coach-Morris-overcomes-accident-resume-career?nclick_check=1

IU strength coach Morris overcomes accident to resume career

Mar. 5, 2014 6:51 PM |

Tom Morris is an IU weightlifting coach who was severely injured in a mountain bike accident a couple of years ago. / Submitted photo

Written by
Zach Osterman

Age: 34
Position: He works with Indianas mens soccer and womens basketball teams as the strength and conditioning coach.
Resides: Bloomington.
Personal: Grew up in Jeansville, Pa., a two-hill mining town two hours from Philadelphia. Oldest of three brothers. Father died when he was 16. It was almost like he was a weird combination of a best friend/father figure/older brother all rolled into one, younger brother Cody said. Marr
Family: Christa Morris grew up a mile away, in Tresckow. They started dating when he was in ninth grade and she was in seventh grade. She wouldnt leave me alone, Tom said, grinning. They were married in 2006 and live with their boxer Tyson.
College: Tom and Christa went to Penn State, where he earned a bachelors degree in kinesiology and a masters degree in education and health education, then moved to Philadelphia, where Tom worked for a year as a strength coach at La Salle. In 2005, he started at IU.

BLOOMINGTON The Memorial Stadium weight room is laid out like a maze, but Tom Morris has memorized all of its turns, corners and angles.

Indianas 25,000-square-foot performance center, which opened in 2009, is one of the largest weight rooms in college athletics. For Morris, its a laboratory where he prepares 18-to-23-year-olds for the rigors of Big Ten mens soccer and womens basketball.

When Curt Miller, Indianas womens basketball coach, arrived in Bloomington in the spring of 2012, he quickly pegged Morris, the veteran strength and conditioning coach, as critical to turning his program around.

But less than two months after Miller was hired, Morris was taken away from the team for an entire season after a catastrophic mountain biking accident.

What hes meant coming back is just unbelievable, and nothings changed, Miller said. In fact, hes probably more inspiring than ever.

That inspiration, and Morris hard work with Indianas womens team, has helped cue a season of unexpected success. Winners of just six games two seasons ago and carrying a roster that includes seven freshmen, the Hoosiers are 18-11 entering the Big Ten tournament today at Bankers Life Fieldhouse. Millers turnaround has come faster than anyone expected.

How can you have a bad day working for Tom Morris? Miller said. It would be very selfish.

Terrible accident

Ants crawled across Morris body, but he couldnt feel them.

Thursday, May 17, 2012, was a picture-perfect spring day. An avid triathlete and adventure racer, Morris had a break between morning and afternoon lifts. So he grabbed his mountain bike and headed to Wapahani Mountain Bike Park in southwest Bloomington.

Hours later, he was discovered on the trail, paralyzed from the chest down, the result of a crash he still cant explain.

I hit something, he said. I dont know really what that was.

Lying alone on the ground, Morris couldnt reach his phone. His hands wouldnt work.

More than three hours after he crashed, two people found Morris. An ambulance took him to Bloomington Hospital. Later, a helicopter spirited him to IU Health Methodist Hospital in Indianapolis.

Morris had dislocated his C6 and C7 vertebrae, pinching his spinal cord between them. At Methodist, he underwent emergency surgery.

The terrible truth of spinal cord injuries is that there is none. Nerves trace back from arms and legs and fingers and toes. After a spinal injury, there is no way of knowing which ones are dead and which ones are just waiting to be restarted.

Nobody really writes the script on how youre supposed to do it, Morris said. You could go through it two, three, four years of your life and never see any results, or you could be there for 3-4 months and see a lot.

Morris worked tirelessly at the Frazier Rehab Institute in Louisville. He regained use of his arms, his chest and torso. But not his legs.

Morris spent a year shuttling between Bloomington and Louisville. Christa, his wife, had to balance a busy schedule working in academic support for the IU football team with taking time off to commute to and from Louisville.

Eventually, Morris was confronted with a life-changing decision in a year full of them: Was it time to move back to Bloomington?

I think he felt as if, If I leave this rehab setting, Im almost saying, OK, I may not walk again, said Eric Norman, a college friend. I could tell he was really struggling with that.

Was he ready for work again? Would his presence create awkwardness? Was leaving Louisville tacitly giving up on ever walking again? Morris struggled with these questions.

Then he made up his mind. Last May, Morris moved back to Bloomington and went back to work at IU, coaching athletes as he had for years, just from a wheelchair.

Emotionally, it was all over the place, Morris said of his decision. I just figured, You know what, Im ready to start living again.

Back to work

Not long after he returned to work, Morris arrived for an early-morning lift with the womens basketball team. He got inside and situated, only to realize that hed left something in his car.

A common misconception about paralysis is that parts of the body that dont work are just limp. Quite the opposite Morris legs spasm unexpectedly and uncontrollably.

That morning, one of his legs unexpectedly jumped, and as he went to pull it back onto his chair, he clipped a curb, tumbling over.

As he assessed how he was going to go about getting back into his chair it happens from time to time Morris saw the IU baseball team walking toward him.

Here was Morris greatest fear made manifest.

He never wanted to be seen as needing special help or attention. But would co-workers, much less the athletes he worked with, see it that way?

He doesnt have any weaknesses, said Taylor Agler, a freshman guard on the womens basketball team. I dont think there are limitations.

That got put to the test right away. Two of those baseball players came over to him and asked if he needed help.

I dont usually take much help, but I was like, This is gonna be a pain to get in, and I need to get back downstairs, Morris said. I said, Just pick me up, throw me back in the chair.

Morris expected to hear from Tracy Smith, IUs baseball coach, just to make sure he was okay, but no one ever mentioned the incident.

Those guys didnt say a word, Morris said. That silence, that just, nothing it was awesome. It was just incredible to have.

A new routine

Morris still rehabs at Indiana. His strength and conditioning interns have helped devise ways to use the equipment in IUs weight room to replicate much of what he was doing in Louisville.

Bloomington rallied around Tom and Christa through a variety of fundraisers. A GoFundMe page raised $26,360.

Football coach Kevin Wilson made it clear that any time off Christa needed, she could have. Mens basketball coach Tom Crean visited the Morrises one night when they were still in Indianapolis, watching a Pacers-Heat game on TV with them in their room.

Its overwhelming, Christa Morris said. To say thank you, we cant say it enough for people to understand how much it meant.

Morris never had to sacrifice life for the sake of living. Hes been able to return to his wife and his dog, Tyson, and his job all the things that became even more cherished when they were suddenly taken away by a bump in the trail Morris never saw.

He truly is my Superman, for what he has endured, said Debbie Morris, his mother. There should be more Tommys in the world.

454. So much for the alleged "healthfulness" of mountain biking (a "family sport"?)....

Mike

http://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/news/article.cfm?c_id=1&objectid=11229537

Mountain biker dies on trail

By - ROTORUA DAILY POST

11:33 AM Monday Mar 31, 2014

Photo / File / Thinkstock

A mountain biker suffered a cardiac arrest and died while taking part in the Nzo Moonride in the Whakarewarewa Forest at the weekend.

St John Ambulance was called to the trail about 5.30pm on Saturday.

A St John Ambulance northern communications spokesman said the person suffered a cardiac arrest while on the trail.

The person was dead when ambulance staff arrived. A spokesman from the event confirmed the person had died but did not want to comment further.

http://www.sunlive.co.nz/news/68372-enduro-rider-dies-at-event.html

Enduro rider dies at event

Posted at 9:28am Tuesday 01 Apr, 2014 | By Luke Balvert luke@thesun.co.nz

A Tauranga mountain biker has died after suffering a cardiac arrest while competing at the Nzo Moonride in the Rotorua Redwoods.

St John Ambulance paramedics were called to the iconic 24 hour ride held at the Waipa mountain bike area off State Highway 5 about 5.30pm on Saturday.

Competitors take off in the 12 hour and six hour events at the Nzo Moonride. Photo: Event Promotions.

SunLive can this morning confirm the man is 60-year-old Andrew James Carmichael.

St John Central Region communication manager Mark Tregoweth says Andrew went into cardiac arrest while on the trail.

Andrew was dead when paramedics arrived on scene.

We did attend the incident but the body was handed to over to police, says Mark.

Event Promotions general manager Murray Fleming confirms the man is from Tauranga but does not want to comment further.

Bay of Plenty Police communications manager Kim Perks says there are no suspicious circumstances and the matter has been referred to the coroner.

A funeral notice from the family says Andrew was the loving husband of Pam and the coolest dad and father in law of Mel and Tim, James and Rebecca, and Sarah.

He was a playful grandpa of Devon, Jett and Reefe.

Always with a smile, forever in our hearts, says the notice.

A service for Andrew will be held at Holy Trinity, corner of 3rd Avenue and Devonport Road, Tauranga on Friday at 11am.

The 20th edition of the Nzo moonride saw teams of up to five riders take on the 9km circuit and complete as many laps as they can within the timeframe of their event; either the 24 hour event, 12 hour or six hour.

The event ran from 10pm Friday to 10pm Saturday.
- See more at: http://www.sunlive.co.nz/news/68372-enduro-rider-dies-at-event.html#sthash.A4zft9dV.dpuf

455. http://www.socaltrailriders.org/forum/showthread.php?70331-MTBer-blamed-for-injury-to-horse-rider

SAN JAUN CAPISTRANO - A 71-year-old man had to be rescued by
helicopter Tuesday after being thrown from a horse while riding in a
remote section of Caspers Wilderness Park.
The man, who wasn't identified, was knocked unconscious and possibly
fractured a femur in the mishap that occurred around 2:40 p.m., said
Orange County Fire Authority Capt. Steve Concialdi.
The horse got spooked by a mountain biker, he said. A woman who was
riding with the man called 911.
An OCFA's helicopter lowered two urban search and rescue firefighters
down to the man. He was then placed on a backboard and in a Stokes
Basket and hoisted to the helicopter, Concialdi said.
The helicopter then picked up two firefighter/paramedics from a nearby
ridge and flew all on board to Mission Hospital in Mission Viejo.
The man underwent surgery at the hospital, but information about his
condition was not available Tuesday night.

http://sanjuancapistrano.patch.com/groups/police-and-fire/p/injured-equestrian-airlifted-out-of-caspers

456. http://www.heraldnet.com/article/20140412/NEWS01/140419647/Man-dies-on-biking-trail-near-Maltby

Man dies on biking trail near Maltby (WA)

Herald staff
MALTBY Police are investigating the death of a man who was apparently riding his mountain bike in the Paradise Valley Conservation Area near Maltby on Saturday.

A hiker in the area called 911 around 1 p.m. to report that he and others were performing cardiopulmonary resuscitation on a man found near a popular biking trail, according to Shari Ireton, spokeswoman for the Snohomish County Sheriffs Office.

Aid crews who responded pronounced the man dead at the scene. The man is believed to have been in his 60s. The county Medical Examiners office had yet to identify him as of Saturday afternoon, Ireton said.

Police will continue to investigate but there was nothing to indicate any suspicious circumstances surrounding the mans death, she said.

http://blogs.seattletimes.com/today/2014/04/mountain-biker-who-died-on-snohomish-county-trail-identified/

April 15, 2014 at 3:27 PM

Mountain biker who died on Snohomish County trail identified

Posted by Paige Cornwell

The mountain biker who died while riding on a trail Saturday in the Paradise Valley Conservation Area has been identified.

Steven D. Quinton, 56, of Monroe, died of blunt force injuries of the head on the Woodinville trail, according to the Snohomish County Medical Examiners Office.

Hikers discovered the biker, performed CPR and called for help, the Snohomish County Sheriffs Office said. He was declared dead by first responders.

The medical examiners office classified his death as an accident.

457. http://www.brisbanetimes.com.au/queensland/man-dies-after-mountain-bike-crash-20140422-370ue.html

Man dies after mountain bike crash

Queensland
April 22, 2014 - 6:18AM

Marissa Calligeros
brisbanetimes.com.au reporter

Daisy Hill Conversation Park in Brisbane's south is considered one of Australia's premier mountain biking areas.

A man has died after crashing his mountain bike in Daisy Hill forest in Brisbane's south.

Other mountain bike riders found the 52-year-old man unconscious at the bottom of a very steep trail in the conservation park about 8am on Monday.

The man, from Wellington Point, was taken to Princess Alexandra Hospital by ambulance with critical head injuries, but passed away about 9pm.

A mountain biking trail in Daisy Hill Conservation Park.

Police said it appeared the man had lost control of his bike while riding, but they would continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident.

Daisy Hill Conservation Park is considered one of Australias premier mountain bike riding areas. It is frequented by riders, particularly on weekends.

The park includes at least seven designated mountain bike trails, as well as fire trails which are open to horse riders and trail runners.

Anyone with information about Mondays incident is asked to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

458. http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2014/04/26/mountain-bike-world-cup-spectator-wreck_n_5219339.html

Spectator Jumps On Injured Rider's Bike At Mountain Bike World Cup, Wrecks Violently (GRAPHIC VIDEO)

The Huffington Post | by Ryan Grenoble

· A spectator who attempted to help an injured mountain biker instead injured himself, after taking a brutal fall at the UCI Mountain Bike World Cup in Cairns, Australia.

· The unnamed spectator had offered to take pro rider Adam Brayton's bike down to the bottom of the course after Brayton suffered a severe leg injury and had to be taken to the hospital, Brayton said in an email to PinkBike. Minutes later, after a violent wreck in a section of the course known as the "whoops," the spectator, who'd been riding without a helmet, ended up in the same ambulance as Brayton.

· "The guy who took my bike down was a good man, no idea why he hit the whoops..." Brayton said. "I think he's ok though he was in my ambulance on a spine board and was pretty [knocked out] but that's all I know..."

· While the cause of the wreck is unclear, astute Redditors have pointed out that the levers which control a bike's front and rear brakes vary from country to country, which could have been a contributing factor. U.S. riders mount the rear break lever on the right, while Australians mount theirs on the left.

· The Cairns Post has verified the rider featured in this video was a spectator, but has no update on his condition.

· Watch the devastating wreck, above.

459. http://www.couriermail.com.au/questnews/logan/two-people-have-died-in-the-last-five-months-while-mountain-biking-where-were-they-killed-and-what-can-you-do-to-stay-safe/story-fni9r0nh-1226899881296

The Courier-Mail
Last updated: April 30, 2014

Weather: Brisbane 15C-28C . Late rain.

Logan News
QN Logan news

Two people have died in the last five months while mountain biking. Where were they killed and what can you do to stay safe?

by: Heidi Braithwaite
From: Quest Newspapers
April 30, 2014 12:01AM

Police will work with stakeholders to improve safety for mountain bikers in one of South East Queenslands most popular mountain biking destinations. Source: Supplied

The third mountain biking death in four years in a popular South East Queensland State Forest has sparked a warning by police to exercise caution.

The tragic death of a 53-year-old man occurred over the Easter long weekend when its believed he was thrown from his bike on a steep slope and hit his head in the Daisy Hill State Forest south of Brisbane.

He was found unconscious by other bikers and died later in hospital.

It was the second death in five months following a fataility in Mt Coot-tha.

Road Policing Command Unit Senior Sergeant Scott Lacey said mountain biking was a vigorous, adrenalin based and often potentially dangerous activity with frequently changing conditions.

Many mountain bikers go pretty hard; they want to get the maximum out of their work-out but its not without its risks.

The trails can be challenging and it just goes to show its important to exercise caution.

Road cyclist and vocal advocate for the forest Logan City Councillor Lisa Bradley, said a lot of people did not understand the potential harm mountain biking could cause.

She said bikers took risks if they didnt know the terrain.

My heart goes out to this mans family.

I think this tragedy raises awareness of the dangers of the sport and the risks that people take when they partake in this activity.

IN OTHER NEWS

What is Leapais next honour?

A mountain biker died in November last year after crashing into a tree on a popular bushwalking track on Brisbanes Mt Coot-tha.

Another rider who had tackled the track where the man died described the area as steep and dangerous in parts.

You can hit high speeds coming down and there are a series of jumps. If you miscalculate, it can be nasty, he said.

A spokesman from the Brisbane South MTB Club said mountain biking was an exciting sport with some risks.

Most mountain bikers prefer to ride on narrow, flowing single-track away from the wider fire trails.

The narrow tracks often have technical trail features and obstacles for riders to negotiate and so they are generally ridden at lower speeds and the consequences of accidents are more limited.

He said all trails in Daisy Hill were regularly ridden by families with young children and that Brisbane South Mountain Bike Club ran a supervised beginners and kids ride most Saturday mornings to introduce people to.

How to stay safe mountain biking:

Gear Up: Always wear a helmet and other appropriate safety equipment for the riding conditions.

Never Ride Beyond Your Abilities: There is no shame in walking sections of the trail you dont feel confident enough to ride.

Use Appropriate Equipment for the Terrain: Some bikes are better for different situations.

Keep Your Speed In Check: Always keep your speed at a level that will allow you to adjust to any unforeseen obstacles or changes in trail conditions.

Know The Trail: Never push the limits on a trail you are not familiar with.

Slow Down for Blind Corners: You never know what or who is around a corner when you cant see past it.

Stop and Look: Stop and look at sections of the trail that look like they may pose a challenge before you ride them.

Plan on the Crash: Always look at the consequences of crashing in a particular section or on a particular stunt before trying to ride through it.

Start Small, Go Big: Work your way up to obstacles and stunts.

Play It Smart: If you think what you are doing is not the smartest, you are probably right.

(Source: mountainbike.about.com)

460. http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/113732

Bamboo co-founder Nigel Vaulkhard dies in mountain biking accident

Friday, May 2nd 2014, 11:45 GMT

The co-founder of World Touring Car and World Endurance Championship outfit Bamboo Engineering, Nigel Vaulkhard, has died after a mountain biking accident.

Vaulkhard, father of former British Touring Car and WTCC racer Harry, was airlifted to hospital after the incident on Wednesday but later passed away from the injuries he sustained.

The 66-year-old, a former Porsche Carrera Cup GB and European Historic Touring Car racer, set up Bamboo in 2009 with Richard Coleman.

It ran James Nash to third in the WTCC last season before pulling out of the tin-top series to concentrate on an affiliated WEC effort with Asian squad Craft Racing.

Craft-Bamboo confirmed its Aston Martin Racing-entered trio of Alex MacDowall, Darryl O'Young and Fernando Rees will continue to compete in the WEC round at Spa this weekend, while Coleman paid tribute to his former co-owner.

"Nigel and I started working together in late 2008 and since then became very close friends," he said.

"Nigel co-founded Bamboo and was a driving force in the team - his passion, commitment and belief in the team was unparalleled."

461. http://www.sacbee.com/2014/05/03/6376701/injured-mountain-biker-hoisted.html

Sunday, May 4, 2014

Injured mountain biker hoisted out of Foresthill-area canyon

smagagnini@sacbee.com
By Stephen Magagnini The Sacramento Bee
Last modified: 2014-05-04T04:39:37Z
Published: Saturday, May. 3, 2014 - 9:06 pm
Last Modified: Saturday, May. 3, 2014 - 9:39 pm

A 21-year-old mountain biker who crashed in a canyon and lost consciousness after hitting his head Saturday afternoon was rescued by California Highway Patrol Helicopter 24, Airplane 21 and California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection personnel, authorities reported.

The victim, who was mountain biking with friends in the Foresthill area, crashed and flew over his handlebars into the ground, said Officer David E. White of Valley Division Air Operations.

While this accident was very serious, it would have been much worse if the victim had not been wearing a helmet, which had massive damage ... never ride alone and always wear a helmet, White said, adding that the victims friends also played a key role by calling for help.

After the CHP aircraft personnel found the victim, they guided CalFire personnel to the location to begin treatment, White said.

Because of the remote location and difficult terrain, ground personnel requested H-24 hoist the victim out of the canyon, White said.

The severely injured biker was transferred to a CalStar helicopter that flew him to Sutter Roseville Medical Center for treatment. H-24 crew included Officer Monty Emery, the pilot, and Officer Greg Norrgard, a paramedic. Brent Fallis piloted Airplane 21, with Flight Officer Trevor Anders, White said.

462. http://www.thenorthernecho.co.uk/news/local/teesvalley/hartlepool/11192680.Volunteers_help_to_rescue_injured_mountain_bike_rider_after_fall/

Volunteers help to rescue injured mountain bike rider after fall

6:43pm Monday 5th May 2014 in Hartlepool News
Volunteers help to rescue injured mountain bike rider

MOUNTAIN rescue volunteers and an air ambulance were called to treat an injured mountain biker.

The call was made to the Cleveland rescue team at 7.15pm on Sunday when the Yorkshire Ambulance Service needed assistance after a 50-year-old male from the Northallerton area was injured.

The man had been mountain biking in the vicinity of Square Corner up on the moor just to the south of Osmotherley when he had taken a tumble and sustained possible pelvic and shoulder injuries.

A total of 23 members responded to the call-out with the Teams Land-Rovers making a dash from Marske where they were over-seeing the completion of the 22 mile Whalebones walk a sponsored event which helps to raise funds for the Team.

As well as the road ambulance the air ambulance attended, with volunteers helping to carry stretcher to the helicopter to enable his transfer to Middlesbroughs James Cook University Hospital.

(CORR)Gari Finch, a spokesman for the Cleveland Mountain Rescue Team, said This was a multi-agency response in which members of the Rescue Team together with personnel from both the air and road ambulance services worked together in an effective manner to ensure that the injured man was on his way to hospital as quickly and as comfortably as possible.

463. http://www.theguardian.com/lifeandstyle/2014/may/11/horse-riders-cyclists-surrey-bridleway-leith-hill

Horse riders and cyclists go to war over bridleways

New mountain bike trail at Leith Hill in Surrey is site of latest flare-up to divide countryside users
Lin Jenkins

The Observer, Saturday 10 May 2014

Horse riders say that cyclists often have a lack of understanding of how horses will react to their presence. Photograph: Martyn Williams/Alamy

Leith Hill tower in Surrey, a Georgian folly, is the highest point in south-east England. Through its telescope visitors can see Big Ben to the north and the glimmer of the Channel in the south. With its surrounding wooded hillside, it ought to be a tranquil rural idyll.

It has, however, become a battleground between horse riders and cyclists who have clashed over a new mountain bike trail that in parts runs alongside a bridleway. The dispute has meant that the trail has been closed while claims by the British Horse Society that it is illegal are investigated. The society also claims that the proximity of fast-moving bikes to horses will result in a fatal accident.

In the New Forest, walkers and riders are free to go where they like while bikes are restricted to gravel paths. But despite the prospect of a 500 fine, it is claimed, many mountain bikers break the rules. Last September David Horton, 64, died after he fell from his horse as it was spooked by a cyclist coming up at speed behind him on an unauthorised route near his home in Beaulieu.

And in Delamere Forest, Cheshire, disputes between the two groups have resulted in a trial riding code for mountain bikers urging them to be careful around horses and to warn riders that they are approaching. However, riders claim their horses are often startled by cyclists doing jumps and fast steep descents across paths that they use.

Bob Milton, common land adviser to the society, has written to Surrey county council, which manages Leith Hill on behalf of the National Trust, saying that the new track is not lawful, as cyclists do not enjoy the same access to common land as riders and walkers. "There have already been a number of accidents caused by speeding and aggressive mountain bikers with equestrians and pedestrians, though no biker has remained in place for long enough to be asked for their name," he said.

The decision to close the track was, he said, "welcome, but does show what a complete lack of understanding the council has of the legalities and ramifications of an access agreement under the National Parks and access to the Countryside Act 1949. It is the prerogative and duty of the council as scheme managers to act only under the agreement with respect to public access which excludes vehicles of any sort, ie cycles."

Tessa Gooding, a local rider, said of the new track: "Of most concern is a 100ft blindspot where cyclists won't know if there is a horse in the sunken bridleway beneath them. I have this terrible image of my young racehorse bolting into a family as a result of being spooked." Penny Tyson-Davies, BHS bridleways officer for Mole Valley, said there had been no input from equestrians into the building of the trail. "Mountain bikes whizzing in and out of trees, jumping ramps above horses' heads, around an established sunken horse track, is an accident waiting to happen."

Surrey county council said it was waiting for Milton to confirm whether he wanted the council to investigate his complaint. If so, it would cooperate fully.

Julie Rand, from the national cycling charity CTC, said: "There are bridleways and tracks all over Surrey that are quite happily coexisting at the moment without too much anguish and they respect each other. People are anticipating problems that may not actually arise." Sam Bayley, National Trust head ranger, said: "The design will ensure cyclists naturally slow down at crossing points by appropriate turns and signage."

Rob Fairbanks, of the Surrey Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty Board, said: "It is not feasible to ban biking in one of the most popular areas in England. We want to work with the BHS to educate cyclists about the priority that needs to be given to horse riders."

464. http://www.marinij.com/marinnews/ci_25745315/mountain-biker-rescued-at-china-camp

Mountain biker rescued at China Camp

By Nels Johnson
Marin Independent Journal
Posted: 05/12/2014 07:06:16 AM PDT

A 53-year-old man was plucked from a ravine at China Camp State Park by a helicopter crew Sunday afternoon after he plummeted 200 feet down a cliff on his mountain bike.

The Sonoma County Sheriff's helicopter Henry 1 was summoned about 2:38 p.m. by other bikers, according to San Rafael fire officials.

A San Rafael paramedic assisted in the rescue.

The identity of the victim and the extent of his injuries were not released.

Contact Nels Johnson via email at njohnson@marinij.com. Follow him at twitter.com/nelsjohnsonnews

465. http://www.southwalesargus.co.uk/news/gwentnews/11217705.Cwmbran_cyclist_back_in_the_saddle_for_500km_trek/

Cwmbran cyclist finishes 500km charity trek

7:20am Friday 16th May 2014 in Gwent news

FUNDRAISER: Gareth Bailey holding daughter Mollie, six, and with his wife Leanne and daughter Gracie, 18 months

CWMBRAN mountain biker Gareth Bailey and his friends have completed an epic 500-kilometre fundraising ride through Wales, raising more than 11,250 in online donations.

Mr Bailey planned the ride in aid of the Wales Air Ambulance, as a thank you for coming to his aid after he broke his neck in a freak accident whilst biking in the Afan Argoed forest, near Neath, last year.

Inspired by the work of air ambulance crews, whom he believes were instrumental in saving his life and in getting him to hospital as soon as possible for treatment, he and a group of friends cycled from north to south Wales, visiting air ambulance bases on the way, before finishing up at Rodney Parade, Newport.

Mr Bailey, 36, from Llantarnam, Cwmbran, over-rotated whilst taking a jump on a course in the forest early last year. He also dislocated a shoulder and collarbone and broke several ribs. He alone has raised more than 2,800 towards the appeal.

He said he has no doubt the air ambulance crew who attended the scene and airlifted him to the University Hospital of Wales in Cardiff, not only saved his life, but played a vital role in ensuring he was not paralysed.

He feared he might never walk again, but though it was seven months before he rode a bike again, he was back on his feet in a month, albeit following a number of operations. These included a bone graft to deal with a ruptured spinal disc that also required a metal cage to be fitted to keep his neck stable.

It was only after his accident that Mr Bailey discovered the Wales Air Ambulance is a charity that relies on raising several millions of pounds a year to keep its three helicopters operational.

They were there when I needed them, he said.

The fundraising ride was dubbed the Tour de Wales 2014. You can still donate - see visit justgiving.com/TourdeWales2014

466. http://www.theenterprisebulletin.com/2014/05/29/blue-mountain-settles-with-injured-boy

Blue Mountain settles with injured boy

Thursday, May 29, 20147:40:29 EDT AM

THE BLUE MOUNTAINS Local ski resort Blue Mountain has settled with the family of a teenaged boy who was rendered quadriplegic in 2007 after crashing while downhill mountain biking.

Ian McAdam, who was 13 years old at the time of the incident, and his family had been seeking $21 million in the lawsuit, but terms of the settlement were not released.

After years of litigation, the two sides reached a settlement after a series of trial motions, but before the first witness took the stand.

Patrick Brown, the family's lawyer, said they are happy with the outcome.

"We are very pleased for Ian and his family," Brown said. "He is a fighter and a remarkable young man. His attitude and courage throughout, has and will continue to be an inspiration to all those who were involved with his case."

Brown said McAdam is looking forward to a career in the music and video industry.

In the claim, it was alleged that Blue Mountain had failed to have the proper safety measures in place to assess and monitor young people, like McAdam, coming to the hill. Following his injuries, Blue Mountain implemented new safeguards to assess the skill level of people under 16 years old, removed certain jumps and required additional equipment to be worn by riders. A mandatory video for parents was also created.

"It is nice to see change happening to ensure fewer young people, like Ian, are not seriously hurt while enjoying this active sport," Brown said.

"It is very important for all facilities running extreme sports to take additional precautions when it comes to children," the lawyer added. "It is simply not enough to leave it open and rely on waivers and signage. We know from the experts that kids often have an unrealistic understanding of their skill level.

"At times, they take risk well beyond their capabilities," Brown said. "They at times make bad decisions. Additional protections must be in place."

Parents should not assume that these facilities are regulated, because in most cases they are not, Brown said. There are virtually no government standards that must be followed nor are they required to report the number of children getting injured.

Gary McAdam, the boy's father, said he was surprised by the lack of regulation.

"It is very scary to think that we have a wealth of standards and regulations to protect adults in their privately run work places," he said, "but nothing when it comes to private facilities running profitable extreme sports facilities for kids."

467. http://www.devondispatch.ca/2014/05/30/proud-mother-sees-biking-tradition-continue

Proud mother sees biking tradition continue

Friday, May 30, 20141:47:27 MDT PM

Submitted Kyra and Mya Paisley-Cooper both made it to the podium at the Bike Barrage in Devon, Tuesday, May 27.

Submitted by Shauna Paisley-Cooper

This summer marks the sixth year since I fell off my mountain bike and broke my neck, leaving me with quadriplegia. Being a mother of twins girls with quadriplegia has had its challenges, to say the least.

My love for biking started out at an early age. I remember my first bike it was shiny red. I would get my mom to time me to see how fast I could ride around the block. One time, I ran into a moving car in the back alley.

That didnt stop me, I got back on my bike and raced around the block to make sure I beat my time. The driver of the car was pretty freaked out! My next bike was a great cruiser with a banana seat, and then came the red 10 speed. My dad and I would spend every weekend greasing my chain and replacing my popped tubes. I was able to ride all the way to the junior high school with no hands.

Greg and I started biking before we had kids, we had started a tradition of having a family vacation to a mountain biking resort every summer. Greg and I loved biking with our friends in the mountains. I have always felt that Mountain biking has given me scenic views that I wouldve never seen had I not been on a bike.

Mountain biking gave me the satisfaction of knowing that my body could propel me into some of the most beautiful places in our country. The adrenaline that you feel biking down the mountain is addictive.

After my accident, I had spent a lot of time discussing with my psychologist about whether to let my girls ride bikes. I always had this internal struggle, do I let my girls ride bikes? Of course I do, all kids ride bikes? Last weekend Greg and I took the girls to Jasper. It felt like a passing of the torch.

Kyra and Mya were able to bike trails that Greg and I used to bike together. Im so happy that Greg has 2 new partners in crime as the 3 of them shred the trails in the mountains.

Our friends Rob and Karen Shackleton let us know about a mountain biking program for young riders out of Devon. Kyra and Mya have joined their friend Emillie, they have been in the program for a month now and are enjoying it immensely. The program teaches young riders how to ride safely and in control at all times.

I remember my psychologist telling me that it is my job as a mother to teach the girls about the risks of mountain biking and to teach them how to do it with great skill.

Tuesday, May 27, in Devon was Kyra and Myas first Mountain bike race. Kyra crossed the Finish line in first place and Mya finished in second place. I have never felt more proud of my daughters as I did last night.

The happiness and confidence that they showed standing on the podium getting their medals will forever be etched in my mind.

468. If even an experienced mountain biker can't avoid dying from mountain biking, why do we allow this carnage to continue???

Mike

http://www.whistlerquestion.com/news/local/updated-american-man-dies-after-injury-in-whistler-mountain-bike-park-1.1100092

Updated: American man dies after injury in Whistler Mountain Bike Park

A 40-year-old was injured on an advanced trail on Friday

Alyssa Noel / Whistler Question
June 1, 2014 11:50 AM

A 40-year-old American man is dead after sustaining serious injuries in the Whistler Mountain Bike Park on Friday (May 30).

The man - whose identity is not being revealed, pending notification of family - was an experienced rider and was wearing proper safety gear when he lost control on a rock feature on the advanced Lower Whistler Downhill trail and crashed at the bottom. He was riding with a group of friends, including an emergency room doctor who immediately began CPR while park patrol was called.

A helicopter was on route as the man was transported to the Whistler Health Care Centre by ambulance, but he died as staff were attempting to stabilize him. "He'd been a long-time rider," said Doug MacFarlane, mountain manager for Whistler Blackcomb, the company that runs the park. "He's had a Triple Play pass with us since 2011 and he rides up here quite a bit... I want to say on behalf of Whistler Blackcomb, we want to express our condolences to family and friends for the loss. It's a tragic event for a small community of mountain biking."

WB crews investigated the scene after the accident, but found nothing wrong with it, MacFarlane added. "That trail is one of the first we had in the bike park," he said. "It hasn't changed in a long time. There was nothing abnormal about it. It wasn't in poor shape or anything."

This is the second fatality in the park's 15 years of operation. The other incident happened in Aug. 2002.

RCMP call off search for missing mountain biker

CTV Atlantic
Published Tuesday, June 3, 2014 7:16PM ADT
Last Updated Tuesday, June 3, 2014 7:17PM ADT

The RCMP have called off the search for a missing mountain biker in the Halifax area.

Police say Marty Leger has not been found, despite an exhaustive five-day search in Waverley, N.S.

Leger, 30, went biking alone around noon on Thursday. He was expected to return home around 4 p.m. but failed to show up.

Marty Leger, 30, failed to return home from a mountain biking excursion in the Halifax area. (RCMP)

When he failed to return home, Leger’s family went looking for him. They found his vehicle at the end of Spider Lake Road in Waverley and reported him missing shortly after 8:30 p.m. Thursday.

Police, search crews and helicopters have been combing the Spider Lake area of Waverley since Friday, but they have found no signs of the missing man.

About 250 soldiers, mostly from 5th Canadian Division Support Base Gagetown in New Brunswick, also joined in the search Monday morning.

Police say approximately 450 ground search and rescue volunteers from across the Maritimes, as well as Joint Task Force Atlantic personnel, have participated in the search since Friday.

Volunteers and three helicopters scoured about 65 square kilometres of dense woods and rough terrain. Police say searchers were dealing with high temperatures and areas considered treacherous for even the most experienced searchers.

Searchers started to pack up their gear and tents around 6 p.m. Tuesday.

Police confirmed around 6:30 p.m. that Leger had not been found and the search would officially conclude at 9 p.m.

“The decision to end any search is extremely difficult,” said Halifax RCMP Supt. Roland Wells in a statement Tuesday evening.

“I want to extend my heartfelt sympathy towards the Leger family in their time of grieving. I also want to extend sincere thanks to all of the volunteers who came out to assist us in this search. Your dedication, support and determination are an inspiration.”

The RCMP are asking anyone travelling the Spider Lake trails to contact police if they spot anything unusual.

The matter will now become a missing persons case.

469. So much for the "healthful family activity"....

Mike

http://www.deseretnews.com/article/865604393/Mountain-biker-suffers-fatal-heart-attack-near-Red-Fleet-State-Park.html?pg=all

Mountain biker suffers fatal heart attack near Red Fleet State Park

By Geoff Liesik, Deseret News

Published: Tuesday, June 3 2014 4:00 a.m. MDT

VERNAL A man in his 50s died Monday night after suffering an apparent heart attack while mountain biking near Red Fleet State Park, according to the Uintah County Sheriff's Office.

The man, who is from Alta, was riding with friends about 7:30 p.m. when he experienced difficulty breathing, Uintah County Undersheriff John Laursen said. The other riders said the man got off his bike and was pushing it up a small hill when he collapsed, Laursen said.

Two of the riders went to get help, while three others began CPR. Uintah County's search and rescue team was called out to help ambulance crews reach the man, Laursen said.

The man was taken to Ashley Regional Medical Center in Vernal, where doctors pronounced him dead. The man's name was being not released Monday night because authorities were still working to notify his family, Laursen said.

Geoff Liesik

470. http://www.pressdemocrat.com/article/20140604/articles/140609802

Man flown to hospital after Annadel bike crash

By JAMIE HANSEN
THE PRESS DEMOCRAT

June 4, 2014, 8:41 PM

Annadel State Park tries to clamp down on illegal trails
Injured park users hard for rescuers to find on illegal trails

A 67-year-old bicyclist was rescued and flown to Santa Rosa Memorial Hospital with head injuries after crashing on a remote Annadel State Park trail Wednesday night.

The crash was reported shortly after 6 p.m. The bicyclist was riding on an illegal trail in a remote area of the park about a half-mile from the intersection of the Marsh and Canyon trails, said Mike Harrison, a Santa Rosa fire captain.

The man was riding downhill with two friends when he crashed, flying over the handlebars and hitting his head, Harrison said.

The man's friends or other bystanders called for help. Sometimes it can be challenging to find patients on illegal trails, but in this case another rider who passed them on the path helped rescuers find him, Harrison said. The Sonoma County sheriff's helicopter, Henry 1, was the first to arrive and had him pretty well packaged up by the time Santa Rosa medics arrived to help, Harrison said.

The helicopter flew him to the hospital because of the nature of his injuries were and the rocky terrain, Harrison said.

The injuries were pretty serious, said Sheriff's Sgt. Cecile Focha.

471. http://www.cowichannewsleader.com/news/262313161.html

Mountain biker rescued from Mount Prevost Sunday

by Peter Rusland - Cowichan News Leader Pictorial
posted Jun 8, 2014 at 3:00 PM

A mountain-biker was rescued from Mount Prevost Sunday after plunging off a race trail, a North Cowichan Search and Rescue crew member said from the scene at around 3:30 p.m. today.

Mike Neeland said the male rider suffered suspected back and neck injuries, and was reached by high-angle rescue crews.

SAR members were helped by paramedics and volunteer fire crews from North Cowichan and Ladysmith.

Details about the rider's fall, identity, and level of his injuries, were unknown at press time.

472. http://www.thelocal.ch/20140609/three-paragliders-die-in-swiss-alps-mishaps

...

In another accident in the Swiss Alps, a 29-year-old Russian man died while mountain biking on Mount Pilatus in the canton of Nidwalden on Saturday night.

Cantonal police said the man was with another Russian tourist who had hoped to catch the Pilatusbahn mountain train down to Alpnachstad after starting a bike tour from Eigenthal.

But when they realized the train had stopped operating they changed plans and decided to descend on the Nauen trail.

The victim cycled over a cliff shortly before 8.36pm when Nidwalden police were informed of the accident, which is under investigation.

Malcolm Curtis (news@thelocal.ch)

473. http://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/news/local-news/mountain-biker-seriously-injured-fall-3715755

Mountain biker seriously injured in fall

Jun 19, 2014 08:59
By Magdalene Dalziel

Policeman airlifted to hospital after receiving serious neck injuries in Mabie Forest

Sandy Currie pictured during training for the Three Peaks Challenge

A Southerness man is in hospital with serious neck injuries after a mountain biking accident.

Sandy Currie, a policeman in Lockerbie, was thrown from his saddle in Mabie Forest at about 8.30pm on Monday.

The 26-year-old, who had been cycling with a pal, was at the centre of a dramatic four-hour rescue mission following the incident.

Police, the Scottish Ambulance Service, Moffat Mountain Rescue Team and the air ambulance Helimed crew worked into the night to locate the injured cyclist and safely move him to hospital.

He was airlifted to Glasgows Southern General at around 12.30am where he will be x-rayed for fractures once swelling around his spine has gone down.

James Coles of Moffat Mountain Rescue said: It was a joint rescue effort between us all because thats procedure for such a serious incident.

He fell off his bike in an area which is off the beaten track and in a deep part of the forest that is rocky, steep and a particularly hard area in which to manoeuvre.

When we arrived, the police and the ambulance service had located him so we were needed to help extract him from the forest.

He was badly injured so we needed to stabilise him and immobilise his back by putting him in a vacuum mattress just in case of any further damage to his spine.

We then transferred him on to the mountain rescue stretcher and then down to the waiting ambulance which drove him to the area where the Helimed was waiting.

Mr Coles added: He was calm and he knew the risks and the right thing to do. He recognised he could have spinal injuries so he knew the dangers of moving.

Mr Currie is a mountain bike instructor and a coach with the Stewartry Sirens rugby team.

Fridays Standard reported that he was preparing to take on Britains three highest peaks Ben Nevis, Scafell Pike and Snowdon in just 24 hours. He was due to take part in the epic charity challenge with seven pals this Friday to raise money for the Paul O Gorman Leukaemia Research Centre in Glasgow and Prostate Cancer UK.

474. http://iwcp.co.uk/news/news/mountain-biker-airlifted-to-hospital-60587.aspx

Mountain biker airlifted to hospital

By Jon Moreno

Friday, June 20, 2014

A MOUNTAIN biker from the Isle of Wight was airlifted to a mainland hospital after he was injured while riding in Brighstone Forest last night (Thursday).

Paramedics with the Isle of Wight Ambulance Service and a team from the Needles Coastguard Rescue Team walked 200m into the forest to reach a 56-year-old man after they received an emergency call from a fellow biker at around 6.30pm.

They stretchered the Bembridge man, who had suspected head, neck and spinal injuries, to a field at the edge of the forest to rendezvous with a coastguard rescue chopper, scrambled from Lee-on-the-Solent.

The casualty was taken to Southampton General Hospital.

Ray Morey, of the Needles Coastguard Rescue Team, said: "The man used tracks popular with mountain bikers and one jump he had attempted got the better of him.

"The paramedics got to him first, but we went in to help stretcher him out of the forest. We understand the man was taken to Southampton, rather than St Marys Hospital, Newport."

Reporter: jonm@iwcpmail.co.uk

475. So much for the "healthful, family sport".

Mike

http://www.nsnews.com/living/nv-man-rides-for-spine-1.1139203

NV man rides for spine

Cycling from northern B.C. in support of those living with spinal cord injury

Erin Mcphee / North Shore News
June 22, 2014 12:00 AM

It was important for David Parke to get back on his bike.

The 48-year-old North Vancouver father of two had a life-changing mountain biking accident on a local trail June 13, 2010 that left him paralyzed from the neck down.

"It was a ride I had been down many times before," says the experienced biker.

Towards the bottom of Boundary DH on Mount Fromme, Parke lost control on a corner on an elevated platform. "My bike went one way and I went the other and jack hammered head first into the landing," he says.

After the crash, what followed was an extensive period of recovery, primarily at Vancouver General Hospital and GF Strong Rehabilitation Centre. Parke, who is considered an incomplete quadriplegic, has continued to make impressive gains. Two and a half months after the crash he was able to start walking again, though four years later still does not have complete use of his hands and feet, and experiences sleeplessness due to neuropathic pain, and fatigue.

From early on, he was encouraged to get back on his bike by his medical team, doing so prior to being discharged from his three-and-a-half-month stay at GF Strong. Once home, he recalls the first few times he attempted to go cycling by himself, initially to the end of his driveway, then out into his neighbourhood. "Just going around the block was a real physical challenge and a mental challenge for so many reasons. It was just the fear of getting back up on the horse so to speak. I gradually just built on it," says the film technician and current Langara recreation program student.

Fast-forward to today and Parke has found the confidence to embark on a bike-focused project allowing him to give back to the organizations and people that helped him in his recovery. As a means of raising funds and awareness for those impacted by spinal cord injuries, he set off on his bicycle from Dease Lake in northern B.C. June 2 and hopes to arrive in the Lower Mainland, an approximately 1,750-kilometre journey, by the end of the month.

Calling the journey Ride For Spine, proceeds will support Spinal Cord Injury B.C., a non-profit that offers a variety of programs supporting individuals and families, including peer support and resource information. Along the way, Parke hopes to engage with community members and those involved with the organization as well as those who share his interest in the cause.

Overall, he hopes to set a positive example for others in recovery.

"I just want to do something good for the people of B.C. and Spinal Cord Injury B.C. seems to be the best people to direct those funds towards because there's a lot of people that have very little resources once you get out of the cities and that needs to change. I think if they can see that things are possible, that they're not alone, they can meet and socialize and grow and have a great future. Just seeing that light sometimes is tough for most people," he says. To make a donation, visit sci-bc.ca/event-detail/ride-spine.

476. http://www.nbcdfw.com/news/local/Search-Continues-for-Missing-Cyclist-264265871.html

Body of Missing Cyclist Found Monday Afternoon

By Ellen Bryan

Monday, Jun 23, 2014 | Updated 6:47 PM CDT
Johnny Archer, NBC 5 News

Flower Mound Police Department confirms that the body of missing cyclist Wesley Andrew Hixson was found on Monday at about 2:15 p.m.

Body of Missing Cyclist Found

Flower Mound police confirm the body of missing cyclist Wesley Andrew Hixson was found on Monday afternoon, just after 2 p.m.

Missing
Cyclist's Body Found

Crews Continue Search for Missing Bicyclist

The search continued Monday morning for Wesley Hixson, 30, who went missing while biking trails in Murrell Park with his friends. Police said Hixson crashed his bike and believe he might have a head injury.

WATCH

Crews Continue Search
for Missing Bicyclist

The body of missing cyclist Wesley Andrew Hixson, 30, was found just after 2 p.m. Monday, in a ravine northeast of Twin Coves Marina, Flower Mound police confirm.

Rescue crews had spent all weekend looking for the bicyclist, who disappeared Saturday, June 21, at Murrell Park in Grapevine.

Hixsons friends said they were out biking on the trails when Hixson crashed. The accident happened around 10 a.m. According to police, Hixson continued to ride, but got separated from his friends.

Police believe that Hixson might have suffered a head injury in the crash. This is pretty rough, dense terrain out here. The bike trails are really rugged, Boon said.

This weekend, Boon said hundreds of volunteers showed up to help, including 100 Arlington firefighters.

Many of them were off-duty and came to support one of their own. Hixson's father is a veteran firefighter with the Arlington Fire Department.

"It's emotionally draining, and you see it," said Lt. Lee Tovar with the Arlington Fire Department. "But we're here for him, everyone is here for him."

The Arlington Fire Department tweeted its response to the discovery of Hixson's body Monday afternoon, shortly after it was confirmed his body had been found.

477. "Healthful, family sport"? I don't think so.

Mike

http://www.deseretnews.com/article/865605710/Grand-County-searchers-find-body-of-missing-Belgian-mountain-biker.html

Grand County searchers find body of missing Belgian mountain biker

By Geoff Liesik, Deseret News

Published: Tuesday, June 24 2014 2:23 p.m. MDT

The body of a Belgian man was found early Tuesday along a popular mountain biking trial, the Grand County Sheriff's Office said.

The body of a Belgian man was found early Tuesday along a popular mountain biking trial, the Grand County Sheriff's Office said.

MOAB The body of a Belgian man was found early Tuesday along a popular mountain biking trail, the Grand County Sheriff's Office said.

Authorities received a call from a member of Dirk De Muynck's family about 6 p.m. Monday to report that the resident of Waarschoot, Belgium, was overdue, according to a statement from the sheriff's office.

The family member said De Muynck, 46, had called about 9 a.m. to say he was mountain biking on the Amasa Back Trail and expected to be done with the ride in a relatively short time. The caller said De Muynck hadn't been heard from since.

Deputies and members of the sheriff's search and rescue team began canvassing the Amasa Back area. About 12:30 a.m., they found De Muynck's body on the Jackson Trail about 11 miles downriver from the Kane Creek Trail parking lot.

"It appears that he had started to backtrack on that trail and was carrying his mountain bike at the time that he went down," the sheriff's office statement said.

De Muynck was carrying a backpack that contained water and food, deputies said. Crews used a wheeled litter to move his body to Kane Creek, where they loaded the body into an inflatable kayak to cross the creek.

De Muynck's body was taken to the Utah State Medical Examiners Office for an autopsy.

Geoff Liesik

478. http://www.dailypress.net/page/content.detail/id/548952/U-P--mountain-biker-dies-doing-what-he-loves.html?nav=5007

U.P. mountain biker dies doing what he loves

July 5, 2014

By Justin Marietti , Marquette Mining Journal

MARQUETTE - Very few of us have a choice about when it's our time to leave this world; even fewer get to leave doing something that we love. But on June 3, Carroll Jackson passed away while doing something that he had poured his whole heart into for three decades - riding his mountain bike with his friends.

479. http://www.insidehalton.com/news-story/4619356-man-suffers-serious-injuries-in-mountain-biking-accident-at-kelso/

Man suffers serious injuries in mountain biking accident at Kelso

Ornge air ambulance transported man to Hamilton hospital

Milton Canadian Champion
By Michael Gregory

A man in his 50s was flown to a Hamilton hospital in serious condition by Ornge air ambulance on Sunday after a mountain biking accident at Kelso Conservation Area.

The incident occurred at about 11:30 a.m. on the Black Diamond trail course the highest degree of skill level.

Ornge spokesperson Joshua McNamara said the man was taken to Hamilton General Hospital.

He had sustained multiple injuries and was in critical condition when we transported, McNamara said.

Conservation Halton staff assisted in the rescue effort. Director of communications Hassaan Basit said these sorts of accidents are rare and CH staff had already started a follow-up investigation.

Our wishes are with the individual and we wish him a speedy recovery, he said.

The identity of the man and update on his condition havent been released.

480. http://www.limerickleader.ie/news/community/limerick-man-who-died-in-us-mountain-bike-accident-laid-to-rest-1-6177749

Limerick man who died in US mountain bike accident laid to rest

Members of Shannon Rowing Club and Limerick Boat Club lower their oars in respect as the remains of Eddie Crean are brought over Sarsfield Bridge on Friday night. Picture: Dave Gaynor
by Mike Dwane

Published 15/07/2014 07:30

A LIMERICK man who died in a mountain bike accident in the United States two weeks ago has been laid to rest in his native city.

Eddie Crean, 43, a father-of-one who grew up in Mayorstone, was remembered at his funeral mass at Our Lady of the Rosary Church on Saturday as somebody full of life, warmth and generosity.

He had left Limerick over 20 years ago to make a new life in the United States, living for most of that time in Boston.

Eddie was training for a charity cycle when he took a hard fall on a biking track in Denver on June 30. He had moved to Denver with his partner Christina Trotta only three weeks before the tragedy occurred. A lover of adventure sports and the great outdoors, Eddie had only begun to explore the wilds around Colorado.

When someone so young as Edmond had been taken from us suddenly and tragically, tears are bound to flow, Fr Martin Crean, an uncle of the deceased, told mourners.

That is particularly so for one so young and so full of life. And what a life he led, a life full of adventure, said Fr Crean.

He also remembered his nephews generosity in putting him up during Irelands World Cup adventure in the United States in 1994.

Edmond gave me his bedroom and gave me his bed. I was so selfish I never asked where he was going to sleep but I learned the next morning that he had slept on the couch. But that was Edmond, kind and hospitable to all and sundry, said Fr Crean.

While he had left Limerick in the 1990s, his many friends in the city had not forgotten about Eddie Crean. A former member of both Limerick Boat Club and Shannon Rowing Club, Mr Creans remains were carried on Friday night over the bridge which divides them. Members of the both clubs formed a guard of honour as the cortege made its way over Sarsfield Bridge.

That so many people from Limerick had remembered Eddie and that people had travelled from areas as farflung as Alaska and Bali was an indication in itself of the esteem in which he was held, Fr Crean said.

Eddie Crean was buried at Mount St Oliver and is survived by parents Theresa and Jack, partner Christina, 18-year-old son Mark, sisters Linda and Stephanie, relatives and friends.

481. http://www.nwaonline.com/news/2014/jul/22/veteran-bicyclist-perishes-trail/?latest

Veteran bicyclist perishes on trail

By Ryan McGeeney

Posted: July 22, 2014 at 6 a.m.

First responders and close friends of a cyclist who died Saturday said they are unsure of the exact cause of Laura Wooldridges death.

Wooldridge, 39, of Little Rock, died after suffering facial lacerations and head and neck trauma on a cross-country mountain bike trail at Lake Leatherwood, near Eureka Springs. Wooldridge, who friends described as an experienced mountain biker, was pre-riding the trail in preparation for competition Sunday as part of the Fat Tire Festival, an annual two-day mountain biking festival that began in 1999....

482. http://www.thewestmorlandgazette.co.uk/news/11369089.Mountain_biker__53__suffers_angina_attack_in_Whinlatter_Forest/

Mountain biker, 53, suffers angina attack in Whinlatter Forest

3:28pm Sunday 27th July 2014 in News

A MOUNTAIN biker suffered an angina attack and was taken to hospital yesterday.

Keswick Mountain Rescue team was called to Whinlatter Forest at around 11.45am after being alerted to the situation by the North West Ambulance Service.

The 53 year-old man was located by a team member and treated at the scene before being evacuated to the road by Landrover.

He was then transferred to an NWAS ambulance and onto the Cumberland Infirmary in Carlisle for further treatment.

483. If an "experienced mountain biker" can die mountain biking, what hope is there for the rest of them???

Mike

http://wtvr.com/2014/07/28/fatal-mountain-bike-crash/

Experienced mountain biker killed in crash on Virginia trail

Posted 12:10 pm, July 28, 2014, by Scott Wise

ALBEMARLE COUNTY, Va. John R. Potter, 50, of Charlottesville, died Saturday while riding a mountain bike on trails at Walnut Creek Park off Old Lynchburg Road in southern Albemarle County.

Potter was riding with a friend Saturday afternoon when he was killed, police said.

The victim appears to have fallen from the bike and struck an object, believed to be a rock, which resulted in a traumatic and fatal injury, Albemarle County Police Department spokeswoman Carter Johnson wrote in an email. Both the victim and his friend were experienced mountain bikers. Both were wearing helmets.

While the Albemarle County Police Department is investigating the crash, police said foul play was not suspected.

484. http://metronews.ca/news/calgary/1111098/banffs-crazy-larry-overwhelmed-by-community-response-after-serious-cycling-crash/

July 28, 2014 Updated : July 28, 2014 | 8:14 pm

Banffs Crazy Larry overwhelmed by community response after serious cycling crash

By Jessica Patterson For Metro

Jessica Patterson / For Metro Crazy Larry Melnik smiles and shows off a gift he received while recovering at Foothills Hospital from a serious cycling crash.

In a hospital bed recovering from a serious cycling crash, Crazy Larry Melnik still has plenty to smile about.

Bruised, with a fractured skull and four-inch gash on his forehead, two black eyes, and road burn on his torso and arms, the well known and well loved Banff resident has been overwhelmed by the support hes seen since a cycling accident near the national parks gate on Friday.

When I fell, I dont remember anything after that, he said. I remember waking up in ICU. STARS Air Ambulance picked me up and took me to Foothills.

Over the weekend, Canmore mom Lisa Rosvold set up a GoFundMe campaign to raise money for Melnik, which at press time had collected more than $17,000 in donations.

I cant believe it, Melnik said, his eyes welling up with tears at points. I am so overwhelmed. Im overwhelmed by the enormous giving and warmth from the community.

Rosvold had seen through Melniks Facebook page that hed come across hard times and wanted to do something to help.

I thought it would be a good way to show Larry that the community has his back and that we want him to heal properly, so that he can continue to share his enthusiasm and make people smile, Rosvold said. I was hoping to raise maybe $5,000 and, in 21 hours, it was just under $10,000.

Rosvold said Melnik gives all of his own time, money and energy to buying balloons and doing things that make people smile.

He ties balloons for my kids at community events, she said.

Melnik said he tries to help anyone he can.

I got into tying balloons because I saw someone charging for balloons, and I thought helping someone from the heart shouldnt have a cost involved, he said.

From his hospital bed, Melnik praised Rosvold and thanked the Bow Valley community for their generosity and for thinking of him.

Melnik was on his way to collect a cheque from the president of the Mountain Biking Association of Alberta, for balloons, when he fell, he said.

He had plans to ride Singletrack 6, a six-day mountain bike race on Saturday, and was training for Tour Divide, a 2,745-mile mountain bike race from Canada to the Mexican border.

485. "Healthful family sport"? Yeah, right.

Mike

http://www.stuff.co.nz/national/10324413/Mountain-biker-in-hospital-with-spinal-injuries

Mountain biker in hospital with spinal injuries

Last updated 17:52 29/07/2014

A mountainbike rider is in Rotorua Hospital with spinal injuries after a fall in Whakarewarewa Forest.

The 16-year-old Rotorua girl injured her spine in a fall and had to be flown to hospital.

The Rotorua-based BayTrust rescue helicopter was sent to help ambulance crew at 3pm.

Due to the rugged terrain it was decided to airlift the patient out of the area.

"Obviously ambulance staff treat any spinal injuries pretty seriously," pilot Barry Vincent said.

"The idea of bouncing her along the road in the back of the ambulance was not deemed to be the right thing to do ... to prevent any possible further damage."

She was flown to Rotorua Hospital in a comfortable condition.

A Rotorua Hospital spokeswoman said the girl arrived in a stable condition and was awaiting test results.

Whakarewarewa is touted as having one of the oldest mountainbike networks in the country, with varying topography and fantastic scenery.

It has about 130 kilometres of trails for beginners and family groups through to ones suited to experts looking for extreme action.

486. http://www.heraldsun.com.au/news/national/perth-brothers-ollie-and-jake-dean-saved-the-life-of-fellow-perth-man-damian-obrien-after-a-mountain-bike-accident-in-bali/story-fnii5thm-1227009187396

Perth brothers Ollie and Jake Dean saved the life of fellow Perth man Damian OBrien after a mountain bike accident in Bali

by: Justin Bianchini, Joondalup Weekender
From: PerthNow
August 01, 2014 8:00AM

Damian OBrien is flanked by the two young men who saved him, Ollie and Jake Dean. Source: Supplied

DAMIAN OBriens life hung in the balance.

Not long into a downhill mountain bike tour in Bali, a pothole sent the 52-year-old and his world into a spin.

Fellow rider Ollie Dean, a young man from Sorrento whom the businessman and relationship counsellor had struck up a conversation with in the van ride to the mountain, heard the crash and feared the worst.

He and his younger brother Jake were riding just ahead of Damian, and the three, whod found they had much in common in their first meeting, were the only holidaymakers on the tour.

By the time Ollie, who had done senior first aid and had decided to start nursing at ECU Joondalup, braked and dropped his bike to run back, he was already in critical incident mode.

http://inmycommunity.com.au/news-and-views/local-news/Good-men-for-a-crisis/7663103/

Good men for a crisis

31/Jul/2014

Justin Bianchini, Joondalup Weekender

Comments:
Damian OBrien is flanked by the two young men who saved him, Ollie and Jake Dean.

DAMIAN OBrien has spent the past six months on the road to recovery from a major brain injury.

Now the Edgewater resident wants to see brothers Ollie and Jake Dean recognised with bravery awards for saving him on a fateful January day this year in Bali.

DAMIAN OBriens life hung in the balance.

Not long into a downhill mountain bike tour in Bali, a pothole sent the 52-year-old and his world into a spin.

Fellow rider Ollie Dean, a young man from Sorrento whom the businessman and relationship counsellor had struck up a conversation with in the van ride to the mountain, heard the crash and feared the worst.

He and his younger brother Jake were riding just ahead of Damian, and the three, whod found they had much in common in their first meeting, were the only holidaymakers on the tour.

By the time Ollie braked and dropped his bike to run back, he was already in critical incident mode, he told the Weekender last week.

The then 19-year-old had done senior first aid and had decided to start nursing at ECU Joondalup.

His first sight of Damian confirmed his fears. He was limp and blood had already pooled on the road under his head.

He took control, with the tour guides not knowing first aid they had allowed Damian on his back and he was starting to swallow his tongue and refusing to call an ambulance.

He asked his brother to keep watch for traffic and to follow his instructions.

Ollie nursed Damian through seizures, trying to keep his airway clear and his head from hitting the ground before convincing the guides, whod practically given Damian up for dead, to drive him to a hospital.

In the van, he propped up his patient, who was in and out of consciousness, and talked to him about his wife Donna, family and work, all the things they had discussed without taking a breath in the hour before the bike ride.

Two hours later, after determining two medical centres could not care for Damian, Ollie saw him into a hospital in rural Ubud.

He demanded staff take a head scan and ring Donna.

A CT scan showed contusions and clusters of brain bleeds.

He stayed with Damian until he was rushed to Siloam Hospital in Kuta where he was seen by a neurosurgeon and remained in intensive care, much of it in terrible pain, with Donna by his side, for three weeks until his evacuation to Perth for further treatment.

Although he cannot remember the injury and care in Bali, Damian knows he would not be alive if not for Ollie.

Ollie knows that too and says the incident has benefited him and his brother.

It has allowed me to view life in a positive manner, he said.

It has made me realise everything in life happens for a reason.

It also confirmed his decision to become a nurse.

He wants to remain in contact with Damian for a very, very long time.

Damian, who recently met up with the boys at his Edgewater home, said he would be forever thankful to these lads.

A thank you feels shallow to me as I owe my life to Ollie who had Jakes support at a critical time.

I have difficulty in finding words to honour and acknowledge their efforts on that day 27-1-14.

I feel Ollie is a kindred spirit.

Id hope that the three of us can stay in contact for the rest of our lives and that I get the opportunity to help them out at some stage, in some way.

Damian has nominated Ollie and Jake for several awards, including a Royal Life Saving WA Bravery Award.

I feel the actions taken by this 19-year-old were extraordinary to say the least, he wrote as part of his submission. I would have died that day without Ollies bravery and interventions this has been confirmed by professionals.

487. So much for the "healthful family sport"!

Mike

http://www.baxterbulletin.com/story/news/2014/08/03/biker-dies-of-heart-attack-at-pigeon-creek/13543675/

No foul play suspected in death of Kirk Robert Dobstaff, 57, of Lakeview

Cpl. Doug Small of the Arkansas Game & Fish Commission pushes the mountain bike of Kirk Robert Dobstaff, who died of a heart attack at the Pigeon Creek hiking trails Sunday morning.(Photo: Kaitlyn Schwers/The Baxter Bulletin)

The "Buzz on Pigeon Creek" National Boat Racing Association Championships began Sunday on a somber note when 57-year-old Kirk Robert Dobstaff, of Lakeview, suffered a heart attack and died while mountain biking on the nearby trails.

Baxter County Sheriff John Montgomery released the identity of Dobstaff early Sunday evening after family members had been contacted.

One of the area's most extensive set of trails for hikers and mountain bikers, BCSO investigator Brad Hurst said Dobstaff was riding with a group of friends Sunday morning when he suffered a heart attack.

Group members he was with started CPR, but Dobstaff remained unresponsive and was pronounced dead at the scene by Baxter County Coroner Dr. Snow at approximately 11:15 a.m.

Members of the group said Dobstaff had fallen behind on the trail and then disappeared. Riders went back and found Dobstaff on the ground and not breathing.

A host of local agencies responded to the Pigeon Creek trails, including the BCSO, Arkansas Game & Fish Commission, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Lakeview Police Department, Baxter Regional Medical Center and Air-Evac.

Emergency personnel are shown at the trail head of the Pigeon Creek hiking area where Kirk Robert Dobstaff died of a heart attack while mountain biking Sunday morning.(Photo: Kaitlyn Schwers/The Baxter Bulletin)

Before the start of the second day of the NBRA Championships, being contested less than 1 mile from the hiking trails, race director Rick Miller said a prayer for another big crowd of spectators that included a touching mention for Dobstaff.

488. http://www.sfgate.com/bayarea/article/Mark-Reynolds-accident-killed-bike-racer-3217894.php

Mark Reynolds - accident killed bike racer

MONTEREY COUNTY

Steve Rubenstein, San Francisco Chronicle

Published 4:00 am, Tuesday, April 22, 2008

A well-known San Jose mountain bike racer and innovator killed during a world-renowned mountain bike festival in Monterey over the weekend died of head and neck injuries, a Monterey County deputy coroner said Monday.

Mark Reynolds, 48, crashed into a dirt embankment on a relatively flat portion of the downhill course during the Sea Otter Classic on Saturday at the Laguna Seca Recreation Area. He was taken by helicopter to Natividad Medical Center in Salinas, where he died.

An autopsy conducted Monday revealed that Mr. Reynolds suffered fatal injuries in the accident, deputy coroner Thomas Jenkins said. Initial reports that Mr. Reynolds, an amateur racer, may have suffered a medical problem before he crashed were incorrect.

The accident happened near the finish line of the downhill course which, according to race organizers, contains "a great mix of jumps, turns, pedaling sections and hi-rev speed traps" and "rewards racers who demonstrate fitness, precision handling, braking and pedaling skills."

489. http://www.edmontonjournal.com/Quadriplegic+proud+adventurous+mountain+biking+twins/10142069/story.html

Quadriplegic mom proud of her adventurous mountain biking twins

By Alexandra Zabjek, Edmonton Journal August 22, 2014

Shauna Paisley Cooper, a Stony Plain mom, became a quadriplegic in 2008 after a mountain biking accident. Now her seven-year-old twins Kyra, left, and Mya, centre, participate in bike races.

Photograph by: Bruce Edwards, Edmonton Journal

EDMONTON - Twins Kyra and Mya Cooper stood on a podium in blue racing jerseys, arms lifted above their heads, bicycle helmets removed to reveal blond and brown ponytails. A gold medal was looped around Kyras neck; Myas was adorned with silver.

It was May 27, a beautiful spring evening at a Devon bicycle park and the twins mother, Shauna Paisley Cooper, and father, Greg Cooper, cheered their seven-year-old daughters first mountain bike race and, perhaps more important, their inheritance a family love of cycling.

Ive never been as proud of them as I was that night. They were so confident, standing on that podium. I could see so much self-esteem, says Paisley Cooper.

They were competitors 552 and 553 in the Little Rippers category. They whipped twice around the course with 13 other riders, taking tight corners and zooming down hills. Greg ventured into the trees that lined the race course to watch his daughters while Paisley Cooper sat with a crowd near the finish line.

Once an obsessive mountain biker herself and fiercely competitive, Paisley Cooper was elated when Kyra crossed the finish line, first among the female riders.

She moved the joystick on the electric wheelchair that has afforded her movement for the past six years, and went to congratulate her daughter.

---

On July 13, 2008, Paisley Cooper was flying down Rabbit Hill, training for a mountain bike trip to British Columbia with her husband and friends. She had spent two glorious hours biking on the sun-drenched hill when she rode toward an obstacle. The jump had an out, an option to ride around it on a smooth trail. But by the time Paisley Cooper realized she didnt want to take the jump, it was too late she braked and braked and braked, but couldnt stop in time.

She launched into the air and landed on her head. The bike fell on top of her and, at the time, she couldnt figure out why she couldnt move it off.

Despite her helmet, Paisley Cooper had broken her neck a C6 complete spinal cord break.

Imagine a figure standing with each arm extended to the side and draw a line from the tip of one thumb to the tip of the other. Thats the dividing line for Paisley Cooper between sensation and nothing. She has no feeling beneath her nipples. While she can use her biceps, she has limited strength in her triceps. Her fingers are paralyzed, but she can move her wrists.

The athlete, wife, 34-year-old mother of toddler twins had lost control of her legs, bowels, the ability to sweat.

I met Paisley Cooper two months after the accident at the Glenrose Rehabilitation Hospital. She has shiny brown hair, a wide smile, and a dry sense of humour. At the Glenrose, she was gaining strength and skills, learning to master basic movements as a quadriplegic.

Greg and the twins would come to the Glenrose every afternoon to visit and play. The toddlers would bring their mom exercise balls and catch rides on her wheelchair. When it was time to say goodbye, they climbed onto Paisley Coopers lap to give her hugs and kisses. Of course, they didnt understand the enormity of what had happened and, in many ways, they still dont.

I dont want my daughters to grow up and say, I missed out on this because my mom was in a wheelchair, she says.

---

Paisley Cooper was always an athlete. At six years old, she raced her shiny red bike around the block and asked her mom to time her. She once hit a car in the back alley, hopped back on the bike and tore around the block even faster to beat her time.

She played soccer for 25 years and, before the twins were born, she and Greg spent their holidays mountain biking. Those vacations gave her the satisfaction of knowing she could propel herself to amazing heights, and an adrenalin rush she describes as addictive. She loved working out, being on a team, and being competitive.

My identity prior to my injury was as a strong athlete. Id call myself an athlete first. And I cant identify myself as an athlete anymore. I identify myself as a stay-at-home mom, says Paisley Cooper, now 40. My life is cut in two segments, my first 35 years and my next 35 years.

The daily routine for a stay-at-home mom in a wheelchair or not has a hectic rhythm. For Paisley Cooper, the day starts when a caregiver arrives at 6 a.m. to help her out of bed, into the shower, and through physiotherapy. Paisley Cooper does her hair and makeup while the caregiver preps the familys dinner and packs lunches for the girls. The caregiver returns in the evening to get Paisley Cooper into bed.

While Greg pitches in, staff at the Glenrose taught him to separate the roles of caregiver and husband.

Still, it was Greg, a pipefitter whose friendly smile comes easily, who went househunting after the accident to find one that could be made wheelchair accessible. It was Greg who kept a witty and informative blog for family and friends while his wife was in rehab. Greg ordered a custom sticker decal for their minivan, which shows a woman in a wheelchair accompanying the stickers of two young girls, a dad, and a cat.

A good attitude can make a difference in their lives, but so can technology.

Paisley Cooper keeps an iPad with her at almost all times, as she can type quite easily on the monitor. The couple customized their minivan two years ago so Paisley Cooper can wheel herself to the steering wheel without assistance (she and her daughters recently drove to Kelowna for a holiday without Greg). And this spring she had a colostomy bag inserted, eliminating the need to spend two hours in the bathroom each morning waiting for a bowel movement.

Ive got a poop bag here and a pee bag here ... its wonderful because Im completely independent, she says.

Its a long way from her first days at home after six months at the Glenrose an environment where she was getting better every day, and doctors and physiotherapists and psychologists were always available for advice and encouragement. It felt like a newborn had come home and the couple barely knew how to change diapers.

Paisley Cooper soon fell into a deep, deep depression. It took months before she woke up one morning and said, This is stupid. If Im going to be here, Im going to be engaged.

Almost six years later, she calls herself an ordinary soccer mom. Greg interjects: Youre not a regular soccer mom. Youre one of the crazies.

The residential cul-de-sac in Spruce Grove where the Cooper family lives is idyllic. Kids wheel through the neighbourhood on bicycles, families play basketball at driveway hoops, and street hockey games take over on summer nights.

Paisley Cooper expects her children to move their legs even if she cant move hers. The twins ride their bikes to the local pool for swimming lessons while Paisley Cooper wheels alongside in her wheelchair. They do gymnastics, play ringette, and ride a zip line into the water at their favourite lake. On a recent July night, they were doing cartwheels in the driveway and perching on the edge of their moms hand-cranked bike.

Would it ever have been possible to stop these girls from riding bikes? Of course not. They got on two wheels, like most kids, at about three years old.

A few years later, when some boys set up jumps in the cul-de-sac, their mom said, No.

But as the twins got older, it became clear they didnt just like riding bikes. They were good at it. When a friend suggested this spring the girls take a course through the Devon Mountain Biking Association, Greg was excited he had long wanted to hit the trails again with his family. Paisley Cooper was apprehensively excited and she let them go.

The course taught the basics: how to ride over a log, how to shift gears properly, how to brake on a steep hill.

I saw them doing so well. I thought, This is so good, that they can enjoy riding as much as I did.

---

The year after her accident, Paisley Cooper returned to Rabbit Hill.

She took a picture at the base of the grassy slope where she fell. The wooden obstacle that caused the crash had been removed; a rolling expanse of green takes up the bulk of the photograph. Seated in her wheelchair, she appears pretty, peaceful, pensive.

I have to stay away from the internal dialogue of, Why did I go down that trail? Why did I go down that trail? Why did I go down that trail? Because theres no answer.

When she was first in rehab at the Glenrose, Paisley Cooper asked her psychologist: Would she let her daughters ride bikes?

Now, the girls are preparing for their second mountain bike race. Like any mom, she worries. But not every mom has gone through a traumatic, life-changing experience on a bicycle. The psychologist at the Glenrose told her its her job to teach the twins about the risks of mountain biking and how to do it with skill.

I feel really good that their skill is good, that they can do it. I have to trust that theyre going to be taken care of because Ive given them the skills and Ive seen that they can do it and I just have to let it go.

Before they head out, she always says, Be safe. And they always reply, Mom, dont worry.

---

On a family camping trip to Cold Lake this summer, Paisley Cooper donned a life-jacket and sat in the middle of a giant inner tube being towed behind the family boat. Theres a photograph of her in the water, beaming. Since becoming quadriplegic, she hasnt enjoyed swimming. But tubing? She loves it.

Because of the speed. And because you might fall out.

490. ["during the qualifying rounds of the UCI Mountain Bike World Cup cross-country eliminator". For once, truth in advertizing! Mike]

http://www.cyclingweekly.co.uk/news/latest-news/dutch-mountain-biker-annefleur-kalvenhaar-dies-fall-world-cup-event-133657

Dutch mountain biker Annefleur Kalvenhaar dies after fall at World Cup event

Cycling Weekly
August 23, 2014

Annefleur Kalvenhaar, 20, dies as a result of injuries after crashing during M鲩bel World Cup Eliminator rounds

Dutch mountain biker Annefleur Kalvenhaar has died after crashing during the qualifying rounds of the UCI Mountain Bike World Cup cross-country eliminator in Meribel, France.

Twenty-year-old Kalvenhaar fell during Fridays racing, and was taken to Grenoble hospital where she was placed in intensive care. The Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI) issued a statement that Kalvenhaar had passed away during Saturday morning.

Im devastated to hear that the cycling family has lost one of its members at such a young age. Our deepest thoughts are with her family and friends, said UCI president Brian Cookson.

Kalvenhaar was the current under-23 European cyclo-cross champion and rode for the Focus XC team.

Read more at http://www.cyclingweekly.co.uk/news/latest-news/dutch-mountain-biker-annefleur-kalvenhaar-dies-fall-world-cup-event-133657#ZRwm0MP6FXB8fGad.99

491. http://www.walesonline.co.uk/news/wales-news/spectator-left-fighting-life-after-7701665

Spectator left fighting for her life after collision at downhill mountain bike race

Sep 01, 2014 15:00
By WalesOnline

The woman was airlifted to hospital after the incident on Sunday night in Llangollen

An air ambulance was used to take the spectator to hospital after the incident

A spectator is fighting for her life after after suffering potentially life-threatening injuries at a downhill mountain bike race.

The woman was at the event in Llangollen when the incident took place on Sunday night.

She was airlifted to hospital in Stoke after two air ambulances were sent to the scene at about 5.30pm.

The event, which was part of the UK DH series run by Borderline Events, was stopped following the incident.

A spokesperson for the Welsh Ambulance Service said: We were called at 5.37pm yesterday to the Llangollen area. We responded with two Wales Air Ambulances, and a woman in her 20s with serious and potentially life-threatening injuries was airlifted to the University Hospital of North Staffordshire.

Rick Clarkson, events co-ordinator at British Cycling, said the organisation was awaiting information from the British Cycling official who attended yesterdays race.

He said: We need to establish what happened and collate all the information.

We want to send our best wishes to the injured woman.

492. http://www.wptz.com/news/vermont-new-york/burlington/mountain-biker-dies-of-injuries-sustained-in-crash/27841122

WATERBURY, Vt. A 25-year-old man died of injuries she suffered in last weeks mountain bike crash.
Related

According to Vermont State Police, on Aug. 26 around 5 p.m., Waterbury Rescue was called to an expert biking trail near River Road in Waterbury for a report on an unresponsive man, later identified as Andrew Langlois of Gardner, Massachusetts.
Waterbury Rescue reported finding Langlois unresponsive on rough terrain.

Police say Langlois was riding alone and was wearing a helmet at the time of the incident. There were no witnesses to the crash.

Langlois was taken to Fletcher Allen Hospital where he was treated for head and neck injuries. He succumbed to his injuries on Friday.

Police say the death was accidental and no suspicious circumstances surround the incident.

Read more: http://www.wptz.com/news/vermont-new-york/burlington/mountain-biker-dies-of-injuries-sustained-in-crash/27841122#ixzz3CDqruk2a

493. http ://www.kbzk.com/news/mountain-biker-rescued-near-triple-tree/

Mountain biker rescued near Triple Tree

An injured mountain biker was rescued by the Gallatin County Sheriff's Search and Rescue volunteers after crashing south of the Triple Tree subdivision.

The 30-year-old male graduate student from MSU was biking with his father when he crashed and severely injured his leg and hip. Within an hour, rescuers were able to reach him and move him out of the hills using a wheeled liter.

Several other bikers came upon the crash including a local doctor and were able to make the call for help and provide him with extra clothing to stay warm.

It was the second time today that volunteers have responded to assist injured people. Earlier, a Belgrade woman had to be helped off the "M" trail after hurting her ankle.

Photos courtesy of Gallatin County Sheriff's Office.

494. http://www.kvewtv.com/article/2014/sep/18/tri-cities-man-dies-injuries-sustained-mountain-bi/

Tri-Cities Man Dies From Injuries Sustained in Mountain Bike Accident

By Dan Thesman. Published Thursday, September 18th, 2014

A 72-year-old mountain biker from the Tri-Cities dies from his injuries after falling off a cliff on Jump Off Joe this morning.

The Yakima County Sheriff's office was notified around 10:30 a.m. of a man who had falled off a cliff. Naches Fire Department, along with Yakima County Sheriff's deputies and Search & Rescue units also responded.

The man had fallen about 200 feet from an area near an irrigation canal south of the highway 512 spur and up above the cliffs.

Investigators say 3 people were on mountain bikes scouting the area for elk prior to hunting season. The victim was on his bike near the canal when he lost control, fell off his bike, slid a short distance and then when over the ledge.

The victim has been identified as Stanley Nuxall Sr. of Richland.

495. http://www.burytimes.co.uk/news/11488759.Mountain_biker_was__millimetres_from_being_paralysed_/?ref=var_0

Unsworth mountain biker was 'millimetres from being paralysed' in Clifton Country Park accident

Rescue teams carry Niall to safety at Clifton Country Park

First published 09:01 Monday 22 September 2014 in News

A MOUNTAIN biker who was millimetres from being paralysed in a fall has praised the rescue teams that saved him.

Niall Love, aged 50, from Unsworth, suffered serious neck and spinal injuries in June, when he fell off his mountain bike at Clifton Country Park in Swinton.

Bolton Mountain Rescue Team (BMRT), with the help of the North West Air Ambulance and North West Ambulance Service, helped to rescue him before he was taken to Salford Royal Hospital.

He spent three weeks there, before being transferred to Southport Spinal Injuries unit.

Mr Love said: I want to pass on my heartfelt thanks to everyone for their professionalism.

Ive been told how lucky I have been as in the doctors words I was millimetres away from being paralysed.

There is a chance I will need an operation in October and, unfortunately, there will be no more mountain biking due to risk to my spinal cord.

But he added: I cant thank staff enough for all their help in assisting me.

Its thanks to them that I can still walk.

BMRT spokesman Garry Rhodes said: Were delighted that Niall is on the road to recovery.

The rescue really showed the importance of our multi-agency co-operation.

We had more than 20 members of staff on scene all working together to provide the right care to Niall and help ensure he was safe as he was transported to hospital.

496. http://www.leicestermercury.co.uk/John-Moore-Robinson-inquest-internal-bleeding/story-22963469-detail/story.html

John Moore-Robinson inquest: internal bleeding that killed Sileby mountain biker after accident missed by Stafford A&E staff

By DavidWOwen | Posted: September 22, 2014

John's parents, Frank and Janet Robinson, from Ellistown, who campaigned for a new inquest into his death

John's parents, Frank and Janet Robinson, from Ellistown, who campaigned for a new inquest into his death

A young mountain biker who was hurt in an accident died from internal bleeding the day after he was declared fit to go home by Staffordshire hospital staff, an inquest has heard.

John Moore-Robinson, of Sileby, died on April 2, 2006, as a result of a ruptured spleen.

The 20-year-old had suffered the injury the previous afternoon while riding with friends at Cannock Chase, Staffordshire.

An inquest into Mr Moore-Robinsons death was held in 2007, when a narrative verdict simply setting out the circumstances was recorded.

However, in 2009 an independent inquiry revealed that hundreds of patients could have died unnecessarily at Stafford General Hospitals A&E department.

As a result, and following a campaign by Mr Moore-Robinson's parents, the High Court rule a new inquest be held.

The new inquest began in April, this year, but was adjourned until yesterday by coroner Catherine Mason, so witnesses could be traced.

Mr Moore-Robinson died at Leicester Royal Infirmary after calling 999 from his home and collapsing in front of paramedics.

The inquest at Leicester Town Hall, today, was told the mountain bikes handlebars had twisted around in the crash, with one end hitting his abdomen with force.

He was taken by ambulance to Stafford General Hospitals A&E department, with the crew reporting his condition as life-threatening.

Mr Moore-Robinson arrived at the hospital at 3.55pm, but did not receive treatment until 5.35pm, and was discharged later that evening after being wrongly diagnosed with bruised ribs.

Matron Jacqueline Keogh, who was not involved in Mr Moore-Robinsons care, was called in to investigate his treatment.

In her report, she said: The ambulance report notes Mr Moore-Robinson was complaining of respiratory problems. He was pale and fully conscious.

The crew evaluated his condition as life-threatening.

However, after nurses checked his vital signs they said he needed intermediate care, which is less urgent than life-threatening.

Ms Keogh wrote: I would have insisted Mr Moore-Robinsons priority to have been more urgent.

She added that Mr Moore-Robinson should have been allocated a more senior doctor than Dr Girish Sharma, who had only four months experience in trauma treatment.

Giving evidence, Dr Sharma said he would have read the patients notes, including the life-threatening statement about his injury.

However, apart from a physical examination of Mr Moore-Robinsons abdomen, he did not instruct scans and further investigations for internal bleeding.

He said that following an X-ray of the patients chest which ruled out broken ribs or a punctured lung, his vital signs including heart rate, blood pressure and respiratory rate were normal.

Dr Sharma said he discussed his assessment with his more senior colleague, Dr Klaus Von Pressentin, before discharging Mr Moore Robinson.

In a statement read out on behalf of Dr Von Pressentin, who has since returned to his native South Africa, the senior doctor said: Dr Sharma thought his patient could be discharged but wanted a second opinion.

My agreement with the discharge was based on information given to me by Dr Sharma.

From the information given to me, I didnt consider the possibility of a ruptured spleen.

Dr Sharma told the inquest he had discussed the possibility of internal bleeding with Dr Von Pressentin, however, this was not recorded in his medical notes.

I am not proud of my note-taking in this instance, he said.

Stafford staff nurse Mark Saville told the inquest the hospitals A&E department was understaffed.

He said: When I started working in the trust in 2006, we were short-staffed.

We only had three nurses in majors (patients with serious symptoms or injuries) on April 1, 2006.

We also had a lot of very sick patients in, who, if this happened now, would be in special units in Wolverhampton or Stoke.

The inquest continues.

497. http://www.washingtonpost.com/local/obituaries/stephen-lorenzetti-dies-park-service-official-helped-build-and-restore-memorials/2014/09/23/775da59e-4331-11e4-b437-1a7368204804_story.html

Stephen Lorenzetti dies; Park Service official helped build and restore memorials

Stephen C. Lorenzetti, a National Park Service official who oversaw a restoration of the Washington Monument and helped plan the National World War II Memorial, died Sept. 21 at 54. (Courtesy of National Park Service )
By Adam Bernstein September 23

Stephen C. Lorenzetti, who spent his career with the National Park Service and rose to the top executive ranks overseeing a restoration of the Washington Monument as well as planning and construction of the National World War II Memorial and other sites , died Sept. 21 at a hospital in Rockville. He was 54.

He was mountain biking at Schaeffer Farms, a biking trail in Germantown, Md., when he suffered a heart attack, said his wife, Maureen Lorenzetti.

Mr. Lorenzetti joined the Park Service in 1984 as a mechanical engineer. After 11 years assigned to the national capital regional office, he served as chief of resource management at the National Mall and Memorial Parks, which includes the Mall and other Park Service properties in the area.

Since 2005, he had been deputy superintendent for planning of the National Mall and Memorial Parks placing him in charge of preserving and enhancing many memorials and monuments in his jurisdiction.

In the late 1990s, Mr. Lorenzetti had primary responsibility for overseeing restoration of the Washington Monuments facade; he also oversaw rehabilitation of the monument after an earthquake struck the area in 2011.

Mr. Lorenzetti played a key Park Service role in overseeing the construction of memorials such as the Franklin D. Roosevelt Memorial (dedicated in 1997), the National World War II Memorial (2004), the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial (2012) and the American Veterans Disabled For Life Memorial, which is scheduled for dedication next month.

Stephen Charles Lorenzetti was born in Washington on March 21, 1960. He grew up in Bethesda, where he was a 1978 graduate of Walter Johnson High School. He received a bachelors degree in mechanical engineering from the University of Maryland in 1983.

He was a Bethesda resident and a volunteer with Manna Food Center, a food bank in Gaithersburg, and a girls coach with MSI Soccer in Montgomery County, Md. His avocations included ultimate Frisbee.

Survivors include his wife of 27 years, Maureen Shields Lorenzetti, two daughters, Gina Lorenzetti and Claire Lorenzetti, and his mother, Esther Lorenzetti, all of Bethesda; and two brothers, Peter Lorenzetti of Kensington, Md., and David Lorenzetti of Silver Spring, Md.

498. https://www.ksl.com/?sid=31726132&nid=148&fm=most_popular&s_cid=popular-1

Injured mountain biker airlifted from Big Cottonwood Canyon
By Faith Heaton Jolley
September 26th, 2014 @ 7:07pm

SALT LAKE COUNTY A man was seriously injured in a mountain biking accident Friday afternoon and had to be airlifted, police said.

The accident occurred around 4:45 p.m. in Big Cottonwood Canyon near the "Mill D" area, according to Unified police. A 39-year-old man was injured and was airlifted to the University Hospital in serious condition.

The details of the accident were not immediately known. More information will be posted as it becomes available.

499. At 09:44 AM 9/28/2014, [a friend] wrote:

It doesn't take much of a bridge to injure a mountain biker badly, does it...?

:) Good point!

https://www.bostonglobe.com/metro/2014/09/27/out-woods/WGxUYUiXzTPit9FHunonWP/story.html
*************************************************
Tread softly! All the earth is holy ground.
~ Christina Rossetti (Psalm 24),
from "A Later Life: A Double Sonnet of Sonnets"

Randy Pritzker raced through life, until he crashed his bike

Finding a way, finding help, finding time

By Nestor Ramos | Globe Staff September 28, 2014

Essdras M. Suarez/Globe Staff

Randy Pritzker fell from this bridge in Cutler Park.

I.

Consciousness creeps back to Randy Pritzker slowly, and for a moment hes not sure where he is.

The cold wetness on his face is mud. The cold metal tangled in his legs is his mountain bike.

Theres pain between his shoulder blades, and its pushing up through his neck, so intense that he knows something is broken. He cant move.

This is a problem: Face down in a remote ravine in Cutler Park, moving will be a requirement if hes going to survive.

But the inability to move is not at the top of the list of Randy Pritzkers problems, because the pain in his chest is just as intense. And that pain brings a more immediate problem: He cant breathe.

As seconds thud slowly by and neither breath nor movement comes, Pritzker begins to panic.

The pain in his chest be damned, he wills himself: Let me breathe!

I have found meaning from my accident, and it is giving me purpose. Randy Pritzker

First small gulps. Then gasps. Then deep, choking heaves.

Pain like this makes time slow down, and the moments since he and his bike sailed off a bridge and into this muddy ditch feel like hours. There is no one around. He is miles deep on a little-traveled bike trail on a quiet weekday morning, alone.

He has broken ribs and a collapsed lung. He has broken four vertebrae in his neck, two of which are shattered. One wrong move could send a bone shard through his spinal cord, paralyzing him. This is why people with spinal injuries are immobilized: Sometimes the falling doesnt kill you, but the getting up does.

He doesnt know yet how badly injured he is. But even if he did, Randy Pritzker hasnt spent his first 49 years on earth being discouraged by lifes obstacles. Hes not going to start now.

He wiggles his toes. At least Im not paralyzed, he thinks.

Through excruciating, radiating pain, he pulls his cellphone from his sweatshirt and calls his wife, Jonina, tells her he has fallen off his bike, and that hell meet her in the parking lot.

Then, gasping and writhing, he forces himself onto his feet, props himself against his bicycle, and begins to claw his way out of the ravine.

II.

This is how hard-driving Randy Pritzker is:

He met his wife at a funeral. His grandmothers funeral. Where Jonina was the rabbi.

His sisters were ribbing him, but so what? He saw a beautiful woman and an opportunity, and he went for it. And when Randy Pritzker goes for something, he goes full speed.

At his law firm, the other partners joke that he takes anything but an unequivocal no as an invitation to push forward.

If someone cracks the door, you jam it open, he likes to say. You blow through it.

Many mornings, he blows through doors by testing the limits of his body. Biking a treacherous stretch like the more remote sections of the 3-mile Blue Heron trail in this park in Needham near the Newton line, he plays a game with himself to make it even more difficult. The challenge is simple: Can I make it around this whole trail without putting my foot on the ground?

Some mornings, when his body and mind are focused singularly on the inches-wide trail and nothing else, he can. Beyond the exercise and the allure of the woods, the unencumbered focus is the point of this whole daredevil act.

But other mornings this morning that focus was elusive.

Pritzker left the house at 7 a.m. on a May morning and already something felt off. Maybe he was catching a cold or maybe his allergies were acting up. He slipped off the trail, then he slipped off again. Over and over, he straddled his bike and waddled back onto the path.

The game was shot. The trail won. Pritzker approached the last challenge, a narrow wooden bridge. He knew this bridge well. If he climbed the incline before it too slowly, he wouldnt make it across. Too fast, and the roots crisscrossing the trail leading up to the bridges base would catapult him off his bike.

Maybe his focus wandered off again. Maybe the odd feeling he woke up with got to him one more time. Or maybe, at some fundamental level, its this: Randy Pritzker has always gone too fast.

The last thing he remembers is his front wheel slipping off the left edge of the bridge.

Randy Pritzker now wears a brace that immobilizes his neck.

III.

Pritzker trudges inch by inch on a rocky trail. Hes not sure how far he walks, his battered bicycle supporting his weight. The pain makes it feel like hours; in reality, its probably several minutes.

To the north, Blue Heron stretches into a wide, flat trail that circles a pond at the northern end of the park and leads to the parking lot. People jog and walk with their dogs there, but here the forest is so dense that it might as well be in Maine. It is silent and empty. Even the thrum of traffic on nearby Interstate 95 doesnt penetrate.

Maybe the blow to his head clouds his judgment, and makes the notion that hell hike the mile or so back to the parking lot and hop in his wifes car seem plausible, but its a fantasy. The cars racing past, a vague flash behind the trees, are no help. Finding someone on this trail, on this day, at this moment is no sure thing.

Then, remarkably, two women appear.

He should reach out to them like the godsend that they are. Instead, paralyzed not by his damaged spine but by some combination of bravado and embarrassment, he looks away.

Are you OK, sir?

He tells them about the fall and the searing pain between his shoulder blades; he hands them his phone. They hit redial and talk to his wife, whos relieved that someone has found him, and then they call 911.

Rather than lying Pritzker down on the uneven ground, which would mean moving him more and risking further injury, the women guide him to a nearby tree. His mud-smeared helmet still strapped to his head, they prop him against a tree, his fragile and cracked spine held in place against the bark.

Getting help to this rugged spot wont be easy. Cars cant travel this path, let alone ambulances. For the first time since he awoke in the ravine, hes not alone. But there is no telling how long help will be.

IV.

Randy Pritzker is not a patient man.

Growing up in Natick, his mother would take him with her to the supermarket.

Why dont we get in the longest line, Randy, and just talk? she would say to him. That way you can learn a little patience.

That was agony for young Randy Pritzker. But it was nothing compared to this.

He stands against the tree, his legs slightly bent. The pain refuses to recede. His muscles exhausted, his legs start to quiver. His new friends soothe him and talk to him, keeping him calm.

After a while, a police officer on a motorcycle bounces down the trail. He says paramedics have cut down a fence, but the ambulance still cant get to him. The officers eyes widen when Pritzker explains the intensity and location of his pain.

Randy Pritzker's handlebars on his bicycle and his helmet (above) are still covered in dirt from the day of his accident.

V.

The gurney is finally rattling toward him.

Three hours after he awoke in a ravine, Pritzker is lying down again. The easy part of the trail where people walk their dogs and no serious mountain biker would spend any time at all is the hardest ride of Pritzkers life.

He screams every time it hits a rock or a root or bump. He closes his eyes, but thats worse, focusing the pain rather than suppressing it. He opens them. His head is secured. All he can see is the treetops.

Rock by rock and root by root, they make their way out of the forest, into the ambulance.

VI.

If the three hours in the woods were hard, the time after is harder.

Three months out, the bones arent healing like his doctors hoped, and he may still need surgery. The pain is there all the time, and he wears a contraption that immobilizes his neck. Some days he works from home, others he makes it into the office. His law firm has done right by him, giving him time and space to recover.

Jonina takes their daughter back to college for the fall, but he cant make the trip. He checks into a hotel near his office for the week because he still cant drive.

It is a changed and difficult life. But instead of being miserable instead of letting the scary depression of the days that followed the accident take hold he finds now that he is grateful:

For arms and legs that still move, and the chance to walk a few blocks every morning, where he lurks outside the door until someone arrives to hold it for him.

For the kindness of the two women who found him and stayed with him and kept him still people with whom hes still in touch but who want no recognition for what they did.

For the helmet that saved his life, a necessary safety precaution about which hell soon speak to students at Natick High School; hell serve as living evidence of its value.

And for the lessons he almost never had the chance to learn.

I have found meaning from my accident, and it is giving me purpose, he says, now driven to share his story with anyone who might benefit from the lessons he learned in that ravine. My life is now richer than it was.

The pain still lingers between his shoulder blades, but time is back to normal now. Its life that slowed down.

500. http://www.portsmouth.co.uk/news/health/local-health/group-take-on-great-south-run-to-get-bike-for-paralysed-friend-1-6328420

Group take on Great South Run to get bike for paralysed friend

Friends of Darren Foley are taking part in the Great South Run to help raise money to buy him a specially-adapted sports bike

Published 30/09/2014 10:30

FRIENDS of a mountain biker left paralysed from the waist down following an accident are taking part in the 25th Great South Run to buy him a specially-adapted sports bike.

A year ago Darren Foley, 45, (pictured), crashed into a tree and severed his spine while out cycling with friends.

He spent five months in hospital and cannot move from the waist down.

But the keen runner and extreme sportsman is determined to keep on the move.

A prototype bike for disabled people is being developed in Wales by Project Enduro and a group of Mr Foleys friends are attempting to raise 10,000 to buy one of the first ones the market for him.

He said: Im so chuffed that they are doing this.

I knew they were all doing the run but at first I had no idea they were doing it for me.

Although I was a runner myself I never did the Great South Run.

Its going to be tough going for them. Theyve had to give up smoking and partying to do it.

But I will be there on the day cheering them on.

Mr Foley, a married father-of-two from Leigh Park, was in Stoughton, at the back of Kingley Vale, when the accident happened.

He said: I crashed into a tree and fell badly.

I didnt even get knocked out though.

I was conscious and I knew I had done something bad straight away because I couldnt move.

I knew I had broken my back luckily enough my friends were with me.

I ended up getting an air ambulance to Southampton General Hospital and then went to Salisbury Hospital for rehabilitation for five months.

Mr Foley has had to give up his job at Eaton Aerospace since the accident but he remains resolutely positive.

Claude Lowe is running with her brother Gee Olford and friends Suzi and Lee Wilson and Pete Langworthy.

Claude said: I did the run with my brother 16 years ago, but havent done it since.

Im not great at running, but this is something we all want to do for Darren.

Since his accident he hasnt been able to get out like he used to.

Getting this bike will help in a big way to be outdoors.

The race takes place on October 26, and will be broadcast live on Channel 5.

Darrens friends are currently setting up a website, which will allow people to donate money.

501. http://www.wcnc.com/story/news/crime/2014/10/01/tega-cay-man-dies-after-mountain-bike-crash-on-baxter-trails/16536607/

Tega Cay man dies after bike crash

WCNC Staff, WCNC.com 1:49 p.m. EDT October 1, 2014

FORT MILL, S.C. -- A mountain biker died Tuesday night on a trail in Baxter Village, according to the York County Corner's Office.

Trevor Ford, 59, was riding his bike on the trails when he crashed.

He died at the scene from the injuries he sustained, according to York County Corner's Office.

502. http://www.latimes.com/local/lanow/la-me-ln-mountain-biker-injured-brentwood-trail-20141016-story.html

Mountain biker seriously injured on Brentwood trail

A mountain biker was seriously injured Thursday on a Brentwood trail, the Los Angeles Fire Department said.
By Adolfo Flores contact the reporter
Los Angeles Fire Department

Mountain biker seriously injured on Brentwood trail, @LAFD says

Fire officials said a mountain biker was taken to a hospital Thursday evening in serious condition after being injured on a Brentwood trail.

The mountain biker was hurt about 7 p.m. on a path near the 17500 block of Mulholland Drive, said Erik Scott, a spokesman with the Los Angeles Fire Department.

Air and ground crews were sent to help the biker, who was taken to a hospital.

There was no immediate information on the biker's name or gender.

503. From: [a friend]
Subject: North Vancouver/Whistler Mountain Biking Concussion Stories
Date: Sat, 18 Oct 2014 13:49:48 -0700

The growing rate of serious concussions coming out of mountain biking is not something many people know about. or wish to admit... (I actually came across these articles, by accident, while searching on another item...)

http://www.muddbunnies.com/the-accidental-roadie/

...But that said, I cant mountain bike at the moment. Near the end of last year (December 11, 2012), I sustained a concussion. I downplayed it a bit, because according to the literature and stats., I should be better soon (approximately 80 to 90 % of concussions are resolved in seven to ten days). The stats, werent on my side. I ended up with post-concussion-recovery-syndrome, a soul-sucking condition that has recovery times all over the map (typically 3 months to 1 year or longer). Ugh.

After two months of hell (think dark room, no visual or cognitive stimulation, no TV, no internet, no reading, no movies, no work, no exercise), I slowly began to crawl out of the big, dark gaping hole that I had fallen into. I am now in month six and still recovering. It has been a bumpy road with lots of setbacks, but if I look at the big picture, I am slowly getting my mental and physical health back. I could write pages and pages on how I have been navigating a healing path through my post-concussion-recovery-syndrome, but a recent article in The Pique, sums it up well. I can relate my recovery to a lot of the case studies covered in the article (see April 7, 2013 article, Lives Unravelled) ...

http://www.piquenewsmagazine.com/whistler/lives-unravelling/Content?oid=2455087&showFullText=true (A very good, and comprehensive article)

...Nothing about that Loonie Race six years ago could have prepared Pat Johnston for the fact that it was going to change his life.

It was a Thursday night, at the bottom of Whistler Mountain, and Johnston, along with hundreds of other local mountain bikers, was climbing up the mountain in order to race back down a familiar summertime rite of passage for Whistler mountain bikers.

"I was just going too fast and (I was) all fired up about racing," he says of that night.

On the way down, on "Crank It Up," he took a header over his bars broken fingers, a dislocated shoulder, and, most significantly, a brain injury.

Let's not mince words, says Johnston, that's the only way to describe a concussion....
----------------------------------------------------------
The second part in the Concussion series:
http://www.piquenewsmagazine.com/whistler/in-helmets-we-trust/Content?oid=2455758&showFullText=true

..I believe that there is a health crisis in Whistler. I believe that the effects of concussion are far worse than what most people are willing to admit."

Helmets and concussions

Linda Glenday now knows that helmets do not prevent concussions; it took a concussion to find out.

They do, however, prevent other head injuries, as well as facial injuries.

That's why when she recovered from her six-month debilitating concussion, Glenday bought the best helmet she could find for mountain biking and the best helmet she could find for skiing...

504. http://nsmb.com/kelly-mcgarry-crash-slo-mo/

Kelly’s crash was crazy at full speed, but seeing the front end compress and his wheel explode, and then his super scorpion as he rolls over makes us wonder how he walked away?

505. http://www.blueridgenow.com/article/20141021/ARTICLES/141029971

Mountain biker suffers head injury in Pisgah

By Emily Weaver
Times-News Staff Writer

Published: Wednesday, October 22, 2014 at 4:30 a.m.

Last Modified: Tuesday, October 21, 2014 at 6:20 p.m.

A local man was airlifted to Mission Hospital with a serious head injury Tuesday afternoon after a mountain biking accident along Trace Ridge Trail in Pisgah National Forest.

Mills River Fire Chief Rick Livingston said two friends were riding their bikes up the trail when one of them hit a rock or something along the path.

One of the men, who was in the lead, heard a noise from his friend. When he looked back, he saw his friend fly head-first over the handlebars, Livingston said.

The 46-year-old rider was wearing a helmet, which was destroyed in the accident.

Livingston said the man's friend rode 2-and-a-half miles down the trail before he could get a cellphone signal to call 911.

Mills River Fire & Rescue received the call at 10:50 a.m. Using four-wheel-drive vehicles to access the rider in the tangled terrain, first responders reached him in about 20 minutes.

The man was taken out of the woods to a helicopter landing zone using the fire department's four-wheel drive transport unit, Livingston said.

Henderson County EMS and the Henderson County Sheriff's Office assisted Mills River Fire & Rescue at the scene.

Reach Weaver at Emily.weaver@blueridgenow.com or 828-694-7867.

506. http://www.startribune.com/local/blogs/280085462.html

Coroner: Neck fracture killed popular doctor instantly in biking accident

Posted by: Matt McKinney Updated: October 22, 2014 - 3:07 PM

The fall that killed a beloved doctor in Austin, Minn., took place on a bridge that was part of a mountain biking trail he and others had helped build. Richard "Dick" Schindler, 72, slipped off the bridge Saturday morning while crossing it on his mountain bike and landed head first on the ground below, breaking his neck and killing him instantly, according to Mower County Coroner David Strobel. He was wearing a helmet.

The bridge spans a creek and is just a "few feet" off the ground, according to the coroner.

Strobel said the angle of the fall was likely more significant than the force of the fall. Strobel said he once had an elderly patient who suffered a similar spinal break after falling face-first out of a wheelchair.

Strobel said the manner of death was accidental. He investigated the possibility that a medical event of some kind caused the bike crash or even killed Schindler before the crash, but neither hypothesis was supported by the evidence.

Schindler, a veteran bicyclist who was behind the launch of the Austin mountain biking team this year, was biking to the team's trails near Riverland Community College on Saturday to work on expanding and improving the trail network with others, according to team coach Spencer Salmon. It was typical of Schindler, who was known as a tireless volunteer, willing donor and broad supporter of his Southeast Minnesota community. "He was our fearless leader," said a heartbroken Salmon.

A visitation was scheduled for Wednesday, Oct. 22, from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the Worlein Funeral Home in Austin. The funeral will be held Thursday, Oct. 23, at 11 a.m. at St. Augustine Catholic Church, Austin, Minn.

506. http://www.sheffieldtelegraph.co.uk/news/local/mountain-biker-breaks-his-spine-1-6923570

Mountain biker breaks his spine

Published on the 30 October
2014
06:02

Published 30/10/2014 06:02

A mountain biker broke his spine and ribs in a crash on a bridleway on Stanage Edge.

He was flown to hospital in Sheffield after Edale Mountain Rescue Team responded to a call on Saturday morning - one of six over the weekend as the team completed training for new members.

507. http://www.kboi2.com/news/local/Mountain-bike-crash-Boise-foothills-280997252.html

Mountain biker flown to the hospital after crash in Boise foothills

By KBOI Web Staff Published: Oct 30, 2014 at 4:24 PM MDT Last Updated: Oct 30, 2014 at 4:48 PM MDT

BOISE, Idaho (KBOI) - A mountain biker in the Boise foothills was flown to Saint Alphonsus Hospital after a crash off of 8th Street Thursday afternoon.

The Boise Fire Department says that the 40-year-old woman crashed in an area on Red Cliffs Trail that would have been difficult to get her out safely on the ground, so an air ambulance was dispatched.

Firefighters say the woman has possible back and head injuries.

508. http://www.thisislancashire.co.uk/news/11568462.12_year_old_boy_airlifted_to_hospital_with_spinal_injuries_after_Darwen_Moors_accident/

12-year-old boy airlifted to hospital with spinal injuries after Darwen Moors accident

The teenage boy was flown to Royal Manchester Childrens Hospital in the air ambulance
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First published Thursday 30 October 2014 in News
Last updated 07:23 Thursday 30 October 2014 by Lawrence Dunhill, Health Reporter

MOUNTAIN bikers have been urged to take care on slippery gravel track on Darwen Moors after a 12-year-old boy was airlifted to hospital.

The boy was knocked unconscious and suffered suspected head, spinal and pelvic injuries after falling in an area known as Lyons Den on Tuesday afternoon.

It comes after a similar accident on the track earlier this month, in which a 34-year-old man suffered an open fracture to his elbow.

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Bolton Mountain Rescue Team attended Tuesdays incident at about 3pm, where they stretchered the boy to an air ambulance, before he was flown to Royal Manchester Childrens Hospital.

The boy, from Darwen, had been out riding with his dad and younger brother.

There was a torrential downpour as the emergency crews arrived, so they deployed a casualty shelter at the scene whilst treatment was given by the air ambulance staff.

Steve Fletcher, a member of the rescue team, said: Weve had quite a few mountain biking incidents in that area around Tockholes.

Im a mountain biker myself and that bit of track is quite stony and loose and can get very greasy.

I would urge people to take extra care there, especially when its wet.

There have now been nine mountain biking accidents attended by Bolton Mountain Rescue Team so far this year, compared to 10 during 2013.

A spokesman for the North West Air Ambulance was unable to give further details of the boys condition.

However, he was thought to have regained consciousness.

509. http://www.rochdaleonline.co.uk/news-features/2/news-headlines/92436/mountain-biker-rescued-with-cspine-injury

Mountain biker rescued with C-spine injury

Date published: 11 November 2014

Rossendale and Pendle Mountain Rescue Team four-wheel-drive ambulance

Rossendale and Pendle Mountain Rescue Team (RPMRT) callout shows the importance of the specialist training and equipment held by our mountain rescue teams.

On Sunday 9 November at 4.11pm RPMRT's pagers went off, a 59 year old mountain biker was in need of the teams help near Calf Hey Reservoir.

Armed with a grid reference the team set off the casualty was found 15 minutes later due to the quick thinking of his friends shining their lights to guide the team in.

The information given to the team members attending was that the casualty had gone over his handle bars landing on his head - he heard a crunch and was in severe pain.

With the Team Doctor in attendance the patient was given pain relief and treated as if his neck was broken.

A more thorough examination of the casualty was then carried out, no more injuries were highlighted.

The casualty was carried using our specialist equipment - a vacuum mattress which keeps the casualty completely still and onto the all terrain stretcher (the Bell stretcher).

A very slow, methodical carry off was then underway. The team carried the casualty to the awaiting ambulance, the Team Doctor travelled with the casualty in the NWAS ambulance to hospital to keep continuity of care.

There it was discovered the casualty had suffered from C-spine injuries that could have well been life threatening if he hadn't received the level of care shown by the team.

The team train often for this kind of scenario and this callout really emphasises the importance of the team, the training and the specialist equipment that is held by RPMRT.

Team leader Pete Goble said: Working in partnership with NWAS we ensured the safe treatment and transport of this injured mountain biker. His injuries would have been a challenge to any ambulance crew but the added complications of the area, the position of the injured patient and the difficult terrain the team had to carry him over makes all the training worthwhile. Some of the specialist equipment was bought using money left to the team from bequests.

510. http://www.stuff.co.nz/national/63700186/Boy-injured-in-Auckland-mountain-bike-accident

Boy injured in Auckland mountain bike accident

JESS MCALLEN
Last updated 09:39, December 1 2014

A 14-year-old is in Starship Hospital with spinal and abdominal injuries after a mountain-biking competition this weekend.

The boy, who is in a serious condition, was picked up by the Auckland Rescue Helicopter Trust yesterday a crew member said.

"The boy fell off his bike when he went over a jump and failed to land."

The event was at Four Forty Mountain Bike Park's championship competition which had 80 entrants.

The organiser of the race, Byron Scott, said the competition was for elite riders who knew the risks.

"We have beginner tracks which are safer and recommend people wear helmets at all times."

The park in Orere Point is the first of its kind in Auckland, with a shuttle that takes riders to the top of a mountain, he said.

Medics were stationed at the course for the event and a rescue helicopter arrived in 12 minutes, he said.

Scott said the boy's father had been in touch to say he is recovering and "looking forward to the next event."

http://www.stuff.co.nz/auckland/63755027/brace-saved-his-life-says-teen-mountain-biker

Brace saved his life, says teen mountain biker

JESS MCALLEN
Last updated 17:16 02/12/2014

Josh Burell bike crash

RORY O'SULLIVAN/ Fairfax NZ
SAVED: Josh Burrell holds the helmet and neck brace with this mother, Joanne Lourie.

A 14-year-old boy seriously injured in a downhill mountain-biking accident says without his $300 neck brace he would be dead.

Josh Burrell was competing in Four Forty Mountain Bike Park's championship competition on Sunday at Orere Point, Auckland, when he misjudged a jump.

He was flown to Auckland Hospital with several compound fractures in his spine.

"My chain skipped when I was going down, I was going too fast and by the time I slammed on the brakes I was already flying into the air," says Burrell.

"I didn't have a chance to put my hands forward to break my fall. I lost control and smashed my neck on the back of the landing part, my neck rolled under the rest of my body and I was stuck."

Before the competition Burrell had spent months saving money from "odd jobs" around home to buy a $200 helmet and $300 neck brace.

Not many riders wear neck braces, he says, but on Sunday "that $300 saved my life."

The gear stopped him from snapping his neck and Burrell thinks it should be compulsory.

"A lot of people don't wear them because it limits you movement-wise as it goes down to your chest and stops you hyper-extending to your neck."

His helmet's now broken but his bike is intact and after a three-month break Burrell says he will be back riding again.

If he can afford it.

His mother, Joanne Lourie, says the two spent a long time saving up for the safety gear and she can't afford any more for a while.

"It's like an air-bag in a car-crash; you can't use it again when it softens the blow."

She says it was her son's first time using the gear and is beyond grateful that he had it.

"The surgeon told us that if he hadn't been wearing the safety gear he would have been a paraplegic."

Yesterday Burrell was able to walk and he'll be going back to school at the end of the week.

Burrell's mother, Joanne, was at the race when the accident happened.

"Without the [Auckland] Westpac Helicopter, without these wonderful people my son would not have responded to treatment so well and got the level of care he needed.

"Pilot Mr [Robert] Anderson and crew member Mr [Ati] Wynyard you have made a difference again to another family."

Burrell has been biking for "years" but only downhill mountain biking for about nine months.
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Organiser of the race, Byron Scott, says the competition is for elite riders who know the risks.

"We have beginner tracks which are safer and recommend people wear helmets at all times."

The park in Orere Point is the first of its kind in Auckland, with a shuttle that takes riders to the top of a mountain, he says.

Medics were stationed at the course and the rescue helicopter arrived in 12 minutes.

511. http://well.blogs.nytimes.com/2014/12/01/i-was-my-own-trauma-unit/?_r=0

I Was My Own Trauma Unit

By James Kanter December 1, 2014 5:29 pmDecember 1, 2014 5:29 pm

James Kanter at a single-track mountain bike trail near Billings, Mont., shortly before falling off a bridge and being thrown 19 feet.

I dont remember the moments before the accident, but I have a very keen memory of what happened just after.

There was the earsplitting crack probably the most powerful sound I have ever heard of my helmet hitting the stony, half-frozen mountain bike trail. I saw a yellow starburst and felt a rush of nausea as I rolled onto my back.

Seconds later, my vision came into hyperfocus. I could see the individual wisps of cloud against an electric blue sky. I was even mildly euphoric.

My hospital notes say I was thrown 19 feet.

It was the day after Thanksgiving last year the beginning of a four-month journey of trauma and recuperation, a seminar in the surprising tricks that brain and body play in responding to calamitous injury, including a broken neck and back. (A year later, I am almost back to normal flexible enough to do some yoga though still waiting to get two metal rods removed from my back before returning to biking.)

My brother-in-law, Matt, and I had been biking on the Rimrocks, near Billings, Mont., a vast outcropping of amber sandstone that encircles the northern edges of the city like a mythological fortification. Runners, bikers and dog walkers are naturally drawn to Rims for views that stretch across the Yellowstone River and out over a large plain that was once an inland sea.

I was cycling behind Matt along a single-track trail homeward into a setting sun. The light was dazzling, and I was approaching one of the narrow bridges local bikers had built to whiz over drainage ditches and rocks.

There can be little doubt of the accidents cause: I did not have enough speed to get over that bridge, which turned out to be steeper than the ones we had crossed earlier. The bike, an older and heavier model than my bike in Belgium, must have stalled at the apex. The front wheel probably rolled over the edge before I could free my feet from clips on the pedals.

On the ground, my first thoughts were not of panic but of irritation and guilt. What did I have to go and do that for? Would I miss my nieces dance recital? How was I going to get the bike home?

Soon Matt was peering down at me asking me how many fingers he was holding up and where we had been the previous day. I had the answers. But getting them out was a struggle. My chest and lungs felt pressured. My ability to talk could not keep pace with my thinking.

My body was radically reconfiguring channeling blood to vital organs, releasing hormones to shut down some body parts and wake others to make the best use of energy reserves. Other chemicals were unleashed to blunt my pain receptors as effectively as a powerful opiate.

Endorphins are just Gods way of letting you go peacefully, my friend John said at a darkly humorous dinner during my recuperation. I responded that the most interesting thing about endorphins was how they offered around 30 or 40 minutes of pain relief probably the length of time an injured early human would have needed to escape a saber-toothed tiger.

Dr. Thomas M. Scalea, the physician in chief at the R Adams Cowley Shock Center at the University of Maryland, did not see things that way. Youre not back in the cave, James, he told me in an interview later. Still, he added:

Im sure that theres also some overriding psychological, psychiatric, psycho-something component to this. One thing we see pretty commonly is that people get hurt and they hang on just long enough to get to the hospital.

Its almost like they say, Well, Im here, theyll take care of me, so I dont have to do it for myself anymore.

I identified with that. I felt elation at the arrival of the paramedics and at the prospect of painkillers. But by the time I heard one of the paramedics say, Oh man, I forgot my narcs in the truck, my pain was already hard to bear.

Another friend, Hugo, had an intriguing explanation for why I had deleted the memory of flying headlong into the ground. No one needs to see the Grim Reaper twice when they are trying to stay alive, he said over tea. I liked that idea that forgetting was another way we help protect ourselves in trauma so I took it to Dr. Tim Lynch, director of the Dublin Neurological Institute.

Dr. Lynch started with the biology.

The brain is soft and gooey and sits in liquid, he said. When the head gets knocked and the skull moves, the brain can slosh around, accelerate and decelerate, or even ricochet.

That can shut the brain temporarily so that working memories still spinning around the hippocampus like the moments before your bike crash can get lost before they have a chance to get laid down.

The phenomenon, known as retrograde amnesia, is quite common.

But Dr. Lynch also allowed that part of the story of memory loss in trauma might be an adaptive response in humans and not just the result of chains of physiological and chemical events.

The sun had started setting and the temperature was growing colder. Matt and two passers-by, Jaye and David, had laid their fleeces on me. Jaye was holding my hand while David was helping to coordinate a helicopter rescue. Later, when I wrote an email thanking Jaye, she responded: If I ever needed help like you did, I hope someone would do the same for me. Just pay it forward, as they say.

We would still be nothing without the kindnesses of others. But when Matt offered to put his body against mine for warmth, I reflexively snapped back, demanding he back off.

Is that rational? Matt asked at the time.

I mulled that question for months. I figured some kind of ghost brain had scanned my injuries, allowing me to assess with lightning speed how best to protect myself.

I checked that with Dr. Gregory S. McDowell, the surgeon at Ortho Montana who did such a good job of fusing a burst thoracic vertebra. He told me the light pressure from Matts body would not have added damage; most injuries that result in paralysis do so as a result of the impact itself rather than what happens afterward. Stress does not put the injured individual in the best position to make decisions in their best interest always, Dr. McDowell wrote, oozing understatement.

So perhaps I resisted Matt as a way of asserting a degree of control over the situation, to keep panic at bay? That makes my bad decision almost rational, right?

Finally, I heard the whipping blades of the helicopter. Air nurses gave me injections and rolled me into a collar and onto a hard board. Within minutes, they had deposited me on the roof of a trauma center in Billings. Consciousness, when it came, meant blinking at white ceilings and trying to keep track of the endless parade of faces looming in and out of my peripheral vision.

I had one last burst of lucidity when a medic asked whether I wanted my snazzy Gore-Tex cycling jersey removed without scissors. The question still seems absurd given the extent of my injuries. But it gave me a last opportunity to impose my will before being immobilized in a brace and yoked to bleeping machines.

Cut the damn thing off, I said before slipping back into a fog of tranquilizers.

512. http://www.manchestereveningnews.co.uk/news/greater-manchester-news/mountain-biker-who-shattered-spine-8218147

Mountain biker who shattered spine in crash vows to walk again in memory of dad killed in horror blaze on M60

Dec 03, 2014 16:00
By Sue Carr

Alex Toon, 20, from Dukinfield, was in hospital after his accident when dad Alan was killed in a horrific van fire on the M60.

Alex Toon

A man who was left wheelchair-bound after a mountain biking accident has vowed to walk again in memory of his late dad.

Alex Toon, 20, was in hospital in Southport after shattering his spine when dad Alan was killed in a horrific van fire on the M60.

Discharging himself to go home and be with mum Janice, his access to a special physiotherapy bike was cut short with the nearest being in Wakefield - 50 miles from his Dukinfield home.

Now supporters have raised a staggering 13,000 in just a few weeks so he can buy his own.

They include pupils at his former school, Copley High in Stalybridge, Tameside, where Alex returned recently to say thanks.

The experienced mountain biker was in Bedford when the freak accident happened in February.

I hit a tree stump which shouldnt have been there and that was it, head first I went. All the pressure went through my head, right down my spine and shattered my vertebrae, he said.

I broke my back and lost the use of my legs.

Theres a chance of recovery, its just trying to maximise the potential and its unbelievable what people have done to get me one of these bikes.

Alex at Copley High with students Katie Gillies, left, Rhianna Burns, right, mum Janice, back left, and Rachael Atkin from the school

The functional electrical stimulation (FES) bike uses electrical current to exercise paralysed or weakened muscles, improving circulation and muscle tone and helping to reduce spasms.

Alex, who worked as a joiner before his accident, believes it is his best chance of walking again.

He added: We have got the bike now and Im going on it every other day.

I am getting a little bit more feeling back in my legs and some movement back in my hips.

Im not going to stop until I do it. Im determined to get back on my feet for my dad.

It has been hard but I am getting there slowly. I cant move without my wheelchair but I can get out and about, I can drive, I have got my independence back. Its just my legs that dont work.

Family friend and neighbour Val Aris has been the driving force behind the fundraising which has also included a disco and raffle at Burnage Rugby Club and a 1,000 donation from Alexs employers High Access Maintenance in Manchester.

Alex with Gary Wardlow from High Access

Val, who lives with her family on the same street as Alex, said: Weve known him since he was a baby and were great friends with his dad.

It has been a horrendous year for them and we just wanted to do something to help lighten the load.

Praising Copley students, she said: Theyve done bag packs, fun runs, cake sales. They have been going all out to raise money for him.

I have written a letter to the headmaster to say how proud I am and how proud the students parents should be.

They have just been amazing.

513. http://www.stuff.co.nz/national/63933683/teen-hospitalised-with-compound-fractures

Teen hospitalised with compound fractures

CARALISE TRAYES
Last updated 11:14, December 8 2014

A teen got knocked knocked out by crashing his mountain bike into a tree yesterday morning in the Dome Valley, North Auckland.

The young man was riding down a hill when he lost control, crashed over his handlebars and was knocked out by a tree, Westpac rescue helicopter chief crewman Herby Barnes said.

"The guy was knocked out for around 30 seconds to a minute, but thankfully he was wearing a helmet and a neck brace which helped him a lot," Barnes said.

The helicopter arrived at 11.30am, winched the man out on a stretcher and took him to Auckland City Hospital.

"He had a concussion and pain in his elbows and pelvis," Barnes said. He was in a serious condition.

Barnes said it's the second callout in a week they have attended where a rider has been wearing a neck brace.

"They seem to be a new thing, and it is doing good out there. We picked up a patient who was wearing a neck brace when he came off his mountain bike at Orere Point last week."

The 14-year-old boy was seriously injured in a downhill mountain-biking accident while competing in Four Forty Mountain Bike Park's championship competition when he misjudged a jump.

He was taken to Auckland City Hospital with several compound fractures in his spine.

514. http://www.altadenapoint.com/2014/12/13/54647/mountain-biker-injured-in-saturday-morning-fall

Mountain biker injured in Saturday morning fall

Dec 13, 2014 01:56PM, Published by Timothy Rutt, Editor, Categories: Today, News, Outdoors, Public Safety

Video capture of rescuer lowered to injured mountain biker, Dec. 13 2014. Video by Deirdre De Rey.

A 43-year-old mountain bicyclist plunged into a 200-foot canyon along the Sam Merrill Trail Saturday morning, and was helicoptered to the hospital for injuries, according to the LA County Sheriffs and an eyewitness.

According to eyewitness Deirdre Del Rey, she was taking her usual hike in the area of Cobb Estate, south of the reservoir, when she saw the cyclist , who was going uphill on the Sam Merrill Trail, suddenly plunge down the hill.

His fall was so long that I had my cellphone out before he hit bottom, Del Rey said. He bounced like a rag doll, it was horrible. His bike was kind of impaled into the mountain in a perpendicular angle.

I saw him falling from one switchback to another. He was conscious the whole way. It was painful.

Del Rey said she called 911 and watched his companions make their way down to the canyon bottom.

The Crescenta Valley sheriff station watch commander said that they received the call about 9:52 AM Saturday (Dec. 13, 2014). Three sheriff units responded as well as the Altadena Mountain Rescue Team and an LA County Fire Department helicopter.

The biker, identified as 43-year-old man, was transported via helicopter to Huntington Memorial Hospital. His condition has not been released.

Del Rey took cellphone videos of the rescue, and said she was deeply affected by what she saw.

The message: respect the mountains, people, she said.

515. http://www.stuff.co.nz/national/64383377/tourist-seriously-hurt-in-mountainbike-crash

Tourist seriously hurt in mountain-bike crash

CHE BAKER
Last updated 11:35, December 22 2014

An English tourist is in a serious condition in hospital after a mountain biking crash near Queenstown.

Senior constable Chris Blackford, of Queenstown, said the 27-year-old man was airlifted from Lakes District Hospital to Dunedin Hospital yesterday after falling from his hired bike about 6pm near Moke Lake.

The man had been riding with a friend when the crash happened on a straight section on a gravel road.

The pair had been speed coasting downhill when the man fell.

No other details were available at this stage.

http://www.odt.co.nz/news/queenstown-lakes/327967/mountain-biker-seriously-hurt

Mountain biker seriously hurt

Mon, 22 Dec 2014
News: Queenstown Lakes
Fire volunteers take care of mountain bikes after a crash on Moke Lake Rd, near Queenstown, left an English tourist with life-threatening injuries. Photo by David Williams.
An English tourist was in a serious condition in Dunedin Hospital this morning after a mountain bike crash near Queenstown yesterday.

Constable Terry Wood, of Queenstown, said the 27-year-old man had life-threatening head injuries after he fell off his bike on Moke Lake Rd just before 6pm.

Const Wood did not know what caused the crash.

The man, who was biking with a friend, was wearing a helmet, he said.

The crash happened on a relatively straight, downhill section of gravel road.

The injured man was taken to Lakes District Hospital and transferred to Dunedin by the Otago Rescue Helicopter Trust helicopter.

516. http://www.oregonlive.com/portland/index.ssf/2014/12/fallen_tree_causes_portland_mo.html

Fallen tree causes Portland mountain bike racer to crash, fracture neck, $273,000 suit says

A lawsuit filed this week in Multnomah County Circuit Court claims that all but one large fallen tree was cleared from a Hood River mountain biking course in spring 2014. That tree caused Lisa Belair to crash and break her spine in four places, her suit states. (Stephanie Yao Long/File photo)

By Aimee Green | agreen@oregonian.com
on December 24, 2014 at 1:24 PM, updated December 24, 2014 at 2:25 PM

A Portland woman who was riding her mountain bike on a Hood River race course when she struck a fallen tree and broke her spine in four places filed a $273,000 lawsuit against the race organizers this week.

Lisa Belair had signed up for the Dog River Super D mountain biking race on May 3 in Hood River, according to the lawsuit filed Monday in Multnomah County Circuit Court. The race was organized by Fat Tire Farm in Northwest Portland and Hurricane Racing in Government Camp, according to the suit.

Days before the race, a storm had blown down trees along the course, but the events organizers assured riders on the races website that trail crews had cleared the trail, the suit claims.

Trail crews, however, had failed to remove one tree because it was too large -- and they instead covered it partially with dirt, according to the suit. That created a large jump that wasnt readily identifiable as Belair rode down the hill and onto it, said her Bend attorney, Tim Williams.

Williams said the course was designed to be a fast course, not one with large jumps.

Belair, who is in her 40s, was launched through the air. She crushed her C1 vertabra in her neck, and also suffered fractures to her T3, T5 and T7 vertebrae.

Shes able to walk, said Williams. Shes able to ride her bike. But she has a fair amount of pain, constant, and its not going away.

Fat Tire Farms owner, Park Chambers, declined to comment, citing the pending litigation. A representative from Hurricane Racing couldnt immediately be reached for comment.

The suit was filed just four days after the Oregon Supreme Court last week ruled that a Bend teenager who was paralyzed from the waist down at Mt. Bachelor when he crashed off a jump at a terrain park can go forward with his $21.5 million lawsuit against the ski resort. Thats even though he signed the resorts blanket liability waiver to get his season pass. The high court said such waivers were unconscionable.

Its unclear what effect -- if any -- last weeks Supreme Court ruling might have on Belairs case, but liability waivers are a common part of the required registration process for sporting events, especially off-road mountain biking events.

Belair seeks up to $23,307 for past and future medical bills, and lost wages. She also seeks up to $250,000 for pain and suffering.

-- Aimee Green

517. http://www.newsandstar.co.uk/news/mountain-biker-airlifted-to-hospital-following-forest-crash-1.1184210

Mountain biker airlifted to hospital following forest crash

Last updated at 09:25, Sunday, 04 January 2015

A man has been flown to hospital in Newcastle with serious injuries after a mountain bike accident in a Cumbrian forest.

The 35-year-old was riding in Whinlatter Forest near Keswick when the crash happened.

The man was reported to be going down a steep slope when he was thrown from his bike. He sustained serious leg and pelvic injuries.

Medics from the Great North Air Ambulance were scrambled to the scene along with paramedics from the North West Ambulance Service and volunteers from the Keswick Mountain Rescue Team.

Together they assessed the situation and the man was given strong pain relief before he was moved to the helicopter, which had landed behind the popular visitor centre.

Due to the nature of the man's injuries, it was decided to fly him to the Royal Victoria Infirmary, the region's major trauma centre.

The man was said to be in a stable condition on arrival at the Newcastle hospital.

The bike crash happened at around mid-day on Saturday.

518. http://kdvr.com/2015/01/04/finding-a-new-normal-after-an-accident/

Finding a new normal after an accident

Posted 9:55 pm, January 4, 2015, by Deborah Takahara, Updated at 09:56pm, January 4, 2015

DENVER The Colorado mountains attract people who love the outdoors. But when one Michigan man moved here last year, he was seriously injured in a mountain biking accident. It turns out, James Murtha could not have landed in a better place. He has been recovering and going through rehab at Craig Hospital. Craig Hospital is known around the world for helping patients recover from spinal cord injuries and traumatic brain injuries. They have treated more than 30,000 patients since 1956. We are honored to share some of their patients stories. Stories of Hope.

Outdoor enthusiast James Murthas new adventure started on October 5th, 2014, when he flew over the handlebars of his bike while riding near Aspen. He said, It all happened so fast. I went over the handlebars of my mountain bike and landed on my head. Right when the accident happened I had no feeling or control below the shoulders. He broke his cervical vertebrae at the 3rd, 4th and 5th levels, shattering one of them. But he didnt completely sever the spinal cord. Which gives him a little hope. Murtha said, My spinal cord still gets messages all the way down, so what theyre hoping is that over the next 6 months to 2 years, I could still keep improving, so theres a chance this arm could get stronger.

With the therapists at Craig Hospital, James works on getting stronger each day. In occupational therapy, he is learning how to use his good arm and his mouth to work a computer. He said, From where I started to where I am now, just to have that left arm back, just to be able to do some things for myself gives me a lot of relief and a little hope. Theyre hoping now that I have more feeling in my arm, I could start feeding myself, which were working on now and brush my teeth again.

A lot of what they focus on is re-learning how to do everyday tasks like getting into and out of a car safely from a wheelchair. And in James case, his mom learning how to help him get into the passenger seat from his wheelchair. Therapists and doctors believe family members are a critical part of a patients rehab. He mom, Kathleen Murtha said, One of the first things I said to him was we were not going to leave him alone. She said he is patient, determined and inspiring. Choking up, Kathleen said, Its a gift to be able to watch your child, now a man meet the challenge.. not back down.. never complain.. 447 Ive never heard him complained. Ive complained.. its been a gift to be able to be here.. watch from the rafter sometime.. let him fly.. literally when he takes off in that wheelchair.

The patients at Craig have a unique opportunity to experience things like SCUBA diving. James went for a dip and loved it, saying It was cool. It was nice to be able to float around in the water.. and be free again. His instructor, Carol Huserik said, They dont know if they can do it.. once they get in the water.. they say wow.. this is possible. This gives our patients the opportunity to get out of their wheelchairs and feel the freedom of the water.

James says he also feeds off the positive energy around him. And he has found comfort in being around patients with similar injuries. He has learned from them and they have given him hope. This once aspiring firefighter, still wants a career where he is helping others. And provide them with a little hope. Murtha said, I intend to keep doing some of the things I did before, helping people, but it will just be in different ways. Like the way I help people now is more from what I know than what I can do. Just one more step in HIS adventure.

For more information about the amazing work going on at Craig Hospital, visit their website: http://craighospital.org/

And for Team James information: https://www.facebook.com/teamJAMESmurtha

519. http://www.stuff.co.nz/southland-times/65159612/Surgery-after-mountain-bike-crash

Surgery after mountain bike crash

MARY-JO TOHILL
Last updated 12:12 18/01/2015

A 51-year-old Alexandra woman has undergone surgery after she was seriously injured in a mountain biking accident on the Bannockburn to Clyde back road yesterday.

Central Otago District Council planning and environment manager Louise van der Voort, of Earnscleugh, was airlifted to Dunedin Hospital about 11.45am with a head injury, broken jaw, facial lacerations and suspected damage to her back and ribs.

van der Voort and three other mountain bikers were riding from Cromwell on Hawksburn Rd when the incident occurred.

Another rider Kieran Tohill, of Alexandra, said they were riding downhill between Fish and Cairnmuir Creeks, about 10 kilometres from the Clyde Dam, when they struck a washed-out section.

van der Voort was flipped backwards off her bike, landing on her head and knocking her unconscious, he said.

Emergency services were called and a passerby was able to provide first aid.

Tohill's brother took medical staff to the scene after a section of track was impassable by ambulance.

van der Voort condition was considered serious but stable.

- The Southland Times

520. http://www.heraldsun.com.au/leader/north/yarraville-qantas-pilot-takes-on-7-peaks-challenge-to-help-sunbury-mountain-biker-left-paraplegic/story-fnglenug-1227189731211?nk=11bda118b3b728aad582de4280f65f9e

Yarraville Qantas pilot takes on 7 Peaks Challenge to help Sunbury mountain biker left paraplegic

by: Barry Kennedy
From: Sunbury Leader
January 20, 2015 12:00AM

Ben Ward is riding the seven peaks challenge to raise money for Michael Blyth, a mountain biker made a paraplegic 18 months ago. Picture: Dennis Manktelow Source: News Limited

QANTAS pilot Ben Ward is no stranger to great heights.

But this time hes swapped his wings for two wheels to tackle some of Victorias steepest roads to help a Sunbury man doing it tough.

Along with 500 other cyclists, Mr Ward is in the midst of the 7 Peaks Challenge, riding seven of the states major mountains.

Along the way he is collecting money to help 20-year-old Michael Blyth, who was left paraplegic following a mountain bike accident in May 2013 which was not covered by the TAC.

The Yarraville man learned of Mr Blyths condition in a radio interview and was keen to support him regaining his independence.

Hes now helping gather money to buy an off-road hand cycle, worth up to $20,000, which would allow Mr Blyth take to the tracks again.

The bikes are custom-built in the United States but Mr Blyth is not eligible for any support as it is considered a leisure item.

During his long rehabilitation, Mr Blyth has begun taking his wheelchair out on rolls around his home in recent months.

Last year, Mr Ward arranged for Mr Blyth to complete a two-week aviation course called Wheelies With Wings, which gave the fledgling music producer 18 hours in the air.

Mr Blyth said he was grateful for the experience.

It was a great experience on the first flight I was handed the controls at 4000 ft and I kept on learning from there, which included taking off and landing, he said.

Mr Ward has ridden four of the major peaks already but on February 15 he will join with the Domestique 7 Peaks Series for a group ride, with all proceeds going to Mr Blyth.

I heard about Michael and initially I arranged for some funds from the Forest Mountain Bike race to go towards him, Mr Ward said.

He is not covered by TAC or NDIS and as such the financial strain on the family has been enormous.

Im hoping the many Qantas workers in Sunbury and surrounds will be among those to help out.

Ever since Mr Blyths accident the Sunbury and Macedon Ranges community has rallied to help support him and his close knit family.

An extensive renovation of his family home continues after more than a year, which last week involved pouring concrete for ramps and paving around the house.

To learn more about Mr Wards fundraising campaign, click here.

More details at or visit michaelblyth.com.au

521. If the coaches can't even make the "sport" safe, why are we initiating children into this insane activity??? Children are too young to make a sound decision (not that the adult mountain bikers are any better)....

Mike

http://www.kitsapsun.com/news/local-news/bainbridge-mountain-bike-coach-dies_82678464

Bainbridge mountain bike coach dies

Tristan Baurick
2:48 PM, Feb 2, 2015

BAINBRIDGE ISLAND Bainbridge mountain bike coach Jay Abbott died on Thursday, four days after suffering crippling injuries during a training ride in Bainbridges Grand Forest Park.

A statement released by his wife, Darlene Kordonowy, noted that Abbott peacefully departed this world for uncharted trails at dusk while in the company of friends and family.

Abbott was the founder and head coach of the Gear Grinders middle school mountain bike team.

He fell during training ride with members of his team on Sunday. He appeared to have landed on his head or neck, causing severe damage to his spinal cord and cervical nerves. He appeared paralyzed in his arms and legs and remained unconscious and required a ventilator to breathe. Doctors at Harborview Medical Center in Seattle later determined that he had suffered brain damage and would not recover to move, swallow or breath on his own.

Abbott died surrounded by mementos from a life spent enjoying the outdoors.

His best oldest red jacket, with dog biscuits and riding glasses in the pocket, was tucked around him for the journey, Kordonowys statement read.

Abbott, a longtime Bainbridge resident, recently retired after a career with the Boeing company. He coached a youth sailing team and remained an avid skier and cyclist, even working as a part-time bike mechanic at a Bainbridge bike shop.

The Gear Grinders club has pledged to keep his 22-member team going.

In a post on an online memorial page, one of the young cyclists he coached promised to keep biking, with all the enthusiasm and fun I can.

No one will ever replace Jays amazing support on the team, she wrote. But we will keep on rolling.

Abbotts family plans to announce a celebration of Abbotts life soon. Visit caringbridge.org/visit/jayabbott for more information.

522. Blame those trees! On Mount Provost, Vancouver Island, British Columbia -- Mountain biking is so much fun!

North Shore Mountain Biking Forums (http://bb.nsmb.com/index.php)

- The Shore (http://bb.nsmb.com/forumdisplay.php?f=3)

- - Healing vibes Kperras! (http://bb.nsmb.com/showthread.php?t=161544)

Tmack

02-24-2015 11:42 PM

Healing vibes Kperras!

http://www.gofundme.com/n52a3k

Saw it on facebook so figured it's safe to post here.

------------------------------------------------------

Last weekend Ken did what he always does, went biking. Bright and shiney early, the lads packed up their bikes, caught the ferry and spent the day riding the trails on Provost. Unfortunately, on what ended up being the last run of the day, Ken crashed off of a jump and slammed into a tree, crushing the right side of his body.

Thankfully his brain, head, neck and spine are all sound, as well as his organs. Unluckily, however, he managed to break his bones. A lot of them. Ribs 2-11, his sternum, his transverse procesees, his right acetabulum and the neck of the femur on his left hip. In addition, he damaged his lung, and has blood and air in his lung tissues, making it difficult to breath.

On Sunday, Ken has surgery to pin his left hip back together. Today (Tuesday) they are re-x-raying his ribs to help determine if they also need plating. He is still in the ICU as they monitor his injuries, and will need to stay in the hospital for nearly 3 weeks.

When Ken will be released from the hospital, it will still be a long recovery, starting with being non weight-bearing for 6 weeks, followed by intensive physio. Needless to say, Ken will be off work for a while, which would put a financial strain on anyone's budget.

I'd like to fundraise some money to help cover the bills for the next month or so until Ken can return to work... It would be good for him to just have to focus on his recovery and not worry about the other responsibilities of life. Please donate what you can and share this others so we can all help support Ken together.

523. http://www.sport24.co.za/OtherSport/Cycling/South-Africa/Burry-Standers-dad-faces-long-road-to-recovery-20150227

South African Cycling
Burry Standers dad faces long road to recovery

2015-02-27 12:53

Burry Stander's dad injured in crash
Quintin van Jaarsveld

Cape Town - The family of late Olympic mountain biker Burry Stander are looking at the positives in the wake of Charles Standers devastating cycling accident at the weekend.

Charles, who was wearing a helmet, sustained four broken vertebrae two in his neck and two in his back and broke two front teeth when he hit a ditch covered by overgrown grass and was sent over his handlebars during an advanced group ride at the Burry Stander Bike Park in Umtentweni on Saturday.

The 62-year-old is recovering at Hibiscus Private Hospital, where he underwent successful neck and back surgery on Monday, and while they are fully aware of the long road to recovery that lies ahead for Charles, the Standers are grateful hes alive and didnt suffer any catastrophic or permanent injury.

It is a big setback for all of us and came as a big shock, but at the same time, we are extremely grateful that it is not worse, Charles wife Mandie told eHowzit.

Based on how severely the vertebrae in his neck were broken, Doctor Freek (Coetzee) said he could easily have died on impact, just like Burry.

He could also have been paralysed by the fractures in his back, so we are well aware of how fortunate Charles is.

We know its going to be a long road to recovery, but the fact that he is alive and not paralysed is a silver lining and something positive we can hold on to.

Mandie said her husband is still in a lot of pain.

Being in such pain, he is very much living in the moment and taking things day by day, so I dont think he is really thinking about what happened and his injuries too much from an emotional point of view.

Charles is on the mend and could be discharged this weekend, however, doctors will continue to monitor him closely before a final decision is made.

Charles crash has further compounded the Standers woes.

The culpable homicide trial of Njabulo Nyawose, the taxi driver involved in the accident that claimed Burrys live during the two-time Cape Epic winners training ride in Shelly Beach on January 3, 2013, still hasnt reached a conclusion.

The latest development in the trial heard in the Port Shepstone Magistrates Court earlier this month saw the defence, in a surprise change in strategy, ask to view video footage of the events leading up to the accident.

The defence had previously opposed the admissibility of the video because of its dubious origin.

The video was admitted as evidence and viewed, after which Magistrate Charmaine Barnard stated the star cyclist should have been visible to Nyawose, who had previously testified that his vision was obscured by a white Audi.

The trial was adjourned to March 24 for closing arguments.

It is difficult and you do feel overwhelmed at times, Mandie admitted, adding, We just try to stay strong in our faith in Godthe strength weve received from Him has kept us going.

Mandie added his accident wont discourage Charles, a provincial mountain biking champion, from cycling.

Cycling is Charles passion, its what he lives for. He has just completed a 700km race on the old Cape Epic route and came through it unscathed.

You cant stop living or live your life in fear, so Charles will definitely be back on his bike.

For the time being, the Standers as theyve done since Burrys fatal accident will remain as positive and as mentally strong as possible.

The fact that it (the accident) happened here on the South Coast and not in the Cape is a blessing in itself, she concluded.

524. http://www.runcornandwidnesworld.co.uk/news/11847017.VIDEO__Runcorn_cyclist_is_lucky_to_be_alive_after_mountain_bike_accident/

VIDEO: Runcorn cyclist is lucky to be alive after mountain bike accident

Mike Williams before the accident

Mike and his sister, Katie before the accident

Cyclist is lucky to be alive

First published 00:29 Wednesday 11 March 2015 in News
Last updated 03:25 Wednesday 11 March 2015 by Barbara Jordan, Chief Reporter

A RUNCORN cyclist is lucky to be alive after being thrown off his mountain bike.

It is almost a year since Mike Williams, aged 30, from Boston Avenue, was found lying unconscious in a woodland off Delph Lane in Daresbury.

He suffered a severe brain injury similar to racing car driver Michael Schumacher.

Mike is still in hospital and cannot walk or talk, but he is able to communicate with his family.

His sister, Katie Bacon, aged 32, from Castlefields wants to warn mountain bikers of the dangers.

She said: I just want them to know how dangerous thrill-seeking bike jumps can be.

We think Mike hit a stump and was thrown into a tree.

He was only found by chance at around 8.15pm on Easter Saturday, last year, when three young lads spotted his expensive bike against a tree.

They ran to the canal bank to seek help.

Fisherman Tony Field, aged 31, a roofer, said: I know first aid through work and cleared his airway.

Doctors feared Mike would not survive.

He was in a coma for six weeks.

Just as his life support machine was about to be switched off, a brain scan revealed he had suffered a stroke.

Weeks later, Kate remembers the moment he woke up. She said: It was out of this world, amazing.

He was able to squeeze my hand.

Using his fork lift truck driving skills, he can now move around in an electric wheelchair.

His sister and mum, Colette Robinson, aged 58, are now looking for a specialist nursing home to care for him.

Katie who has two daughters, Hayley, aged 13, and Caitlin, aged 3, said: Despite all his injuries, he has always got a smile for you.

He puts his arms out and gives you a big hug.

He is really excited and loves it when I bring the kids.

We want to thank all the medical staff at Walton and Clatterbridge.

We couldnt have got through this without them.

We also want to thank the people who found him, especially Tony who is an absolute hero for saving my brothers life.

525. http://www.stgeorgeutah.com/news/archive/2015/03/21/hrc-emergency-responders-rescue-injured-mountain-biker-on-zen-trail/#.VQ-GTZp0zIU

Emergency responders place an injured mountain biker in an ATV specialized for medical transport, St. George, Utah, March 21, 2015 | Photo courtesy of Washington County Search and Rescue, St. George News

Emergency responders rescue injured mountain biker on Zen Trail

Written by Holly Coombs on March 21, 2015 in News

ST. GEORGE Washington County Search and Rescue volunteers came to the aid of a mountain biker Saturday after the man wrecked his bike on the Zen Trail in the Green Valley area of St. George. The biker ultimately had to be transported to Dixie Regional Medical Center.

Emergency responders search for an injured mountain biker on the Zen Trail, St. George, Utah, March 21, 2015 | Photo courtesy of Washington County Search and Rescue, St. George News

Just before 1 p.m., the Washington County Search and Rescue team was called out to the Zen Trail, which is a mountain bike path, to rescue a man who had landed on his head after his front tire snagged and flipped, Washington County Sheriffs Deputy Darrell Cashin said.

A doctor from Salt Lake City and two Wilderness First Responders were passing by and were able to call for help as they assessed the situation and kept the man still, as he was complaining of numbness and tingling in his extremities, Cashin said. The man had been wearing a helmet, which split on impact.

Washington County Search and Rescue hike to find an injured mountain biker on the Zen Trail, St. George, Utah, March 21, 2015 | Photo courtesy of Washington County Search and Rescue, St. George News

The accident took place about a quarter-mile up the trail, so Mercy Air and Life Flight were called in to airlift the biker, but both were busy at the time of the incident, Cashin said.

Search and rescue volunteers, the St. George Fire Department and Washington County Sheriffs deputies were able to assist in getting the man to the Fire Departments six-wheel Polaris Ranger, recently donated by Firehouse Subs, and then transport him to a waiting Gold Cross Ambulance, which took him to the hospital.

Following the accident, Cashin said, he followed up at Dixie Regional Medical Center, where the man was being observed. The mans condition was still being monitored at the time of this publication.

Emergency responders place an injured mountain biker in an ATV specialized for medical transport, St. George, Utah, March 21, 2015 | Photo courtesy of Darren Imlay, St. George News

He was conscious and talking and still on the backboard, Cashin said.

It took emergency responders until about 3 p.m. to get the man out of the trail area and to the hospital. In the case of such an accident, Cashin said, people should call for help and be sure not to move the person.

You dont know the injuries they might have, he said. Keep them as still as possible.

This report is based on preliminary information provided by law enforcement or other emergency responders and may not contain the full scope of findings.

526. From: [a friend]
Subject: Doctor vs MTB
Date: Tue, 28 Apr 2015 13:49:58 -0700

MTB wins. Another doctor wastes his good life on mountain biking. It did not end well for him... but he is still alive. Lucky for him!
https://au.news.yahoo.com/thewest/a/27441131/nz-bike-fall-cripples-perth-eye-doctor/

NZ bike fall cripples Perth eye doctor

The West Australian
April 29, 2015, 2:50 am

NZ bike fall cripples Perth eye doctor - The West Australian

Andrew Stewart, with some of his buffaloes in the South West.

A prominent Perth eye surgeon has been left a quadriplegic after breaking his neck in a mountain biking accident in New Zealand.

Andrew Stewart, a past president of the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Ophthalmologists, is understood to have fallen off a bike last week while visiting Christchurch.

The 72-year-old had a fracture and compression to his spine which have left him paralysed from the waist down, although it is understood he has light movement and feeling in his fingers.

Shocked former colleagues said yesterday it was likely Dr Stewart would have to stay in hospital in New Zealand for several months before he could return to Perth.

RANZCO chief executive David Andrews sent out an email to members this week to describe the sad news about the colleges president in 2006 and 2007.

Andrews son advises that they are not yet sure of the long-term prognosis but are hopeful he will regain some movement, Dr Andrews said in the email.

Our best wishes for a recovery go to Andrew and his family.

Dr Stewart, who went to Christ Church Grammar School before studying medicine at the University of WA, specialised in cataract and glaucoma surgery during his career.

In his spare time, he has been a classical pianist and a keen pilot, and is a long-time member of the North Cottesloe Surf Life Saving Club.

He is also well-known in WA for his hobby, buffalo breeding.

Dr Stewart was one of the first breeders to import buffalo from the Northern Territory in the 1980s.

527. http://www.innisfailprovince.ca/article/20150428/INN0801/304289972/-1/inn0801

Learning to see risks

Vancouver's Kyle Gieni presents safety message

Tuesday, Apr 28, 2015 06:00 am

By: Tim Lasiuta
More Sharing Services
Kyle Gieni, wheelchair bound since 2003 speaks to students about five Smart Choices on Feb. 27.
Tim Lasiuta/MVP Staff

Jamie Seiyana

It was important for the school kids to get the message to make good risk decisions and live their lives to the fullest as safely as possible.

Wheelchair bound Kyle Gieni is lucky to be alive.

In 2003, the now 31-year-old Vancouver native wanted to go mountain biking in his backyard. Like any young boy, he jumped on his bike and pedalled away onto the dirt path behind his house.

I found a dirt pile and a way down a big hill, then turned and headed towards the bottom at full speed, said Gieni. My brakes failed and as I careened down, I slid, rolled and finally hit a stone at the bottom of the hill. A neighbour walking their dog found me 90 minutes later in a puddle of my own blood.

Gieni was told he had a 10 per cent chance of walking again, and he has since defied expectations, walking with an experimental exoskeletal brace system.

In the 11 years since his accident, Gieni has become a spokesperson for the Parachute and the SMARTRISK programs, and has been touring for them for four years.

I used to think I had to live with no regrets, said Gieni. I saw the hill, and down I went. I survived, while others who have made poor choices have not. Living life with no regrets does not mean you do not live, but rather living through choices that enrich your life.

Three videos accompanied the recent hour-long presentation in the Penhold Crossing Secondary School gymnasium that was filled with more than 200 high school students. Ex-NHLer Thoeren Fleury and federal Liberal Leader Justin Trudeau spoke on the importance of making good choices and living through poor ones.

Parchutes mantras of buckle up, look first, wear the gear, get trained and drive sober (or aware) were repeated and reinforced by Gieni and professional adrenalin junkies in the short videos.

I didnt wear the gear, or look at my bike first, said Gieni, who now has embraced his life in his wheelchair and participates in sledge hockey and floor ball around the world. I survived because I had my friends and family around me to support me. Many dont.

Gieni added he wanted to leave behind the tools for students to make good risk decisions and summarized it in one sentence.

Learn to see the risks, he said in the conclusion of his presentation.

Event organizer Jamie Seiyana was pleased with Gienis messages.

It was important for the school kids to get the message to make good risk decisions and live their lives to the fullest as safely as possible, said Seiyana, who added the program was made possible through a government grant from the Injury Prevention Centre.

For more information on the program visit www.parachutecanada.org.

528. From: [a friend]
Subject: Giraffe Kills MTBer in South Africa
Date: Tue, 28 Apr 2015 13:58:33 -0700

Mountain biking is an inherently dangerous sport for fools...
http://www.globalpost.com/article/6531399/2015/04/28/giraffe-reportedly-killed-cyclist-south-africa

A giraffe reportedly killed a cyclist in South Africa

MTB MadnessYouTube

JOHANNESBURG, South Africa Cyclists face many perils: Saddle sores, dangerous drivers. Only in South Africa, they also need to worry about giraffe attacks, apparently.

Yes, giraffes. Those strange-looking herbivores aren't known for attacking humans, but in sad news from South Africa, a man was reportedly killed by a giraffe while out biking on the grounds of a game lodge.

"He had gone cycling alone," Colonel Ronel Otto told local media. "He was allegedly attacked, or trampled, by a giraffe."

The full story isn't yet clear, with a post mortem underway Tuesday after 45-year-old Braam Bosse's body was found by guests at the Thabo Monate Game Lodge in Limpopo province, with his bicycle lying nearby.
This isn't the first time a giraffe has turned on a South African cyclist. In a 2013 incident caught on video, a giraffe chased two mountain bikers at the Groenkloof Nature Reserve near Pretoria, trampling one of their bicycles before letting up.
And we can't forget the viral video of a few years back, in which a GoPro camera captured the dramatic scene of a South African mountain biker getting T-boned by an antelope during a race.

It's worth remembering a line from the end of that video, a warning to all cyclists: "This is why you wear a helmet!"

529. http://www.scoop.co.nz/stories/GE1505/S00007/mountain-biker-flown-to-waikato-hospital.htm

Mountain Biker flown to Waikato Hospital

Sunday, 3 May 2015, 11:03 am
Press Release: Philips Search and Rescue Trust

Mountain Biker flown to Waikato Hospital

The Rotorua based BayTrust Rescue helicopter was dispatched to Owhango Primary School on Saturday afternoon, to retrieve a 56yr old male from Hamilton who fell from his mountain bike riding the 42nd Traverse. He sustained serious head and neck injuries and due to the remote location the helicopter was used to transport him quickly to specialist care. The on site medics transported the man to a place suitable for the helicopter to land.

530. http://www.voxy.co.nz/national/mountain-biker-airlifted-waihi/5/220410

Mountain biker airlifted from Waihi

Contributor:
Fuseworks Media
Tuesday, 5 May, 2015 - 15:46

Today at lunchtime the Tauranga based Trustpower TECT Rescue helicopter was dispatched to Waihi where a 28 year old local man had crashed off his mountain bike while riding in a nearby forest. He received lower leg fractures after his leg became entangled in his bike.

He was riding alone and was able to call for help using his cell phone, his leg was stabilised before he was flown to Hamilton for further treatment at Waikato hospital.

The helicopter was used because of the patient location and the serious nature of his leg injuries.

531. http://gazette.com/colorado-springs-mountain-biker-taken-to-hospital-after-hitting-pothole/article/1551104

Colorado Springs mountain biker taken to hospital after hitting pothole

By Lance Benzel Updated: May 6, 2015 at 12:20 pm 8

It was on the road to Starsmore Discovery Center that Anne Beach saw stars.

The 25-year veteran cyclist was coming down North Cheyenne Canyon Road on her mountain bike, dodging potholes, when she encountered one concealed by the shade. The last thing she remembers is going airborne somewhere before the North Cheyenne Ca񯮠Park visitors center.

image: http://cdn.csgazette.biz/cache/w300-3466ee5a9744886b4ce2391248881d80.jpg
+ captionVeteran cyclist Anne Beach was taken to the hospital after crashing her mountain bike on a pothole in Colorado Springs. Courtesy photo

"Out of the blue there it was, and I was in it, and it was a matter of what kind of condition I was going to be in when I came out of it," she recalled of the April 29 crash.

Turns out it wasn't pretty. Beach, of Colorado Springs, landed on her face and lost consciousness. A good Samaritan picked up her beloved Pivot Mach 4 and drove it to her house. Beach, who was wearing a helmet, was taken by medics to Memorial Hospital downtown, where she spent the rest of the day.

A photograph shows deep bruising to her face and a concussion left her dazed, an effect that's lingered nearly a week later.

"I had to cancel a trip to New York because I'm still feeling so disoriented," she said.

The crash is the latest example of trouble caused by the city's pothole problem, which has emerged as the chief political issue in Colorado Springs, topping polls of voter concerns and attracting plenty of notice during the city's mayoral campaign, with the two remaining candidates, Mary Lou Makepeace and John Suthers, pledging to devote more resources to fixing roads.

From January through April, city crews repaired 21,000 potholes, but thousands remain in a backlog expected to take years to address.

Whether the problem is fixed will depend on whether voters can approve some measure to provide infrastructure money, both mayoral candidates agree.

It's troubling for motorists, but for cyclists, it's a physical threat - one more obstacle to worry about on roads where bikes lanes are a relative rarity, Beach said.

"You have to be on constant lookout," she added. "I'm afraid to get back in the saddle, so to speak."

Read more at http://gazette.com/colorado-springs-mountain-biker-taken-to-hospital-after-hitting-pothole/article/1551104#hvk1vZ67IFFpv7MF.99

532. http://www.express.co.uk/news/uk/575395/Coroner-warning-speeding-cyclists-pensioner-death-25mph-collision

Coroner's warning to speeding cyclists after pensioner dies in 25mph collision

A CORONER has issued a warning to speeding cyclists after the death of a pensioner who was hit by a mountain biker doing 25mph in the rain on a dark country lane.

By Anil Dawar
PUBLISHED: 17:35, Wed, May 6, 2015 | UPDATED: 21:13, Wed, May 6, 2015

Cyclist Richard Eakins mowed down Gwyn Lloyd Jones

Gwyn Lloyd Jones suffered excruciatingly painful and ultimately fatal injuries including a fractured skull and broken ribs when he was knocked down by Richard Eakins.

The 67-year-old had spent the evening with his daughters family and was yards from his home when the accident happened last November.

Coroner Peter Brunton said the death could have been avoided if Mr Eakins, 25, had been riding at a reasonable speed for the conditions.

Speaking at Ceredigion Coroners Court in Aberystwyth, west Wales, Mr Brunton said: I have never encountered a case like this before.

"This case highlights the dangers of bikes riding at high speed.

Earlier the inquest heard how Mr Jones from Lampeter, Ceredigion, was walking home along at about 7.30pm when he was struck by the cycle shop worker from nearby Ciliau Aeron.

The narrow lane was just 10ft wide, had no footpaths and poor street lighting.

This case highlights the dangers of bikes riding at high speed

Peter Brunton, coroner

It was raining heavily on that dark winter evening, the inquest heard.

Mr Eakins, a keen mountain biker, had turned off his bar-mounted headlight but did have a headtorch that was fully working and very bright.

Mr Lloyd Jones, a widower, had just shared dinner with his daughter Cara Buswell, 35, and two young grandsons at her house a short distance away.

He suffered two fractures to his skull, severe chest injuries and 11 broken ribs in the crash and died four days later.

Paramedics had to keep Mr Jones in an ambulance outside Bronglais Hospital for almost an hour despite his injuries because the A&E department was full it was said.

Police do not have to be notified about collisions between bikes and pedestrians and it was not until three days after the accident that it was reported.

533. Yes, you remember right: this forest has had five such crashes in the last few years. Apparently, they never learn anything from this....

Mike

http://www.grough.co.uk/magazine/2015/05/10/mountain-biker-seriously-injured-in-high-speed-crash-in-whinlatter-forest

Mountain biker seriously injured in high-speed crash in Whinlatter Forest

John McHale, Reporter
Sunday 10 May 2015 07:48 PM GMT

The rider crashed on the Northern Loop of Whinlatter Forest

A mountain biker suffered serious injuries when he crashed at high speed on a Lake District track.

The 45-year-old rider was on the North Loop of Whinlatter Forest yesterday when he went over his handlebars.

He injured his ribs and also suffered possible spinal injuries when he came off his bike.

Keswick Mountain Rescue Team was called out at midday and responded immediately to the incident, with the teams doctor making straight for the scene.

A team spokesperson said: He was treated at the scene with analgesia and splinting, and then transferred to a road ambulance for transfer to West Cumberland Hospital.

The callout lasted 1 hours and involved 11 volunteer team members.

534. http://www.pasadenastarnews.com/general-news/20150518/mountain-biker-critically-injured-in-fall-in-angeles-national-forest

Mountain biker critically injured in fall in Angeles National Forest

Members of the Los Angeles County Sheriffs Departments Montrose Search & Rescue Team treat a bicyclist who suffered major injuries in a fall near Josephine Saddle in the Angeles National Forest north of La Canada Flintridge on Sunday. Courtesy of Montrose Search & Rescue Team

By Brian Day, San Gabriel Valley Tribune

Posted: 05/18/15, 12:26 AM PDT |
Members of the Los Angeles County Sheriffs Departments Montrose Search & Rescue Team treat and hospitalize a bicyclist who suffered major injuries in a fall near Josephine Saddle in the Angeles National Forest north of La Canada Flintridge on Sunday. Courtesy of Montrose Search & Rescue Team

ANGELES NATIONAL FOREST >> Rescuers rushed a mountain biker to a hospital in critical condition after he was found unconscious after taking a fall in the Angeles National Forest north of La Canada Flintridge Sunday afternoon, officials said.

Members of the Montrose Search and Rescue Team, along with a Los Angeles County Sheriffs Department helicopter, responded after an unconscious bicyclist was discovered about 50 feet over the side of the road near Josephine Saddle shortly after 2 p.m., sheriffs officials said.

An update on the cyclists condition was not available late Sunday.

535. http://www.stgeorgeutah.com/news/archive/2015/05/24/jek-chuckwalla-to-paradise-new-bench-memorializes-life-of-dr-paul-navar/#.VWKBS5rbLIU

Chuckwalla to Paradise: New bench memorializes life of Dr. Paul Navar; STGnews Videocast, Photo Gallery

Written by Joyce Kuzmanic on May 24, 2015 in Explore, Life, News - No comments

WASHINGTON COUNTY There sits a bench hewn of rock on the Paradise Rim of Washington Countys Red Cliffs Reserve that offers 360-degree vistas of Pine Valley Mountain, Snow Canyon, downtown St. George, and beyond to the prominent red and white bluffs of Zion National Park a bench set this Memorial Day weekend in remembrance of Dr. Paul Navar who died of a massive heart attack on that spot in 2009.

Bench in memorial to Dr. Paul Navar on Paradise Rim, where he died of a heart attack, inscribed with one of his life-mottos: Its about how long you live, its about how well you live. Red Cliffs National Recreation Area, Washington County, Utah, May 22, 2015 | Photo by Joyce Kuzmanic, St. George News

Paul Navar was 52, and he had stopped at the rim to rest from bike riding the Chuckwalla Trail, a favorite his family said he rode almost daily.

Its not about how long you live, its about how well you live.

Paul Navars life motto inscribed on the front of the bench reverberates a quiet but audible echo to his life well-lived. It is as if he is there, resting, reminding those who pause, It is OK. Live on. Live well.

Saturday, Paul Navars wife, Marsha Navar, two of their three children, Allison and Kirk Navar, and Grant Fines, who brought new love to Marsha Navar after a long time of lamentation, joined soon-to-be Eagle Scout Andy Day and his parents, Jay and Julie Day, at the bench to give it their blessing and to pause in remembrance.

L-R: Kirk Navar and Allison Navar, with mother Marsha Navar at memorial bench for their father, Paul Navar. Paradise Rim, Red Cliffs National Conservation Area, Washington County, Utah, May 23, 2015 | Photo by Sheldon Demke, St. George News

Thanks were full on the Navar side for the achievement of Andy Day in making the bench his Eagle Scout project, prevailing upon the Bureau of Land Management for approval to place it there approval for a monument the BLM had denied Marsha Navar in the aftermath of Paul Navars death six years ago.

Consideration was thoughtful on the Boy Scouts side for a project that, Andy Day said, had more meaning than many Eagle Scout projects offer. It gave him life lessons in leadership, he said.

It was an emotional respite at the overlook Saturday, but dignified and softly joyous.

Allison Navar was 20 when her dad died. She has since been through law school, passed the bar and is working with attorney Jeff McKenna in St. George. McKenna inquired how her father died, she said, and when she told him, he, being a mountain biker himself, offered the idea of a bench there in Paul Navars honor.

Jeff got in touch with our Eagle Scout, Andy Day; Andy got in touch with Alli; Alli put him in touch with me, Marsha Navar said, and, voilଠwe now have a bench.

L-R: Jacob Brostrom, Andy Day, James Day, Taylor Hill, of Boy Scout Troop 1827, transporting bench in memorial to Dr. Paul Navar, who died of a heart attack on Paradise Rim in February, 2009. Red Cliffs National Recreation Area, Washington County, Utah, May 22, 2015 | Photo courtesy of Julie Day, St. George News

From Chuckwalla Trailhead off state Route 18 in St. George to Paradise Rim overlooking Ivins run a series of interconnecting rock and red dirt trails; trails that usually see any combination of human feet, horse hooves and mountain bike wheels.

But Friday, about 2 miles of those trails Chuckwalla, Turtle Wall and Paradise Rim lent pathway to wheelbarrows as Boy Scout Troop 1827 pushed and guided the bench to its destination.

The seat alone weighs about 300 pounds, Jay Day said; add the legs, and the bench weighs about 400 pounds.

The bench, paid for by the Navar family, was set in place by the Scouts, and Saturday called for a return trip to complete the project, epoxying the seat to its foundation. Andy Day and family Marsha, Allison and Kirk Navar, Grant Fines and a few friends wound their way up and down the alternating dirt and rock paths again to visit the bench, offer reflections and give it their blessings.

Dr. Paul Navar, Virgin River Rim Trail, Washington County, Utah, 2008 | Photo courtesy of Marsha Navar, St. George News

The smooth but rugged bench embodies a life lived well, that of a man whose personal and professional pastimes were inseparable. Paul Navar was a healer, a protector and a leader.

He was the consummate outdoorsman, an expert climber, mountain biker, golfer, heli-skier, pilot and dirt biker, among other things. He loved his family. Paul and Marsha Navar met in high school in El Paso, Texas, married while he was in medical school, and primarily raised three children in St. George, where they moved in 1999.

The day he died was the eve of opening a new and larger space for Paul Navars medical practice. His career as a doctor started in the emergency room. He later opened an age management practice in St. George, which culminated in a bio-identical hormone replacement and overall wellness specialty.

We were opening a new, bigger office because his practice had grown so much, Marsha Navar said. People were coming to him from all over the country because he had written a very well-received article in Life Extension magazine. After the article, which came out in 07, we became crazy busy.

Dr. Paul Navar, Virgin River Rim Trail, Washington County, Utah, 2008 | Photo courtesy of Marsha Navar, St. George News

The Navars eldest son, Jon Paul Navar, then 24 and today a doctor himself, related at his fathers memorial service in 2009 how he once tried to trick his dad with a trivia question: Whose heart beats more: an elephant that lives for 10 years, or a mouse that lives for 3 weeks? His dad immediately knew the answer, Jon Paul said: They both beat the same number of times.

Jon Paul Navar continued:

The heart of a human who lives to 72 years of age will beat 2.6 billion times, but Im sure my fathers beat more than 3 billion times in his 52 years of life because of how much he enjoyed life.

Jon Paul Navar joined his mother for a visit to the bench on Paradise Rim Sunday.

Marsha Navar continues to care about health and wellness, as she did alongside Paul Navar. Two years after her husbands death, Marsha Navar met Grant Fines, and their relationship blossomed. Today, they own and operate Marshas Products, which prepares and sells raw food goods made from Marsha Navars personal recipes.

Ed. Note: Julie Day provided the following names associated with her sons Eagle Scout project: Boy Scout Troop 1827 is led by Shawn Jones, Brian Hill and Jay Day. Scouts and boys who helped with the bench memorial project include Taylor Truman, Brady Jones, Jacob Brostrom, Sam Slivers, Davis Miller, Andy Day, Jalin Towler, Taylor Hill, Hunter Mitchell, James Day, Thomas Day, Jan Day.

L-R: Marsha Navar, Dr. Jon Paul Navar, eldest son of Marsha and Paul Navar, visiting the Paul Navar memorial bench. Paradise Rim, Red Cliffs National Recreation Area, Washington County, Utah, May 23, 2015 | Photo courtesy of Marsha Navar, St. George News

Boy Scout Andy Day describes guiding his fellow Scouts through forks in the trails to get the Dr. Paul Navar memorial bench to Paradise Rim. Red Cliffs National Recreation Area, Washington County, Utah, May 23, 2015 | Photo by Sheldon Demke, St. George News

L-R: Jacob Brostrom, Andy Day, James Day, Taylor Hill, of Boy Scout Troop 1827, transporting bench in memorial to Dr. Paul Navar, who died of a heart attack on Paradise Rim in February, 2009. Red Cliffs National Recreation Area, Washington County, Utah, May 22, 2015 | Photo courtesy of Julie Day, St. George News

Dr. Paul Navar, Virgin River Rim Trail, Washington County, Utah, 2008 | Photo courtesy of Marsha Navar, St. George News

Boy Scout Troop 1827 with Scout Andy Day (front row, third from right) who led the troops as part of his Eagle Scout project placing a bench in memorial to Dr. Paul Navar, who died of a heart attack on Paradise Rim in February, 2009. Red Cliffs National Recreation Area, Washington County, Utah, May 22, 2015 | Photo courtesy of Julie Day, St. George News

Bench in memorial to Dr. Paul Navar on Paradise Rim, where he died of a heart attack, inscribed with one of his life-mottos: "It's not about how long you live, it's about how well you live." Red Cliffs National Recreation Area, Washington County, Utah, May 22, 2015 | Photo by Joyce Kuzmanic, St. George News

Dr. Paul Navar, Virgin River Rim Trail, Washington County, Utah, 2008 | Photo courtesy of Marsha Navar, St. George News

L-R: Paul Navar with son Jon Paul Navar, Kanarraville Falls, Utah, 2007 | Photo courtesy of Marsha Navar, St. George News

L-R: Kirk Navar and Allison Navar, with mother Marsha Navar at memorial bench for their father, Paul Navar. Paradise Rim, Red Cliffs National Recreation Area, Washington County, Utah, May 23, 2015 | Photo by Sheldon Demke, St. George News

Email: jkuzmanic@stgnews.com

Twitter: @JoyceKuzmanic

536. http://www.sunlive.co.nz/news/100861-bike-sale-to-help-mount-teen.html

Bike for sale to help Mount teen

Posted at 7:00am Monday 25 May, 2015 | By Hunter Wells hunter@thesun.co.nz

Young Samuel Lord won a flash new mountain bike worth the best part of $400, now he's promptly giving it away. Why?

For sale Samuel Lord is selling his prize bike to gift the proceeds to Elliot Keys.

Well, Samuel spotted the distinctive red nut of Elliott Keys across a sea of mountain bikes at the Mount Maunganui teenager's fundraiser in Tokoroa and he felt gutted'.

Elliott and I are about the same age and last year he was just like me.

Just like me' means tall, lean and athletic with a head for adventure, a head for taking risks on mountain bike forest tracks. What's different this year is Samuel has had a year of maturing he's back bigger and stronger.

Elliott was robbed of that opportunity. He went out and crashed and landed wrong, says Samuel. Now Elliott is wheelchair-bound.

I don't know him, never met him, says Samuel. But I saw him at the Tokoroa fundraiser he's in a wheelchair and can't do much. It's pretty sad.

So when Samuel won the spot prize, the 24in GT Aggressor, he was very excited with his win. But only briefly.

He had two options. The prize bike's too small for him so he could sell it and pocket the money. A 13-year-old could find lots to do with $300 or so. He chose option two.

Samuel demonstrated a maturity and caring beyond his years by posting his prize bike on TradeMe with a starting price of $200. It'll stay up for a week and hopefully sell.

Then Samuel will give the money to Elliott to go towards his $40,000 Mojo all terrain wheelchair. That machine will get Elliott back in business, back in the driver's seat doing what he loves most.

Samuel's mum Anita Lord is very proud of him.

It's a cool thing to do. As a member of the Tauranga Mountain Bike Club she's aware of the hazards. It makes me teary thinking about it it could easily have been my boy.

The Lords are now hoping some big-hearted person will appreciate the significance of the bike, not just it's value, and pay a good price for it a price befitting the generous spirit of a 13-year-old benefactor and his 15-year-old beneficiary.

Meanwhile, Samuel admits he's taking things easier on his Giant XTC Sunday delivered him a salutary lesson about the dangers of his sport.

And some statistics which stand testimony to the goodwill of Tokoroa. They predicted 80 to 100 mountain bikers would raise up to $2500.

In fact 278 bikers registered raised $7000 for Elliott a fellow mountain biker who lives 100km away. To bid on Samuel's bike, visit TradeMe.co.nz

537. http://www.newarkpostonline.com/news/article_d6af536f-6e78-5063-8510-cc2630adefd4.html

Paramedics, firefighters, helicopter rescue injured mountain biker

Bike accident

Firefighters and paramedics carry an injured mountain biker to a state police helicopter in White Clay Creek State Park.

Bike accident

Firefighters and paramedics treat an injured mountain biker in White Clay Creek State Park.

Posted: Friday, May 29, 2015 5:07 pm | Updated: 5:26 pm, Fri May 29, 2015.

Paramedics, firefighters, helicopter rescue injured mountain biker By Josh Shannon jshannon@chespub.com Newark Post

A 41-year-old man was injured Friday after falling off his mountain bike in White Clay Creek State Park.

The accident happened at 12:17 p.m. in the 100 block of Smith Mill Road in the eastern part of the park near Paper Mill Road, said Cpl. Abigail Haas, a spokeswoman for New Castle County Paramedics.

Friends of the biker alerted New Castle County Police K-9 units that were training nearby, according to a statement from Aetna Hose, Hook and Ladder Co.

Firefighters and paramedics rushed to the scene and treated the man for possible injuries to his arm, chest and back.

A Delaware State Police helicopter flew him to Christiana Hospital, where he was listed in serious condition.

538. http://atlantic.ctvnews.ca/n-s-rcmp-continue-to-investigate-biker-s-2014-disappearance-1.2397098

N.S. RCMP continue to investigate biker's 2014 disappearance

Marty Leger, 30, failed to return home from a mountain biking excursion in the Halifax area. (RCMP)

CTV Atlantic
Published Friday, May 29, 2015 10:39AM ADT

The RCMP continue to investigate the disappearance of a mountain biker who was reported missing in the Halifax area a year ago.

Marty Leger, 30, left his home to go biking in the Spider Lake area of Waverley on May 29, 2014. His family went out looking for him later that day when he failed to return home.

They found his vehicle at the end of Spider Lake Road and reported him missing that night.

Police officers, ground search and rescue crews, helicopters, as well as 250 soldiers, scoured about 65 square kilometres of dense woods and rough terrain in the days following Legers disappearance.

But they failed to locate Leger and the search was eventually called off.

At the time of his disappearance, Leger was described as roughly six feet tall, 260 pounds, with short hair, a beard and moustache.

Police are asking anyone cycling or hiking in the Spider Lake area to keep an eye out and report anything out of the ordinary.

Anyone with information on Legers disappearance is asked to contact police.

539. http://www.ocregister.com/articles/mountain-663745-ocfa-injured.html

Three mountain bikers injured on south county trails

May 31, 2015

Updated 7:31 p.m.
BY ALYSSA DURANTY / STAFF WRITER

Three mountain bikers were rescued by county fire authorities Sunday after injuring themselves on south Orange County cycling trails.

The first two incidents came in within 10 minutes of each other at Crystal Cove State Park in Laguna Beach.

Orange County Fire Authority and Crystal Cove State Park rangers responded at around 10:10 a.m. to aid a mountain biker who had minor injuries. The biker was taken from the park by rangers and received medical aid, OCFA Capt. Matt Levesque said.

About 10 minutes later, OCFA officials received another call for medical aid at the park after a second mountain biker crashed on a trail in an unrelated incident. The rider, a man in his 20s, was riding a bicycle too fast down a trail before crashing on his head, causing him to lose consciousness before OCFA rescue officials arrived. He was airlifted with traumatic injuries by an OCFA helicopter crew, which took him to Mission Hospital in Mission Viejo in less than five minutes, OCFA Capt. Steve Concialdi said.

These rescues happen often on the weekends, Concialdi said. (Bikers) go too fast down the trails and they often get hurt.

The OCFA rescue helicopter responded to a third bike crash at around 1 p.m. near Rock Garden in Aliso Viejo. A man in his 40s was speeding down the Rock-it Trail on a mountain bike before crashing, flying over his handlebars and landing on the dirt below, Concialdi said.

He landed hard on his hip, Concialdi said.

An OCFA helicopter landed at nearby Soka University at 1:45 p.m., but the man opted to have friends pick him up and take him to Mission Hospital.

He was more mild in status and he was not a trauma patient, so he had a choice of ground transportation or having a friend or family member drive him to the hospital and thats what he chose to do, Concialdi said.

540. http://www.stuff.co.nz/waikato-times/news/69007152/mountain-bikers-flown-to-hospital-after-two-separate-accidents

Mountain bikers flown to hospital after two separate accidents

Last updated 11:00, June 1 2015

Woman airlifted to Rotorua Hospital from Mangakino after she sustained injuries from a bike fall.

Two woman were flown to hospital on Sunday after two separate mountain bike accidents.

A 23-year-old woman fell from her bike at Tongariro Forest and sustained shoulder and neck injuries.

Taupo-based Greenlea Rescue helicopter transported the woman to Rotorua Hospital to receive further treatment.
Supplied

Helicopter dispatched to Tongariro Forest after a mountain biker fell from her bike.

Shortly after, the helicopter was dispatched to the Waikato cycleway near Mangakino after a 46-year-old woman fell from her bike.

She had to be lifted out using a sling and suffered shoulder, neck and rib injuries. The mountain biker was also flown to Rotorua Hospital.

541. [27 people were required, to rescue him? I hope he paid for all of them! Why should the public have to pay for these frivolous, extreme sports???

Mike]

http://www.thewestmorlandgazette.co.uk/news/13317815.Mountain_biker_found_unconscious_in_Lake_District_woods/

Mountain biker found unconscious in Lake District woods

First published 5 hours ago in News

A MOUNTAIN biker was airlifted to hospital after he was found unconscious in Lake District woodland.

Cockermouth Mountain Rescue Team was called out at 4.30pm today to Setmurthy Woods, between Bassenthwaite Lake and Cockermouth.

The rider was treated by team members, the teams doctor and paramedics.

He was then stretchered to a landing site where a Royal Navy Sea King helicopter took him on board and flew him to the Royal Victoria Hospital in Newcastle.

The rescue involved 27 volunteer members of the Cockermouth team.

542. http://www.squamishchief.com/lifestyles/risky-living-in-squamish-1.1966126

Risky living in Squamish

Protect yourself: Adventures on local trails can cost an arm or a leg

Jennifer Thuncher / Squamish Chief
June 11, 2015 10:26 AM

At first, Squamish downhill mountain bike racer Miranda Miller didnt know she had broken both her arms. As she got to her feet after crashing during the 2014 World Cup in Fort William, Scotland, Miller says she was instead frustrated that she was out of the race and concerned over a gash in her leg.

There was a lot of swearing and yelling because I was just so angry with myself for hurting myself so soon, she said, adding that the race was her first of the season after a December surgery to repair her arm that had been broken the summer before.

In Scotland, Miller had crashed near an ambulance so she was able to walk herself over to paramedics and was soon whisked to hospital, where the full extent of her injuries became clear.

Back home in Squamish, it was a tough recovery.

This time, it felt like it was all over and that my time was up, she said.

Without the use of her hands she was dependent on help, mostly from her mother, to do everything from eating to bathing and brushing her teeth.

A couple of surgeries later, Miller was fully into rehabilitation with various health professionals around town, including a massage therapist and hand specialist.

A year later, Miller is racing again. Last week she was back in Scotland for the 2015 World Cup.

Miller, 25, has a philosophical approach to injury and her sport.

No one likes getting injured, but I mean it is a possibility every time you go mountain biking, she said. It is also a possibility every time you walk across the street.

Millers is an extreme case of an elite athlete who endures injuries as part of her career, but injuries are common in the corridor, not only to racers.

Take a look around the local grocery store mid-summer or the coffee shop mid-winter, and chances are, you will see many people visibly nursing an injury from sports.

A commonly heard response to a Squamish injury isnt What did you do? but When are you able to get back on the bike/skis/board/rockface?

According to Susan Chapelle, a district councillor, massage therapist and owner of Squamish Integrated Health and a mountain biker the physical and financial cost of outdoor recreation in the corridor is underplayed.

She said during the 15 years she has had a clinic downtown, the type of injuries she sees have changed as outdoor recreation became more of Squamishs drawing card.

I used to treat chainsaw injuries, she said. In this community I went from treating repetitive strain injuries in logging and industry jobs to treating crazy orthopedic injuries from tourism.

She said fractures, dislocations and ligament injuries are the most common ailments she treats.

The largest group of clients are mountain bikers, followed by climbers, she said.

According to a Squamish Off-Road Cycling Association (SORCA) 2014 report, the number of mountain bikers on Squamish trails quadrupled from an estimated 591 riders per week during the 26 weeks of the regular mountain biking season in 2006 to an estimated 2,600 per week in 2014.

SORCA also estimates mountain biking injects more than $8 million into the local economy.

Chapelle, who treats and sponsors Miller, said she can relate to her clients.

I raced bikes, had a massive shoulder blowout. It took ages to recover, months in a sling. But like everyone else, I got back. I wanted to race, said Chapelle.

The injuries I see in the clinic are the same. Massive. Explosive. Life-changing for those not in our community, but a bump in the road for the warriors who live a life of sports and mountains.

Vancouver Coastal Health (VCH) does not keep track of the source of injuries in Squamish, according to a spokesperson, so it is unclear how much these injuries cost the health-care system.

Injuries go along with an active lifestyle and sports, said Dr. Bob McCormack, chief medical officer for the Canadian Olympic Team and a professor in the department of orthopedic surgery at UBC.

McCormack said the physical and mental benefits of being active outweigh most risks.

The risks increase if you pursue sports more seriously or choose inherently dangerous activities, he said.

Cycling is a great activity for people, and it is particularly a good activity for people who maybe have some knee problems and they want to get the muscles strong and get aerobic fitness, he said. If you add another level onto that, of terrain so mountain biking then you increase the risk of falls. If you do it at a very high end, professionally or competitively or even something like the terrain park at Whistler, it takes it up to a whole other level of injury risk and those become more traumatic injuries.

McCormack said some people dont wear the right equipment, which leads to injuries.

It is actually surprising to me when I get up there and I see people without armour, without helmets, without even glasses, and they are whipping through the bush, he said.

He said some young people have a gladiator mentality and that media can play in to that when recreational athletes see professional athletes who have been badly injured several times and still come back to compete.

That kind of, almost makes it sound like it is not a big deal, he said. It is just another operation.

Those injuries not only have a short-term cost, in terms of downtime and therapy and all those other things, with some injuries if you have major ligament injuries, if you have fractures you do increase the risk of getting premature degeneration in the joint, he said. So you want to kind of minimize the cost of the activity and still realize the benefit.

According to Dr. McCormack, one of the keys to staying injury-free is to cross-train and to use common sense.

There is mountain biking and then there is mountain biking. If you are going aerial at Mach 2, it is fairly predictable what is going to happen, eventually, he said.

Squamish physiotherapist Danielle Balik is an avid skier, mountain biker, mountaineer and, most recently, kiteboarder who pursued her career because of all the injuries she had endured due to sports.

What brought me to being a physiotherapist is being injured and going to a physio clinic and working through those injuries, she said.

Balik said more than 75 per cent of injuries are preventable.

Seeing a physiotherapist not only after you are injured but before to get assessed can help. If you have been out of your sport for a while or if you are starting a new activity, you can get screened at many of the physiotherapy clinics in Squamish, she said.

[Screening] is looking at any muscle weaknesses, imbalances, flexibility, just discussing any previous injuries or issues or ways to prevent that or to be mindful of what to watch for before things become a long-term issue, she said. Some physiotherapists in town also check proper technique by having the client perform their sport in the clinic. They can do bike fittings as well, which can include watching an athlete ride to ensure the bike is well suited to the riders body and technique.

As for Miller, she got a flat tire halfway through her qualifying run in Scotland so couldnt compete, but she will be off to another World Cup race in Austria this weekend.

543. From: [a friend]
Subject: MTB Psychology for you
Date: Tue, 16 Jun 2015 22:58:15 -0700

Because of mountain biking, this woman suffered a stroke at the age of 32, due to a bad crash "side effects" earlier. But, afterwards, she quit university to put her money into joining the BC Bike Race, last year and continues to mountain bike, knowing that a bad crash on her bike could end her "quality of life"... What is it about the addiction to a bike.

I biked all over the place for exercise, but I did not see the bike as anything but a means to enjoy some exercise, fresh air, etc. and get from one place to another. The way everyone talks about the bike these days, you would think it could take a person to the moon or something. It is just a bike! It is all so juvenile. People are all so serious about it and I never see anyone smiling when they ride their racing road bikes or mountain bikes. They are dead serious. That can't be much fun.

http://womensfreeridemovement.org/member-spotlight/siobhan-fox/

"I didnt really cope well with it well. The whole time I was off the bike it was unknown if I would be able to ride again or not. For people that dont know, one of the main arteries leading to my brain was torn and a clot formed there causing a small stroke. While I was healing, one of the possibilities was that the clot would heal inside the artery, which would have made riding quite dangerous. Luckily, the artery healed perfectly and I was given the ok to ride again. That said, the time off the bike was hard because of all the unknowns. Also, the tear and the medication I was on left me feeling quite poor so exercise was hard. Basically, I cheated and rode a road bike sometimes and tried to just be content with a slower pace of life. I think I went on a lot of mellow hikes too, just to get some time in the forest. My house also ended up being way tidier than usual J

When I started riding again, my doctor said no crashing because it is believed that certain neck trauma could cause the artery to re-tear. As we all know, crashing is a part of the sport, so despite some extra fear, which I could live without, I just try to put that out of my head. We all know riding scared is more dangerous. The first time I did crash, I quite worried, but over the course of the year, Ive gotten over it. There are risks in life and in the end it comes down to a choice about quality of life."

544. http://www.ocregister.com/articles/helicopter-666489-medic-ocfa.html

OCFA helicopter rescues injured mountain biker

June 14, 2015

Updated 5:19 p.m.
BY JORDAN GRAHAM / STAFF WRITER

RANCHO SANTA MARGARITA An Orange County Fire Authority helicopter crew rescued a 50-year-old cyclist from the mountainous and wooded Cleveland National Forest Sunday afternoon, after the man was injured in a downhill crash.

The cyclist was riding downhill at a high speed on the San Juan Trail, five miles east of Rancho Santa Magarita, when he spilled from his mountain bike and slammed into the ground, injuring his hip and chest, said OCFA spokesman Steve Concialdi. The mans friend called 911 at 2:30 p.m., and the OCFA helicopter flew the length of the trail until it located the cyclists at mile marker 6.

While OCFA and U.S. Forest Service firefighters began the six-mile hike from the trails base, the helicopter lowered a medic to help the injured man. The medic determined the man was a trauma patient and needed to be flown immediately to Mission Hospital in nearby Mission Viejo. The man and medic were hoisted into the chopper, which then flew to the trauma center.

Only three months ago, this type of rescue would not have been possible. But under a new six-month pilot program that began March 20, the agency boasts increased air support, including a helicopter paramedic on weekends, at an annual cost of $1.5 million.

This helicopter was worth its weight in gold, because this patient would have been waiting in pain for help if the helicopter hadnt been able to lower the medic down to the patient, Concialdi said. (These types of cyclist rescues) happen every weekend, and sometimes multiple times.

545. http://www.nbcmontana.com/news/bozeman-mountain-biker-survives-moose-attack/33535614

Bozeman mountain biker survives moose attack

GALLATIN COUNTY

By Elizabeth George, Reporter, egeorge@ktvm.com
POSTED: 5:50 PM Jun 11 2015 UPDATED: 6:30 PM Jun 11 2015

Bozeman mountain biker survives moose attack
BOZEMAN, Mont. -

A Bozeman mountain biker is recovering after an unlikely encounter with a moose.

Brian Steddum was riding his bike on Bozeman Creek Trail when he turned a corner and came face to face with a female moose and her calf.

"I knew at the time that there was really no escape," he said.

Steddum says the moose was barely 50 feet away. He said, "I slammed on my brakes trying to figure out where can I go."

He says the moose turned and nudged her calf to go into the woods. She then looked at Steddum, lowered her head and charged.

"I yelled at her and said, 'No, don't you do it,' but I figured, if I'm going to get hurt, I'm going to get hurt fighting," Steddum said.

As the moose got closer, he jolted to the left. The moose turned her head to hit Steddum, but he hit back.

"My protection that I had on was a bike helmet, so I hit her right in the nose," he said.

Steddum says he was no match for the 1,500-pound moose.

He said, "She knocked me off my bike and somehow broke my forearm. Then she stepped on my hip."

He said the moose then ran away and he rode down the mountain with a broken arm. After reaching the trailhead and assessing his injuries, he contacted Fish, Wildlife and Parks.

Officials put up a warning sign at the trailhead.

Steddum will be in his cast for about eight weeks. After that, he plans on hitting the trail once again.

"You go mountain biking to go have fun and earn the downhill. When you earn the downhill you go fast. That's one I'll do again," he said.

He said he won't do anything differently next time, but admits he wouldn't want to come up against a moose again.

"I feel like I'm very lucky," he said.

Steddum, who served in the Army for six years, says the moose is responsible for his first broken bone.

546. http://loudwire.com/pierce-the-veil-tony-perry-miss-start-of-warped-tour-mountain-bike-accident/

Pierce the Veil Guitarist Tony Perry to Miss Start of Warped Tour After Mountain Bike Accident

By Chad Childers June 17, 2015 11:21 AM

Pierce the Veil will be short a man as they kick off their summer on the Vans Warped Tour later this week. Guitarist Tony Perry recently was hospitalized for a pretty serious mountain biking accident which resulted in multiple injuries and hell miss at least the beginning of the bands Vans Warped Tour dates.

Pierce the Veil frontman Vic Fuentes checked in online with an update revealing the scary extent of Perrys injuries, but also revealed that the guitarist has been released from the hospital and is now recovering at home. Check out Fuentes post on Perry below:

Hey everyone, its Vic. Im sad to say that I have some bad news for you. Our guitar player @tonyperry was recently hospitalized for an incident while riding his mountain bike last weekend. He sustained 3 broken ribs, a torn shoulder, collapsed lung and a broken sternum, for which he needed immediate surgery to repair. Fortunately, his surgery went very well, and he is expected to make a full recovery. He was released from the hospital yesterday, but due to doctors orders, he will not be joining us for the beginning of Warped Tour until he is healthy enough to play. We will still be carrying on with the tour as planned, and we hope to see @tonyperry back on stage with us very soon. Your fan support is greatly appreciated, so be sure to send Tony some love while hes healing up! Thanks and well see you all on Warped!

The band did not reveal who will be filling in for Perry during his absence, but they appear to be ready to proceed without him. The Vans Warped Tour kicks off this Friday (June 19) in Pomona, Calif. Dates run through Aug. 8 in Auburn, Wash., after which the band will head off to the U.K. for a handful of August performances. See all of Pierce the Veils dates here.

Pierce the Veil are reportedly eyeing a new album release this year, but at present, you can find them on the Vans Warped Tour compilation. The group placed their song A Match Into Water on the disc. The double-disc set features 50 tracks, including cuts from Black Veil Brides, Memphis May Fire, We Came as Romans, Blessthefall and many more. Pierce the Veils Vic Fuentes is featured on the cover. Its currently available here.

Read More: Pierce the Veil's Tony Perry Suffers Mountain Biking Injuries | http://loudwire.com/pierce-the-veil-tony-perry-miss-start-of-warped-tour-mountain-bike-accident/?trackback=tsmclip

547. http://www.independent.ie/regionals/wicklowpeople/news/mountain-biker-breaks-collar-bone-in-fall-31307536.html

Mountain biker breaks collar bone in fall

Published 20/06/2015 | 00:00

A mountain biker who fell and sustained a suspected broken collar bone had to be assisted off Three Rock Mountain in Dublin.

At 4 p.m. on Friday, the Gardai contacted both the Glen of Imaal Red Cross Mountain Rescue Team and the Dublin/Wicklow Mountain Rescue Team and made them aware of an injured male aged 38.

While Mountain Rescue personnel were making their way to Three Rock to locate the casualty, a HSE ambulance was also dispatched to help with his evacuation.

Communications in the area can often prove difficult but Mountain Rescue members were soon able to locate the man just has he was being assisted down a larger track by a friend.

The injured biker was treated and then transported a short distance to the waiting ambulance.

He was then transported to hospital for further treatment.

A quick response and the proximity of the accident scene to tracks meant the incident was stood down in under an hour.

Mountain Rescue would like to thank all the agencies involved, including the HSE Ambulance service.

It was the 25th call-out of the year that the two Mountain Rescue teams have been involved in.

548. http://www.thenorthernecho.co.uk/news/13350791.Teenager_airlifted_to_hospital_after_falling_from_mountain_bike_in_Hamsterley_Forest/

Teenager airlifted to hospital after falling from mountain bike in Hamsterley Forest

RESCUE: The 17-year-old was taken to the James Cook Hospital after injuring his ankle in Hamsterley Forest

06:09 Wednesday 24 June 2015 / News

A TEENAGER was airlifted to hospital after coming off his mountain bike on a popular trail last night (Tuesday, June 23).

The 17-year-old badly injured his ankle after the fall in Hamsterley Forest, County Durham, at about 6.30pm.

Members of the Teesdale and Weardale Search and Mountain Rescue Team and the North East Ambulance Service evacuated the youngster.

Pete Bell, Mountain Rescue Team Leader, said: "We were called out around 6.30pm to assist local paramedics with a mountain biker who had come of his bike on a forest trail approximately 10 minutes from the nearest road.

The 17-year old-biker from the Stockton area had badly injured his ankle.

Six of our team members attended with one of our vehicles.
Share article

The casualty was loaded onto our stretcher and with the assistance of the casualtys father and a friend, was carried to a waiting ambulance.

During the carry out, the Great North Air Ambulance became available and the casualty was transferred to the helicopter and taken to James Cook Hospital.

549. http://www.summitdaily.com/news/16973994-113/big-fat-tire-safety-first-in-the-dangerous

Big Fat Tire: Safety first in the dangerous world of mountain biking

Photo Sebastian Foltz / sfoltz@summitdaily.com |

For over 20 years the Summit Fat Tire Society has been taking care of trails in Summit County and Mike Zobbe(pictured) has been there since the beginning. Why? "Cause I like mountain biking. It's totally selfish."

Back when I used to run the Fall Classic stage race, I would always be thinking of what could go wrong.

Putting on any event, large or small, is a dance with Murphys Law anything that can go wrong, will. As a promoter, you do everything you can to deny Murphy a toehold. A serious medical emergency was always one of my greatest fears. The logistics of getting to someone quickly who needs help quickly is simply an inherent logistical problem in any backcountry activity. No matter how well you plan, its still the backcountry, and it still takes a while to figure out what the problem is, where it is, who needs to get there and how they can get there.

When I heard the news that a competitor in the Summit Mountain Challenge had died, at first, I didnt know any details on who or how. I know mountain biking can be dangerous. Serious injuries or death is rare, but not unheard of. I prayed it wasnt someone I know, but, really, that doesnt matter. Whoever it was, they are someone with people who loved them.

I didnt know Glen Peoples, but the photos Ive seen show a man smiling, enjoying riding his bike and pushing himself as an athlete. I can only imagine the shock and grief his family must have felt when they understood what had happened. I can only hope that time will heal the wounds that losing Glen has inflicted on them.

I also feel for Jeff Westcott and the Mav Sports crew. Jeff and company are a tight-knit bunch. They have a passion for mountain bike racing that shows through with the events they put on, events that arent just competitions but a celebration of community and friends. These folks treat all the competitors with respect when you line up, you become a friend. Jeff and Mav put on top-notch, professionally-run races, and I know everything that could have been done was. I have a lot of respect for all these folks, and I wish the same healing for them as I wish for Glens family and friends.

ER via Bakers Tank

Glens passing got me thinking about the dangers of mountain biking. Ive been participating in this sport for more than 30 years, and Ive injured myself badly enough to visit the emergency room twice.

Once was a case of my ego getting the best of me. At the top of the Bakers Tank Trail, a young gun asked me if I minded if he went ahead because he wanted to go fast. This challenge to my manhood would not go unmet, and I took off in the lead and we proceeded to ride in a manner that contradicts all my soapbox preaching about riding in control at all times. I caught a pedal and was high-sided off my bike face first into a log on the side of the trail, which resulted in my nose being half torn off. Luckily, one of the female companions in our group was carrying a feminine product she applied to my face, and I was able to ride down, through town and to my car for a drive to the ER, where my friend Deb stitched me up. Bottom line: Dont let your ego overpower your sense of self preservation.

The other time was also on Bakers Tank. Now, I dont think Bakers Tank is more inherently dangerous than any other trail, but it does seem to have my number. This time, I was by myself and, once again, caught a pedal, high-sided shoulder first onto a boulder. Thankfully, this crash didnt require any feminine hygiene products, but I did have to ride down the rest of the trail and down to my home, so I could immediately drive to the ER. The verdict was a torn rotator cuff, which required many hours of physical therapy. Bottom line: Dont get too complacent on trails you are very familiar with.

Prepare for the unknown

Since this column is supposed to be at least somewhat about useful tips, I suppose I should give some safety advice. Since that day when nobody had anything but a tampon, I have carried a small first aid kit. It contains a few 4-by-4 gauze pads, some medical tape, a few antiseptic wipes, an irrigation syringe, some antibiotic gel, a few bandages of various sizes and exam gloves. It all fits into a Ziploc bag and lives in my Camelbak at all times. Its also a good idea to have at least basic first-aid training.

I also carry a lighter and a couple sticks of fire-starter, as well as a whistle. Here in the High Country, I almost always carry a rain jacket, arm and leg warmers and long-finger gloves. Getting caught in a rainstorm out here can lead to hypothermia if youre not prepared.

Of course, most of us carry a cell phone. The problem with over-relying on phones is that not everywhere has cell coverage, so dont get cell-phone courage in the backcountry no matter what activity you participate in. Calling in an emergency wont do you much good if you dont know where you are. Its a good idea to carry a map and keep track of your surroundings if youre in an unfamiliar area.

Yes, mountain biking can be a fairly high-risk endeavor. You dont have to be all agro and extreme to get hurt. Most of the time, we lose a little skin or bruise ourselves, then pick ourselves up and finish the ride, but its a good idea to carry some basic first-aid supplies and keep some sort of plan in the back of our minds in case things really go wrong.

Otherwise, you could find yourself riding down busy Main Street with a tampon stuck to your face.

Mike Zobbe is the president of the Summit County Fat Tire Society.

550. http://www.ocregister.com/articles/concialdi-668764-paramedics-mountain.html

Man dies while mountain biking in Laguna Coast Wilderness Park; cause, identification pending

June 25, 2015

Updated 11:52 p.m.
BY SCOTT SCHWEBKE / STAFF WRITER

LAGUNA BEACH A man in his 50s died while mountain biking Thursday in Laguna Coast Wilderness Park, authorities said.

At 10:08 a.m., the Orange County Fire Authority was notified that a man had suffered a medical emergency while riding with several other bicyclists on the Balmer Ridge and Willow Canyon trails, said Capt. Steve Concialdi.

Several bystanders and OCFA firefighter/paramedics, who arrived by ambulance and helicopter, began advanced life support but the man didnt survive.

Unfortunately, OCFA firefighter/paramedics had to pronounce the patient dead at the scene, Concialdi said.

The cause of the death remains under investigation.

Contact the writer: 714-796-7767 sschwebke@ocregister.com Twitter @thechalkoutline

551. http://www.northshorerescue.com/2015/07/12/critical-medical-rescue-knee-knacker-race-coverage/

Critical Medical Rescue & Knee Knacker Race Coverage

By Curtis Jones

On July 12, 2015

Posted In Helicopter External Transport System, Talon Helicopters

Saturday July 11, NSR members spent the day assisting with medical coverage of the Knee Knacker race on the North Shore. Members provided medical coverage and assistance on the sweep, as well as advanced medical care response teams which move with the race from Nelson Creek in West Vancouver to Deep Cove in North Vancouver. This is an annual event and is a long standing relationship between the Knee Knacker and North Shore Rescue.

This years race was shaping up to be a hot one, with smoke in the air and soaring temperatures. On Saturday, however, the weather turned out to be optimal for racing with colder temps and even a little rain. The sweep teams and medical response units luckily were only needed to cheer on the racers as there were no significant injuries or rescues which resulted from the race! Amazing efforts by all the racers and great work by the many volunteers which pulled off this epic annual race!

While stationed at Rice Lake for the race, NSR’s advanced medical and helicopter rescue team were alerted to an injured mountain biker nearby on the Cambodia trail near Mystery Creek. One of NSR’s doctors was able to make contact with paramedics and ascertain that the patient was in serious condition. Working with BCAS paramedics, District North Vancouver Firefighters and Metro Vancouver staff, the NSR doctor (an experienced emergency room physician) and a NSR paramedic responded to the scene. At the scene a detailed medical examination revealed serious internal injuries with deteriorating vital signs. Painting the picture, NSR’s doctor made it immediately clear that the patient was unstable and would require aerial extraction.

In consultation with the fire chief, NSR helicopter rescue technicians were activated and rapidly deployed the helicopter rescue system with Talon Helicopters. All personnel on-scene, with the understanding that the patient was extremely unstable and would likely not survive a land based extraction, worked professionally and collaboratively to ensure the patient was ready for aerial extraction. Shortly after, a NSR HETS technician was lowered to the scene on a 200 foot longline, into tall timber, where the patient was packaged into our aerial rescue platform and brought out to waiting BCAS advanced life support paramedics at our helicopter base.

This patient went from on-scene care, to advanced paramedic care, to the emergency room, to the operating room in a very short span of time due to the amazing work of all responding agencies and the care from Lions Gate Hospital staff. Without this chain of paid and volunteer professionals, this patient’s outcome would likely have been tragic.

552. http://www.topix.com/forum/ca/north-vancouver/TH6TTGO6FL03E0DAI

North Shore Rescue airlifts mountain biker with ruptured spleen

North Shore News

A North Vancouver mountain biker is alive thanks to a co-ordinated rescue effort from multiple forest responder agencies Saturday. The 35-year-old man took a nasty fall while riding on the Mount Seymour trail Cambodia just after 12:30 p.m. Saturday.

553. http://www.ocregister.com/articles/trail-672478-park-niguel.html

Bicylist found aside trail at Laguna Niguel park, airlifted to hospital

July 19, 2015

Updated 3:33 p.m.
BY ERIKA I. RITCHIE / STAFF WRITER

LAGUNA NIGUEL A mountain biker found lying at the side of a steep trail in Aliso and Wood Canyons Wilderness Park on Sunday was being airlifted to Mission Hospital in Mission Viejo, fire officials said.

The bicylist between 30 to 40 years old was found at around 9 a.m. by a group of mountain bikers. He was semiconscious on the side of Rock-it Trail, said Orange County Fire Authority Capt. Steve Concialdi.

Paramedics could not initially determine the cause of his fall, Concialdi said.

It is also unclear if he was part of a pro-race event planned in the Laguna Niguel park Sunday.

The pro/expert field of racers were set to go up and down some of the most legendary trails in the park including Rock-It. The route included going up Meadows Trail and down Mentally Sensitive, then up Mathis Canyon Trail and down Rock-it to Coyote Run. The race was set to start on a trail unknown to many, the Aliso Creek East trail, directly across the street from Laguna Niguel Regional Park at the bike crossing on Alicia Parkway. Those trails were closed for the race from 7 until 10:30 a.m.

Concialdi cautioned mountain bikers to ride with a buddy, carry water and have a charged cell phone.

It is unknown how long he was lying there, Concialdi said. If there had been someone with him, they could have called for help quicker.

Contact the writer: 714-796-2254 or eritchie@ocregister.comn or Twitter:@lagunaini

554. http://www.livescience.com/51636-biking-injury-neck-branch.html

Branch Impales Cyclist's Neck After Mishap and He Survives

by Rachael Rettner, Senior Writer | July 22, 2015 03:06pm ET

A tree branch impaled a man's neck when he fell off his mountain bike. Above, a CT scan of the patient's neck, and an image of the patient before the branch was removed.
Credit: The New England Journal of Medicine 2015.

A mountain biker in New Mexico was lucky not to sustain a serious injury after he fell off his bike and had a tree branch penetrate his neck, his doctors say.

The 40-year-old man was biking off-road when he fell, and his neck was impaled by the branch. The man didn't attempt to remove the branch, but instead drove 20 miles (32 kilometers) to a hospital, said Dr. Lev Deriy, an assistant professor and anesthesiologist at the University of New Mexico, who treated the patient.

Once at the hospital, a CT scan showed the branch extended about 0.6 inches (1.6 centimeters) into his neck. [12 Amazing Images in Medicine]

The branch could have caused a serious injury if it had damaged a major blood vessel, nerve or the patient's airway, Deriy said. But the CT scan showed no major injury.

"The neck contains a lot of very important, vital structures," Deriy told Live Science. The man was "lucky not to damage anything."

The man was also prudent not to try to remove the branch himself, which could have caused additional injury or increased bleeding, Deriy said.

"If you have something like that happen, its a good idea not to touch [the] foreign body," Deriy said. Instead, you should get to a hospital as soon as possible.

Surgeons removed the branch from the man's neck and closed the wound. The man was released from the hospital and has not experienced any complications from his injury, Deriy said.

555. http://www.bbc.com/news/uk-england-berkshire-33669582

Mountain biker dies in Swinley Forest
8 hours ago
From the section Berkshire

The cyclist died in an incident near the Discovery Centre at Swinley Forest

A male cyclist died at a popular mountain biking area in Berkshire.

South Central Ambulance Service and South East Coast Ambulance sent out land and air crews to an area near the Discovery Centre at Swinley Forest, Crowthorne at 15:57 BST on Saturday.

Crews were responding to reports that a man had come off his mountain bike. The cyclist died at the scene.

The man's death is not being treated as suspicious. His name has not yet been released.

[Whoever invented, promoted, manufactured, or sold the mountain bike should be held responsible for this senseless waste!

Mike]

http://www.mirror.co.uk/news/uk-news/retired-iraq-veteran-dies-after-6153927

Retired Iraq veteran dies after crashing on a mountain bike ride near his home

17:04, 28 July 2015
By Annabel Howard

Mark Kingston survived two tours of duty in the Middle East but suffered a fatal heart attack after cycling into a tree on a local forest trail

INS News Agency
Well respected: Mr Kingston served as a Company Sergeant Major

A retired Company Sergeant Major who survived two tours of duty in Iraq has died after crashing his mountain bike into a tree.

Paramedics and an air ambulance crew spent two hours on Saturday trying to revive father-of-two Mark Kingston, 50, but he suffered a fatal cardiac arrest.

He was riding on a forest adventure trail at the Look Out Discovery Centre near his home in Bracknell, Berks, when the accident happened.

The keen cyclist had used the 24-kilometre cycle network through the forest several times before the tragedy.

Police said they were investigating the "unexplained" death on behalf of the Berkshire coroner but there were no suspicious circumstances.

Mr Kingston left the British Army as a Company Sergeant Major in 2007 after 22 years, having fought in Iraq in 2003 and 2006.

His widow Anna said: "He was incredibly fit. When you think of someone like that who has been a soldier, you think that if something like a cycling accident happens, he will be fine."

INS News Agency
Family man: Mr Kingston leaves a widow and two grown children

Mr Kingston left his home in Aysgarth, Bracknell, at about 2pm and emergency services contacted his wife at about 4.45pm to report his accident.

Mrs Kingston, 46, added: "When he went to war I would become a news junkie and always ready for it if something happened.

"You are almost ready for it. You are prepared but when you get a knock on the door because of a bicycle accident you are not prepared.

"It is sort of your life as an Army wife thinking that it could happen but as a civilian wife, you don't think he's going to go on a bike ride in Swinley Forest and not come home."

Mr Kingston was born in East Plumstead, south-east London, and joined the Third Battalion Queen's regiment in 1985 before transferring to the Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineers. He received medals for long service and good conduct.

He met his wife of 25 years while serving in Northern Ireland. They had two children, Matthew, 21, and Courtney, 18.

She added: "He was greatly respected. He had been awarded for good service and had received a good conduct medal.

"He was out mountain biking and some riders found him. They heard the crash.

INS News Agency
Tragic: Paramedics spent two hours trying to save Mr Kingston on the forest trail

"A policeman used his phone to call me to say that he had had an accident and he was unconscious. The paramedics were with him and would be taking him to St George's Hospital in London. They were going to pick me up on their way.

"An hour later two policemen came to my door and told me he had sadly passed away at the scene.

"When you watch the TV and you see the police go to the person's house to tell them someone has died you think, my heart would just sink if that happened to me - and it does.

"He was a very proud man and his son had just graduated from university. He was a family man and he loved biking."

Mrs Kingston added: "It's quite hard to take in when you lose someone through that. A true gentleman, a good friend and an amazing husband.

"He was my soulmate. There's not many people who can say they met their soulmate when they were 18, but I did.

"It was the worst day of my life. I lost my soulmate."

The Look Out Discovery Centre, which features a huge hands-on science exhibition as well as numerous outdoor activities, is set on Crown Estate land and run by Bracknell Forest Council which is understood to have launched an investigation into the death.

556. http://www.malibutimes.com/news/article_4d9b6056-35ad-11e5-ae37-eba60c244389.html

Injured Biker Airlifted out of the Santa Monica Mountains

Photo courtesy of Rick Mullen

Helicopter 16

An injured mountain biker was hoisted from the scene by Los Angeles County Fire Departments Helicopter 16.

Posted: Tuesday, July 28, 2015 9:50 pm

Injured Biker Airlifted out of the Santa Monica Mountains By Tracy Wright / tracywright@malibutimes.com The Malibu Times |
A solo mountain biker was rescued just south of the Etz Moloy motorway near the Backbone Trail in Malibu on Sunday, July 26, according to Los Angeles County Fire Department (LAFD) Station 72 Captain Rick Mullen.

The biker had fallen and broken his femur on the trail and called 911 from his cell phone for help.

This gentleman is very lucky that he had cellphone reception in this area, Mullen said. If he did not have reception, he might have been on that trail for a long time.

Three firefighters hiked to the victim and two paramedics from the LAFDs Helicopter 16 were lowered down to the bikers location. Once the victim was stabilized, he was hoisted up to the helicopter and transported to UCLA Trauma Center.

It is probably a good idea to use the buddy system when riding in remote terrain, Mullen said. The helicopter paramedics and pilot did a great job in difficult terrain.

557. "Freak" means "we aren't responsible".

The "tragedy" isn't just this one accident. It's the fact that mountain bikers and the mountain biking industry will continue trying to pretend that this inherently dangerous activity has some net benefit and is worth doing.

Mike

From: [a friend]
Subject: "Freak" MTB Accident takes another life...
Date: Sun, 2 Aug 2015 16:01:33 -0700

"Freak" MTB accidents seem to be a dime a dozen, these days... Enduro Racing is the newest craze...

http://crestedbuttenews.com/2015/08/fatality-on-course-cancels-rest-of-crested-butte-big-mountain-enduro-event/

Fatality on course cancels rest of Crested Butte Big Mountain Enduro event
Big Mountain Enduro World Series organizers Brandon Ontiveros and Chris Ball (center) announced the cancellation of Sunday's BME races.

Fatality on course cancels rest of Crested Butte Big Mountain Enduro event

August 2, 20153,348 Views

Memorial ride slated for noon Sunday

by Mark Reaman

A tragic race accident late Saturday morning has resulted in a death of one of the racers and the cancelation of the rest of the Crested Butte Big Mountain Enduro World Series event.

A memorial ride to honor 40-year-old Will Olson of Edwards, Colorado will take place at noon from the BME base camp in downtown Crested Butte and is slated to take riders up to the Strand Hill trail and back.

According to the Mt. Crested Butte police department, the accident occurred at about 11:50 Saturday morning on Forest Service Trail 400, Star Pass near the Block and Tackle Trail.

At a Sunday morning press conference, race officials said that no one saw the actual accident but Olson suffered a severe impact to his chest. It appeared to be a freak accident that occurred about a minute from the bottom of the Stage 3 course. Two riders that started after Olson came upon the scene and saw him lying face down. They immediately began CPR. A third rider continued on to alert medical and emergency personnel. Medics with the event responded within minutes and local police and Crested Butte search-and-rescue arrived shortly thereafter. CPR was administered on the scene for about an hour.

The police reports stated that, a paramedic transported by Care Flight helicopter arrived on scene and pronounced the rider deceased. The victim was carried to the trailhead by Search and Rescue members. At approximately 4 p.m. the Gunnison County Coroner accepted the victim.

It is an incredibly sad situation, said an emotional Chris Ball, the Director of the Enduro World Series Sunday morning. Everyone did an incredible job yesterday with Will and we are shattered. We decided to cancel the rest of the event as result of this accident. No one wants to race after this tragedy. A riders life is more important than bikes. Its the right move to cancel Sunday.

Ball said the accident didnt take place on an especially technical or fast section of the stage course. He said riders might have been going 20 to 25 miles per hour in that area of the course. There was speculation he clipped a pedal and ejected from his bike. There was no injury to his head and his bike had no damage but there was blunt force trauma to his chest, Ball explained. Medical personnel were on the scene within minutes.

Ball and BME race director Brandon Ontiveros said that Olson was a regular Colorado racer of the endure events. He was a very skilled rider and had ridden around the Crested Butte area many times, said an emotional Ontiveros. This was a freak accident that happened to a positive soul that was very tight with the bike community.

Ontiveros said there hasnt been time to digest what the accident means to the future of the series. The Whistler World Series event scheduled for next week will continue said Ball.

Riders will gather at the town base camp of the event at noon Sunday to pay respects and ride in honor of Olson.

558. http://www.thestar.com/news/gta/2014/05/28/blue_mountain_reaches_settlement_with_quadriplegic.html

Blue Mountain reaches settlement with quadriplegic

Ian McAdam was rendered a quadriplegic at 13-years-old after a mountain bike accident at Blue Mountain Resort in 2007.

By: Paul Clarke Staff Reporter, Published on Wed May 28 2014

Blue Mountain Resort reached an undisclosed financial settlement with Ian McAdam, a 13-year-old boy who was rendered a quadriplegic after a mountain bike accident at the resort in 2007.

The McAdam family said they are pleased with the outcome, but added that the process has taken its toll on their finances after five years of protracted litigation.

McAdams parents exhausted their $50,000 lifetime insurance limit and savings to pay for his specialized physio three times a week.

OHIP doesnt cover intensive out-patient physio for people under the age of 18.

The $21-million lawsuit alleged Blue Mountain failed to have the proper safety measures in place to assess and monitor young people coming to the hill. The terms of the settlement are not available.

It is very scary to think that we have a wealth of standards and regulations to protect adults in their privately run workplaces, but nothing when it comes to private facilities running profitable extreme-sports facilities for kids, said Gary, Ians father.

Following McAdams injuries, Blue Mountain implemented new safeguards to assess the skill level of people under the age of 16, removed certain jumps, and required additional equipment on riders. A mandatory video for parents was also created.

559. http://boisestatepublicradio.org/post/southwest-idaho-man-dies-while-mountain-biking-ski-resort

Southwest Idaho Man Dies While Mountain Biking At Ski Resort

By Associated Press Aug 11, 2015

A 58-year-old southwest Idaho man has died at Brundage Mountain Resort in central Idaho near McCall in a mountain biking accident.

Authorities say Leo Nill of Nampa died Saturday.

Adams County Sheriff Ryan Zollman on Tuesday says the death has been ruled an accident.

Mike Mauden was among a group biking with Nill. He says the forks on Nill's bike came apart when he jumped over a rock on the Elk Trail, one of the resort's summer bike trails.

Brundage Mountain Resort has offered lift-served mountain biking in the summer since the early 1990s.

Nill's accident is the first mountain biking fatality at the resort.

560. http://www.itv.com/news/border/update/2015-08-30/mountain-biker-rescued-in-lake-district/

30 August 2015 at 1:06pm

Mountain biker rescued in Lake District

A mountain biker was airlifted to hospital after being knocked unconscious while out riding on one of Cumbrian's most popular tracks.

The 33-year-old man from Stockport was riding in Whinlatter Forest in the Lake District when he came off his bike.

The Great North Air Ambulance and local mountain rescue volunteers were called at around 10:45am this morning.

The man was taken to a waiting helicopter and flown to the Cumberland Infirmary in Carlisle.

He suffered head, leg and arm injuries but is described as being in a stable condition.

Rescuers praised staff at Whinlatter Forest for their help in getting the man to hospital.

561. http://www.nwemail.co.uk/News/Millom/Borrowdale-biker-flown-to-hospital-with-severe-injuries-f1a6b36e-f006-4fa2-aad4-eeab36bfb5ee-ds

Sunday, August 30, 2015 at 9:36PM

Borrowdale biker flown to hospital with severe injuries

THE Great North Air Ambulance was called to assist a mountain biker suffering serious injuries.

Great north air ambulance

The Pride of Cumbria air ambulance was sent out to Castle Crag in Borrowdale at 4pm today after a 40-year-old mountain biker from Egremont had fallen off his bike.

Keswick mountain rescue also attended the scene and the team doctor requested the helicopter.

The man suffered severe injuries to his head, leg and chest.

Once stabilised at the scene, the man was flown to the major trauma centre in Royal Preston hospital for specialist care.

562. http://www.newsleader.com/story/news/local/2015/09/07/cyclist-dies--shenandoah-100-crash/71847432/

Cyclist dies in Shenandoah 100 crash

Patricia Borns, pborns@newsleader.com 3:43 p.m. EDT September 8, 2015

Long Island cyclist Nick Panico took a photograph of the Manorville Hills a foverite training spot of fellow mountain biker Ross Hansen, who died of a fatal crash during the Shenandoah Mountain 100 Backcountry Mountain Bike Race in Stokesville on Sunday.(Photo: Photo courtesy Nick Panico)

STOKESVILLEThe National Ultra Endurance Mountain Bike Race Series is reporting that a Long Island cycling contestant in Sunday's Shenandoah Mountain 100 Backcountry Mountain Bike Race held near Braley Pond was killed during the event.

"It is with a heavy heart that the NUE Race Series wishes to express our condolences to the family, friends and Long Island Cycling community that was the home of Masters racer, Ross Hansen, who passed away yesterday following a severe crash at the race," the organizers posted on their Facebook page. "According to the Long Island Cycling Community, 'Ross was a good riding spirit for local Long Island riding.'"

The series organizers went on to say, "While we recognize the dangers inherent to our sport, NUE is shocked by the first tragedy of this kind in our eleven year history."

Long Island cyclist Nick Panico said Hansen was a dedicated member of Concerned Long Island Mountain Bicyclists, dedicated to the sport.

"He was always training. He set goals for himself. Just a good guy," Panico said.

Details emerge on cyclist killed in race

In the cyclist's memory, Panico rode on Monday to a rock deposited during the Ice Age at Manorville Hills, a favorite training spot of Hansen's in Suffolk County, Long Island.

563. http://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/news/local-news/auldgirth-mans-brain-bug-horror-6424811

564. So much for the "healthful family sport"....

Mike

http://www.bclocalnews.com/news/327568791.html

Chilliwack man in critical condition after biking accident

Jim Murphy poses with his family. Murphy suffered critical injuries that required a lot of blood, and now his family is asking people to consider donating their own blood to Canadian Blood Services. There is also a fundraising effort underway to help his family through this time.
image credit: SUBMITTED PHOTO

by Jessica Peters - Chilliwack Progress
posted Sep 14, 2015 at 4:00 PM updated Sep 15, 2015 at 8:51 AM

A Chilliwack man remains in critical condition at Royal Columbian Hospital, following a serious biking accident at the Fairfield Island bike park.

Now, his extended family is fundraising to help his wife and children get through the next little while. They're also pushing for eligible donors to give blood.

James Murphy was at the park with his family when he was involved in a mountain bike accident on Sept. 7. Murphy experienced blunt force trauma to his abdomen, severing his renal artery attached to his left kidney, a family member said.

"Jim was rushed by ambulance to the Chilliwack ER where they did an amazing job of trying to stabilize him," said Mike Chamberlin, Murphy's brother in law.

"With the massive blood loss, Jim depleted the blood supplies from Chilliwack and Abbotsford blood banks. In order to secure Jims survival he was rushed to RCH."

Murphy remained in critical condition on Monday, and many people who know the family have been forwarding funds to an account set up for them.

But the experience also has them asking for another kind of donation.

"The family asks that if anyone wishes to help show supports they can do so by giving blood at your local blood donor clinic," Chamberlin said.

For those who want to donate to the family financially, an account has been set up at Envision Credit Union, account #3294618. They are also accepting e-transfers to mikechamberlin@hotmail.com.

"The family would like to thank everyone for their prayers and support in this tragic time," Chamberlin said.

Where to give blood:

The next local blood donor clinic is on Sept. 28 at Tzeachten First Nation at 45855 Promontory, from 1:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.

For more on how to give blood, and where, visit www.blood.ca.

565. http://www.bigbeargrizzly.net/news/likins-addresses-park-safety/article_ea61b5a2-5c09-11e5-b790-1fa35fecaa16.html

Likins addresses park safety

By KATHY PORTIE Reporter

The Snow Summit Bike Park features predominantly intermediate and expert downhill runs with trails named Miracle Mile, Party Wave, Westridge and Turtle Trail. Plans to create beginner trails are still in the development phase with the US Forest Service.

When two mountain bikers were fatally injured while riding at Snow Summit Bike Park in the span of two weeks this past August, it sent social media into a heated debate over the safety of mountain biking in general and Snow Summit in particular.

One local rider, Steven Kinney, a former professional mountain biker, believes the Snow Summit Bike Park design is too risky. I consider it a jump park not a bike park, Kinney said. Guys who come up here are weekend warriors. You want them to have fun, not a death-defying experience.

There have been three reported deaths at Snow Summit Bike Park since it opened three years ago. On Aug. 15, Allen Chan of Diamond Bar died while reportedly riding on Westridge. According to friends, Chan was an experienced rider. Two weeks later, on Aug. 28, Anh Ngoc Hoang of Irvine lost control of his bike while on another section of Westridge. The first death was in 2014.

According to Big Bear Mountain Resorts COO Dave Likins, accidents are regularly investigated and evaluated by park staff. Out of respect for the families, were not commenting on the accidents beyond noting the incidents occurred on different sections of the same trail that has been in place since 2013, Likins said. That trail is marked advanced and is recommended for advanced riders.

Safety is a top priority at Snow Summit Bike Park, Likins said. The nature of the sport is such that risk cant be eliminated, but we make every effort to help guests ride in a safe manner, Likins said. The safety procedures and infrastructure we have in place are in keeping with best practices throughout the industry.

All of Snow Summits jumps, wall rides and step downs include go-around options to provide riders with easier alternatives. Snow Summit Bike Park staffs an on-mountain bike patrol that rides the trails during operating hours. The trails are evaluated daily to make it as safe as possible, Likins said. Riders are required to wear helmets and sign liability waivers acknowledging the risks of the sport. Its a standard waiver used at ski and bike resorts around the country.

Our priority is making sure that trail users are aware of the inherent risks associated with the sport and advising people to ride within their abilities, Likins said. Every rider has to evaluate their own ability and assess the risks associated with the terrain they plan to ride, whether that terrain is on the trail behind their home or in the bike park.

Kinney agrees that riders bear responsibility for their own safety, but wants to see the resort take responsibility, too. Having a jump park is fine, just call it what it is, Kinney said. Its your terrain, bear some responsibility.

Sarah Alvarado, a mountain biker from Apple Valley, used to go to the bike park regularly, but hasnt ridden since the addition of jumps on some of the runs. I dont feel comfortable, Alvarado said. She would like to see more variety for all levels of riders at the park. I think its a combination of riders knowing their limits and more variety at the park so people dont feel like they need to ride stuff they are not ready for.

Still, Alvarado said those who participate in the sport tend to take risks. I think any rider is going to push themselves, she said. Accidents can happen anytime.

Most of the runs at Snow Summit are for experienced or expert downhill riders and labeled by blue or black signs. There is a beginners section at the base that includes a pump track and skill builder park. The top of the mountain features easy access to Skyline Trail for cross-country biking.

Kinney has been vocal about what he sees as a problem at the park, and said hes been getting a lot of backlash from other riders. But he wont give up. I dont want the park to be closed because of too many injuries, Kinney said. He said he wishes Likins well and hopes things will get better under Mammoths leadership. I was up there the other day and I did see trail signs, so that was good, Kinney said.

Likins said the resort is working to build more trails, but it takes time. Plans to construct a top-to-bottom beginner trail are in the works. Theres a process for reviewing trail proposals on Forest Service land, which were currently in the middle of, Likins said. As soon as we have their approval, well begin construction. We have done and will do everything we can from our end to complete it as quickly as possible. We have a lot of respect for our partners at the Forest Service and the importance of their process.

Likins said the recent accidents have had an impact on park staff. On a more personal level, were all members of a close-knit mountain bike community and riders ourselves, and were deeply saddened by these incidents, he said.

Contact reporter Kathy Portie via email at kportie.grizzly@gmail.com.

566. http://www.outsideonline.com/2016626/what-its-watch-bikings-most-painful-competition
Cause Im stupid! he said, and laughed.

[As I like to say, "evolution in action!" My favorite line: "they were both billed for their helicopter rides to the ER".]

567. http://www.lancashiretelegraph.co.uk/news/13776754.Thanks_for_saving_me_from_being_paralysed__grandfather_s_message_to_mountain_rescue_team_after_breaking_bone_in_his_neck/

Thanks for saving me from being paralysed: grandfather's message to mountain rescue team after breaking bone in his neck

SERIOUS INJURIES: Andrew Morton in hospital with a metal frame to keep his neck in place

Jon Robinson, Education Reporter / Tuesday 22 September 2015 / News

A GRANDFATHER has praised a mountain rescue team for saving his life when he careered off his mountain bike and broke a bone in his neck.

Andrew Morton credits the Rossendale and Pendle Mountain Rescue Team, and his quick-thinking friends, with saving him from paralysis or worse.

Mr Morton was thrown over his handle bars while cycling down the Grane Road and landed on his neck.

The 59-year-old from Waterfoot said: I cant thank the team enough for what they did because it could have been so much worse for me.

Without the team, and my friends, I would probably be in a wheel-chair or worse.

Since the accident, his wife, Janice, has been on a fundraising mission for the rescue team by way of thanks.

Father-of-two Mr Morton was told not to move by the friends he was cycling with while they rang for the rescue team who arrived with two doctors.

The former pupil at the now-closed Lea Bank School in Rawtenstall, said: My bike hit a stone and I just went over the handlebars and landed on my neck.

I heard it crack and I knew right then that it was very serious. My friends told me not to move and they called the the team straight away.

He was put in a neck brace and stretchered over fields and fences to the teams waiting ambulance before being taken to Royal Preston Hospital where he spent three weeks.

The grandfather-of-two and owner of A.D. Morton Ltd, a steel and steelwork suppliers in Bacup, was forced to wear a brace for 12 weeks after being discharged and still suffers from a stiff neck.

Mrs Morton said: I felt sick when I heard what had happened.

I was out biking at the time and I got a call when I got to a pub to tell me what had happened.

I had to bike home and change into dry clothes before making my way to Royal Blackburn Hospital.

On the way I got another call saying that he was going to Preston to the spinal unit and I knew then that it was really serious.

What the team and his friends did was absolutely amazing and they did such a fantastic job.

Mrs Morton and her cycling team, the Waterfoot Wheelers, decided to cycle the Sandstone Way mountain bike route between Berwick-upon-Tweed and Hexham in Northumberland to raise money for the Haslingden and Burnley-based team.

The 120-mile route was taken on by Janice and her six friends who were able to raise more than 1,500 for the charity.

A spokesman for the team said: As a team we spend many hours training to carry stretchers - different kinds of stretcher in different conditions, although generally in the dark and rain, and through different terrains.
Share article

It may sound like an odd way to spend your time but as this story shows it is absolutely worthwhile as the teams careful handling of the casualty can be the difference between a full recovery and life changing injuries.

Thanks again to Janice and the other six ladies as well as everyone who sponsored them. Your donation will ensure that we keep training and will be ready for the next time that we are needed.

568. http://calgary.ctvnews.ca/teenage-girl-airlifted-to-hospital-following-mountain-biking-crash-in-kananaskis-1.2590945

Teenage girl airlifted to hospital following mountain biking crash in Kananaskis

Ryan White , Reporter/Producer

@CTVRyanWhite

Published Thursday, October 1, 2015 3:52PM MDT
Last Updated Thursday, October 1, 2015 4:07PM MDT

A 14-year-girl suffered serious injuries in a mountain biking crash near the Upper Kananaskis Lake day use area on Thursday.

A STARS Air Ambulance crew was deployed to Kananaskis shortly before 1:00 p.m. after Alpine Helicopters retrieved, and ground EMS transported, the teenager from the scene of the collision.

According to EMS, the girl was transported to the Alberta Childrens Hospital in serious, potentially life-threatening condition with undisclosed injuries.

The nature of the crash has not been disclosed.

569. http://www.ktvu.com/news/31240036-story

Mountain biker found dead in park near Hayward ID'd

Posted:Oct 08 2015 11:48AM PDT

HAYWARD, Calif. (BCN) - A mountain biker found dead 150 feet down a hillside in Dry Creek Pioneer Regional Park near Hayward Wednesday morning has been identified as George Phillip Kramm.

Kramm, 51, went missing after leaving his Fremont home for a bike ride at about 5:30 p.m. Tuesday but did not return home. His wife reported him missing at 10:15 p.m., according to the East Bay Regional Park District.

Search and rescue crews from the park district and the Alameda County Sheriff's Office found Kramm at about 8 a.m. Wednesday 150 feet down a hillside off the High Ridge Loop Trail, about two miles from the trailhead where he had parked.

Investigators do not suspect foul play but the county coroner's bureau has not yet determined his cause of death.

https://www.legacy.com/obituaries/sandiegouniontribune/obituary.aspx?n=george-phillip-kramm&pid=176511007

While mountain biking on a beautiful evening, George passed away suddenly due to injuries he sustained from an accident on the trail.

570. http://www.simcoe.com/news-story/5955256-police-investigate-death-at-blue-mountain-resort/

Police investigate death at Blue Mountain Resort

Collingwood Connection
By Ian Adams

OPP officers are at Blue Mountain Resort, investigating after a man in his 50s died following an incident on the Haole mountain bike trail.

Collingwood/The Blue Mountains OPP spokesperson Const. Martin Hachey confirmed an incident on the trail took place, and that it took place while the victim was mountain biking.

Paul Pinchbeck, vice-president of marketing at Blue Mountain Resort told Simcoe.com in an email the man had been riding when he had an accident. Pinchbeck said the man was rushed to Collingwood General & Marine Hospital where he was pronounced dead.

"Our thoughts and prayers go out to the deceased and his family," Pinchbeck said.

Pinchbeck said the trail is currently closed for the investigation.

"It may reopen on Sunday, but that decision will be made once the OPP investigation has concluded," he said.

Police have released no further details, and were on the scene on Saturday night. Watch Simcoe.com for updates.

571. If an "expert" rider can kill himself (and many do!), there is no hope for any other mountain bikers!

Mike

http://barrie.ctvnews.ca/victim-in-fatal-mountain-biking-accident-at-blue-mountain-was-a-halton-hills-man-1.2607431

Victim in fatal mountain biking accident at Blue Mountain was a Halton Hills man

A small memorial of flowers sits at a trail at Blue Mountain Resort in the Village of the Blue Mountains, Ont. on Sunday, Oct. 11, 2015, where a mountain biker died in an accident. (Mike Walker/ CTV Barrie)

CTV Barrie
Published Tuesday, October 13, 2015 11:39AM EDT

Provincial police have identified the victim in a fatal mountain biking accident at Blue Mountain Resort as a Halton Hills man.

OPP say they have wrapped up their investigation and have determined that the 58-year-old man was mountain biking on the Haole Trail on Saturday evening, when for an unknown reason he left the trail and struck a tree.

According to Blue Mountain Resort officials, the mans body was found on the trail by patrol staff. Crews performed CPR and first aid, but were unable to resuscitate the man. He was pronounced dead at the scene.

Man dies in mountain biking accident at Blue Mountain Resort

The run is one of two restricted courses only riders who pass two skill assessment tests are allowed to cycle down. Officials say the man had passed those tests and had ridden along the trail during the year.

Officials also say the man was wearing a helmet and is believed to have been riding alone.

A memorial was set up just outside the trail this weekend. Fellow mountain bikers have described the man as someone who was passionate about the sport.

572. http://www.marinij.com/general-news/20151014/fundraising-campaign-underway-for-injured-fairfax-mountain-bike-legend

Fundraising campaign underway for injured Fairfax mountain bike legend

Charlie Cunningham and his wife Jacquie Phelan. Cunningham, a legendary Marin cyclist, was seriously injured in a fall from his bike in August. Provided by Jacquie Phelan

By Janis Mara, Marin Independent Journal

Posted: 10/14/15, 9:30 PM PDT | Updated: 2 hrs ago
Charlie Cunningham, a legendary Marin mountain biker, smiles despite injuries sustained in a recent cycling accident. (Provided by Jacquie Phelan) 2015

A Fairfax Mountain Bike Hall of Famer is in the hospital unable to walk, talk or safely swallow food after undergoing brain surgery following a bike accident in August.

Charlie Cunningham was riding by himself on Azalea Hill in Fairfax above the Meadow Club Golf Course when he crashed.

He has no idea how he fell, whether he was hit by a hit-and-run driver or what, said Jacquie Phelan, his wife and fellow Mountain Bike Hall of Famer. With broken bones and head trauma, Cunningham used his bike as a cane and made it to the parking lot, where he flagged down a motorist who drove him home, Phelan said. He was then taken to the hospital, where he stayed three days.

Six weeks later he developed a subdural hematoma, a life-threatening condition necessitating emergency brain surgery, and returned to the hospital.

Cunningham is in the ICU at Kaiser Permanente Medical Center in Vallejo. Its unclear when he will be able to come home.

He cant stand up; he gets dizzy. When he tries to bring a spoon to his mouth, he touches his cheek, Phelan said. He has to rewire all the brain connections. He will need speech therapy, occupational therapy, physical therapy.

Caroline James, a longtime friend of the couple, started a GoFundMe account to help with expenses, https://www.gofundme.com/w85tn3dg. Cunningham has insurance through Kaiser, but it will not pay for aftercare, Phelan said.

In just eight days, $49,597 was contributed by 798 people. The estimated amount needed is $100,000.

Cunningham is highly respected in the mountain biking community. His inventions include a patented brake design and a patented lubrication system called Grease Guard.

With Grease Guard, you could just grease the hubs, which are hard to take apart and lubricate, Phelan said.

Cunningham first began building bikes in 1977, using oversized aluminum tubing with a thinwall chromemoly fork and magnesium stem, according to the Marin Museum of Bicycling.

Mountain bikes are a perfect way to combine technology and nature in a way that is friendly to life, Cunningham said in an earlier interview with the museum. The more one uses a bicycle, especially in a natural environment, the more sympathetic and understanding one becomes of oneself and the planet.

Cunningham has been described as very much a mountain biker, very passionate, by Marilyn Price, a member of the hall of fame who started Trips for Kids, which takes economically disadvantaged youth on mountain bike rides. She has known Cunningham since the 1980s when she worked at The Cove bike shop in Tiburon, a center for mountain bikes and riders in the 1980s.

He (Charlie) is known as one of the first to create an aluminum mountain bike in 1979 or so, said Joe Breeze, cofounder of the Marin Museum of Bicycling, which includes the Mountain Bike Hall of Fame.

The mountain bike we have on display at the museum is his bicycle. He built it back when people said aluminum wouldnt work, Breeze said.

He contributed quite a bit to the mountain biking movement, Breeze said.

Phelan expressed gratitude for the donations.

Our world is our bike family, Phelan said. He (Cunningham) cant help himself, and Im not a nurse-practitioner. With Carolines help, this all rolled into a snowball of wonderful assistance.

About the Author

Janis Mara covers education for the Marin IJ. She has worked at the Oakland Tribune, the Contra Costa Times and Adweek, winning awards for business coverage, live-blogging and investigative work. Reach the author at jmara@marinij.com or follow Janis on Twitter: @jmara.

573. http://westport.dailyvoice.com/neighbors/westport-woman-receives-foundation-grant-after-life-altering-bike-injury/593653/

Westport Woman Receives Foundation Grant After Life-Altering Bike Injury

by Sandra Diamond Fox 10/27/2015

The High Fives Foundation is awarding 24-year-old Westport resident Lindsay Runkel a second board-approved Empowerment Grant to help aid in her recovery from a life-altering injury she suffered while mountain biking Oct. 5. Photo Credit: Contributed

WESTPORT, Conn. -- The High Fives Foundation is awarding 24-year-old Westport resident Lindsay Runkel a second board-approved Empowerment Grant to help aid in her recovery from a life-altering injury she suffered while mountain biking.

In October 2014, Runkel was attempting a 15-foot drop on her bike when she landed too far forward and was thrown from the handle bars. She suffered a spinal cord injury that caused paralysis below her waist.

Since the injury, she has been intensively rehabilitating toward her goal of walking and returning to her favorite outdoor activities, most recently surfing with the High Fives Foundation in New Jersey this summer.

Earlier in 2015, the High Fives Foundation provided Runkel a grant for Functional Electrical Stimulation at Journey Forward in Canton, Mass. to increase her muscle mass and fitness, sensation and motion. Now, exactly one year from the date of her injury, Runkel has recovered to a point where she has returned to the mountain biking community.

High Fives provided her the grant for a Sport-On X3 Adaptive Mountain Bike, a three-wheeled, hand-propelled cycle designed for trail riding for adaptive athletes.

"I am rediscovering my love for the trails, but in an 'adaptive' fashion," said Runkel. "I am beyond excited to share this love with my friends and the mountain biking community."

"Lindsey's positivity is fueling her recovery 100 percent," said Roy Tuscany, High Fives Foundation executive director. "You can see from her posts on her social media accounts that she's truly making huge gains and always with a smile."

Since the foundation's inception in January 2009, the Empowerment Program Service has assisted 89 athletes from 20 states.

For more information on the foundation, go here .

574. http://www.getsurrey.co.uk/news/surrey-news/watch-dramatic-surrey-hills-mountain-10380299

Watch dramatic Surrey Hills mountain bike crash captured on GoPro camera

18:00, 3 Nov 2015
Updated 18:06, 3 Nov 2015
By Paul Harper

Cyclist Tim Rowsell has released video of crash in Surrey Hills to show bike helmets can save lives in crashes

This is the moment a mountain biker was knocked unconscious after crashing in Surrey Hills woodlands.

GoPro footage shows rider Andy Clark flying over his handlebars and hitting the floor face-first.

Another cyclist Tim Rowsell, who happened to be in same area wearing the head cam, has released the scenes to show how vital wearing a helmet can be.

Mr Clark, 44, was knocked out for more than five minutes after hitting a ditch and smashing into the ground.

The clip, posted on YouTube, shows Mr Clark bloodied and dazed, with his bike helmet severely dented.

He wakes up asking 'what happened?' and admitting: "I don't even remember it."

Mr Rowsell, who lives in Compton near Guildford, said that Mr Clark was taken to the Royal Surrey County Hospital suffering from neck pain but released after a short period having not been seriously injured.

"He wasn't going fast, about jogging pace, when he fell straight to the floor and hit his head," said Mr Rowsell, who revealed it was filmed near Peaslake.

"It shows you don't have to be cycling at serious speeds to suffer serious injuries.

"I pretty much always wear a helmet. It can't do you any harm to wear one, but it might (do you harm) without one.

"I have been mountain biking seriously since the age of 10 or 11 and have had my fair share of knocks.

"But it's not just big crashes. Things like hitting a low tree branch can also cause serious damage."

Mr Rowsell volunteers as special constable for Surrey Police and with Surrey Search and Rescue.

He said his training with the rescue charity, which assists police forces with searches for missing people, had helped him.

He can heard in the footage making various checks, asking Mr Clark questions to check his health and keeping him on the ground when he wakes up.

575. http://www.tulanehullabaloo.com/news/article_99988d82-8678-11e5-a67c-a344e8d23125.html

Posted: Sunday, November 8, 2015 6:27 pm | Updated: 9:37 pm, Sun Nov 8, 2015.

The Boot holds benefit for Tulane alumnus paralyzed in mountain bike accident

Paige Pielet | Staff Reporter TulaneHullabaloo | 0 comments

by ppielet

The Boot Bar and Grill hosted a benefit on Sunday, Nov. 8, for Tulane alumnus (07) and former Boot staff member, Brian McKenna, who was left paralyzed from the neck down after a mountain biking accident.

McKenna was biking in Utah in June when he snagged a branch and was thrown from his bike, breaking his neck on impact. Since then, his condition has improved. He is currently working on getting off his ventilator and can shrug his shoulders.

Guests at the event could make a $100 donation and enjoy a catered brunch, an open bar, bottomless bloody marys and mimosas, and a complimentary event T-shirt. A $20 donation gave guests access to bottomless bloody marys and mimosas. Additionally, there were 25 silent auction items, including tickets to sporting events and concerts and a signed Drew Brees football.

Everything from the event was donated, including the bartenders tips. The benefit was a collaborative effort involving the Boot staff and some friends of McKennas residing in New Orleans, with the support of the Boot owners, the Napoli family.

"That has just been really heartwarming to me, just to see not only the Tulane community, but the New Orleans community, coming and supporting someone who doesnt even live here anymore, that this tragic situation happened," Annie Day, marketing director and special events coordinator at The Boot, said.

McKenna was a finance major in the A.B. Freeman School of Business, a member of Sigma Phi Epsilon fraternity and played intramural sports along with working at The Boot.

When Jackson Smith (07), a fraternity brother and fellow Boot employee, was in Afghanistan serving in the U.S. Marine Corps, McKenna didnt want him to miss out on Mardi Gras celebrations, so he carried around a cardboard cutout of him throughout the festivities. He sent an album to Smith and the last picture was with Drew Brees, who just won the Super Bowl and was MVP and King of Bacchus that year.

"I later found out that it took Brian McKenna over four hours to talk his way through the maze of security that surrounds the King of Bacchus, augmented that year by a phalanx of NFL personnel, none of whom was willing to entertain the possibility of their Super Bowl MVP posing for a single picture," Smith said in his article in The Washington Post on Sept. 10.

After the mountain biking accident five years later, Smith, who lives in New Orleans and goes to Tulane University Law School, got a cutout of McKenna and brought it to Yulman Stadium, where the Saints were holding their last open practice.

"Standing at the edge of the bleachers that night among a crowd of autograph-seekers all screaming for Drews attention, I knew my chances were not good," Smith said. But he got Brees attention and was able to snap a photo of him with the cutout of McKenna.

Since then, Smith and McKenna have appeared on "Ellen" twice, and Drew Brees, Ellen and Shutterfly bought McKenna a new high-tech wheelchair, and McKenna went off his ventilator on live television. Ellen has invited them to see her show and Brees invited them to see a game, VIP, to which Smith responded, "Well Drew, on the day that Brian can be there with me, I promise Im there."

Smith described the impact the fundraising event made on him.

"I cant tell you how much it means to me, and to Brian and his family ... Its good to know the Boot family is as strong as ever," he said about the benefit.

576. http://www.10news.com/news/rescuers-struggle-to-find-trapped-mountain-biker

Rescuers struggle to find trapped mountain biker

10News Digital Team
5:33 AM, Dec 10, 2015

Firefighters struggled to find an injured mountain biker who got trapped in a foggy, remote canyon near Torrey Highlands Wednesday night.
KGTV

San Diego Fire-Rescue crews rescue a mountain biker who crashed on Black Mountain in north San Diego County. Wednesday, Dec. 9, 2015. (10News)

Firefighters struggled to find an injured mountain biker who got trapped in a foggy, remote canyon near Torrey Highlands Wednesday night.
KGTV

SAN DIEGO Firefighters struggled to find an injured mountain biker who got trapped in a foggy, remote canyon near Torrey Highlands Wednesday night.

The man crashed his mountain bike at around 8 p.m. in the Black Mountain area. His friend called 911 for help, but San Diego Fire-Rescue crews had a difficult time pinpointing him in the fog. They were eventually able to use the GPS on his cell phone to locate him. Initially crews were going to try and airlift him out, but they couldnt bring the helicopter in due to the fog.

This is like trying to find a needle in a haystack, SDFR Battalion Chief David Pilkerton said. We were able to get the GPS coordinates from the cell phone that our dispatch did. We were able to ping that, give us the location.

He was in serious condition with a major chest injury and a broken arm. He was transported by ambulance to a hospital. His name was not released.

577. "Her spinal cord was a whisper away from being severed." And this extreme sport is worth doing because ...?

Mike

http://www.gloucestercitizen.co.uk/Woman-broke-neck-mountain-biking-Forest-Dean/story-28378806-detail/story.html

Woman broke her neck while mountain biking in the Forest of Dean

By The Citizen | Posted: December 16, 2015

Helen Matravers broke her neck while mountain biking in the Forest of Dean

Woman broke her neck while mountain biking in the Forest of Dean

Helen Matravers broke her neck while mountain biking in the Forest of Dean

Helen Matravers who is raising money following a mountain bike accident in the Forest of Dean

IT has been quite a year for Helen Matravers after she broke her neck while mountain biking.

Almost back to full health, she will return to the scene of her accident for a sponsored bike ride to raise money for the emergency services which saved her life.

The 45-year-old from Huntley said: "The ambulance service saved my life. They carried me out of the woods and the treatment I received at Gloucestershire Royal Hospital A&E was exemplary."

It was a lovely summer's day in July when Helen was leading a group of women cyclists called Dame Cycling.

She said: "I had finished the morning session and decided to take on some more challenging routes with a small group of others to see what the Forest had to offer."

She does not remember much about her accident other than waking up on the ground and thinking 'this isn't right'.

"The responders came very quickly and the ambulance some time later. I could feel my feet and my hands so thought I might be okay."

Helen had received the same injury that left Superman actor Christopher Reeve paralysed from the neck down.

Her spinal cord was a whisper away from being severed.

Helen had a 'halo' fitted, fixed to her skull.

The head frame was attached to a body suit.

Within two weeks of her accident Helen walked out of hospital and back home to husband Justin and sons Matthew, nine, Tom, 17, and 19-year-old Ryan.

She has been given the okay and can wear a small soft collar until she is fully recovered.

She added: "I couldn't have asked for better support from family and friends.

"It has been an amazing time and very humbling too."

Getting back on a bike is a bit daunting for Helen but she is determined to show her gratitude for the emergency services.

"Through my injury and my hobby this is a small token of my thanks for saving my life," she said.

Cyclists set off at 9.30am on Saturday at Pedalabikeaway near Cannop in the Forest of Dean. Any cyclist is welcome to join in.

Money can be donated via Virgin Money Giving.

578. http://www.odt.co.nz/news/dunedin/367359/dunedin-musician-breaks-neck-hopes-play-again

Hopes of playing music again after breaking neck (+ video)

Home News Dunedin
By John Lewis on Fri, 18 Dec 2015
News: Dunedin | ODTV Video

Nick Cornish is home from the Burwood spinal unit in Christchurch after breaking his neck in a mountain biking accident last month. Photo by Stephen Jaquiery.

Lying on his back, alone in the middle of Ross Creek Forest, Nick Cornish's first thought after falling from his mountain bike and breaking his neck was: Can I feel my feet?''

"My second thought was: 'Damn it, now I won't be able to play with the New Zealand Symphony Orchestra next week'.''

The accident in early November left the Dunedin oboe, saxophone, flute and bassoon player with a fracture/dislocation of the C6 and C7 vertebrae in his neck and a chipped T11 vertebra in his back.

Since then, he has been at the Burwood spinal unit in Christchurch and had operations to stabilise his neck.

Mr Cornish considers himself lucky to have been able to relearn how to do basic things such as walk and go to the toilet.

Unfortunately, the neck injury has damaged the nerves in his arms, leaving him wondering if his fingers will be able to again play his instrument of choice - the oboe.

"The first day I stood up after my staring-at-ceilings period, I was surprised at how disconnected my head felt from my feet.

"Now, I'm back on my feet again and happily striding around, those anguished first moments are beginning to fade.

"The grief that I have been experiencing at the loss of my finger extension and loss of my voice, however, are still very real.''

Mr Cornish had been one of Dunedin's busiest musicians, performing weekly with the Southern Sinfonia, the Subject- 2Change jazz, Latin and fusion sextet, theatre productions such as the recent Phantom of the Opera and a number of small ensembles around the city.

He also plays with the New Zealand Symphony Orchestra from time to time and had been due to perform Stravinsky's Rite of Spring in Wellington the week following his accident.

Mr Cornish said he had tried to play his oboe again in recent weeks, and while it was not to his usual professional standard, he believed it would only be a matter of time before he was able to perform publicly again.

"My fingers will take longer to regain the extra 10mm flexion required for oboe playing.

"At the moment, the nerves down both arms are affected.

"They feel sluggish. My fingers are constantly tingling.

"My playing was a little bit shocking. I couldn't actually hold my oboe the first time I tried to play it again.

"But I've played again since then and I was slightly better, so ...

"My feelings of loss are only tempered by the experts telling me it will return in due course - in weeks, months, maybe years.''

Mr Cornish has been discharged from Burwood and he returned to Dunedin this week to continue his recovery.

He paid tribute to the new friends he made at Burwood.

"I'm really lucky to be here, to not have broken my neck completely, and to not be in a wheelchair.

"I've just spent four weeks of my life with people in wheelchairs, talking to them, and their attitude is unbelievably positive. They just glow ... they just shine out of their wheelchairs.

"You can only be humbled by them, honestly.

"I'm very lucky the accident didn't leave me in a worse place.''

Mr Cornish said he was an experienced mountain biker and had raced alongside elite athletes in regional competitions.

But on the day of his accident, he was riding a new bike on a track in Wakari he had only ridden once before.

He was going too fast through a dip and, before he knew it, he became airborne, lost control of the bike and went head-first into a bank.

Asked whether he would get back on a mountain bike, Mr Cornish nodded vigorously, saying he was unlucky to have crashed.

"I would get back on my bike today if I could.''

579. "We believe he is an experienced rider". So the conclusion is that there is no way to mountain bike safely.

Mike

http://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/news/article.cfm?c_id=1&objectid=11563269

Update: Mountain biker seriously injured

6:03 PM Friday Dec 18, 2015

Rotorua Daily Post

A mountain biker has suffered serious spinal injuries after crashing at a popular Rotorua mountain bike park.

The Tauranga-based Trustpower TECT Rescue helicopter was called to Skyline Rotorua Mountain Bike Gravity Park about 1.30pm today.

A 28-year-old Australian man had crashed while riding a downhill track on Mt Ngongotaha.

He was stabilised by St John staff before being flown directly to Auckland's Middlemore Hospital for specialist treatment.

Skyline general manager Bruce Thomasen told the Rotorua Daily Post the man had been riding the Gravity Park trails over the last few days.

"At this stage, it appears that the mountain biker involved has had a fall after landing badly following a jump towards the end of a ride. We believe he is an experienced rider," he said.

"Gravity Park has highly-skilled first-aiders who are trained to a pre-hospital care level. They were on the scene within five minutes, stabilising the rider and assisting St Johns and the rescue helicopter with evacuation."

He said Worksafe had been notified, as was standard procedure.

"Under Skyline's extensive health and safety protocols, we will be conducting our own investigation. Until this investigation is complete, we are unable to provide any further details."

The man and his partner were four days into their New Zealand sightseeing and mountain biking holiday, a rescue helicopter spokesman said.

580. So much for the alleged "healthfulness" of mountain biking!

Mike

To: bbtc group <bbtcmembers@yahoogroups.com>
From: "Preston and Meg prestonmeg@frontier.com [bbtcmembers]" <bbtcmembers-noreply@yahoogroups.com>
List-Subscribe: <mailto:bbtcmembers-subscribe@yahoogroups.com>
Date: Sun, 3 Jan 2016 01:11:38 -0800
Subject: Leonard "The Legend" Francies

The "Legend" unexpectedly passed away yesterday in the middle of a ride on Grand Ridge yesterday whilst accompanied by his close friend Art Tuftee.

More recent converts to our great sport may know Len from his vigorous and consistent sawing activities. Him and Pete Partel and others spent last winter clearing the route for Predator, and you may have seen his posts recently about all the great work they have been doing on the new Ollalie route. In addition, for the last 5+ years he has been the principal agent in clearing deadfall off many of our favorite backcountry trails each Spring with particular emphasis on Greenwater and the Middle Fork. In the past year he was instrumental in certifying Evergreen members in sawing and standing up an ongoing certification process.

Enormous contributions to trailwork and access, but the last 5 years only scratches the surface of his part of NW mountain biking.
Len was an early board member of BBTC. He was one of the first to help construct the first BBTC website. He was deeply involved in saving the Middle Fork and getting Ollalie on the map.

He was the first person I knew (talking about the early 90's) who was getting out the map and putting together true epic rides - He was the one that introduced us to Goat Mt, Strawberry Ridge, and even much of the Greenwater trails. My other nickname for him was "The Slogfather" because he was the guy who introduced many of us to 6+ hour rides, and campouts, and weekend destination riding - that is, real mountain biking.

But Len was so much bigger than just his contributions to PNW mountain biking.

It sounds trite and you often hear people speak well of the dead, but I am telling you now that Len was absolutely the most positive and happy person I ever knew. When you were with him, he made you feel like you were his best friend. I literally never saw him angry, and the closest emotion I could ever ascribe to him like "depressed" would be when he felt a certain frustration over some interpersonal situation. He was a one man ambassador for the sheer joy of mountain biking. Or sawing. By which I mean, life !

One of my favorite Len stories was a St. Helen's campout in the late 90's. We were on the first day of a multi-day riding trip and slogging up some sandy horse chunder ditch. I was like, "screw this I"m saving my legs for the rest of the week". And Len came plowing by me churning up this crap trail. I was like "whatever, burn yourself out". Then another pitch, and the same thing, Len comes churning by me while I'm walking. The 3rd or 4th time, I'm like screw this, and I start pedalling and chasing him. We spent the whole week challenging each other up EVERY slope and by the end of the week we were unstoppable. To this day I say that is the week when I truly learned to climb and fell in love with that aspect of the sport.

Regardless of that story, Len was not a competitive guy, he had the same damn grin on his face whether he was leading or lagging.

It was fortunate the a pre-planned party of many of Len's friends occurred tonight, the same night many of us heard the news, or I would be truly distraught at this moment. I lost a father and a father-in-law in the last year, but Len is the first loss of a contemporary that has made me weep. I bemoan not just the loss today, but the loss of so many future good rides.

Len is 2nd from the right in the photo below (this is on Noble Knob). I found I only had this one photo of him. If anyone has other photos or memories, please post them up I would like to see them and save off as many as I could.

Because of his early involvement in PNW mountain biking, because of his contributions to the club and to the trails, and because he touched so many members of the PNW mountain bike community, his nickname was already "The Legend". Now that he has passed he truly has become - The Legend.

Tomorrow is promised to no one, so enjoy every minute of the worst moment of the worst ride.

photo is on this post on MTBR:
http://forums.mtbr.com/washington/leonard-legend-francies-999384.html#post12397037

Posted by: Preston and Meg <prestonmeg@frontier.com>

Have questions, comments, or concerns? Please contact us; see http://evergreenmtb.org/contact for contact info.

This is an un-moderated forum. No comments on this list should be construed as official announcements of Evergreen unless otherwise noted.

581. http://www.pasadenastarnews.com/general-news/20160131/torrance-man-killed-in-suspected-mountain-biking-accident-in-forest-near-altadena

Torrance man killed in suspected mountain biking accident in forest near Altadena

By Brian Day, San Gabriel Valley Tribune

Posted: 01/31/16, 1:45 PM PST | Updated: 3 hrs ago

A 49-year-old Torrance man reported missing while mountain biking in the Angeles National Forest north of Altadena was found dead from an apparent fall following a 13-hour search, authorities said Sunday.

The mans name was not released pending notification of his family, Los Angeles County coroners officials said.

Search-and-rescue teams searching for the missing man found his body about 10:30 a.m. Saturday along the Brown Mountain Truck Trail, Los Angeles County sheriffs Sgt. Kim Shelton said.

The body was discovered a short distance from the mans bicycle, and showed signs of trauma consistent with taking a fall from his bike, she said. No crime was initially suspected.

Sheriffs officials received notification from Torrance police about 9 p.m. Friday that the cellphone of a missing Torrance man had been traced to a popular hiking trail head north of Altadena, sheriffs officials said in a written statement.

The missing mans SUV was found in the parking lot of the Millard Canyon Campground, Shelton said. Officials from the Altadena, Montrose, Sierra Madre, San Dimas, Santa Clarita and Malibu search-and-rescue teams joined in the search, along with Sheriffs Department helicopters. The California Air National Guard provided aircraft, pilots and specialized equipment to help.

Investigators determined the missing man had started out for a mountain bike ride Friday morning.

Although the missing person was an experienced mountain biker, he was reported to have limited supplies with him, a storm was predicted to come in and there is over 30 miles of trail to search, according to the Sheriffs Department statement.

Searchers handed out fliers with pictures of the missing man and his bicycle, Shelton said.

A hiker told authorities about 10 a.m. that he had seen the bicycle pictured on the flier in a remote area about three miles up the trail, officials said.

Officials quickly located the bike.

After further searching, a body of a male was discovered, according to the statement. Sheriffs Air Rescue 5 lowered a paramedic and the person was pronounced deceased at approximately 10:30 a.m.

The investigation is ongoing.

582. It's a good thing mountain biking is an environmentally benign, family-friendly sport, so this kind of thing can never happen.

Mike

http://www.kktv.com/home/headlines/Biker-Killed-In-Avalanche-IDd-As-Woodland-Park-Resident-367917121.html

Biker Killed In Avalanche ID'd As Woodland Park Resident

By: KKTV
Updated: Sat 12:15 PM, Feb 06, 2016

The deadly avalanche in Chaffee County (Credit: CAIC via KCNC)

A winter mountain biker was killed when he got caught in the path of an avalanche.

The rider was identified Saturday as 58-year-old Ron Brabander of Woodland Park.

The Chaffee County Sheriff's Office says the "very large avalanche" happened in Cottonwood Pass Friday, where Brabander had been riding. Brabander was near Lost Lake when he was swept up in the 1 and 1/4-mile-wide avalanche.

Snowmobilers in the area rushed to help after hearing the avalanche, but didn't see any signs of victims. It wasn't until later that a county search-and-rescue team, who had been training in the area, spotted a snow bike ski tip sticking out of the snow. The rescuers soon found Brabander, buried in the snow. After attempting CPR, Brabander was pronounced dead at the scene.

583. It's a good thing that mountain biking is a "healthful, family-oriented sport", so that this kind of thing will never happen. Or are we being lied to?

Mike

http://www.ocregister.com/articles/trail-703249-cyclists-beach.html

Mountain biker collapses on trail, dies

Feb. 7, 2016

Updated 10:22 p.m.
By FRED SWEGLES / STAFF WRITER

A mountain biker apparently suffered a medical emergency and died Sunday on a trail at Crystal Cove State Beach.

The unidentified man in his late 40s was part of a group of cyclists who had met at 7:30 a.m. for a ride. At around 9 a.m. he collapsed, said Capt. Steve Concialdi of the Orange County Fire Authority.

Fellow cyclists began cardio-pulminary resuscitation and called 911. Newport Beach firefighter paramedics tried to revive the man from full cardiac arrest, as did an OCFA flight medic who was lowered onto the trail from an OCFA helicopter.

Concialdi said the cyclist was pronounced dead at the scene after prolonged efforts to save him.

Contact the writer: fswegles@ocregister.com or 949-492-5127

584. It's a good thing that mountain biking is a "healthful, family-friendly sport", so that this kind of thing will never happen. Or were we lied to?

Mike

http://www.pressdemocrat.com/news/5199410-181/man-collapsed-died-after-cycling

Man collapses, dies after cycling in Annadel State Park

JULIE JOHNSON
THE PRESS DEMOCRAT | February 8, 2016, 8:47PM

A 45-year-old mountain biker died after collapsing in Annadel State Park because of what appeared to be a cardiac emergency, fire officials said.

The man was at the end of a ride with a group of friends at about 1:40 p.m. Saturday when he collapsed on the Canyon Trail, falling down a small embankment, Bennett Valley Fire Lt. Travis Browne said. His friends brought him back to the trail just as a group of women, who identified themselves as nurses, walked by.

Cyclist who collapsed, died after Annadel ride ID'd

The women took turns administering CPR until paramedics and firefighters arrived and took over, Browne said. They continued CPR for about 15 minutes on the trail, then on an ambulance to Santa Rosa Memorial Hospital and in the emergency room as the doctors tried all their interventions, Browne said. He did not survive.

The man collapsed on a portion of Canyon Trail off Westminster Place and just south of the Newanga Avenue entrance to the park.

http://www.pressdemocrat.com/news/5204038-181/man-who-collapsed-died-after?ref=related

Man who collapsed, died after Annadel State Park bike ride identified

Darrin Bascom (WWW.FACEBOOK.COM)

RANDI ROSSMANN
THE PRESS DEMOCRAT | February 9, 2016, 12:47PM
| Updated 11 minutes ago.

The Sonoma County Sheriff Coroners Office Tuesday said the Santa Rosa man who died from an apparent medical emergency while bicycle riding in Annadel State Park was Darrin Bascom, 43.

An autopsy Tuesday was being conducted to determine what caused Bascoms death, according to a sheriffs official. Initially it appeared the man suffered a cardiac emergency, according to fire officials who responded to the call.
Related Stories
Man collapses, dies after cycling in Annadel

Bascom was a local real estate agent, was married and the father of a young son, according to Facebook postings. A close friend of the family Tuesday said the family declined to comment.

Bascom collapsed early Saturday while finishing a mountain bike ride in the park with friends. They were coming down the Canyon Trail near the Newanga Avenue park entrance when he fell down a small embankment.

A group of walkers in the area, including some nurses, administered CPR until paramedics arrived and took over the effort. CPR continued in an ambulance on the way to Santa Rosa Memorial Hospital but the man didnt survive.

585. According to mountain bikers, this is the only alternative to becoming a couch potato. God help us! They are exploiting young people who are too naive to know to avoid this insane sport.

Mike

http://www.westerndailypress.co.uk/Mountain-biker-gets-rescued-steep-slope-near/story-28753108-detail/story.html

Mountain biker, 13, gets rescued from steep slope near Newent

By Western Daily Press | Posted: February 17, 2016

The ambulance service received a 999 call at 12.15pm on Tuesday afternoon after a teenage boy had collided with a tree whilst riding in a wooded area near to Ledbury Police Station.

A mountain bike rider had to be rescued with help from specialist paramedics after he collided with a tree on a steep muddy slope near Newent in Gloucestershire.

The ambulance service received a 999 call at 12.15pm on Tuesday afternoon after a teenage boy had collided with a tree whilst riding in a wooded area near to Ledbury Police Station.

An ambulance and a community paramedic were sent and were later supported by the Trust's Hazardous Area Response Team (HART).

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokeswoman said: "The ambulance crew were flagged down by the teenagers' friend before being guided up a steep muddy slope to the boy's location, about 200 yards away from the road.

"The 13-year-old, who had reportedly been knocked unconscious initially, had suffered a cut and bruising to his face as well as pelvic pain.

"The ambulance staff administered pain relief to help ease the teenager's discomfort before they carefully immobilised his pelvis to prevent further movement.

"Once HART were on scene, the teenager was placed in a specialised MIBS (multi integrated body-splint) stretcher which is made of tough fabric and has carry handles for easy use.

"The HART team then used rope rescue techniques to carefully carry the boy down the muddy bank to the awaiting ambulance. Once on board, he was taken to Hereford County for further assessment and treatment."

586. http://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/news/article.cfm?c_id=1&objectid=11594313&ref=rss

Mountain biker died after 'small error of judgment'

By Matthew Martin - Rotorua Daily Post

4:34 PM Tuesday Feb 23, 2016

Family and friends stand together at the memorial ride and tribute to Cole Walker last year. PHOTO/THOMAS FALCONER

The family of a young mountain biker killed in the Whakarewarewa Forest have told an inquest their son and brother had "a short, but good life".

Cole Joseph Walker, 20, of Te Puke, was killed when he hit his head on the ground after making a "small error of judgment" while attempting a set of jumps on a grade 5 trail known as the Pigeon Run, on August 22 last year.

He was taken to Waikato Hospital's intensive care unit, but died of his injuries on August 26.

An inquest into his death was held in Rotorua today in front of coroner Gordon Matenga, who found Mr Walker's death was due to "a severe head injury following a mountain bike crash".

Mr Matenga did not make any further rulings or recommendations saying the removal and reconstruction of the trail by members of Rotorua's mountain biking community was appropriate, but he did warn the general public about the dangers of the sport.

"It would not be practical for me to recommend that mountain biking be removed as an activity. It is important that members of the public are aware it is a dangerous activity and people do so at their own risk," he said.

The only witness to the accident, 23-year-old Mt Maunganui man Ricoh Flavell, said he followed Mr Walker down the trail and watched as he overshot a jump, landed on his front wheel, and went over his handlebars, hitting his head on the ground.

Cole Walker was killed when he hit his head on the ground while attempting a set of jumps on a grade 5 trail. Photo / Rotorua Daily Post

Mr Flavell said neither he nor Mr Walker were carrying mobile phones so he made him as comfortable as possible before trying to find help.

He asked a man and his two sons cycling nearby to call an ambulance and they stayed with Mr Walker while Mr Flavell rode to the Waipa carpark to get more help.

Sergeant David Hamilton of Rotorua police, an avid mountain biker who is also president of Descend Rotorua, president of New Zealand Downhill, a national downhill mountain bike team selector and experienced trail builder, also presented evidence to the coroner.

Mr Hamilton said Pigeon Run was dismantled in February this year, and would be rebuilt, after Descend Rotorua had "adopted" the trail.

"We took it out as it could be designed better and to prevent this sort of thing happening again."

Mr Hamilton said he believed Mr Walker had hit the jump too fast and overshot the landing ramp, which led him to landing on his front wheel and going over his handlebars.

Mr Walker's father, Greg, told the court his son was "a real neat guy and always had a permanent smile on his face".

"Cole was a small-motors mechanic doing an apprenticeship, but that kind of got in the way of what he really loved, which was mountain biking."

He said his son had been riding all his life, starting on a BMX and had ridden in the forest for two to three years.

"He knew it was an extreme sport, we had talked to him about it several times. But that's what he loved doing and we weren't going to stop him doing it - we couldn't stop him doing it.

"I guess he made a terrible mistake and paid for it with his life. But he had a good life, a short life, but a good life, and we all miss him dearly."

He said his son had ridden the trail that took his life before and thanked all of those who helped on the day of the accident.

587. http://www.businessinsider.com/single-mother-yelp-icu-intensive-care-jaymee-senigaglia-cost-of-living-sick-days-2016-3

A single mother claims Yelp fired her after asking for days off to care for her boyfriend in the ICU

AP ImagesYelp CEO and co-founder Jeremy Stoppelman.

A former Yelp employee claims she was fired for asking for three days unpaid leave after her boyfriend was in a mountain biking accident over the weekend.

Jaymee Senigaglia wrote about her experience in a blog post on Medium published on Monday. In the post, Senigaglia says she got a call from her "manager, director, and HR who said I could either come in now or resign."

Yelp disputes the reason for Senigaglia's departure. It says she was fired for "repeated absences" after receiving multiple warnings.

"We had to part ways with Ms. Senigaglia due to repeated absences (10 of her 59 workdays with Yelp) despite many exceptions to accommodate her needs," Yelp said in a statement pinned to the top of its Twitter account."We provided multiple, documented warnings and ongoing performance conselling specifically related to reliability and attendance issues. Sadly, this role was just not a good fit. We wish her the best," it added.

Senigaglia, who has a three-year-old child, has a different account of what happened. She wrote (emphasis ours):

I am the single mother whose boyfriend was in a horrible mountain biking accident on Saturday and landed in the ICU with a brain bleed.

I am the single mother who immediately told my manager and director what happened and I would be the one caring for him. They told me they hoped he would be okay, they were so sorry, and would look into options Monday.

I am the single mother who while in the ICU today got a phone call from my manager, director, and HR who said I could either come in now or resign. When I said I needed some time and this is all traumatic with caring for my boyfriend they told me that I would need to make a decision by noon and if I didnt come in or resign, they would terminate me. In tears I said ok and hung up.

Senigaglia provides reasons for some absences in her post:

I am the single mother who in week 1 of month 3 came to work with such a horrible cold I had no voice but only went home sick when I couldnt pitch any more.

I am the single mother whose 3-year-old hid her keys in the fridge on Friday and couldnt get to f work.

She also says that she made efforts to stay at work, even when her son was having health issues. She writes: "I am the single mother whose manager in month two told me that by using my last half day off we are allotted during training to care for my son who was having breathing problems from bronchitis, that I was putting her in a tough spot. I stayed at work."

Senigaglia did not immediately respond to Business Insider's request for comment.

Yelp has recently been in the news over the cost of living and worker conditions in Silicon Valley. Last month, a former employee of Yelp's Eat24 food-ordering subsidiary wrote an open letter to CEO Jeremy Stoppelman on Medium about how she struggled to live on the salary Yelp paid her.

"So here I am, 25-years old, balancing all sorts of debt and trying to pave a life for myself that doesnt involve crying in the bathtub every week. Every single one of my coworkers is struggling," she wrote.

She was fired two hours later.

The open letter has sparked discussion about living conditions in the Bay Area, including some highly critical responses.

"This is about this girls personal responsibility to be an adult and find a job, or two (God forbid she have to give up a weekend day to be a waitress), an affordable living situation and an affordable city in which to work," wrote 29-year-old Stephanie Williams. "Yelp, as bad as they are and as much as I hate the assholes who use it to pretend they are New York Times food critics about the Applebee's on Walnut St., is not the issue in this moment."

588. http://gazette.com/hometown-heroes-colorado-springs-pilots-car-theft-was-a-life-saver/article/1571768

Hometown Heroes: Colorado Springs pilot's car theft was a life saver

By: Kaitlin Durbin
March 8, 2016 Updated: Today at 1:34 pm

Shawn McFarland, who will be receiving the 2016 First Responder Hero Award, demonstrates how to operate the Life Flight helicopter at St. Francis Medical Center on Tuesday, March 1, 2016. Photo by Stacie Scott, The Gazette.

It's not often a theft is lauded, but all is usually forgiven when it results in saving a life.

Colorado Springs Flight for Life pilot Shawn McFarland called it "borrowing" when he used a parked truck to take a dying cyclist to a medical helicopter and fly him to a hospital for surgery in August.

It was a quick decision generally frowned on by his employers, McFarland said. Pilots are supposed to stay with the aircraft.

But with minutes precious and ground emergency services nowhere in sight, McFarland left his post to find the owner of a truck parked a third of a mile up a deserted jeep road on the side of Almagre Mountain. His intention was to ask the owner to help the injured man, saving them a half-hour foot hike the cyclist wasn't likely to survive.

Jim Heidelberg, a 56-year-old Colorado Springs, man had used the two units of blood the crew brought was in desperate need of more as blood flowed out of his severed femoral artery.

McFarland said the helicopter crew could see the stream of blood from 300 feet in the air.

"That's when the gravity of the situation hit everyone," he said.

After a couple minutes of honking the truck horn without response, McFarland said he had to make a decision. The keys were in the ignition, so he took the truck.

"At that point I was like, 'I'm sure someone will forgive me,'" McFarland said. "I didn't see any other alternative."

A race to the helicopter and a screaming ride to the hospital later, Heidelberg underwent vascular surgery to repair his femoral artery and spent a night in the hospital.

He survived the impossible and has even returned to mountain biking.

McFarland, 43, called it his job. Heidelberg calls it serendipity.

"Chances just kind of came together," Heidelberg said.

A surgical nurse, Heidelberg said he knew he shouldn't have survived the "freak accident." He was on the side of a mountain on a deserted path; he tore two holes in his left femoral vein after being impaled by the handlebars of his mountain bike. He'd lost roughly half of his blood.

Yet luck seemed to be on his side.

He regained consciousness enough to call 9-1-1. He wedged a rock between his legs to slow bleeding. His massive blood loss helped crews find him. A young man nervous about proposing to his Kansas bride had accidentally left the keys in his truck. And McFarland made the gutsy call to place Heidelberg's life above the law.

For the action, Heidelberg wrote the flight crew a Thank You note affectionately dubbing McFarland a "bad (expletive) pilot and car thief." The American Red Cross of Southeastern Colorado dubbed him the 2016 First Responder Hero.

McFarland is among several other heroes who will be recognized at a ceremony March 17.

Being the victim was a new role for Heidelberg. He's used to being the one to save others.

In 2010, he was among a team of 15 doctors awarded the American Red Cross Hometown Hero Adult Award following a medical trip to earthquake-ravaged Haiti. But now, there is a new hero to thank.

"I can't say enough, 'thanks,'" Heidelberg said. "It really doesn't go that far, to the entire crew, but I guess that's all that you can say sometimes."

589. http://www.stuff.co.nz/sport/other-sports/74077121/Mountainbiker-Meg-Bichard-determined-to-return-to-world-stage-after-horrific-crash

Mountainbiker Meg Bichard determined to return to world stage after horror crash

PHILLIP ROLLO

Last updated 17:01, March 18 2016

Meg Bichard back on the bike
ALDEN WILLIAMS/Stuff.co.nz

Nelson mountainbiker Meg Bichard on the comeback trail.

Meg Bichard isn't letting the worst crash of her career hold her back. Phillip Rollo spoke to the international enduro rider about her long road back to elite racing.

Meg Bichard probably deserved some time away from the bike after her career-best season on the Enduro World Series (EWS). But not like that.

New Zealand's top female enduro rider broke both arms in the worst crash of her career last year.

"I was on a straight forward bit of track, which unfortunately meant I was going pretty fast," Bichard said, looking back to the day her off-season took a dramatic and painful twist.

She was out for casual ride on the Hotbox trail in the Maitai Valley near Nelson, but lost control and smashed into a tree at full speed.

590. http://www.couriermail.com.au/news/queensland/fears-mount-for-mountain-bike-rider-missing-in-south-brisbane-bush-since-yesterday/news-story/9261c38aeecaf9905b548152d938a139

Fears mount for mountain bike rider missing in South Brisbane bush since yesterday

March 19, 2016 12:45am
Tom SnowdonThe Courier-Mail

THE body of a mountain biker has been located in Brisbane bushland after crews searched the rugged terrain for most of the day, police have confirmed.

Peter Jacobson, 42.

His pet dog, Rocky, was found by the mans side.

Police said initial investigations indicated Peter Jacobson, 42, had an accident while mountain biking through Toohey Forest late yesterday afternoon.

It is understood the avid adventurer left his Orange Grove Rd home in Salisbury about 5.30pm Friday to ride his white mountain bike in nearby bushland with the Staffy.

Brisbane regional duty officer Inspector Steve Flori earlier told media police had been notified the man was missing about 11pm after he failed to return home.

We believe the most likely scenario is that he has had a fall or an accident on his pushbike in the forest off one of the tracks, Insp Flori said.

591. Dumb and Dumber ... Mountain Biker Turns Herself into a Paraplegic:

http://www.nzherald.co.nz/rotorua-daily-post/news/article.cfm?c_id=1503438&objectid=11608184

Forget regrets, as Laura starts new life

By Laura Stuart

7:06 AM Saturday Mar 19, 2016 1 comment
NEW LIFE: Laura in the gardens of the Auckland Spinal Rehabilitation Unit.

Last month, a mountain biking crash in the Whakarewarewa forest left Laura Stuart a paraplegic. Today, she begins a weekly column, sharing her journey as she learns to embrace her new reality.

HI, I'M LAURA and I love mountain biking. So much so that my love for riding was a motivating factor for moving to Rotorua one and a half years ago.

I've always been a bit of a reckless rider. From day one, about 10 years ago, I began teaching myself to jump and often ended up flying over the handlebars. That has always been my approach to riding - pushing the limits of what I'm capable of and always trying to ride beyond my skill level. I think there are more videos of me crashing than nailing jumps!

I don't regret my approach to riding - I would never have been able to ride all the best trails in the Whakarewarewa forest had I not just swallowed my fear and gone with pure stubborn determination.

On 12 February 2016, I came to what I like to call a small pause in my riding journey when I gave myself a birthday present that changed my life.

I was on one of my favourite trails that I hadn't ridden for a while when a poor decision sent me front-wheeling off the trail and flying several metres down the bank into the luscious ponga-laden floor of the Whakarewarewa forest.

As soon as I landed the feeling of numb disconnect set in from my ribs down. I knew that this was no ordinary crash. I spent the next two hours in that spot surrounded by wonderful strangers who kept me entertained and smiling while the ambulance and the rescue helicopter were frantically trying to locate my whereabouts. After being winched into the chopper and laden with 10 blankets to stop my uncontrollable cold shakes, I was flown straight to Middlemore Hospital in Auckland - another sign that this was pretty serious.

Up until that moment, I had never broken a bone. However, when I do things I don't like to do them half-pie. I fractured three vertebrae in my neck and "multiple" ribs - no one seems to know how many, I completely smashed my T-5 vertebrae in half and gave my T-6 a good hammering also. I am now a T-4 paraplegic with no sensation from the middle of my chest down. How a few seconds can change your life so drastically - and I missed my birthday dinner that evening at Abracadabra! (The things we worry about when the world turns upside down.)

I spent the next two weeks at Middlemore. Hospitals are crazy places - they give you morphine on demand, feed you through your nose if you refuse to eat ice-cream and jelly for every meal and force a litre of laxative juice down your nasal tube if your intestinal tract isn't behaving! The hospital is underfunded but the staff are lovely and all the nurses could do for me was slap on some nappies and keep my pain-relief medicine up until I was ready to be transferred to the specialist unit. What got me through those two weeks was the incredible amount of love and support and visitors I received. My partner made it to the hospital from Wellington before I arrived and my cousin, a doctor, was fortunately (or not) working in A&E when I was brought in (she was taken off shift for the rest of the evening after that). So I was lucky to be surrounded by family from day one and being surrounded by positive happy people has hugely affected my outlook. Things could have been a lot worse - at least I have my hands and I am not having to type this with my nose.

Laura before her accident.

When I was transferred to the Auckland Spinal Rehabilitation Unit I felt like I was arriving in comparative paradise. I had a shower for the first time since I was 28 years old and was able to wash my hair which had turned into a greasy birds nest. It wasn't so much of a shower as a bed which converted into a bath and I didn't do the washing myself. However, the feeling of cleanliness was absolute bliss and all I could think of was that some people pay hundreds to lie back and receive such relaxing spa pampering. The best part was being able to have a clean neck brace - you can only imagine what two weeks of neck sweat, dinner and vomit worked into the foam padding would smell like. It is a wonder that my partner kissed me good night, let alone came within two metres of me!

I have now been at the Spinal Unit for just over three weeks and I am working towards being able to integrate back into real life - this time on a wheelchair. We are starting with the real basics - like trying to teach my bowels to move in the morning rather than whenever they feel like it or, more often, when I least want them to misbehave. I also have to reacquaint myself with the vertical world. After spending two weeks mostly horizontal, my blood pressure drops to the floor with the slightest degree towards vertical. I spend an hour a day on the "tilt table" slowly winching up to standing until the blue and pink clouds come over and my eyesight finally fades to a bright white light. Because of my neck fractures, I am limited in what I can do as I am not allowed to put much weight through my arms and shoulders. However, next week I will finally get my next set of x-rays to see how my bones are mending and hopefully the brace will come off. Once the brace is off I can get into some real rehab work. I can't wait to try sitting up and balancing (I have no core strength in my torso), swimming and jumping into the sailing simulator.

I am also becoming acquainted with my lower half again. It is the most bizarre feeling, I feel like I am a mermaid with my feet locked in a tail I can't move or wrapped in a cozy warm plaster mould, and maybe one day they will escape their little prison. My legs have taken on a life of their own, starting with the occasional toe twitch, they now like to tap rhythmically or have a full on spastic boogie. Recently my bum and torso have decided to join in on the party and often they try and push me out of my wheelchair. My upper abs also like to squeeze my ribs so hard that I feel like I am being crushed in a vice. It's all fun and games until I try to sleep and then my dancing feet are like having a restless partner in bed at night except I can't kick them to stop moving the sheets because they are my own!

What a funny world I have dived into. This is a world I knew absolutely nothing about, apart from seeing a few people roll about in wheelchairs, avoiding the disabled parking (now there are perks of being a paraplegic) and watching a bit of the Paralympics every four years. I have so much to learn and so many amazing people to meet. I need to learn not just about my own rehabilitation, but about all the science behind the amazing spinal cord that sends messages from every part of our body to the brain, and about all of the amazing opportunities that this new life has opened up for me.I can't wait to be unleashed on the world again - watch out for me, I will be the girl in the wheelchair with the L plates jumping the kerbs and dropping down the steps. Please pick me up if you find me sideways :)

-Laura's Journey will run every Saturday in the Rotorua Daily Post and at rotoruadailypost.co.nz

592. http://www.perthnow.com.au/news/western-australia/mountain-bike-rider-injured-in-roleystone-in-perth-hills/news-story/7205c52fc32808c637c20d909b05ae87

Mountain bike rider injured in Roleystone in Perth Hills

March 19, 2016 5:13am
JOEL KELLYPerthNow
A rescue chopper has been sent to a mountain bike incident in the Perth Hills. File image

A RESCUE helicopter has flown a man injured in a mountain biking incident in the Perth Hills to Royal Perth Hospital.

The rescue chopper was sent about 5.25pm on Saturday to the incident near Soldiers Road in Roleystone.

St John Ambulance said the male rider was believed to have hip injuries and was in a hard to reach area when the incident occurred.

The man is now in a serious but stable condition at RPH.

593. This is exactly what high school mountain bike racing leads to!

Mike

http://www.sacbee.com/news/local/crime/article68629642.html

March 28, 2016 10:33 AM

CHP helicopter transports rescued Folsom teen, two others in Sierra

Girl, 13, hurt at Alpine Meadows

Folsom mountain bike rider, 18, injured after fall, in ICU

Snowmobile rider suffered a leg injury

Within five minutes, the crew located five bike riders frantically waving at the helicopter. CHP - Valley Division

By Bill Lindelof

blindelof@sacbee.com

CHP helicopter crews were kept busy Saturday providing medical transport for an injured skier, a Folsom teen in a bike-riding mishap and a snowmobile rider who had hurt his leg.

California Highway Patrol Helicopter 20 first delivered a 13-year-old girl who had suffered serious injuries while skiing at Alpine Meadows to a Reno hospital. As crew members were returning about 1:40 p.m. Saturday, they got another call about an injured mountain bike rider.

The crew flew to an area south of Lake Clementine, a reservoir off Auburn-Foresthill Road, about two miles from Auburn. After searching for about five minutes, the crew spotted five bicyclists frantically waving, according to a CHP press release.

On the ground was bicyclist Cameron Boggs, 18, of Folsom. The helicopter crew directed medical personnel to the spot where Boggs was suffering from various injuries after a fall from his bike.

After an assessment of the teens condition, a decision was made to lift him by cable attached to a basket into the chopper and take him to a Roseville hospital.

Boggs mother, Kara Cotton, met the helicopter crew and her son at the hospital, which reported Monday that Boggs was in fair condition.

Cotton said her son would be in the hospital for at least another five days.

Their main concern right now is that he damaged his kidney and his spleen, said Cotton. Hes still in the ICU.

The teen, who was wearing his helmet, was training with his mountain bike team. The team was practicing the course before a race and Boggs, who had taken the course three times, was enjoying the track.

A coach gave the go-ahead for one more spin and Boggs decided to go for the fourth ride. Boggs, a student at Folsom Lake High School, is not sure what caused the fall because he hit his head.

A teammate and another coach were with him, said Cotton. They were going to try to walk him back down the trail, but he was too dizzy. The terrain was too much to get a vehicle in there, which is why they flew him out.

After the rescue of the teen mountain biker, the helicopters crew changed and was dispatched to Anderson Peak in the Sierra, where a snowmobile rider had suffered a leg injury.

The CHP helicopter arrived where a Care Flight medical helicopter crew had landed uphill from the injured snowmobiler and hiked to the patient. The CHP crew was able to land closer to the injured man.

After speaking with the Care Flight crew, it was decided that because of deep snow and steep terrain, it was better to carry the injured man to the CHP helicopter. He was taken to a Reno hospital for treatment.

Read more here: http://www.sacbee.com/news/local/crime/article68629642.html#storylink=cpy

594. So much for the "healthful, family-friendly" sport!

Mike

http://www.itv.com/news/border/update/2016-04-15/tt-star-guy-martin-raising-funds-for-injured-penrith-man/

TT star Guy Martin raising funds for injured Penrith man

<img alt="Guy Martin with Michael Bonney" src="http://news.images.itv.com/image/file/954263/article_update_img.jpg" />
Guy Martin with Michael Bonney Credit: gofundme.com/getmichaeltopedal

TT star Guy Martin, alongside endurance mountain biker Jason Miles, is taking on the challenge of riding the UK's two coast-to-coast routes, as well as every mountain biking '7stanes' red route along the way.

Across the route from Scotland to Northern Ireland, Guy and Jason will be joined by the friends of Michael Bonney, a Penrith man who was paralysed following a mountain bike accident.

All funds raised through the adventure will go the 'Ride for Michael Trust', which aims to provide a special 'Functional Electrical Stimulation' bike which Michael will be able to pedal.

A donation page for the Ride for Michael Trust explains Michael's story:

On March 3rd 2013, while taking part in his local Eden Valley sportive, Michael Bonney fell off his bike, just like we all do. Only this time, instead of jumping up and laughing it off, Michael suffered a life changing injury. Attended to by doctors at the scene of the accident, he was then flown by air ambulance to a specialist unit where he was diagnosed with a complete injury to the spinal cord at the C3 vertebrae. The result is that Michael is now tetraplegic - paralysed from the neck down, requiring a ventilator to breathe.

The 'Help Michael to Pedal Again' GoFundMe page

You can find more information about the Ride for Michael Trust here.

595. http://www.ocregister.com/articles/mountain-713309-biker-laguna.html

Rescued mountain biker in critical condition, latest report says

April 23, 2016

Updated 12:57 p.m.
By LILY LEUNG and By LOUIS CASIANO Jr. / STAFF WRITERS

A male mountain biker who fell off a Laguna Beach trail and tumbled 200 feet on Friday afternoon was in critical condition when rescuers reached him later that day, authorities said Saturday.

A man called 911 around 4 p.m. to report that a male friend in his 50s was trapped near the Telonics mountain bike trail in the 2800 block of Laguna Canyon Road, said Sgt. Tim Kleiser of the Laguna Beach Police Department.

The unidentified man rode his bike and fell from the trail into an area where he couldnt climb up, according to Kleiser.

It took about an hour for rescuers to reach the man due to the location, treacherous terrain and falling rocks, said Steve Concialdi, a spokesman for the Orange County Fire Authority. When authorities reached the mountain biker, he was treated and stabilized before being hoisted into a helicopter around 6:40 p.m., officials said.

The fire authority and Laguna Beach fire officials took part in the rescue.

The mountain biker, who likely suffered some fractures and internal injuries, was taken to the Orange County Global Medical Center in Santa Ana in critical condition, as of Friday evening, Concialdi said.

Fortunately, the biker was wearing a helmet and thick vegetation absorbed his fall, Concialdi added.

Contact the writer: lleung@ocregister.com

https://www.lagunabeachindy.com/mountain-biker-injured-cliff-fall/#comment-411922

Mountain Biker Injured in Cliff Fall

Posted On 25 Apr 2016
By : LB Indy Staff

By George Gore Browne, Special to the Independent

Mountain biker Chris Hukill is in critical condition after a 200-foot fall from a Laguna Beach trail Friday, April 22, which required rescuers reach him through steep terrain before he was airlifted for medical treatment, according to authorities.

After falling from the trail known as Telonics, an off-shoot from the Canyon Acres trail, Hukill became trapped in the 2800 block of Laguna Canyon Road, said police Sgt. Tim Kleiser.

Due to the severity of the incident, the Laguna Beach Fire Department requested extra assistance from the Orange County Fire Authority, Captain Larry Kurtz said.

Once fire crews located Hukill, he was treated and stabilized before being hoisted into a helicopter around 6:40 p.m. and taken to Orange County Global Medical Center in Santa Ana, said Kurtz.

Hukill, of Laguna Hills, is currently in critical condition and undergoing back surgery, according to a Facebook post from friend, Danny Parsel.

A go-fund-me page set up by Hailley Hukill explains Hukill suffered a spinal chord injury. The page asks for donations for the therapy he will need to regain movement in his arms and legs, and to keep his business, Hukill Paint and Graphics, running.

For those who would like to help Hukill visit: https://www.gofundme.com/hukillfund.

George Gore Browne is a journalism student and Indy intern.

596. http://www.swindonadvertiser.co.uk/news/local/14465379.Cyclist_who_cheated_death_hunts_for_good_Samaritan_who_stayed_by_his_side_through_trauma/

Cyclist who cheated death hunts for good Samaritan who stayed by his side

Michael Brown, 52, was seriously hurt and broke his neck in three places when a mountain biking jump went wrong in West Woods near Marlborough. He was with his two teenage sons. He spent a month in hospital. Picture: Thomas Kelsey.

3 days ago / Amber Hicks, Reporter / @amberwiltsnews

A FATHER who cheated death after breaking his neck in three places when a jump during a mountain biking trip with his sons went wrong, is searching for the Good Samaritan who went above and beyond to help him in his hour of need.

Experienced cyclist Michael Brown was with his sons Cassian, 14, and Bayley, 13, enjoying a day exploring West Woods near Marlborough on their bikes, when he landed on his head and was knocked unconscious after attempting a gap jump.

All the 52-year-old IT worker can remember of the afternoon on March 12 is being in agony, after suffering a severe fracture on his neck, which could have paralysed or killed him.

But after spending a month at the John Radcliffe Hospital in Oxford in their trauma unit, being cared for by the specialist spinal team, he is back at home recovering in Aldbourne.

However, Michael admits he was lucky and the outcome could have been very different if it wasnt for a man he believes is called Mike and works as a plumber in Swindon.

The man, who had also been out mountain biking, stayed with him for hours, called the emergency services and took care of his sons while he was rushed to hospital. Michael now wants to meet him again to say thank you.

Without his help things could have been a lot harder and a very different, he said.

I dont know what happened but things went wrong and I landed on my head downwards and the bike come over me and my head was bent.

I was unconscious for a while and I came around and I was in a lot of pain. This chap raised the alarm and was with me the whole time.

You can never get signal out there, so he quickly went to the nearest farm and called emergency services and was liaising with them how to get there because it was right out of the way.

The air ambulance landed but it was too far away, so I was hand-stretchered to the road and taken by a Land Rover to the ambulance.

He stayed with me all this time and helped get the ambulance to me and brought my two sons to my house in Aldbourne and then took them to see me at hospital when I was in A&E at GWH gone 9pm.

Michael says the man called Mike is around 5ft 8 and of stocky build. He looked to be in his 20s or 30s and was riding a distinctive, very old-looking bicycle. Michael also thinks he may have mentioned his partner was expecting a baby.

He added: I want to meet him and thank him and talk to him, as I dont really know what happened.

My boys also said he was blaming himself because he had been speaking to us earlier about the jump, so I want to say in no way is that true and he should not feel guilty.

The mountain biking community is kind like this, as it is a very friendly sport and people always stop and help someone if they are in a sticky situation so it is not surprising, but he did a lot more than he could have done and stayed with me and my sons for a very long time.

If you know who Mike is, or if you are Mike, please call the newdesk on 01793 501800 and we will pass your details to Michael.

597. He sounds as if he just discovered that mountain biking is dangerous.

Mike

From: [a friend]
Subject: NSMBA's Mark Wood broke his neck mountain biking
Date: Thu, 5 May 2016 21:30:19 -0700

Seems it happened two weeks ago.... ! Just reported now... First I heard of it.... NSMBA/MTB community was very silent about it... weird...But that is not going to stop him from mountain biking when all is said and done...
--Monica--

North Shore Mountain Biking Forums (http://bb.nsmb.com/index.php)
- The Shore (http://bb.nsmb.com/forumdisplay.php?f=3)
- - Woodro down with a broken neck (http://bb.nsmb.com/showthread.php?t=163737)

stringaling 05-06-2016 12:12 AM

Woodro down with a broken neck

I don't know Mark personally, but highly appreciate the amount of work he's put into supporting our trails on the North Shore. The following was taken from Mark's facebook page; it's a good message that should be shared.

Get better soon Mark!

(Would be awesome if this could be a positive thread!)

Quote:

I broke my neck, its true. I wanted to share details so we can all be aware that next little crash might be far more serious than you think...

Wasnt a big crash - a quick over the bars, but finished with an awkward head plant. My shoulders and neck went numb for a half minute before returning. I knew right away the mechanism of injury wasnt good. Luckily I was with someone. Vince: You ok? Me: I dont think so, Im not sure I want to move. I was lying on my back with my head stabilized by my camelback. After remaining motionless, waiting for the adrenaline to fade, I tried to move my head ever so slightly. I could literally feel the grinding of bones at the base of my skull. Make the call Vinnie. NVFD was there in 30 minutes to cart me out.

Fast forward two weeks later and my first check up is positive, the 3 fractures in my C1 are confirmed stable, pain is subsiding. Im able to stand again and even starting to take short walks but I admit it has been an uncertain and distressing couple of weeks. Realistically, I'm not out of the woods yet but Youre trending in the right direction, recent assurances from the neuro surgeon (who thank God won't have to operate), keep in mind this is a very serious injury and theres lots of soft tissue damage that will take months to heal. Im grateful to be walking, knowing others havent been so lucky. Ive had a lot of time to sit and think, staring at the ceiling. I wanted to share this as a reminder of the risks out there and to consider our duty to ourselves and others were riding with.

Please consider this: Get some first aid training-know how to stabilize a spinal injury. Understand mechanism of injury and make a responsible call in the field-suggesting to stand up and shake it off could be the biggest mistake you make. If youre riding solo, put your cell in an accessible pocket theres no way I could have got my cell out of my camelback in my condition or without great risk. We love to ride, but something that can be so incredibly fun can turn very serious in a split second. Consider how you will be prepared when things go sideways because that day may come ready or not. Be ready.

A big thanks to the North Van Fire Department for a pro evac Marty Lazarski. I cant thank the team at Lions Gate Hospital enough for your care Nikola Starko I will never complain about MSP premiums again smile emoticon. PS-thanks for the morphine! Thank you to all of those in the Inner Circle for taking care of me, Ive been helpless as a baby. Thank you to Vincent Beasse for keeping it level when it was needed. Its going to be awhile before Im out there again but I will be back.

598. http://www.stuff.co.nz/dominion-post/news/79456194/mountain-biker-shane-tregurthas-slow-recovery-from-paralysing-accident.html

Mountain biker Shane Tregurtha's slow recovery from paralysing accident

TOMMY LIVINGSTON

Last updated 19:35, April 29 2016
BEVAN READ/stuff.co.nz

Shane Tregurtha, who had a serious mountain bike crash on Saturday, is making a remarkable recovery after being paralysed from the ribs down.

Last Saturday, as Shane Tregurtha lay on the ground and stared up at the sky, he wondered if he would ever feel his body again.

He was coming down a mountain bike track in Rotorua when he came off, and fractured his C6/7 vertebrae in his neck.

The Wellington father of three was instantly paralysed from his ribs down.

Shane Tregurtha has a long recovery ahead, but has already exceeded doctors' expectations.

"As I lay there for a while on the track, I looked up through the trees, straight up to the sky. My kids, my wife and what is going to happen to me entered my head," he said on Friday from a rehabilitation unit in Otara, south Auckland.

"I had flashes of seeing myself in a wheelchair and not being able to walk again."

After shouting for help, he was found and taken to Rotorua Hospital. There they told him his injuries were so severe he would have to be flown to Auckland.

Shane Tregurtha with wife Nicki and children, from left, Keira, 7, Rylee, 3, and Josh, 11.

"That was a moment of realisation. Being rolled into the Westpac helicopter, seeing the yellow and red.

"You see it on the news, and knowing you are the one being reeled in there, looking at the blades, that is when the gravity set in."

After being assessed, Tregurtha showed a promising sign he was beginning to feel a sensation in his left foot and hand.

With Josh, Keira and Rylee before his accident.

He was rushed into emergency surgery, where doctors fused his vertebrae together.
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In the past week, he has he slowly begun to regain feeling in parts of his body.

"In the first few days I was able to regain a lot of my movement. I was very weak, but apparently the amount of movement was getting some of the doctors excited. They were amazed," he said.

With the prospect of not being able to walk still a reality, Tregurtha's moment of truth came on Tuesday when he tried to move his legs for the first time.

"Before I had put weight on my feet, I had no idea if I was going to fall like a mess of jelly on the floor.

"I was not sure how that would affect me psychologically."

One foot after the other, he walked a short distance from his bed.

"My wife seeing me walking was just great. It gave her a lot of hope that she was not going to be feeding me through a straw for the rest of my life."

Nicki Tregurtha said seeing her husband move was amazing. "It was a huge relief to see him walk again.

"It is also heart-breaking to see how slow he is, and what a struggle it is."

How long Tregurtha's recovery will take is unknown. His doctors have told him he has already exceeded their expectations, considering his injuries.

At this stage, he is able to stand and walk short distances, but still has no feeling at all in his left hand something that could last forever.

Despite the prospect of never being able to play the guitar again, he is keeping positive.

"If I walk away from this and I have no left hand, well, it could have been much, much worse."

599. https://www.thestar.com/news/gta/2016/05/12/woman-dies-following-biking-accident-at-kelso-conservation-area.html

Toronto firefighter dies following cycling plunge at Kelso Conservation area

Milton conservation area site of morning tragedy Thursday taking the life of Sara Rosen, 38.

Sara Rosen, a Toronto firefighter, died after a cycling accident at Kelso Conservation Area in Milton Thursday morning.

Sara Rosen, a Toronto firefighter, died after a cycling accident at Kelso Conservation Area in Milton Thursday morning. (Twitter / Toronto Fire Service)

By Nick WestollStaff Reporter, and Nick Westoll and, and Vjosa IsaiStaff Reporters

10:04 PM, Thu., May 12, 2016

A Toronto firefighter died Thursday following a cycling accident — involving a reported 60-foot plunge off a cliff — at a Milton conservation area.

The Toronto Professional Fire Fighters’ Association identified the woman as Sara Rosen. “Sara had 15 years of service with Toronto Fire and was a truly proud member of Local 3888,” union president Frank Ramagnano said, adding Rosen was involved with the association’s charity and public relations events.

Rosen was also an advocate for organ donation, having donated one of her kidneys to her brother 12 years ago, Ramagnano said.

He added that Rosen also worked as a City of Toronto positive-space ambassador.

An ORNGE air ambulance was called to the scene in Milton at 10:35 a.m. following reports of a woman having fallen roughly 20 metres in the Kelso Conservation Area.

However, the air ambulance did not transport the patient, said ORNGE spokesperson Josh McNamara. He said it appears that Rosen was mountain biking in the area and fell off the ridge.

Rosen’s body was said to be in a densely wooded area, and Halton Regional Police did not report its removal until 9 p.m.

600. http://www.stuff.co.nz/taranaki-daily-news/news/79955682/thieves-steal-new-plymouth-tetraplegics-independence

Thieves steal New Plymouth tetraplegic's independence

LEIGHTON KEITH

Last updated 14:55, May 13 2016
FAIRFAX NZ

Martinus Van den Tillaart, who was left a tetraplegic after a mountain biking accident in 2014, has lost his independence again after thieves stole his 90cc quad-bike he used to get around his New Plymouth property.

A mountain-biking accident robbed Martinus Van den Tillaart of the full use of his limbs. Now thieves have stolen the independence he had worked hard to regain.

The 59-year-old, of New Plymouth, suffered a injury to his spinal cord and a fractured vertebra in his neck after he hit a tree while cycling at Lake Mangamahoe in March 2014.

"I misjudged something and hit my head against a tree and it whacked my head back and I more or less broke my neck," he said.
supplied

Martinus Van den Tillaart with his dog Paddy and his quad bike that gave him a feeling of independence after a mountain biking accident in 2014 left him a incomplete tetraplegic, meaning he has limited use of his limbs.

The crash initially left Van den Tillaart completely paralysed and he spent more than four months in the Burwood spinal unit in Christchurch.

601. http://www.westernmassnews.com/story/31977750/teen-airlifted-to-hospital-following-mountain-biking-accident-in-charlemont

Teen airlifted to hospital following mountain biking accident in Charlemont

Posted: Sunday, May 15, 2016 3:57 PM EDT
By Shakala Alvaranga
shakala.alvaranga@wggb.com
Follow @Shakalawmn
(Western Mass News photo)
CHARLEMONT, MA (WGGB/WSHM) -

A 14-year-old boy was airlifted to the hospital following a mountain biking accident at Thunder Mountain Bike Park in Charlemont around 1 p.m. Sunday afternoon.

Police tell Western Mass News that the teenager was riding his bike at Berkshire East Mountain when he lost control of it.

The teen was transported by helicopter to Baystate Medical Center.

Police are not releasing any more information on the extent of the victims injuries.

Western Mass News is following this story and will bring you the latest developments as soon as it becomes available.

602. http://www.wemjournal.org/article/S1080-6032(12)00015-4/abstract

Objective

To describe the epidemiology of injuries sustained during the 2009 season at Whistler Mountain Bike Park.

Methods

A retrospective chart review was performed of injured bike park cyclists presenting to the Whistler Health Clinic between May 16 and October 12, 2009.

Results

Of 898 cases, 86% were male (median age, 26 years), 68.7% were Canadian, 19.4% required transport by the Whistler Bike Patrol, and 8.4% arrived by emergency medical services. Identification of 1759 specific injury diagnoses was made, including 420 fractures in 382 patients (42.5%). Upper extremity fractures predominated (75.4%), 11.2% had a traumatic brain injury, and 8.5% were transferred to a higher level of care: 7 by helicopter, 62 by ground, and 5 by personal vehicle. Two patients refused transfer.

Conclusions

Mountain bikers incurred many injuries with significant morbidity while riding in the Whistler Mountain Bike Park in 2009. Although exposure information is unavailable, these findings demonstrate serious risks associated with this sport and highlight the need for continued research into appropriate safety equipment and risk avoidance measures.

603. http://www.timescolonist.com/news/local/victoria-man-dies-after-fall-from-mountain-bike-1.2260898

A 53-year-old Victoria man died after falling off his mountain bike and hitting his head on a trail near Nanaimo on Saturday.

The accident happened about 10:30 a.m., Nanaimo RCMP Staff Sgt. John Blaas said.

The man was taken to hospital in Victoria, but died, Blaas said. He had been riding on trails at Mount Benson, west of Nanaimo, with a group of riders.

His name was not disclosed.

It is the second fatal accident involving a Vancouver Island mountain biker this month.

On Saturday, Nanaimo mourned the loss of local resident Steve Smith, 26, a world downhill mountain-bike champion, who died after suffering a brain injury in an enduro-motorcycle crash near Nanaimo.

A celebration of life was held at the Vancouver Island Conference Centre for Smith, who was dubbed the Canadian Chainsaw for his bold style.

604. http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-3608275/Brutal-moment-mountain-bike-rider-breaks-four-bones-smashes-ground-high-speed-jump-goes-horribly-wrong.html

Brutal moment mountain bike rider breaks four bones as he smashes into the ground after high-speed jump goes horribly wrong

Mountain bike rider accelerated down steep hill before reaching the jump
Man launched himself into the air but mistimed his landing and crashed
Video showed him slamming into ground and breaking bones in his leg
Biker had two surgeries since crash and is hopeful of losing limp soon

By Jake Polden For Mailonline

Published: 03:38 EST, 25 May 2016 | Updated: 03:40 EST, 25 May 2016

This is the brutal moment a mountain bike rider attempted a jump but mistimed his landing - shattering four bones in his body.

Helmet-camera footage captured by the biker showed him riding down a rocky hill at speed in the town of Bicske in Hungary.

He reaches the bottom and howls in anticipation of the jump ahead as he climbs the incline and launches himself into the air.

Fearless: Helmet-camera footage captured by the biker showed him riding down a rocky hill at speed

Here goes: The man reaches the bottom and howls in anticipation of the jump ahead as he climbs the incline

We have lift-off: The man launches himself into the air and at first everything appears to be going to plan

For all of two seconds the man, who appears to be riding a Scott Voltage FR 30 2011 Mountain Bike, looks of be in complete control of what he is doing.

He then suddenly begins screaming - although it is not initially clear why from the footage.

The rider appears to be aware of the fact he is not going to be able to land safely and moments later he slams into the hard ground.

The sound of bones breaking is audible as he crashes into the rocky hill and his bike buckles.

The clip concludes with the man, who is obviously in much pain, panting heavily and groaning while struggling to get back to his feet.

Panic: The rider appears to be aware of the fact he is not going to be able to land safely and screams

Disaster: The helmet-camera video shows the man has no control over the bike as he approaches the ground

Crunch: The mountain biker rider slams into the hard ground and the sound of bones breaking is audible

Writing online after the incident, the man explained that because he was all alone he had to crawl to a place where he could be spotted by a rescue team - adding to the drama of the crash.

He said: 'I fractured my tibia, fibula, talus and calcaneus during this horrific crash; I also have torn my left pectoral and had concussion.'

'I was stupid enough to be alone, so after this I still had to crawl back to the top, because the rescue team couldn't spot me for two hours.

'I had two surgeries so far, hopefully I can walk again without limping.'

Impact: The bike rider can be heard panting and groaning while in severe pain after hitting the rocky ground

Painful: The man broke his tibia, fibula, talus and calcaneus, tore his left pectoral and had concussion

605. Mountain bikers (including doctors!) just don't want to admit that mountain biking is inherently dangerous, cannot be made safe, and is a huge waste of money.

Mike

http://vancouversun.com/news/local-news/mountain-bike-risks-focus-of-shred-safe-campaign

Mountain bike risks focus of 'Shred Safe' campaign

John Colebourn
Published on: May 26, 2016 | Last Updated: May 26, 2016 3:15 PM PDT

Peter, 58, was badly injured in a mountain biking accident last October and wants to share his message that people need to pay attention while riding. Vancouver Coastal Health Vancouver Coastal Health-- Screen grab / PNG

He went from a trailhead on Mount Fromme to a hospital bed last October and will never ride his cherished Kona full-suspension mountain bike again.

No one expects to end a mountain bike ride with a trip to hospital; but it happened to Peter in North Vancouver that fateful Thanksgiving day, and he wants people to understand that mountain biking can have serious consequences.

Now confined to a wheelchair, the 58-year-old Burnaby man, who asked that only his first name be used, wants to share his message that people need to pay attention when out for a ride.

But as he goes through an extensive rehabilitation process to try to get some use of his legs, he does not want to bad-mouth the sport he loves.

I had proper equipment, proper training. It was just an accident, he said of his mishap at the entrance to an unassuming section of single-track near the fifth switchback on Fromme.

A construction worker, Peter was fit and healthy and took up mountain biking three years ago. I dont want to scare people about the sport, he said. Ride within your limits and take the time to get proper instruction, and wear the gear, he said.

Peters trailside tragedy is happening far too often, according to emergency room doctors with Vancouver Coastal Health, and they are sounding the alarm with the launch of a Shred Safe mountain bike campaign.

In a video kicking off the campaign that starts Friday, Vancouver Coastal Healths Dr. John Carsley points out ER physicians are often overwhelmed by the volume of significant injuries happening to mountain bikers.

Every day our emergency room doctors see concussions, broken bones, internal bleeding, organ damage and head and spine injuries, Carsley says in the video. Last year over 100 bikers needed major emergency surgery.

Statistics compiled by Vancouver Coastal Health show Whistler leads the way with the volume of annual injuries. In 2014-15, 57 riders were hospitalized with significant injuries. But that is lower than in 2013-14, when there were 67 major injuries, and 71 the previous year.

North Vancouver was next with 13 serious incidents in 2014-15, which is up from four in 2013-14. Squamish had 10 in 2014-15, up from seven in 2013-14.

According to the statistics, the median age last year for those having bad accidents was 31 for men and 33 for women. The average length of time spent in hospital last year was five days, down by a day from the previous year.

The bulk of serious mountain bike crashes happen between 11 a.m. and 6 p.m., on Saturday or Sunday. The worst months for accidents are July and August. The data covers only injuries that were significant in nature and required a hospital stay, and does not include the large number of minor mountain biking injuries that hospitals deal with on a daily basis.

Vancouver Coastal Health operates health care facilities and hospitals in the mountain bike meccas of North Vancouver, Squamish, Whistler, Pemberton and the Sunshine Coast.

Dr. Annie Gareau is an emergency room physician at the Whistler Health Care Centre. She was one of the authors of a major study in 2012 that examined the high rate of accidents in the Whistler bike park.

Gareau advised people to pre-ride the trails in the bike park to make sure they can handle the route. Know what you are getting yourself into, she urged.

An avid mountain biker herself, Gareau also warned that people need to keep well hydrated and eat food during a day in the bike park, or it may mean a visit to see her. The biggest mistake is when they ride until they drop, she said.

Other words of advice she offered are for those who have lapses of reason and in some cases, due to peer pressure, push it too hard: If you dont feel it, dont ride it. You need to be 100-per-cent in it, head-wise.

Dont ride high, drunk or tired, Gareau added.

She advised riders to keep drinking water throughout the day and get off the mountain once fatigue starts setting in. Another common problem, she said, is people who crash and think they are OK and go back up for another run.

Often people crash and rattle their brain a little bit and go right back up and then have a second crash and it is bad, she said.

She said there has been an effort by staff in the bike park with an orientation program to help people who take the lift up to find a safe way down. They have seen a big decrease in injuries because of that program, she said.

In the Shred Safe campaign, VCH is partnering this weekend with the North Shore Mountain Bike Association (NSMBA) to promote safe riding as biking season gets into full swing. A booth will be set up near the main parking lot of Mount Fromme on Sunday, and both the mountain bike association and VCH will have representatives answering questions and offering advice on how to play safe on the trails.

According to the NSMBAs Christine Tetrault, the association rates the trails they maintain and people should do some Internet research on the route they plan to ride before they even go to the mountain.

Anybody who is riding the trails for the first time should be riding with caution and learn about your surroundings, Tetrault said.

She said signs marking the trails give people a good understanding of what to expect. We have very clear, distinctive signs giving the best rating for that trail, she said. All of the sanctioned trails are marked.

Tetrault said the increase in accidents likely comes from the huge numbers of riders they now see on the North Shore. Our members have been doubling every year, she said.

She said as part of an ongoing safety program the association stresses that riders need to be equipped to handle an accident. Be prepared, she said. Know how to care for your friend if they are hurt.

Get first aid training, because the injuries that are happening are not what you see every day, she said. Ride with someone who can help you if you get hurt.

Among those offering free mountain bike training programs is the Bell Joy Ride, run by Isabelle Jacques out of North Vancouver. They have a women-only ride once a month offering tips and training and put people in groups based on their skill level.

If there is something more difficult they will stop and talk about how to approach it, she said in helping mountain bikers build up their confidence.

The Bell Joy Rides website is: https://www.bellhelmets.com/en_ca/joy-ride-program/vancouver/.

jcolebourn@postmedia.com

606. ANOTHER Paraplegic Mountain Biker (UT)

http://news.hjnews.com/allaccess/friends-of-usu-employee-raise-funds-after-biking-accident/article_a381d50f-c4b8-5650-9207-1c3f9f7f53ca.html

607. What a profitable business opportunity mountain biking is for Scotland! Too bad not everyone will be able to enjoy the rewards....

Mike

http://www.falkirkherald.co.uk/news/young-mountain-biker-airlifted-to-hospital-1-4141760

Young mountain biker airlifted to hospital

Scott McAngus

17:07 Monday 30 May 2016

A promising young mountain biker was airlifted to hospital following an accident at a competition over the weekend.

Ryan Brannen, The youngest rider in the Leslie Bike Shop/Bikers Boutique Downhill Team, suffered serious injuries after a crash during round three of the Scottish Downhill Series in Glencoe.

According to an eye witness, Ryan originally from Glenrothes but now living in Larbert suffered severe trauma and is being kept in hospital in Glasgow for the next few days for observation.

The source said: There were spots found on his scan which indicate severe trauma. I think thatll be his season over for this year, it was a truly horrible thing to see.

We still had four of our guys waiting on their runs at the top, they knew it was Ryan and could see the helicopter and knew it was pretty bad.

The race took place on Glencoes legendary Black Run, which is said to be one of the steepest and most technical tracks on the Scottish circuit.

608. http://www.abc15.com/news/region-northeast-valley/anthem/husband-identifies-woman-who-died-while-mountain-biking-on-valley-trail-as-sarah-teixeira

609. http://www.masslive.com/news/boston/index.ssf/2016/06/mountain_biker_dies_in_apparen.html

Mountain biker dies in apparent trail crash

By Dave Canton | dcanton@repub.com The Republican
on June 26, 2016 at 6:44 AM

Massachusetts State Police

LOWELL A mountain biker was found dead on a popular riding trail in a local state forest Saturday, and officials believe he died as the result of a crash. They said his death is not suspicious, the Lowell Sun reported.

Lowell police were called to the Lowell-Dracut-Tyngsboro State Forest just after 4:30 p.m. Saturday by another biker who found the victim unresponsive along the narrow biking trail. Rescue crews were able to drive on a dirt road to get within 200 yards of the crash site before getting to the victim. EMTs, and investigators had to hike in the rest of the way.

The victim was pronounced dead at the scene. He appeared to be alone at the time of the crash.

Police said there was no sign of foul play in the death.

The incident was investigated by Lowell police,and state police detectives attached to the Middlesex District Attorney's Office.

610. Man walked 3 days after breaking his neck in a mountain bike accident (ID)

http://www.ktvb.com/news/local/man-walking-three-days-after-breaking-neck-in-bike-crash/265451193

611. It's good that mountain biking is a "healthful family sport", so this kind of thing will never happen. Except that it does!

Mike

http://www.ejinsight.com/20160715-mountain-biker-dies-in-accident-in-new-territories/

A mountain biker plunged down a hillside and fell into a reservoir in a fatal accident in Hong Kong on Thursday. Photos: Cable TV, internet
Home Hong Kong Local
Jul 15, 2016 6:58pm

Mountain biker dies in accident in New Territories

A mountain biker died after an apparent accident while traversing the MacLehose Trail near Tai Lam Chung Reservoir in the New Territories on Thursday.

At around 8 pm, police received a call from a hiker informing that he saw a purple-colored mountain bike dangling from a tree on a hillside.

Authorities then launched a search operation for the missing cyclist.

After an hour or so, divers from the Fire Services Department found a man in the reservoir and pulled him out.

He was pronounced dead at the scene.

The deceased was identified as a 32-year-old person bearing the surname Li.

Police believe that he was biking alone on the Tai Lam Chung Reservoir section of the Tai Lam Mountain Bike Trail in the evening, and that he may have lost control while going down on a very steep section of the trail.

As he lost control, he fell off a cliff and landed in the reservoir.

Rescue personnel found serious injuries on Lis body.

It was learnt that the victim didnt know how to swim, causing him to drown after falling into the reservoir.

Lis relatives and friends were plunged into grief as they rushed to the scene after hearing the news.

The section of the road where the accident happened is steep and full of crushed stone, which is dangerous given the narrow lane and numerous sharp turns, Apple Daily noted.

The mountain bike driven by Li was produced by the well-known American brand Santa Cruz.

Authorities are conducting further investigations into the accident.

Translation by Chloe Chow

Contact us at english@hkej.com

612. http://www.abc15.com/news/region-northern-az/flagstaff/az-man-dies-while-mountain-biking-in-fry-canyon-deputies-say

AZ man dies while mountain biking in Fry Canyon, deputies say

4:11 PM, Jul 25, 2016
flagstaff | northern arizona

FLAGSTAFF, AZ. - An Arizona man died while mountain biking in Fry Canyon over the weekend, according to the Coconino Sheriffs Office.

Deputies said 63-year-old Michael Weinberg was with a group of other bikers Sunday morning when he fell behind and his group lost track of him for about ten minutes. Once the group realized Weinberg was missing they retraced their route and found him unresponsive on the trail.

Paramedics were called shortly after 8 a.m. to the trail, but they were unable to revive Weinberg. He was pronounced dead at the scene.

No further details were released about Weinbergs death.

613. It's a good thing that mountain biking is a "healthful, family-friendly sport", so that this kind of thing will never happen - except that it does!

Mike

http://www.bournemouthecho.co.uk/news/14647499.Mountain_biker_who_fell_65ft_off_a_cliff_in_the_Alps_may_never_walk_again___can_you_help_him_/

Mountain biker who fell 65ft off a cliff in the Alps may never walk again - can you help him?

Jack Sims who is paralysed after plunging off a cliff on his mountain bike in the French Alps

20 hrs ago / Tara Russell

A POPULAR mountain biker has been left paralysed after plunging 65ft from a cliff in the French Alps.

Jack Sims, 24, was left fighting for his life after he landed on his back when he lost control of his mountain bike and crashed off the side of a sheer cliff.

He suffered a broken back and a punctured lung from multiple broken ribs in the horror fall.

Jack has no feeling from his chest down and has been told he may never walk again.

His family from Blandford flew to France to keep a bedside vigil since the accident and a fundraising drive has now been launched to support him.

Jack, who has spent the last fortnight in hospital in Grenoble, returned to the UK by ambulance to undergo specialist treatment at Salisbury Hospital.

Speaking to the Daily Echo from the ambulance, Jack said: Its a nightmare but I have to keep telling myself these things happen.

I have no feeling from my chest down but at the moment, I feel lucky to be alive.

Once I get an idea of what the future holds, I can adapt into my new life.

Jack, who has loved biking all his life and takes part in worldwide competitions, had gone to the French Alps with a group of friends to take part in the longest downhill mountain bike race in the world.

However, before the event and just two days after arriving on holiday, tragedy struck while biking in Les Deux Alpes.

Jack, explained: There was a big jump called a step down and I misjudged my speed and landing and went over the edge.

I remember parts of it. I remember being on my back feeling excruciating pain and thinking I had a big stone under me which turned out to be my broken back.

Jack was airlifted and underwent emergency surgery before fighting for his life in intensive care.

I had cracked so many ribs which punctured my right lung so there was a lot of blood there that had to be drained.

Im paralysed from the top of my ribcage down but I feel lucky to be here.

Last night he was due to arrive at Salisbury Hospital to undergo treatment at a specialist spinal clinic where he could spend up to 18 months.

Jack, said: Its still very unclear what is going to happen, especially with the language barrier but I have been told its one of the worst parts of my back I could have broken so I need to set myself up for the worst.

Family bike shop Offcamber, in Blandford Forum, where Jack has worked for 10 years as a bike mechanic and sales assistant, has launched a fundraising drive to support him.

In just 24 hours, 3,830 was raised.

Jack, a former Blandford School pupil, said: Im so overwhelmed by the generosity of people.

I looked at it today and have been totally shocked by peoples kindness. Im just a bloke in the workshop fixing peoples bikes.

I cant put into words how much this support is helping now.

Go to https://crowdfunding.justgiving.com/JackSims?utm_id=107&utm_term=rNjRn5EAA

614. All mountain bikers are responsible for his "accident". Is there anything worse than sacrificing innocent children, just to get more trail access for one's bicycle? Mountain bikers should be jailed for child abuse!

Mike

http://www.stuff.co.nz/sport/83653120/teenage-mountain-biker-breaks-back-in-serious-crash-in-nelson

Teenage mountainbiker breaks back in serious crash in Nelson

ALDEN WILLIAMS/Stuff.co.nz

Nelson mountain biker Billy Dravitzki in recovering in Christchurch's Burwood Hospital following a crash in Nelson on Saturday.

A normal Saturday morning with friends turned to disaster for a 15-year-old mountainbiker when he was thrown from his bike.

Billy Dravitzki only made it halfway down the Kaka Hill track in Nelson's Maitai Valley before a serious crash left him with broken and fractured vertebrae, a dislocated back and compressed spinal cord, among other injuries.

He was airlifted to Christchurch Hospital where he spent two days in intensive care, before being transferred to the spinal unit at Burwood Hospital.

Billy Dravitzki in action during the third round of the Nelson Mountain Biking Club's downhill winter series "Broken ...

PATRICK HAMILTON

Billy Dravitzki in action during the third round of the Nelson Mountain Biking Club's downhill winter series "Broken Axe" in the Sharland Creek area in 2014.

The crash happened at 11.20am on Saturday. On Thursday afternoon he still couldn't move his legs. For now, he is being cared for as a paraplegic.

Doctors have said it could take six to eight weeks before they knew the full extent of his injuries.

It could take up to eight weeks for doctors to know how bad Nelson mountain biker Billy Dravitzki's injuries are.

ALDEN WILLIAMS/FAIRFAX NZ

It could take up to eight weeks for doctors to know how bad Nelson mountain biker Billy Dravitzki's injuries are.

"I got to the little chute just before halfway, and yeah, there's kind of a little drop at the end. I went off it with a bit more pace than normal and just couldn't handle it and I got chucked off the berm at the end I think," Billy said.

"I landed with my back on a rock, and it just kind of went down hill from there."

The Nelson College student said it felt like his ribs were being pushed out which "felt quite bad, but apart from that it wasn't too bad".

He was wearing competition-grade protective clothing, including a full head helmet and neck brace.

Friends called emergency services straight away and a helicopter arrived within minutes.

"I got winched out, it wasn't too bad but it was a bit sketchy – I had to go through a few thin trees," he said.

Billy was in surgery for three hours on Saturday. His mother Jenny flew to Christchurch as soon she could, while his father Andrew drove down from Nelson later that day.

"If anyone has a chance, he has a chance – he's pretty tough," his father said.

"He won't like being constricted, so that will give him motivation."

With success in both rugby and basketball, Andrew Dravitzki said his son was a keen sportsman, but "skiing, snowboarding and mountain biking, those are Billy's things".

He placed in the top 10 riding the same track during the Nelson Mountain Bike Club's downhill winter series in 2014, and had planned to compete in the same race this weekend.

The severity of Billy's injuries had not changed his passion for the sport.

"He's already talking about getting back, helping organise events. Billy doesn't feel bad about mountain biking," his father said.

Nelson Mountain Bike Club secretary Paul Jennings said the club planned to do something special for Billy this weekend to let him know they were thinking of him.

"He does our winter downhill series so obviously the guys that are going to be there will be thinking of him," he said.

Downhill races attracted riders because of the extreme element, Jennings said. The Kaka track was a grade five or six, which was the equivalent of a double black ski run.

"They're tough courses and tough racing."

"Hundreds of people have raced it every year so it's not necessarily that it's inherently dangerous. It's that the sport has dangerous aspects to it, just like any of those extreme sports.

"When you're racing quickly down a steep hill on a bike between trees and something goes wrong it can go really wrong. That's the nature of the sport."

615. http://www.thenorthernecho.co.uk/news/14666962.Second_air_ambulance_scramble_to_mountain_biker_in_Swaledale_after_he_suffers_life_threatening_injuries_in_fall/

Second air ambulance scramble to mountain biker in Swaledale after he suffers life-threatening injuries in fall

Andrew Douglas, Deputy News Editor / @EchoADouglas

A MAN was in a critical condition after a fall during a mountain bike race this afternoon (Sunday, August 7).

It is understood that the man, believed to be in his 20s, was taking part in the 'Ard Rock Enduro' event in the Reeth area of Swaledale.

The Great North Air Ambulance was called at 1.35pm to help Yorkshire Ambulance Service.

The man, from Lincoln, suffered injuries to his chest and abdomen described as life-threatening.

He was brought to the helicopter by members of the Swaledale Mountain Rescue Team before he was flown to James Cook University Hospital, Middlesbrough, where his condition was said to be critical.

616. People seriously underestimate the potential for serious injury in mountain biking, Sturgis said.

No kidding! What a waste of human potential....

Mike

http://www.parkrecord.com/news/park-city/man-dies-in-deer-valley-mountain-biking-accident/

Man dies in Deer Valley mountain biking accident

Ryan Summerlin September 6, 2016

A man died in a mountain biking accident at Deer Valley Resort on Saturday, the Park City Police Department said, indicating the force of the impact was great enough to crack his helmet.

Richard Benjamin Schmutz was 41 years old and from Layton, the police said.

Rick Ryan, a police captain, said the department received the report of the accident at 1:22 p.m. on the Holy Roller trail. Ryan said nobody witnessed the accident, but several people came across the scene shortly afterward. Ryan said a man and his son took a break from a ride and saw Schmutz pass them just before the accident. He was not riding at an excessive speed at that point, the man and son told the police, Ryan said.

The man and son continued down the trail a minute later and found Schmutz on the ground, he said. Deer Valleys bicycle patrol was contacted and patrollers arrived within four or five minutes. They performed CPR before medical personnel arrived, Ryan said. Mountain patrollers and Park City Fire District personnel who responded to the scene transported him off the slopes. The Fire District attempted additional life-saving procedures before Schmutz was pronounced dead, according to Ryan.

Ryan said it appears Schmutz died of blunt force trauma, including severe trauma to the head.

Deer Valley has long offered an extensive trail system for lift-served mountain biking and hiking. The Holy Roller trail is a relatively new one. The resort considers Holy Roller a flow trail and it is rated beginner, according to a release that was issued as the trail debuted.

A Deer Valley official indicated information about the accident would be provided by the Police Department.

While mountain biking is popular in the Park City area, drawing cyclists to resort terrain and a wider trail network on public and private lands, many recognize the risk of the sport. Charlie Sturgis, who is the executive director of the Mountain Trails Foundation, said he considers activities like rock climbing and backcountry skiing to be safer than mountain biking. He said mountain biking is the most dangerous thing I do.

I still dont think anything compares to mountain biking, Sturgis said, describing the sport as mixing speed with terra firma.

He said a mistake can be made even on a beginner trail.

People seriously underestimate the potential for serious injury in mountain biking, Sturgis said.

617. http://wwlp.com/2016/09/16/peter-pan-bus-lines-ceo-peter-picknelly-hurt-in-bicycle-accident/

Peter Pan Bus Lines CEO Peter Picknelly hurt in bicycle accident

Picknelly plans to return to work next week

Mark WiernaszPublished: September 16, 2016, 6:05 pm Updated: September 16, 2016, 6:56 pm

Peter Pan Bus Lines Chairman and CEO Peter Picknelly is seen here in a WWLP file image from 2013.

SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (WWLP) The Chairman and CEO of Springfield-based Peter Pan Bus Lines is recovering, after a mountain biking accident earlier this week.

Peter Picknelly told 22News that he was on a business retreat in Okemo, Vermont at the time.

Picknelly said that he fractured a vertebrae when he took a spill on the bike. He said that he is now feeling better, and hopes to be back to work next week.

618. https://www.outsideonline.com/2108551/cte-adventure-sports

Impact Zone

By: Dan Koeppel

Aug 29, 2016

Concussions sit in a gray area where the athlete decides when to return to play, a decision that can cost far too much. Photo: Ozgur Donmaz/Getty

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When the news broke in May that BMX legend Dave Mirra, who committed suicide in February, had the degenerative brain disease CTE, everything changed in the world of action sports. Cyclists, skiers, and  other athletes began asking: are we subject to the same concussion and CTE risks that have been so widely reported in the NFL?

The video—it has now been viewed tens of thousands of times—is just 16 seconds long, but the brevity doesn’t make it any easier to watch. Catherine Harnden, a Canadian downhill mountain biker, is competing in the 2012 O-Cup, a race series held every summer throughout Ontario. The clip, shot by a spectator, starts with a view of the lodge at Sir Sam’s ski area in Eagle Lake, about 100 miles north of New York state. The onlookers are chatting, then there’s the stutter and bump of tires on dirt. Harnden, dressed in white and green racing skins with spiderweb graphics, hurtles into the frame from the lower left. She hits a tabletop jump, but her weight is in the wrong position, and in a flash she launches over her bars. She lands on the ground headfirst, with a chilling thud. There’s a groan from the crowd. “Rider down! Rider down!” a voice announces over the PA.

Harnden, 23, doesn’t remember much about the crash. Her recollection is pieced together from photos, witnesses, and friends who were at her bedside when she woke up in the hospital. Now she and I are sitting at the counter of the crowded Coffee Pot café in Littleton, New Hampshire, near her home. This is one of those lucky former northeastern mill towns that has figured out how to thrive in a postindustrial age, its Main Street a mix of craft stores, booksellers, and a half-dozen coffee shops. Harnden has just gotten off work; she cohosts a morning talk show on WLTN radio, whose offices are across the street. She has long blond hair, and she’s muscular and smiling. She’s also amped, energized after a few hours on-air. She insists she doesn’t mind if I replay her wipeout on my phone so she can walk me through the details.

“Are you sure?” I ask.

“Definitely,” she says. “But you’re gonna mute it. I can watch, but I can’t stand to hear that crunch.”

Harnden’s accident video is still featured on several major bike sites that promote click-generating reels of wrecks like hers. Describing the crash as we watch, she agrees with some of the online commentary about what went wrong. “It was a basic, easy table,” she says, “but I came into it with too much speed, and somehow I found myself on the lip of the jump grabbing a whole handful of brake and getting my weight too far back.”

In the emergency room, Harnden looked across the hall and saw another competitor—a close friend—wailing in pain after shattering his collarbone. Harnden’s elbow was dislocated, but she was stoic. She wasn’t aware of her severe concussion. She doesn’t remember yelling at the ER doctor not to cut off her prized team jersey.

In retrospect, Harnden says, it was a practice run before the crash that threw her off her game, rattling her ability to concentrate. There’s no video of it, but Harnden doesn’t need footage to reconstruct what happened. “I was coming down to a hip jump,” she says, referring to a feature in which the launch slope points in a different direction than the landing. “It was in the trees, and I didn’t clear it. I bounced off the landing and ate it. I hit my head hard, but I didn’t lose consciousness, and I rode myself down to the pits.”

There, sitting dazed and cross-legged on the grass, Harnden knew she needed to remain still. “But everyone was telling me I should take another run, that I needed more practice. And I was like, they’re right. That can’t be my last run before the race. So I went back to the top.”

Her next time down, Harnden cleared the hip jump. “That’s awesome,” she remembers saying to herself just before arriving at the next obstacle, the tabletop. Then everything went dark.

Harnden still races and is now sponsored by Mongoose bikes. She’s a ski coach at the nearby Bretton Woods resort. She’s out almost every day, running and hiking the trails of the rugged Presidential Range. You’d never guess that, four years later, she still struggles with basic memory, not just of the crash but also of the name of a man she once dated or a flight she booked for the holidays. She can’t go to loud parties, stare at bright lights, or watch point-of-view action-cam footage. “It makes me hurl,” she says.

Harnden says she’s a different person now than she was before her head injury. Pre-crash, she was “cocky and extroverted.” Now she experiences mood shifts, depression, and fears that come and go, and migraines sometimes force her to retreat for two days into a dark room. Most of the time—when Harnden’s out on her bike, competing, or helping to launch a clothing company—things are “very good, great, in fact.” But the bad periods still come.

One thing she’s certain of: “I shouldn’t have gone back up that day.”

When the news broke in May that Dave Mirra—a BMX superstar who won 24 X Games medals and countless other competitions during his career—had chronic traumatic encephalopathy, it’s no exaggeration to say that everything changed in the world of action sports. CTE, a degenerative brain disease that can occur after repeated head trauma, is most often associated with NFL players and combat veterans. Classic symptoms include mood swings, severe headaches, confusion, and dementia, and the condition can lead to depression, erratic behavior, dependence on drugs and alcohol, and suicide. Several high-profile NFL players who took their own lives were shown after autopsy to have had CTE, including Hall of Fame linebacker Junior Seau, who died in 2012 at age 43, and former Chicago Bears safety Dave Duerson, who shot himself in the chest at age 50 in 2011, leaving a note requesting that his brain be examined.

How to Treat a Concussion

Mirra, 41, committed suicide in February, and many speculated that a series of concussions and head injuries he experienced during years of competing, in addition to cracking his skull at 19 when he was hit by a car, might have contributed to his death. When the stunt rider’s wife, Lauren, confirmed to ESPN The Magazine that Dave had CTE, questions that previously had been whispered became headlines. Do sports like road and mountain biking, BMX, skiing, snowboarding, surfing, and skateboarding—all of which can result in repeated knocks to the head—pose a risk of concussion and CTE similar to what we’ve seen in the NFL?

While head trauma is common in action sports, it doesn’t occur as frequently as it can in football. But with ever advancing gear that makes huge jumps—and huge impacts—possible, and an audience that thrives on risks and wrecks, action-sports athletes are going bigger, higher, and faster than ever before. Head injuries and their outcomes range widely—from concussions that fully heal, to a condition called post-concussion syndrome that can take months or years to resolve, to more serious traumatic brain injuries and CTE. Meanwhile, research shows that it doesn’t take a large number of concussions to cause adverse consequences and that concussion rates are increasing among action-sports athletes. A study that analyzed more than four million emergency-room visits in the U.S. from 2000 to 2011, conducted by researchers at Western Michigan University and published last year in the Orthopaedic Journal of Sports Medicine, reported a steadily rising number of concussion injuries in seven sports: surfing, mountain biking, motocross, skateboarding, snowboarding, snowmobiling, and skiing. Snowboarding was the most concussive activity, with 42,811 concussions over that ten-year period.

When the news broke that BMX legend Dave Mirra had the degenerative brain disease CTE, everything changed in the world of action sports. Photo: Josh Maready

Of the summer sports, the researchers counted 28,328 skateboarding-related concussions, 3,242 in surfing, and 4,530 in mountain biking. The latter number doesn’t include statistics from BMX, which hasn’t been widely studied yet and would likely make the figure much higher.

Sadly, Mirra isn’t the first action-sports athlete to have taken his own life after a series of head injuries. Several competitors in BMX and skateboarding have also committed suicide. Whether their deaths were related to head trauma is impossible to confirm, but the families of the deceased often describe symptoms that fit.

Biker Sherlock, whose first name was Michael, gained fame as a downhill skateboarder and street luger, winning multiple medals at the X Games and Gravity Games between 1996 and 2002. On the morning of December 3, 2015, two months before Mirra’s suicide, a surfer checking the waves at San Diego’s Pacific Beach found a body at the bottom of a stairway leading down from a parking lot. The victim, later identified as Sherlock, had shot himself in the head. He was 47, and he left behind a wife and two young boys.

Sherlock’s family has never spoken publicly about the cause of his death, but in response to my request for an interview, his sisters Margaret and Marjorie provided a statement that read, in part: “Michael had his first brain injury at the age of 7. He rode his bicycle down a hill with no hands, the bike stammered over rocks and Michael went down—resulting in a fractured skull. In his professional action sports life he sustained many concussions—all the while wearing the best in protection in helmets. The world is coming to know more every day of the life-altering and sometimes tragic loss of life due to the effects of brain injury. While Michael was not officially diagnosed with CTE, no other conclusion can be drawn—his last act demonstrated this.”

A year and a half earlier, less than ten miles away, a white Pontiac minivan was found idling and abandoned on the Coronado Bridge, the sweeping 2.1-mile span over San Diego Bay that connects San Diego and Coronado Island. The van belonged to professional in-line skater Bryan Bell, 36, who appeared in the X Games and many other competitions during the 1990s. Bell had taken countless hits to his head. “Smashing your helmet or face planting was a constant thing,” Bell’s older sister, Cari McLaughlin, told me. She said that Bryan experienced frequent migraines “to the point of tears” and depression that he “self-medicated with alcohol.”

When McLaughlin was called to the bridge by police, she told me, she looked down and thought, “If anybody could have survived this jump, it would be Bryan. He was that much of a daredevil.” On September 1, 2014, Bell’s body was recovered from the bay.

Presence of CTE can be confirmed only by a brain autopsy, and neither man’s brain was examined. It’s important to note that not all head trauma leads to the disease. But Mirra’s diagnosis, along with mounting scientific and anecdotal evidence, has many pros wondering if we’re on the verge of a CTE epidemic among action-sports athletes. More shocking are the signs of widespread health consequences from concussions in the amateur ranks—people like you and me.

“This is a very messy case,” says neuropathologist Thor Stein as he delicately slices a human brain into thin strips. The tissue is discolored, he says—pale gray when it should be pinkish—and seems, even to an untrained observer, almost ragged. “This is a person who would have had major cognitive issues.” Stein hands a slice to a colleague to mark for further study.

This narrow room at Edith Nourse Rogers Memorial Veterans Hospital, in Bedford, Massachusetts, is dominated by sharp tools, a stainless-steel table, and refrigerators. In the latter, behind glass doors, I see buckets about the same size as jumbo ice-cream tubs, each marked with a number. Inside are human brains. This facility holds the world’s largest collection of cerebral matter donated by professional and amateur athletes who wanted to further the cause of CTE research. To date there are some 320 athletes’ brains here, and more are on the way. Among others, soccer star Brandi Chastain and Nascar driver Dale Earnhardt Jr. have agreed to donate their brains after death.

Stein tells me that only one athlete from the action-sports world—an 18-year-old snowboarder who committed suicide six months after he’d suffered a concussion—has supplied brain tissue to the Rogers facility. It showed signs of CTE, he says. (Mirra’s family had his autopsy performed at the University of Toronto.)

Stein, who is part of Boston University’s Alzheimer’s Disease and CTE Center, performs cerebral autopsies here every Thursday. (The CTE Center’s labs and Brain Bank are housed at Rogers.) The veterans hospital opened in the late 1920s to help soldiers returning from World War I cope with an unexpected array of symptoms, including mood swings, depression, headaches, and suicide. As the U.S. population began living longer, the facility’s mission expanded to include diseases, like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s, that afflict older patients.

The CTE Center’s director, neuropathologist Ann McKee, became interested in CTE after finding a buildup of tau protein, now known to be a clear indicator of the disease, in the brain of a boxer in 2003. In 2008, Chris Nowinski, a former professional wrestler who cofounded the Concussion Legacy Foundation with Robert Cantu, a Boston University clinical professor of neurology and neurosurgery, asked McKee if she’d look at an NFL player’s brain to see if it showed signs of CTE. (It did.) Later that year, McKee teamed up with Nowinski and Cantu to form the CTE Center, which works with the Concussion Legacy Foundation to acquire athletes’ brains.

Since 2008, McKee, Stein, and their CTE Center colleagues have examined the brains of 94 former professional football players. Ninety of them have shown markers for CTE. (Bennet Omalu, a Pittsburgh-based neuropathologist, was the first to discover the disease in an NFL player—in the brain of legendary Steelers center Mike Webster—in 2002. Omalu’s push to change the concussion policy in the NFL was dramatized in the 2015 movie Concussion.)

CTE occurs, Stein explained, from an accumulation of impacts, both concussive and subconcussive. (The latter is a milder hit that does not lead to obvious symptoms.) Scientists don’t yet understand why some people develop the disease and others don’t. Stein says the best indicator of future problems isn’t necessarily the number of concussions but how long an athlete plays a sport that includes regular impact.

The physiology of a hit is pretty simple. It begins, for example, with you falling off your bike, snowboard, or skateboard. As you’re flying toward the ground, your brain is floating inside your skull, suspended in a layer of clear, colorless fluid, like a bowl of Jell-O that hasn’t quite set around the edges. When impact occurs, it’s the shaking of the brain inside your skull that causes the concussion. “That force—the banging, the twisting, the rotation, the acceleration and deceleration—deforms the brain and causes damage to the neurons and other cells that help the brain function,” Stein says. Initially, you may or may not lose consciousness. Later you might experience memory loss, nausea, equilibrium problems, or headaches—sometimes for weeks, sometimes for months.

The damage you sustained—and any further injury after that, especially before the brain has fully healed—can lead to problems with the transport of proteins in the brain, the same way potholes might impede the smooth flow of traffic on a city street. In fact, this metaphor is nearly literal. As Stein slices the brain he is working on, he shows me spots where trauma created visible gaps in the tissue.

Stein also says that an athlete doesn’t need to take a direct hit to the head to incur damage. “Sports where riders make these big landings could cause problems,” he says. “They’re 20 feet in the air, and their brain is falling at high velocity, just like their body. When they stop, the brain keeps moving inside the skull. They don’t have to have pain. They don’t have to say ouch.”

Stein, McKee, and their colleagues have identified four stages of CTE. In the first, tau protein builds up, mostly in the brain’s frontal lobe. As levels of tau increase in stage two, pathways in the brain called microtubules become twisted. Then they collapse, degenerating into neurofibulary tangles, effectively acting as roadblocks to normal function. It’s in stage two that symptoms like aggression, depression, and impulsiveness begin to appear. In stage three, as the tau spreads, the most essential parts of the brain—the mood, memory, and learning controlling amygdala and hippocampus—lose function. By stage four, the brain is overloaded with tau deposits, sometimes shrinking to half its original size. Ultimately, it can no longer perform the basic functions required for life.

Before Mirra’s family had confirmed the BMX rider’s CTE diagnosis, I spoke to McKee. She said that permanent brain trauma “is something athletes in those kinds of sports should be very concerned about.” I told her about other concussed athletes I’d interviewed, and she became distressed. “We need to figure out a way to help these people,” she said. By their nature, action sports are often individualized and not always overseen by a governing body. “We don’t have a great way to find out what’s going on out there,” McKee said.

Preventing and healing CTE is McKee’s ultimate goal, but she’s equally concerned about weekend warriors who’ve had a few serious knocks to the head. What should an athlete who has a concussion do? McKee paused. “Right now we’ve got no effective treatment besides rest,” she said. “We need to be sure we can figure out when somebody has recovered.” She paused again. “But we don’t really have a way to do that, either.”

“I’m sorry I’m not giving you firm answers,” she said. “That’s because there aren’t any.”

Even if you don't follow mountain-bike racing, you may have heard of Missy Giove. Through much of the 1990s, she was one of the most outrageous and exciting athletes in the sport. When Giove won the 1994 downhill World Championship in Vail, Colorado, she had wild dreadlocks, wore a dried piranha she called Gonzo around her neck, and rode faster and crashed harder than anyone else, regardless of gender.

Giove kept racing for another decade, winning 11 more World Cup events and appearing in the X Games, where she took the women’s downhill gold medal in 1997. But by 2003, she was suffering from multiple injuries to her brain and body. She began to have seizures and severe migraines. In 2009, she was arrested for transporting 400 pounds of marijuana in upstate New York. She avoided jail time and is in the last year of a five-year probation.

Giove is now 45, married, and living in Virginia Beach, where she works at local marinas, maintaining private boats. She knows that her many crashes made her “different mentally and physically.” She says her worst symptoms are migraines. She gets “tunnel vision and pretty much can’t move. Everything’s dark, you’re throwing up.” What helps, she says, is rest, a vegan diet, and “a skill that I’ve developed, or acquired, through experience.” She turns off the lights, submerges herself in a warm bath, and makes sounds, which she describes as “oscillating singing,” underwater.

As Giove sees it, the consequences of her crashes are part of a life she still loves. “There are things about my mind and body that have changed. I deal with it, but I have to not be hung up on how I used to be,” she says.

In 2015, Giove entered a World Cup race in Windham, New York, her first competitive event in more than a decade. She came in a respectable 17th in the qualifier, making it to the finals, where she crashed on a jump over a section of the course called a road gap. Giove recorded the event’s third-fastest top speed, but one of her longtime friends and sponsors, John Parker—the founder of Yeti Cycles, who’s launching a new mountain-bike brand called Underground Bike Works—expressed concern about her continuing to race. “I don’t know that I could in good conscience put her on a bike again,” he says. “I worry about her crashing.”

Many other young athletes I spoke to, all of whom have experienced multiple concussions, wonder about their futures. Robin Carpenter, a 24-year-old road cyclist on the Holowesko-Citadel Racing Team, has competed on bikes since he was 16 years old. He told me he’s had four concussions—one as a child, while skiing, and three as a cyclist, including one on February 7, 2016, during the CBR Dash 4 Cash near Los Angeles. A rider made bike-to-bike contact and Carpenter went down, landing on his side, hitting his head, and cracking his helmet.

As Carpenter recovered, he felt depressed. He rested a month and started riding again, but he was uncertain if his return to the sport would have repercussions and whether his team would see him as a liability. He no longer has those concerns, but he is worried about the long term if he sustains more concussions. “I picture myself 20 years from now, and I see myself just sitting, not reading, not able to watch television, not do anything,” he says. “And I wonder whether this is all worth it.”

Another road biker, 21-year-old amateur Cameron Rex, decided to stop racing in 2014 due to burnout. He sustained three concussions while cycling and two more during other activities. “The trouble with this kind of injury is that it gets worse,” he says. “Four or five big hits start to compound.” Though Rex can’t definitively attribute any cognitive issues to head injuries, he told me that he noticed changes in his handwriting when he went back to college in 2015. “When I got to school, my handwriting was terrible,” he says. “I had to learn cursive so I could write neatly.”

USA Cycling, the governing body for professional and amateur road and mountain biking, has a post-crash protocol for riders who may have sustained a concussion, but the young riders I interviewed said that the information they’d received about it varied widely. It depended on the team and the event. “You look at other sports, they seem to tell you what to do,” Rex says. “You don’t see a lot of that in the cycling world.”

The main page for concussion information at the USA Cycling website, titled Concussions in Cyclists for Team Managers and Coaches, links to some important resources, including several concussion and cognitive-baseline-assessment tests, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s concussion pages, and the Zurich Concussion Consensus page, which has information on the first attempt to create a worldwide policy aimed specifically at athletes. USA Cycling is affiliated with the Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI), the sport’s global body, and both have policies recommending that riders be withdrawn from competition and taken to a medical facility if they experience symptoms that include disorientation. But the ethos of the sport means that many keep going. On day three of the 2015 Tour de France, 20 cyclists went down in a clattering pileup. Though several withdrew, Swiss rider Fabian Cancellara, who’d been leading until then, continued, despite a team manager telling journalists that Cancellara felt “groggy.” Cancellara withdrew from the race later that day with two broken vertebrae.

“A lot of it goes to the athlete’s mentality,” says Davis Phinney, a former professional cyclist who partially attributes his early-onset Parkinson’s to crashes he’d suffered while racing in the eighties. “We get into these sports because we want to do something different. We see the sports as counterculture, even if it’s a huge commercial enterprise. When you get injured, that mindset doesn’t help you.”

According to some neurologists, in the heat of an event, the best practice is to give athletes who’ve hit their head, yet appear to be OK, at least 15 minutes of evaluation before letting them return to competition. This isn’t possible in the context of bike racing. A racer shaking off a crash while lying on the side of the road has a split-second choice: either get up fast, because the peloton is speeding away, or quit. While event rules and protocols vary, the decision to start pedaling again is sometimes made by the athlete or the team manager, who is trailing behind in a support vehicle, and not always by a medical professional.

Concussion policies at many sports organizations are undergoing rapid change as more and more information comes to light. USA Cycling is no exception. According to technical director Chuck Hodge, the organization is aware that its head-injury policy needs to evolve, and it’s in the process of putting together a medical consulting team that will recommend more stringent rider-safety protocols. Hodge says USA Cycling is seriously considering a “mandatory withdrawal policy” for athletes who’ve had head injuries. “The challenge is in the implementation,” he says. “How do we make this happen at all levels of racing? It opens up some very broad questions for our sport.”

The U.S. Ski and Snowboard Association’s concussion policy on its website includes language that says athletes who have sustained concussions or brain injuries must immediately be removed from any USSA event and cannot return until they’ve been cleared by a qualified health-care provider.

Jeffrey Kutcher, a neurologist in Ann Arbor, Michigan, who specializes in athletic brain trauma, works as a team doctor and consultant to the U.S. Ski and Snowboard Team. Medically, Kutcher says, it isn’t a good idea to let athletes make the decision about whether to continue after banging their head. “It’s like asking the patron who comes wobbling out of the bar whether they’re good to drive,” he says. “It doesn’t make sense if somebody’s impaired.” Kutcher also believes that coaches shouldn’t be making that decision. “You don’t want a situation where somebody is automatically removed if they take a fall, but it’s a very defendable position to give the medical staff absolute control,” he says. “Don’t let coaches make the determination. Medical staff makes that decision.”

The situation is more complicated in sports like BMX and skateboarding, which have loosely arrayed governing bodies and a variety of disciplines. Most athletes compete as independent contractors, and there’s often a void as to who’s responsible for setting concussion and injury policies—and lots of questions about how, and by whom, it should be filled.

The larger action-sports competitions are controlled by media organizations like ESPN, which runs the X Games, or consumer brands like Red Bull, which has multiple events and also sponsors many athletes. These entities don’t act as leagues or governing bodies. What’s more, athletes might enter a variety of competitions throughout the year, many of them operating independently of one another. While most have extensive safety protocols and on-site medical and evacuation resources, providing things like concussion policies and coverage for injuries hasn’t typically been the job of event producers or sponsors, and athletes are required to carry their own health insurance in order to compete.

While there are hundreds of competitions each year, Red Bull’s Rampage free-ride mountain-bike contest may be the most thrilling. It also illustrates some of the knottier issues in action sports. Rampage is a work of aerial art, in which a by-invitation-only group of riders compete in the cliffs and canyons of Virgin, Utah, doing things on a bike that should be impossible—and sometimes are.

At the 2015 Rampage, 19-year-old freeride phenomenon Nicholi Rogatkin, currently ranked first in the world and sponsored by a host of gear manufacturers, missed a drop and rode off a cliff. His helmet-cam footage shows him tumbling and twisting, and you can hear him groaning, but you really have to see the video shot from a distance to appreciate how far Rogatkin fell. After he gets up, he’s back on his bike within moments, despite apparent damage to the front of his helmet.

In an interview conducted just after his run and aired during the December 27, 2015, edition of Red Bull Signature Series, on NBC, Rogatkin said, “I was just waiting to go unconscious, but I stopped, finally, got up, checked that my bike was OK, put my helmet back on, got the OK from the judges to drop, not really the OK from the medics, but went anyway and finished my run.” (Rogatkin walked away with only minor injuries.)

cameron zink Cameron Zink goes big during the 2015 Red Bull Rampage in Virgin, Utah. Photo: Ezra Shaw/Getty

Red Bull doesn’t list an athlete concussion policy on its website and declined requests to comment on whether it has a head-injury protocol for its events. When asked about athlete injuries, communications director Patrice Radden offered a written statement. “Red Bull provides platforms for world-class athletes to realize their dreams,” it read, in part. “The safety of spectators and participants is always our primary concern.”

Some Rampage riders didn’t respond to interview requests, but Logan Binggeli, who took home the bronze medal in 2012 and placed 15th in 2015, and Cameron Zink, the 2010 champion, said they weren’t aware of a concussion policy at the event. Zink, the current world-record holder for the longest horizontal distance covered in a backflip—more than 100 feet, performed at the 2014 X Games—has been trying to get better compensation and safety protocols for Rampage athletes. After the 2015 competition, he and a group of riders met with Red Bull to ask for some changes to the event, including an updated policy for injuries, a rest day, a larger purse (in 2015, it was $100,000), and for the company to pay gap insurance, so that athletes’ deductibles would be covered. (Action-sports riders are able to get health insurance through the Affordable Care Act, but many have only the most basic policies, which often come with high deductibles.)

“The Rampage is incredible,” Zink says. “I love it. Some of the best times I’ve ever had have been there. We all feel that way, and Red Bull knows it. We get taken advantage of because we’re going to do it regardless. We’ll do it for no money, so they can shove us in a corner and we have no rights.”

On June 23 of this year, the company announced changes to the 2016 Rampage format. The biggest was that a new venue, not far from the old one, would be used, and that the rider-built obstacles would be limited to those constructed by hand or with hand tools, potentially resulting in smaller— and less risky—stunts. The number of riders invited was reduced to 21, and the rest day that Zink and his colleagues had asked for was added. The purse was increased to $150,000, and riders will receive $4,000 each for expenses. But there was no word about gap insurance or injury policies. In her statement to Outside, Red Bull’s Radden said: “The industry practice for almost all events is that individual health care coverage is the responsibility of the participating athletes. Any incidental costs are expected to be covered by such individual’s health insurance provider.”

Other Rampage riders I spoke to think the system is working, citing expert on-site medics and the opportunity to compete in carefully planned venues broadcast to large audiences, and adding that it’s up to riders to know their limits and not push past them.

But given the nature of many action sports, there’s an acute likelihood of sustaining head and other injuries, even for the best in the field. One of Dave Mirra’s signature moves was a double backflip, which he first executed off a BMX ramp built on San Francisco’s Pier 30 for the 2000 X Games. It was one of the most astounding feats ever accomplished on two wheels. But he also crashed, badly, at other events. So have dozens of other riders—at competitions, on the trail, and in practice at backyard tracks.

When asked if Mirra’s death has prompted a rethinking of medical protocols, Danny Chi, director of communications for the X Games, offered a written statement. “Athletes who are determined by the X Games medical staff to have sustained a concussion will not be allowed to continue to participate in practice or competition for the duration of those Games,” it read. “We have made a commitment to provide top quality medical care for athletes at X Games events. We constantly examine and evaluate our processes and policies, always with one goal in mind: athlete safety. This is a topic we take very seriously.”

Meanwhile, the financial and emotional costs of head injuries can take a large toll on athletes and their families. In August 2011, 16-year-old Harley Taich was the top-ranked female surfer in California and was about to compete at a contest in Point Mugu, just north of Malibu, when she flew off her board and landed headfirst in the sand. She was diagnosed with a concussion but says she received conflicting medical advice.

Harley Taich received conflicting advice after her concussion at a surf contest near Malibu. Photo: Chris Gant/Jettygirl Online

“Some doctors told me to keep surfing, some told me to stay home and do nothing,” she says. Taich continued surfing and says she reconcussed—“dozens and dozens of times.” She reached a point where she could no longer balance properly and suffered near constant migraines and mood swings ranging from anger to “hysterical tears.” In 2013, she attempted suicide. “I did everything wrong in my recovery,” she says, “because I didn’t know what to do.”

When asked how she paid all the medical bills, Taich says, “I have grandparents. They’d been saving for my college all my life, and it was pretty clear I wouldn’t be going. So they paid for my treatments instead.” She estimates the total cost at almost $200,000.

After three years, Taich decided she’d take the rest that one of her doctors had recommended. After eight months of no surfing, no school, no electronics, no stimulation of any kind, and an improved diet, she began to feel better. Taich, now 21, says that most of her symptoms have diminished. She recently wrote a children’s book about her experiences, called Heads Up: The Story of Finn and Reef, to “get the correct information out there in a way that people can understand.” But her career as a professional surfer is done. “It was everything I wanted to be since I was four years old,” she says.

Professional athletes put themselves at risk far more often than most of us, but the new science of concussions is disturbing for amateurs, too. As an avid mountain biker who competed in both downhill and cross-country events throughout the 1990s and 2000s, I’ve had at least four concussions from crashes, including two in which I was knocked unconscious. In the most serious incident, nearly 20 years ago, I hit a tree on a downhill course in France. I was out for ten minutes and woke up with a broken eye socket and gashes on my face that required multiple stitches. Other than being told not to sleep for 24 hours—a myth that may actually make things worse—I didn’t receive a word of advice about brain injury.

In the years that followed, I married and had two kids. I haven’t had much time to ride the way I used to, and I haven’t taken a hard blow to the head in a decade. But I have found myself struggling with depression, attention, and organization. Some of my friends and loved ones would describe me as impulsive, at least some of the time. I can’t say that my concussions contributed to that; I can’t say they haven’t. I’m not sure I really want to know. I recently bought a new mountain bike, my first in over a decade, and was reminded as I sped down a Los Angeles fire road at 30 miles per hour how much I love the sport. But I’m worried about my slower reflexes and what might happen if I hit my head again.

The scariest part of all this are the cognitive consequences of a concussion that weekend warriors may face. A study published earlier this year in the Canadian Medical Association Journal looked at more than 235,000 men in Ontario who’d had concussions between 1992 to 2012. Among those who’d suffered a single concussion, researchers found that suicide rates were three times higher than those who’d never had a head injury. That rate increased to four times when the concussion occurred on a weekend, leading to a suicide frequency, the authors wrote, that “exceeded the risk among military personnel.”

The authors of the study say they don’t have a clear understanding of why the men who concussed during a weekend faced higher risks for suicide after a single concussion. But they noted that on weekends, people may not seek medical care as quickly as they might on a weekday.

“There aren’t great protocols for weekend warriors,” Jeffrey Kutcher says. “And we need to keep the general population in mind.”

One of my former riding buddies, Warren Shumway, remembers falling off his bike a lot. “I never thought about it much,” says Shumway, who is 55 and works as a textile-industry sales rep in New Hampshire. “I felt invincible.” But two years ago he was knocked out during a race. “That scared me. My son was less than a year old, and I sat in a fog for a couple of days,” he says. Since then he’s stopped racing and now has two boys, who he says “won’t be allowed to do extreme sports until they’re 16.”

I’m not sure if I’ll be that conservative with my boys. I want them to be fit and to learn that there’s reward in risk. How much risk? Hard to say.

Though there’s debate about what parents need to do when their kids sustain head injuries—rest is called for, but what kind and how much is something the medical community is still sorting out—Kutcher says that the most important thing is for parents to make smart decisions. “You have to ask, what’s your child’s plan for playing sports, and what are the risks?” he says. At U.S. Ski and Snowboard, Kutcher calls for pre-participation neurological exams for all student and youth athletes, and follow-up exams at least once a year to determine whether a child’s brain is tracking the right way. “Are there issues starting to come up,” he says. “If there are, why are they there?”

Kids are becoming more aware themselves. During an Amtrak trip down the Pacific coast recently, I overheard a group of teenage boys talking about concussions. They were all 17 and heading back to San Diego after a week at summer camp. One of them, a burly redhead named Remington Naves, had concussed three times, once surfing, once playing lacrosse, and once skateboarding. “I had a huge impact at the skate park in Carlsbad,” he said, “and I felt groggy for a week.”

Naves was so confused by the conflicting information he received afterward that he ended up doing a lot of research on head injuries. While looking into it, he learned that his father had suffered four concussions as a high school and college football player. “We’re concerned for each other,” he says. That concern was heightened when he heard about Dave Mirra’s suicide.

Naves had taken an Impact test, a cognitive measurement that helps provide a baseline for future results. Nearly all youth and college athletes in organized sports are now required to take the test, a 25-minute online series of questions and exercises designed to measure cognitive skills, reaction time, attention span, and memory. Naves said that, after a concussion he suffered while playing football last spring, he scored “17 percent lower” than he had on his initial test.

Will parents come to think of skateboarding, mountain biking, and other action sports the same way some now think of football—too risky for a child? Kutcher says there’s no reason for excessive restrictions. “We need to be vigilant about it,” he says, “but you can have concussions and have a healthy life after sports.” There’s variance, he explains, “in how much force it takes to cause an injury to any particular person’s brain, based on genetic factors and maybe some physiological factors. And there’s also a threshold that’s very individual in terms of how much injury it takes to produce a clinical effect.”

Kutcher’s point is that it’s an oversimplification to say that concussions invariably lead to cognitive problems. “I’ve seen athletes who’ve had many concussions and their overall brain health is fine,” he says. “We monitor them, but we let them continue to play. And I’ve had athletes who had just one or two concussions, and it seemed like the best thing for them to do was retire.”

Many athletes I spoke with pointed to helmet usage as a protective measure against concussions. Several new designs are available, and the technology continues to evolve. But the neurologists I interviewed said that at this time, helmets can’t prevent concussions.

“Concussion occurs when the brain moves,” says Kutcher. “Whatever you have outside your skull might absorb some force, but if you get hit on the helmet by something, your brain is still going to move.” Neurosurgeon Robert Cantu says that athletes need to continue to wear helmets to “reduce the risk of skull fracture, not concussion.”

For now the best protection may come from talking about CTE more, an idea expressed by Lauren Mirra, Dave’s wife, when she broke her silence about her husband’s death. “This is the beginning of bringing awareness of talks of better equipment,” she told ESPN The Magazine. “It would be amazing if this is something we can detect in life one day. If we can detect it, prevent it, stop it, let’s do all of the above.”

Biker Sherlock’s family offered a more sobering outlook. “It’s easy to feel like superman,” Sherlock’s sisters wrote in their statement, “when the adrenaline is rushing and you are part of something bigger than yourself, especially when surrounded by like-minded individuals who love their sport. From our perspective, at the end of the day, the medical, physical, and psychological consequences of the fleeting moments of elation will outweigh it all. Michael’s passion for sports was eclipsed exponentially by his love for his family and friends. The consequences of brain injuries took him away from us.”

What will it take to create change for athletes? Zink is considering forming a union to band riders together. Tim McFerran, president and founder of the World Skateboarding Federation, a two-year-old group that’s hoping to create a global body for skateboarders, is working on getting secondary insurance for skaters. The federation has 5,000 members and is one of the groups consulting with the Olympics as the sport is considered for 2020. “You have to create a co-op, or something like it, where everybody signs up together to create a big enough group that an insurance company would want to do business with,” McFerran says.

That’s a start, but obtaining NFL levels of recognition will require more. “Nobody has put together a cogent plan to get these athletes safe,” says Jay Fraga, a 44-year-old former BMX racer who retired in 2010 after suffering multiple concussions during his career. “That’s how the NFL got sued, that’s how there was so much human carnage in football. History is going to repeat itself.”

In 2012, Fraga started a website called the Knockout Project to provide an outlet for athletes who’ve suffered concussions to share stories and receive consistent, up-to-date information.

At this time, with most action sports existing as loose confederations, there’s often no single entity to bring to court, as NFL and NHL players have done. And for many athletes’ injuries, the statute of limitations on damages has passed, according to Michael Kaplen, an attorney who teaches brain-injury law at George Washington University Law School.

But, Kaplen says, “If somebody takes a fall and they’re allowed to continue, you’d have to ask: Did the organization have a rule? If they did, did they follow it? Should they have? Today everybody has knowledge of repetitive head trauma. Everybody has knowledge of keeping participants out of the game until they’ve recovered. If the organizations don’t do that, they could be liable.”

In the meantime, the race is on to figure out a way to test for CTE in living athletes. One possible method is being studied by Dara Dickstein, an adjunct assistant professor of neuroscience at New York’s Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai. Building on work that has successfully detected markers for tau buildup in Alzheimer’s patients, Dickstein and her colleagues are investigating whether those methods can be transferred to subjects suspected to have CTE. The technique involves injecting a radioactive tracer into the bloodstream; the tracer binds to any tau proteins in the brain, which can then be detected via PET scan. Dickstein says she can’t discuss the study’s findings before they are published, but the initial results are promising, showing retention of the radioactive tau in the brain of a living 39-year-old former NFL player. She also mentions a difficulty she’s facing: finding control subjects whose brains are unscathed. “You look at the general population of men over 35, and it gets really hard to find anybody with no history of being bumped hard on the head or knocked out,” she says.

Meanwhile, Catherine Harnden had a full racing schedule this summer and had no plans to quit. “I love this sport,” she says. She’s moving from downhill to the enduro division. She’s feeling a lot better, and she says that prioritizing exercise, sleep, and a good diet has led to fewer occurrences of her symptoms. She’s also discovered that doing crossword puzzles and word games helps her to manage them.

We’ve made plans to meet later this year at the Highland Mountain Bike Park, in Northfield, New Hampshire, to launch ourselves off jumps of varying heights and onto a 50-by-50-foot airbag with massive Red Bull logos silk-screened onto it. It’ll be fun. In the end, I love my sport as much as any athlete, and as conflicted as I am about how and when to participate, I’m not going to stop. I can’t wait to fly through the air and land on that cushy bag.

One thing Harnden says she needs to do is get over hiding her injuries from her friends and loved ones. Doing so takes a lot of energy. She wrote in an e-mail that, throughout her life, she’s worked hard to “nurture a love of speed, adrenaline, endorphins. Because of that risk-reward ratio, I also became accustomed to injuries. It’s easy to pretend to be fine. As an athlete, it’s far easier to say ‘I’m OK’ than it is to say ‘My season is over.’ ”

Harnden concluded her note with this: “Concussions sit in a gray area where the athlete decides when to return to play.”

It’s a decision that can cost far too much.

Dan Koeppel (@soulbarn) is a former editor at Mountain Bike Magazine. This is his first story for Outside.

619. http://www.theage.com.au/victoria/geelong-mountainbiker-found-dead-at-you-yangs-regional-park-20160919-grjyev.html

Geelong mountain-biker found dead at You Yangs Regional Park

Emily Woods

A 55-year-old experienced mountain-bike rider has been found dead at You Yangs Regional Park on Tuesday morning.

The Geelong West man left for a day of riding between 8am and 12pm on Monday but failed to return home.

He had packed his lunch and was well prepared for the day ahead.

A spare key used by police to open his Holden ute revealed he had never returned for lunch. His ute was found in a carpark.

At 11pm on Monday the man was reported missing and police, Search and Rescue, Air Wing and SES searched the regional park for several hours.

About 4.15am emergency services made the grim discovery.

A police spokeswoman said the man's body was found on a track near the Drysdale Road carpark, where police had set up their command post for the search.

The death is not being treated as suspicious and police are preparing a report for the coroner.

The You Yangs are popular for mountain-bike enthusiasts with two designated mountain biking areas comprising of 50km of trails.

The Stockyards area, where the man was cycling, has a range of single trails and steep technical sections through rocky landscapes.

620. http://www.nzherald.co.nz/hawkes-bay-today/news/article.cfm?c_id=1503462&objectid=11721202

Boy airlifted after mountain biking accident

6:13 AM Monday Oct 3, 2016 Add a comment
The Lowe Rescue Corporation helicopter airlifted a 14-year-old boy from the Pan Pac mountain bike park near Whirinaki on Saturday. PHOTO/GOOGLE MAPS

A young boy from Napier required an airlift to Hawke's Bay Hospital after a mountain biking accident over the weekend.

Around 1.30PM on Saturday, the Lowe Rescue Corporation helicopter airlifted a 14-year-old boy from the Pan Pac mountain bike park near Whirinaki.

The boy, from Taradale, suffered a shoulder injury after coming off his mountain bike.
He was transported to the Hawke's Bay Fallen Soldier's Memorial Hospital for further treatment. A HBDHB spokeswoman said the boy was treated at hospital and discharged around 3pm on Saturday.

Yesterday Hawke's Bay Mountain Bike club chairman Scott Richardson said he did not know the young boy involved, or if he was a member of the club, but said it was "always distressing" to hear of an accident.

"It's always unfortunate to hear someone's hurt themselves," he said.

While the park offered a great range of tracks, some of it was at an advanced level, and recent continuous rainfall had left the tracks slippery.

"Anyone can fall off their bike in those conditions," he said. The greasy tracks also meant bikers could "fall off as much on the easy flat stuff as the harder tracks."

Other members of the club reported seeing the helicopter at the Eskdale park, but did not know the boy involved.

In August, the Lowe Rescue Corporation helicopter airlifted another young man from the park after a similar accident.

The teenage boy from Havelock North was thought to have broken his leg after falling from his bike.

He had been attended to at the scene by an Advanced St John Paramedic, before being flown to the Hawke's Bay Fallen Soldier's Memorial Hospital for further treatment.

621. http://www.vcstar.com/story/news/local/communities/ojai/2016/10/22/fatality-reported-near-wills-canyon/92594206/#_=_

Mountain biker found dead west of Ojai

Jeremy Childs , jeremy.childs@vcstar.com, 805-437-0208 3:06 p.m. PDT October 22, 2016

VCFD(Photo: Ventura County Fire Department)

Authorities responding to a medical call west of Ojai reported that a male mountain biker died Saturday.

The Ventura County Fire Department received a report at 11:23 a.m. of a person not breathing on a trail in Wills Canyon.

He was said to have been biking along the trail when he suffered a heart attack from overexertion, according to Ventura County Sheriff's Office.

Authorities reported the victim was dead as of 12:12 p.m.

His identity has not been released.

622. http://thelincolnite.co.uk/2016/10/north-hykeham-biker-who-broke-neck-in-horror-accident-raises-money-for-rescuers/

Film crews capture rescue of North Hykeham biker who broke neck in horror accident

Sarah Barker
11:05 am
Rob knew the accident was serious when he couldn't feel anything from his neck down. Footage captured on the scene by documentary film crews who attended with rescuers.

A mountain biker from North Hykeham described the terrifying moment he was thrown over his handlebars into rocks during a woodland ride, leaving him with a broken neck and fighting for his life.

Father-of-two Rob Hobson, 50, will have his traumatic experience featured in a UKTV documentary this evening after film crews and paramedics from the Yorkshire Air Ambulance rushed to the scene.

Rob was riding in Wharncliffe Woods, near Sheffield, when he was thrown over the handlebars on a steep descent and landed head-first on rocks.

I knew straight away I had done something serious, said the experienced cyclist from North Hykeham.

I hit the rock so hard, I remember thinking how on earth am I still conscious, and then I realized I couldnt feel anything from the neck down. That was pretty scary.

With the help of the local mountain rescue team Rob was eventually airlifted to the Northern General Hospital where scans revealed he had broken his neck.

Surgeons inserted a metal plate between his damaged vertebrae and Rob spent over three weeks in hospital and a further six weeks in a brace at home, barely able to move.

Extensive physiotherapy and a determination to build up his strength and fitness again meant that the father-of-two was able to return to work in September, six months after the accident.

Robs rescue by paramedics from the Yorkshire Air Ambulance will feature on an episode of Helicopter ER on Monday, October 24 at 10pm on UKTVs reality channel Really.

Charity mission

Rob Hudson (centre in orange shirt) with mountain biking friends who have so far raised more than 4,000 to thank Yorkshire Air Ambulance.

Following the accident, Rob and fellow cyclists have been raising money for the rescuers who saved his life.

Last month members of Robs mountain biking group completed the Pennine Bridleway Challenge, biking 170 miles of mountain trails and more than 20,000ft of ascent in just four days, raising over 4,000 for Yorkshire Air Ambulance and the Woodhead Mountain Rescue Team.

Rob, who is also a keen snowboarder and water-skiier, joined them for the last 12 miles of the route and his dramatic rescue will be shown on Helicopter ER on Monday, October 24.

If you would like to make a donation visit Robs funding page.

623. http://www.dailytelegraph.com.au/news/mountain-biker-treated-for-injuries-after-falling-down-an-embankment-at-belair/news-story/57b1066314b55897985612b9179fe54f

Mountain biker treated for injuries after falling down an embankment at Belair

Josephine Lim, The Advertiser
October 31, 2016 10:13pm

A YOUNG man had to be winched to safety by the rescue helicopter and taken to hospital after a high-speed mountain bike crash at Belair.

Alex Grant, 18, was riding his mountain bike at about 50km/h when he flipped and landed on his back just after noon on Tuesday.

Friend Steven Stuart, 20 was riding the mountain bike trail for the first time but said his friend was very experienced on that particular track.

He said his friend hit a rock and flipped while careering down the hill.

He went over the handlebars, into the bush a couple of metres, and landed on his back on a rock, he said.

He was in quite a bit of pain.

Mr Stuart said he was shaken by the accident.

I made sure he wasnt moving, he said.

He does this (ride) everyday and (this time) made a mistake.

Paramedics arrived within 20 minutes but initially had difficulty finding the pair.

A team of MFS and CFS firefighters and SA Ambulance paramedics then climbed 200m down the embankment from Old Belair Rd and stabilised the man on a stretcher before the rescue helicopter winched him out.

The victim was taken to hospital with serious injuries.

SA Ambulances Paul Holmes said the man was conscious but in pain and trying to keep still when paramedics arrived.

He had suspected spinal injuries, with back, neck and abdominal pain, he said.

He had a helmet and goggles on ... it was quite wise as (the track) was quite rocky down there.

Mr Grants anxious mother arrived at the scene before heading to hospital to be with her son.

The track is popular with mountain bike riders and a CFS volunteer said he attended another crash almost at the same spot at Brownhill Creek about a month ago in which a rider was hurt.
A policeman with the injured mans friend, Steven, 20 walking the pairs bikes back to safety. Picture Dean MartinThe MAC rescue helicopter lifts injured mountain biker Alex Grant,18 to safety after he was injured while riding on a track off Old Belair Road. Picture Dean Martin

Originally published as Mountain biker seriously injured.

624. http://www.timesandstar.co.uk/news/people/Kyle-describes-amazing-recovery-as-dad-gives-something-back-09dc5fbe-2f8f-49f4-91fa-ab528b89724f-ds

Sunday, November 6, 2016 at 10:30AM

Kyle describes amazing recovery as dad gives something back

By Daniel Baker

Less than 18 months ago Kyle Fulton was fighting for his life after a serious mountain bike accident at woods in Setmurthy, near Cockermouth.

Kyle Fulton

Kyle Fulton, second left at home with dad Keith, mum Linzi and brother Spencer

But the 15-year-old has made a remarkable recovery from the ordeal which saw him spend more than three weeks in Newcastles Royal Victoria Infirmary.

Kyles story began when he went mountain biking with his friend Josh Skelton, 15, of Dearham, one day in June 2015.

The accident then happened, but within minutes 25 members of Cockermouth Mountain Rescue Team attended the scene.

The group had been on a training exercise nearby and were able to stabilise, assess and treat him.

Kyle then went to Newcastle where he spent three days in a coma in the intensive care unit and then three weeks in the neurology ward where he underwent extensive physio and rehabilitation.

The Cockermouth School pupil suffered a major traumatic brain injury and has had to learn how to walk, talk and write again.

But he is now moving forward with his life and will take his GCSEs next year.

Kyle says: I remember pushing my bike to the top of the hill, but I cant remember anything until the second week I was in hospital.

I woke up and I could not feel my left side, my speech wasnt good and I couldnt move my arm or my leg.

Despite the extent of his injuries, he returned to school during the last week of the summer term and did some half days.

On the day of the accident, the family received a call from Joshs dad to say Kyle had been hurt.

Kyle was wearing all his protective clothing at the time of the accident and he believes that it also played a part in saving him.

After being treated by the mountain rescue team, he was taken by air ambulance to hospital.

Dad Keith, 45, runs Fultons Landrovers, near Branthwaite, and the family live nearby. His mum is Linzi, 42, and Kyle has a younger brother Spencer, 13.

Keith has organised two fundraisers this year to raise money for Cockermouth Mountain Rescue Team and has made 1,500.

He says: It was a big shock. It was devastating and I was anxious waiting to get to Kyle and to find what was actually wrong.

The mountain rescue team did a tremendous job and organised everything, including stabilising him, putting him on the air stretcher, and organised the air ambulance.

I wanted to give something back, simply because we were so appreciative with what the team did that day.

Since the accident, Kyle has got his fitness levels back up and has taken part in two triathlons.

The teenager has also returned to mountain biking and hopes to run his own joinery or electrician business.

Kyle adds: Im lucky that Im still here and that Im not having any major after-effects. Im not that bad now."

Friday, November 4, 2016 at 12:39PM

625. http://calgary.ctvnews.ca/mountain-biker-suffers-potentially-fatal-injury-in-fall-near-bragg-creek-1.3157875

Mountain biker suffers potentially fatal injury in fall near Bragg Creek

Moose Mountain, the site of a Friday afternoon crash that sent a cyclist to hospital (Google Maps)

Ryan White , Reporter/Producer

@CTVRyanWhite

Published Saturday, November 12, 2016 11:41AM MST

A man has been hospitalized following a Friday afternoon crash along a trail on Moose Mountain in Kananaskis Country.

According to EMS Public Education Officer Adam Loria, emergency crews responded to a location on the trail at approximately 3:00 p.m. following reports on an injured cyclist.

Alpine Helicopters, STARS Air Ambulance, Redwood Meadows Fire and EMS were deployed to the scene.

The man, believed to be in his 30s, had suffered a serious head injury in the fall. The unconscious cyclist was airlifted to the Foothills Medical Centre by STARS Air Ambulance in stable condition with injuries considered to be potentially life threatening.

Moose Mountain is located approximately 20 kilometres west of the hamlet of Bragg Creek.

626. http://www.knoxnews.com/news/local-news/research-scientist-killed-in-mountain-bike-mishap_11914864

Research scientist killed in mountain bike mishap

Bob Fowler
3:04 PM, Dec 22, 2014

OAK RIDGE A research scientist at Oak Ridge National Laboratory with a passion for mountain biking and bike racing died Saturday while trail-riding in Haw Ridge Park.

The body of Michael Biegalski, 38, of Oak Ridge was found by two hikers late Saturday afternoon in the park, according to reports. The citys Haw Ridge is noted for its network of nearly 30 miles of trails next to Melton Hill Lake that lure mountain bike enthusiasts as well as hikers.

He apparently went off the trail and down a hill, Oak Ridge Fire Chief Darryl Kerley said. The location was about 300 yards from Old Edgemoor Road, according to a police department news release.

Kerley said its unknown if Biegalski sustained a medical trauma or died from a biking-related injury. The body was taken to the Knox County Regional Forensic Center for an autopsy.

Biegalski had been a staff member since 2008 of the labs Center for Nanophase Materials Sciences, where studies of microscopic materials are conducted.

He was the type of person that everybody likes, with a very warm personality and a great sense of humor, said center director Hans Christen. He was outstanding technically and really knew his research.

Christen said Biegalski was studying thin layers of oxide materials and, as a postdoctoral student, was instrumental in setting up one of our labs. The center employs 50 staff members along with 40 postdoctoral researchers, Christen said.

Biegalski had quite an accomplished record of bike racing, Christen said.

He is survived by his wife and two young children. The family will receive friends Tuesday from 10 until 11 a.m. at St. Marys Catholic Church in Oak Ridge. A funeral Mass will follow.

Weatherford Mortuary, Oak Ridge, is in charge of arrangements.

627. https://www.noozhawk.com/article/mountain_biker_hospitalized_after_accident_santa_barbara_mountains

Mountain Biker Hospitalized After Crash On Trail Off Paradise Road

By Sam Goldman, Noozhawk Staff Writer |

A mountain biker was hospitalized with major injuries Saturday afternoon after he crashed while traveling down the Snyder Trail in the mountains north of Santa Barbara.

The biker, a man in his mid-30s, was approximately a mile from the bottom, and had an accident and went over his handlebars, Santa Barbara County FireCapt. Dave Zaniboni said.

At around noon, the county Fire Department, the U.S. Forest Service and sheriffs Search and Rescue Teamresponded to the crash site, and carried the man down the rest of the trail, Zaniboni said.

From there, he said, a helicopter from the county air support unit in Santa Ynez airlifted the biker to Santa Barbara Cottage Hospital, where he was treated for major injuries.

The Snyder Trail is just off Paradise Road and is heavily used by mountain bikers.

Noozhawk staff writer Sam Goldman can be reached at sgoldman@noozhawk.com. Follow Noozhawk on Twitter: @noozhawk, @NoozhawkNews and @NoozhawkBiz. Connect with Noozhawk on Facebook.

628. http://www.radionz.co.nz/news/national/321596/doctor-who-died-while-mountain-biking-mourned

Doctor who died while mountain biking mourned

9:24 pm on 1 January 2017

A respected Whanganui doctor who died while mountain biking yesterday afternoon is being praised for his work.

Whanganui Hospital Photo: RNZ / Robin Martin

Chris Cresswell, the acting head of Whanganui Hospital's emergency department, died after apparently falling from his bike at Matipo Park.

In 2015, Dr Cresswell escaped censure after he climbed on top of local MP Chester Borrows' car during a protest against the TPP.

Association of Salaries Medical Specialists executive director Ian Powell said Dr Cresswell was very popular among his colleagues and in the community.

Mr Powell said he was a highly passionate and compassionate doctor who was concerned about the effects of environmental and trade policies on people's health.

His death has been referred to the coroner.

http://www.nzherald.co.nz/wanganui-chronicle/news/article.cfm?c_id=1503426&objectid=11775401

Popular doctor found dead after biking accident

By Simon Waters
9:17 AM Sunday Jan 1, 20175 comments
Popular Whanganui doctor Chris Cresswell whose body was found beside his mountainbike on Saturday. Wanganui Chronicle photograph by Bevan Conley.

The year has ended on a shock for Whanganui with the sudden death of one of the city's most well liked and respected doctors.

Chris Cresswell, acting head of Whanganui Hospital's emergency department, died while riding his mountainbike on Saturday.

Police attended the scene at Matipo Park, at about 4.30pm. Dr Cresswell was found lying lifeless beside his bike.

It appears he had fallen but the death will be referred to the Coroner before a full determination of the cause of death can be made.

Matipo Park is a recreational park reserve off Brunswick Rd and is available for walkers, horse riding and mountain biking.

All tracks are steep and can get slippery when wet. A sign at the park warns users to take extreme care.

Family friend Rochelle Bullock spoke to the Chronicle on the family's behalf.

"I saw him just before he went out for his ride. He was so looking forward to 2017 and celebrating the new year with friends. He was like a brother to me," Ms Bullock said.

"He was wearing his taonga, pounamu."

Dr Cresswell was passionate about equality, the environment and medicine.
Ms Bullock said Dr Cresswell was "well respected and loved amongst all people."

He worked alongside iwi and was prominent in advancing Maori health.

629. http://www.limerickleader.ie/news/home/231999/limerick-man-diesfollowing-mountain-bike-accident.html

Limerick man dies following mountain bike accident

David Hurley

23 Jan 2017

Email:

david.hurley@limerickleader.ie

Gardai are investigating the incident on behalf of the local coroner

GARDAI are investigating the circumstances surrounding the tragic death of a Limerick man at the weekend.

It is understood that Warren B Smith died after he was seriously injured in a mountain-biking accident in County Tipperary on Saturday afternoon.

Gardai at Borrisokane say they are investigating the death of the 50-year-old, who was living near Patrickswell, on behalf of the local coroner.

The remains of the father-of-one, who worked for 3 Ireland, will repose at Thompsons Funeral Home in the city between 5.30pm and 7pm on Wednesday ahead of a Humanist Service.

A private cremation will take place on Thursday.

Mr Smith is survived by his son, Odhinn; his father David; his stepmother Debbie and his partner Simone.

630. http://www.heraldsun.com.au/leader/north/expectant-father-left-paraplegic-after-horror-bike-accident/news-story/8ab97b282caaedb2bbb8ddd8532a49c5

Expectant father left paraplegic after horror bike accident

THE Diamond Valley community is rallying around an Eltham North expectant father who may never walk again following a horrific bike accident.

This year was meant to be full of amazing things for Josh Young and his partner Kati Stone.

They are expecting their first child together in June, a little girl, the Sunshine Coast Daily reported.

The block of land in Doreen they bought last year is settling next month and then work on their dream house will start.

But now the couple face an uncertain future after Mr Young, 25, fractured and dislocated his L1 vertebrae in a mountain biking accident on Saturday.

Ms Stone said her partner had a very slim chance of regaining movement in his legs, and there had been little progress.

The orthopedic surgeon said they needed to operate to get the vertebrae off his spinal cord and they did that immediately, she said.

In two or three weeks he might start to get some feeling back but hes been given a very small chance.
The young family are about to start building their dream home in Doreen. Picture: Supplied

Mr Young was flown to The Alfred hospital and later transferred to the Austin Hospital Acute Spinal Unit, where he remains.

He will go from here to a spinal rehab place, Ms Stone said.

I dont think he will be home for many months. It will depend on his progress and when he can do things.

Mr Young, a boilermaker with Campbellfield weighbridge manufacturer Ultrahawke, was mountain biking with friends at Buxton Mountain Bike Park, about 100km northeast from Melbourne, when it is believed he hit a tree and went over the handlebars.

Ms Stones brother Benn Gaylor said they had been riding for about three hours and were on their final ride when it happened.

Me, Joshs brother-in-law and a friend of mine had got to the bottom and were waiting for him, Mr Gaylor said.

We heard a faint cry out but wasnt sure what it was so we waited a few more minutes.

When we heard another cry out we started heading back up the hill.

We got about halfway up and another rider was coming down and he said your mates up there and he sent me down to get you, you need to call an ambulance now.
The couple are expecting their first child together in June. Picture: Supplied

Mr Gaylor said they found Mr Young lying on his stomach on the side of the hill, five metres off the track.

As soon as we got to him he said I cant feel my legs, I cant feel them, I cant move them.

It took 45 minutes for paramedics to reach them.

In that time Mr Gaylor said adrenaline kept Mr Youngs pain away, but only for half an hour.

When the adrenaline wore off he was in lots of pain. He said his back was hurting, hed broken his collarbone and his shoulder was hurting from supporting his weight, he said.

Paramedics administered pain killers and rolled Mr Young on to a stretcher.

That was a pretty hairy moment but they did an amazing job at handling the situation.

While Ms Stone hoped Mr Young would be home before their daughter arrived, she said the baby had given him something to focus on.

This is Joshs first child but he is like a father to my two kids.

He is beautiful, a really special person.
Family and friends are rallying around the young family. Picture: Supplied

She said friends and family had been an incredible support as had their gym community, CrossFit Diamond Valley, which started a food drive for the family.

Ive not been left alone since it happened, I havent been allowed to drive myself to hospital and there has been a roster of people bringing food, Ms Stone said.

Ive been inundated with offers to babysit the kids.

A Go Fund Me account set up by Mr Gaylor has already raised more than $33,000 in three days for the family.

Ms Stone said: To all the people that we know and that we dont know, thank you. It is mind-boggling that so many people care. This will really help us.

631. What a worthless sport!

Mike

http://www.newshub.co.nz/home/new-zealand/2017/02/mountain-biker-s-fatal-cliff-plunge-in-hawke-s-bay.html

Mountain biker's fatal cliff plunge in Hawke's Bay

Te Mata Peak, near Havelock North (file)

A man has died after he fell off a cliff in the Hawke's Bay while mountain biking.

The incident happened at Te Mata Peak, near Havelock North, on Tuesday evening, and he was flown to Hawke's Bay Hospital.

The man, aged about 60, fell about 15 metres.

A paramedic managed to reach the cyclist on foot. He was then winched aboard a rescue helicopter, but later died from multipe injuries.

Police say the death has been referred to the coroner.

http://www.adelaidenow.com.au/news/south-australia/former-eynesbury-senior-college-principal-john-warren-dies-in-mountain-bike-accident-in-new-zealand/news-story/131da4f6346ac31e27f29fe4cf721c75

Former Eynesbury Senior College principal John Warren dies in mountain bike accident in New Zealand

TIM WILLIAMS, EDUCATION REPORTER, The Advertiser
February 9, 2017 11:46am

JOHN Warren vowed to mountain bike up New Zealands Te Mata Peak 1000 times within five years.

The beloved former Eynesbury Senior College principal managed the feat hundreds of times before a tragic cycling accident claimed his life on Tuesday.

Mr Warren, who led Eynesbury from 2008 to 2014, fell 15m down a steep bank on the 400m-tall mountain.

The 60-year-old was just weeks into a new job as principal of private Westmount School, after running an education consultancy for the past two years in the Hawkes Bay area of the North Island.

His wife Shannon said he was always a keen road cyclist in Adelaide, and had switched to off-roading when they moved to New Zealand where she had won a school principal position.

He took that up given we were living in mountain biking heaven, she said.

Hed done that ride hundreds of times. Im on a five-year contract and he said his goal was to do it 1000 times.
Mr Warren, pictured with wife Shannon. Photo supplied by the Warren family.

He was exceptionally careful and never took risks. He was not one of those maverick, middle-aged men in Lycra.

Its quite cliched to say he died doing what he loved, but he (did).

The couple met in the 1990s when they both taught at an international school in Brunei.

Mr Warren then became head of information technology at Westminster School from 1999 to 2007, before taking the top job at Eynesbury.

John was just an absolute master of relationships, Mrs Warren said.

People just gravitated towards him, he was charismatic and naughty with a wicked sense of humour. He would get away with stuff that no one else would because he was so charming.

He was not just my husband, he was my educational mentor, my number one supporter, my number one critic.
Mr Warren with his mountain bike.

Aaron Warren-Thomas, 41, said his dad was a really strong role model who was a keen photographer, had a love of all art, in particular literature, and adored his two dogs.

He gave me a lot to strive for, just purely because he strove for so much himself, he said.

Eynesbury Senior College principal Claire Flenley said Mr Warren had changed the schools culture for the better and helped us bring our technology into the 21st century with wifi, iPads and online resources for teachers and students.

He was a buoyant, generous person. He knew how to work with people to get them on board, she said.

Being able to mentor people was a something that gave him great satisfaction, and he did it with rare skill.

He was a charismatic, larger than life person whod both catch your attention and give you attention.

Eynesburys Facebook tribute said he was an innovative leader with a clear vision and great drive.
View from Te Mata peak near Napier, where the traffic accident occurred. Photo: Tourism New Zealand.

Mr Warrens death has been referred to the coroner.

A witness told the Dominion Post newspaper: He lost control on a track, which is on a pretty steep gradient, and careered through some long grass which separates another track below the one he was on, and immediately above the cliff face. It all happened so rapidly.

The 400m tall Te Mata Peak also claimed the lives of two drivers who plunged their cars over cliffs in 2013 and 2010, leading to calls for containment barriers on all blind corners.

Westminster School acting principal Grant Bock said: We knew John was an experienced cyclist so to learn of the tragic accident in New Zealand which took his life has come as a shock to our community.

Association of Independent Schools of SA chief executive Carolyn Grantskalns said Mr Warren was well known and respected in the private school sector.

He was a lovely man. Its a shock, obviously. People are feeling for Shannon. Its a tragedy for everyone, she said.

Mrs Warren was deputy principal and head of senior school at Seymour College in Adelaides east before being appointed to lead Iona College in Havelock North, very close to Te Mata Peak.

632. http://www.abc15.com/news/region-phoenix-metro/central-phoenix/phoenix-doctors-help-skier-mountain-biker-joe-ringling-with-serious-concussion-symptoms

Phoenix doctors help skier, mountain biker Joe Ringling with serious concussion symptoms

Katie Conner
5:48 AM, Feb 7, 2017
central phoenix | phoenix metro

PHOENIX - Before the age of 20, Joe Ringling was a sponsored skier and mountain biker.

"Why wouldn't you follow a passion if you have it?" Ringling asked.

But by 20 years old, Ringling had also suffered several concussions.

Ringling says he would get knocked out but then get back on his skis or his mountain bike. Two years ago, his career came to an end with a terrifying mountain bike crash.

I hit my head 15 too many times, said Ringling.

He says the repeated concussions brought long-term symptoms like severe headaches, memory loss and depression.

"My worst concussion was freshman year of high school," said Ringling. "I don't remember three months on either side."

Ringling says doctors in Montana couldn't figure out what was wrong so he moved to the Phoenix area where he sought treatment at the Concussion and Brain Injury Center at Barrow Neurological Institute at Dignity Health St. Josephs Hospital and Medical Center -- the first of its kind in the nation.

Ringling is now working with neurologist Dr. Glynnis Zieman to put his life back together. He is currently on preventative medicine to help break the cycle of pain for his headaches.

Ringling says his health is improving but he still suffers from the effects of his concussions, including mood swings and memory lapses.

"What we can take away from Joe's case is that no sport is concussion-proof," said Dr. Zieman.

Dr. Zieman says there's a big gap in concussion education for youth and adults participating in sports recreationally.

"If you are traveling faster than you run -- you should be wearing a helmet," said Dr. Zieman.

Ringling gave up his daredevil career and has now picked up golf. Currently, he is working in a Chandler restaurant and plans to return to college soon.

633. Of course all mountain bikers are to blame for these accidents, since they haven't raised a finger to stop them. It's interesting that they never discuss injuries on their mailing lists. It's a taboo topic.

Mike

http://kitchener.ctvnews.ca/supreme-court-won-t-let-county-off-the-hook-for-mountain-biker-s-broken-neck-1.3288658

Supreme Court won't let county off the hook for mountain biker's broken neck

The Supreme Court of Canada in Ottawa on Friday, Feb. 6, 2015. (Sean Kilpatrick / THE CANADIAN PRESS)

Colin Perkel, The Canadian Press
Published Thursday, February 16, 2017 2:23PM EST

An Ontario municipality that operated an adventure park has lost its bid to have the country's highest court review its liability for a mountain biker's devastating injury.

In a case closely watched by other public authorities, the Supreme Court of Canada on Thursday dismissed a request by Bruce County to appeal a finding that it was entirely to blame for the accident that left Stephen Campbell quadriplegic.

Local governments in Ontario have long fretted about "liability chill," arguing they have had to cut services or even ban activities such as tobogganing for fear of having to pay huge awards in cases where something goes tragically wrong.

"It may be that municipal governments just don't do these kinds of activities -- they totally withdraw from them," said Pat Vanini, executive director of the Association of Municipalities of Ontario.

The incident occurred in August 2008 when Campbell, then 43, his wife and two children visited the Bruce Peninsula Mountain Bike Adventure Park, which featured widely advertised bike trails and an area with 10 wooden obstacles for riders to learn trail riding. Signs warned riders to ride within their abilities.

Campbell, an experienced mountain biker, was attempting to tackle an obstacle known as Free Fall but didn't make it. In the ensuing tumble, he went over the handlebars and landed on his head, breaking his neck.

The main issue at trial was whether the county had taken sufficient care to ensure the safety of park users.

Court documents show the municipality had no tracking mechanism of incidents before the Campbell mishap, but ambulances had been called to the park at least seven times. In one case, three months before Campbell's mishap, paramedics responded to a man who broke his neck tackling a more difficult obstacle than Free Fall.

After a seven-day trial, Superior Court Justice Marc Garson ruled the municipality had failed in its duty of care. Among other things, Garson found Bruce County had failed to post proper warning signs, and had not properly monitored risks and injuries at the park.

The judge also decided Campbell had not been negligent in tackling the obstacle or in how he had tried to salvage the situation when he realized he was falling.

In May last year, the Ontario Court of Appeal rejected the county's contention that it either bore no responsibility for what happened or that Campbell, at the least, was partly responsible for his catastrophic injuries.

"The reality is that several riders had been injured, including seriously injured, on the wooden obstacles in the trails area before (Campbell's) accident," the Appeal Court said.

"Had the municipality adequately monitored previous accidents and been aware of the number of accidents at the park -- and on Free Fall in particular -- actions would have been taken that would have prevented (Campbell's) injuries."

634. http://www.keighleynews.co.uk/news/15102911.Mountain_biker_rescued_after_accident_on_Harden_Moor/

Mountain biker rescued after accident on Harden Moor

Calder Valley Search and Rescue Team received a request at 9.47am this morning from Yorkshire Ambulance Service to assist with the evacuation of a 52-year-old man who had fallen off his mountain bike on Harden Moor and sustained a head injury.

The riders friends raised the alarm as he was feeling quite confused and drifting in and out of consciousness.

No less than 22 team members were available to respond instantly and made their way to the location in team vehicles or directly... including Sophie Keeler, who had baby Jesse strapped to her!

Once on-scene, team members assisted the YAS crew to make the casualty comfortable and then packaged him in a vacuum mattress before evacuating him some distance by stretcher to the road, where he was handed over to the ambulance crew for transfer to hospital.

635. http://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/news/article.cfm?c_id=1&objectid=11811301

First response unit saves mountain biker from more serious injury

6:00 AM Tuesday Mar 7, 2017Add a comment

When Charlotte Hamilton came off her bike, she instantly knew it was bad.

The combination of the way she landed, the tingling in her arms and the fact she couldn't feel her legs set alarm bells ringing.

Miss Hamilton said doctors have commented the quick action of the first response unit, based in the Whakarewarewa Forest, that could have saved her from more serious injury or being paralysed.

Miss Hamilton is sharing her story in support of the unit which is looking for funding after the initial trial funding from ACC has almost run out.

Following her accident in mid January Miss Hamilton spent three weeks in hospital, underwent surgery to have two rods and five screws placed in her back, and had three vertebrae fused together.

She said doctors have told her if she hadn't been treated so quickly by qualified staff, and if someone had tried to move her, she could have been paralysed.

She is one of the dozens of people the new patrol has treated.

Miss Hamilton's accident happened in the Whakarewarewa Forest on the grade three track, Old Chevy. She came over a nasty grade five jump without realising the level of the jump and "hit the other side head first".
Charlotte Hamilton (centre) was rescued by Nick Morrison (left) from the Mountain Bike First Response Unit after she crashed while mountain biking with Todd Scanlon (right). Photo/Ben Fraser

"I knew straight away it was bad."

Riding partner Todd Scanlon called 111 but said he found it difficult when it was clear operators had no idea where the pair were and asked him to leave Miss Hamilton to find GPS markers at the start of the track.

"I was screaming ' don't leave me'," Miss Hamilton said.

Mr Scanlon said he remembered the first patrol unit and rang through to them via Mountain Bike Rotorua.

He said they had found the pair extremely quickly.

Patroller Nick Morrison said from the call they knew Miss Hamilton's injuries were serious and were able to grab another person on the way in to help.

After a quick assessment Mr Morrison said it was obvious they were dealing with a serious spinal injury and they were able to get her on to a backboard and to Waipa to meet a rescue helicopter which then flew her to Rotorua Hospital.

The recovery since the January 18 accident has been long, and in the beginning even getting up and walking around was a major task, but Miss Hamilton said she knew the outcome could have been much different.

Erin Eggleston from the Rotorua Mountain Bike Club said the patrol had been called out to help a range of people varying in ages with as many Australians treated as Rotorua locals.

He said the majority of incidents were on mid-grade tracks and there hadn't been the expected rate of crashes on "gnarly" tracks.

"It has been intermediate riders on intermediate tracks."

Miss Hamilton's crash happened on a feature that was "out of character' with the grade of the track and there had since been signage upgrades because of it.

Me Eggleston said it wasn't a cheap service to run, and they'd almost used all of the initial funding ACC had given them for the pilot programme.

He said they were now looking for more providers to come on board.

The Mountain Bike Club had raised nearly $80,000 to provide the first response including the purchase of a vehicle that can carry a stretcher, as well as $12,000 worth of first-aid

The first response service had previously been provided by Mountain Bike Rotorua on a voluntary basis but the funding was used for professional responders.

Since Waitangi weekend it has been operating on weekends and school holidays. Mr Eggleston said they had made attempts to save money by having one patroller with Mountain Bike Rotorua providing a trained staff member on site at all times to help out.

"We are a club trying to provide a professional service."

636. http://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/news/article.cfm?c_id=1&objectid=11826407

Teen with broken neck battling for life after bike accident

By Amy Wiggins
4:02 PM Monday Mar 27, 2017
Tauranga
Whanganui
Mum Kim Ostern with son Cooper Snowdon before he broke his neck. Photo / Supplied

Cooper Snowdon knew it was bad as soon as he came off his bike.

The 16-year-old was mountain biking with his older brother, Geordie, at Kowhai Park in Whanganui on March 21 when he went over a jump wrong, landed on his head and broke his neck.

A week later he is still in a critical condition on life support in the intensive care unit at Christchurch Hospital with uncertainty surrounding whether he will ever breathe on his own again, let alone walk.

"They'd been mountain biking all day and had an awesome day. He went over a jump and fell off," mother Kim Ostern said.

"I just happened to call [Geordie] then and he answered the phone and said, 'Coops had an accident'. He said, 'it's bad, it's really bad'."

Ostern raced to the park to be by her son's side.

"He said to his brother, 'I can't feel my legs or arms'. He knew. He just knew.

He kept telling me he was scared."
Cooper Snowdon was flown to Christchurch Hospital after breaking his neck while mountain biking. Photo / Supplied

Cooper was taken to Whanganui Hospital by ambulance, where he was rushed in for scans and the decision was made to fly him to Christchurch Hospital for specialist treatment.

Doctors told his family his C3, C4 and C5 vertebrae were damaged in the accident which would affect his ability to move any of his limbs or even breathe.

637. http://www.irishnews.com/news/2017/03/28/news/former-gaa-star-shane-king-hopeful-after-teenage-son-suffers-brain-injury-in-mountain-bike-fall-979659/

Former GAA star Shane King tells of bedside vigil for teenage son after brain injury

Former Down and Fermanagh GAA player Shane King has thanked well-wishers for their support after his son Patrick suffered a brain injury in a fall. Picture from Facebook

John Monaghan
28 March, 2017 01:00

Patrick King came off his mountain bike in Kilbroney Park on Saturday. Picture from Facebook

FORMER Fermanagh and Down GAA player Shane King has said he is "hopeful and taking things day by day" after his teenage son suffered a brain injury in a fall from a mountain bike.

Patrick King (15) came off the bike while travelling down a hill in Kilbroney Park in Rostrevor on Saturday.

He is currently sedated and in intensive care in Craigavon Area Hospital, with his father describing his condition as "stable".

Mr King has asked people to keep his son in their prayers and said he and his wife Elizabeth have taken it in turns to maintain a bedside vigil.

He told The Irish News: "When he is ready to open his eyes we'll be here for him. My wife and I haven't left his side since Saturday."

Patrick, who celebrated his 15th birthday just earlier this month, was with friends when the accident happened.

Mr King said: "The helmet took most of the impact and it has been cracked on both sides. He was unconscious for a while and had pains in the neck.

"When his friends got him back on the bus after the fall he became erratic; he was talking gibberish basically. When he got to the hospital he didn't recognise his mum and his aunt.

"An MRI scan showed light bleeding on the brain, which has suffered some bruising, as well as two fractured vertebrae."

He added: "When you drop your kid off you don't think that the next time you will see them will be in intensive care."

A Year 11 pupil at St Colman's College in Newry, Patrick also suffered a head injury two years ago.

15-year-old Patrick King suffered a brain injury after coming off his mountain bike in Co Down on Saturday. Picture from Facebook

Although involved with Bryansford GAA club, the teenager's "sport of choice" is mountain biking, his father said.

Mr King joked that he had been out on the bikes with his son but had been "unable to keep up" with the "typical teenager".

Thanking well-wishers, he said the family had been "inundated" with messages of support.

"No medical intervention is required at this stage and we would be hopeful with time, but they just don't know how long it will take."

The former GAA star, who was also an SDLP candidate in local government elections in 2014, said the inability to speak to their son has been the most distressing aspect for him and his wife.

"It would be nice if he could open his eyes and we could speak to him, but we are incredibly lucky. It could be far worse.

"Thank God we bought him the best helmet."

638. http://vancouversun.com/news/local-news/vancouver-golfer-aims-to-go-pro-after-paralyzing-mountain-bike-crash
I was bedridden for a long time, he said. I didnt know if Id be able to tie my shoes again."

Vancouver golfer aims to go pro after paralyzing mountain bike crash

GLENDA LUYMES
Published on: April 5, 2017 | Last Updated: April 5, 2017 7:44 PM PDT

Josh Kujundzic on the course at Quilchena Golf & Country Club in Richmond. MARK VAN MANEN / PNG

When Josh Kujundzic came to, he was lying face down in the dirt, unable to move his arms or legs.

He remembered riding his mountain bike off a small jump at the top of a trail he often took near Simon Fraser University, but he didnt realize he had been unconscious for several hours after crashing headfirst into a tree. There was simply the realization he couldnt move, or speak, or feel pain.

There was zero feeling in my body, he recalled in a recent interview.

Kujundzic came to the terrifying conclusion that a crash may have left him a quadriplegic. He felt strangely calm as he realized it was evening and the trail was unmarked. He prepared himself for a long night.

Ive always been a positive person, he said. After everything thats happened, I believe thats so important.

Josh Kujundzic aims for the green at Quilchena. MARK VAN MANEN / PNG

Almost six years later, Kujundzic is applying positive thinking to a new challenge: a career in professional golf.

After an amazing recovery, the 24-year-old Vancouver man now spends a good part of every day at Quilchena Golf & Country Club in Richmond and plays on the Vancouver Golf Tour. He hopes to rack up enough good rounds to make the Mackenzie Tour (the Canadian PGA tour) and eventually the PGA Tour at a time when Canadian golfers seem to be on the rise.

Hopefully one day Ill play on the PGA Tour, but whatever happens, I know I want to do something in the game of golf, Kujundzic said.

He also wants to inspire young people with spinal injuries to stay positive.

Back in 2011, lying motionless in the darkening forest, he began to feel a tingling in his legs. The sensation grew increasingly intense until he found he could move his lower body and was able to scramble into a sitting position. He tried to move his arms, but they flailed uselessly.

Its like the messages werent getting through, he said.

Kujundzic stumbled up the steep trail, falling several times, until he reached a road. Unable to wave down a car, he staggered down the centre of the road, hoping someone would stop. Two students eventually came along and called 911. An ambulance took him to Royal Columbian Hospital in New Westminster.

Josh Kujundzic during the recovery from his paralyzing mountain bike crash. PNG

Dr. Navraj Heran saw Kujundzic in the emergency room, describing his injuries as quite severe. The impact had caused his spinal cord to swell, pinching it and causing paralysis. In some cases, the swelling leads to permanent damage, said the neurosurgeon. But as Kujundzics swelling subsided, he regained movement in his limbs.

He spent three weeks at RCH before Heran performed a laminectomy, a surgery to remove some of the bones in his spinal canal to widen it and reduce compression.

Because of the nerve damage, Kujundzic was in incredible pain, flinching at the slightest touch. But with physio and time, he was able to get back on his feet. He credits the doctors and staff at the hospital for their unbelievable care and attention.

Just one year after the crash, he was back on his mountain bike.

I made a point of it on the anniversary of the accident, he said. But Id say my mountain biking days are behind me.

Watching Jordan Speith win the 2015 Masters Tournament at the age of 21, Kujundzic was inspired to return to golf, which he played in high school.

I was bedridden for a long time, he said. I didnt know if Id be able to tie my shoes again.

I have a new appreciation for life and gratitude for being here. So Im going to stay positive and see where it takes me.

gluymes@postmedia.com

twitter.com/glendaluymes

639. Even after his crash, he still wants to mountain bike! That is the definition of stupidity.

Mike

http://www.kob.com/albuquerque-news/bad-crash-mountain-biker-advocates-helmet-safety-mike-montoya-outdoors-foothills/4445393/

After bad crash, mountain biker advocates for helmet safety

Joy Wang
April 04, 2017 06:44 PM

ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. -- An Albuquerque man is recovering from 80 stitches to his face after a bad mountain biking crash in the Foothills. He credits one thing with saving his life.

Now he wants to share his message with others.

I never have regretted going out for a mountain bike ride, said Mike Montoya, a mountain biker. Even this last time.

A week ago, Montoya was having the time of his life on his mountain bike.

It's the closest thing to being, experiencing what a dog feels with their head out the window, Montoya said. I mean it's, it makes me feel like a kid again.

But suddenly, he went flying forward when his bike hit a rock.

I was going about 20, 25 miles an hour, Montoya said. My pedal hits this rock here and then jolt to the right, and then just automatically went over, like a fast catapult. Just took me over and then I started to roll and the bike went with me.

In the emergency room, there were bones broken, blood everywhere.

These other individuals did and they gave me gauze to help specifically stop the bleeding until the paramedics got there, Montoya said.

A week later, the damage can be seen on his face, his arms, and his legs -- his nose was fractured, his finger dislocated, 80 stitches on his face alone.

I had a big cut underneath my eye here and down, Montoya said. It was open and then from my nose here up and over and down was flipped over.

The front of his helmet was cracked open and there was some blood left on the straps.

I always thought helmets were cool, Montoya said Never was a second guess for me. One thing I might look into is a full face helmet now.

One very important piece of equipment saved him from possible severe head injuries.

The importance of it is, it'll save your life, Montoya said, referring to the helmet. When you look at my helmet It definitely did its job.

His bike is totaled and it'll take about six months for Montoya to heal. But hes counting down the days to get back on two wheels.

I want to get out as soon as possible, riding in the mountain bikes, riding in the trails and the mountains. It's just, it's stress relieving, Montoya said. It's so much fun, and it always puts a smile on your face.

640. https://www.stgeorgeutah.com/news/archive/2017/04/09/cgb-rescuers-find-mountain-biker-with-serious-leg-injury/#.WPJuT2nyvIU

Rescuers find mountain biker with serious leg injury

Written by Cody Blowers
April 9, 2017
Utah wilderness | Wikepedia commons, St. George News

ST. GEORGE An injured mountain bike rider vacationing in Utah was rescued and transported to the hospital after rescuers located her near the Grafton Mesa in Washington County Friday.

The rescue began at 11:15 a.m. when a man called 911 reporting a mountain bike crash in the area of the Wire Mesa Trail, which lies northeast of the Grafton Mesa near the Smithsonian Butte Back Country Byway, Washington County Search and Rescue Liaison Darrell Cashin said.

The man also reported that his wife suffered a compound fracture to her ankle in the crash.

One rescue team was sent to search for the injured 30-year-old rider along with responders from Rockville/Springdale Fire District, Cashin said, and located her using GPS coordinates provided by the riders cellphone.

They reached the woman who was conscious and alert but in a great deal of pain

Rescuers were able to drive to within a mile of the trail in their vehicles and then rode the rest of the way on ATVs until they reached the woman who was conscious and alert but in a great deal of pain, he said.

The woman and her husband from Arizona were visiting the area.

As rescue EMTs examined the riders injuries they found a large laceration to her ankle, Cashin said, possibly a compound fracture even though the bone was not protruding from the skin. When the bone fractured it could have popped out, breaking the skin, he said, before it sank back into the tissue leaving the large laceration in her leg.

We were going off of what she told us happened, and it could have because that laceration was several inches long and very deep, Cashin said. So when the bone fractured its possible that it came out and then went back in.

Rescue EMTs then splinted the womans ankle and provided medication to make her more comfortable for the long and rocky drive ahead.

The rider was then loaded into a Stokes basket (a litter a person can be strapped into for transport). Emergency responders then carried her 100 feet back to the medical RZR ATV for transport back to state Route 59 and an awaiting ambulance that transported her on to Dixie Regional Medical Center in St. George for treatment.

We slowly drove her out to the trailhead, over to Smithsonian Butte and continued nearly 8 miles to SR-59, Cashin said, and the husband followed the ambulance in his vehicle.

On average the agency performs 80 to 100 rescues per year, and in 2015 they completed 101. If the rescue numbers over the last two weeks continue then the team could very easily surpass that number this year by a long shot, Cashin said.

We are getting slammed with rescues right now, he said, and its pretty early but we may have another year with more than 100 rescues.

Washington County Search and Rescue, Rockville/Springdale Fire Districts EMS and Hildale-Colorado City Fire Department Ambulance responded and assisted in the rescue.

641. So much for the alleged "healthfulness" of mountain biking....

Mike

http://bc.ctvnews.ca/80k-raised-in-one-day-for-former-pro-biker-mysteriously-paralyzed-1.3240541

$80K raised in one day for former pro biker mysteriously paralyzed

Tens of thousands raised for paralyzed biker
A fundraiser set up to help a former pro biker paralyzed by spinal cord injury surpassed its goal of $70K in a single day.

Darcy Matheson, Senior Digital Producer, CTV Vancouver

@darcynews

Published Friday, January 13, 2017 1:51PM PST
Last Updated Saturday, January 14, 2017 11:51AM PST

Hundreds of donations and messages of support from around the world are pouring in for a former pro mountain biker left paralyzed after bursting a blood vessel.

A staggering $69,000 and counting had been raised for Andrew Cho by 7 p.m. Friday, less than a day after friends started a crowdfunding campaign aimed to help him adjust to the new reality. By Saturday morning, the total had reached more than $82,800.

The 29-year-old began experiencing dizziness and numbness in his neck and limbs while out for dinner with friends Jan. 6.

RELATED LINKS

GoFundMe campaign for Andrew Cho

After returning to his apartment early to rest, he collapsed face-down and was completely paralyzed from the neck down. Unbeknownst to him, Cho had burst a blood vessel in his C3 and C4 vertebrae.

His best friend believes where he fell saved his life: Cho's phone landed just 10 inches away from his body, and he was able to drag his body to it using only his chin.

"He should have been dead. He was able to get to his phone by inching towards it. It took five tries with his tongue but he got Siri and used voice command to call 911," Danny Brody said.

Firefighters had to pry his apartment door open to get to him.

Just how the blood vessel burst is still unknown to doctors, and Cho remains in the spinal unit ICU at Vancouver General Hospital after undergoing emergency surgery to relieve pressure on his back. His chin is still bloodiest from using it to crawl for help.

Cho has regained limited mobility in his right side, but movement is still very limited, according to the fundraiser. Friends are hoping to raise at least $75,000 for the medical expenses he'll incur because of the spinal cord injury, including home and vehicle modifications and personal assistance.

"He's going to have to relearn every movement. It's not going to be easy," Brody said.

"He's determined to walk out of there, and we're doing all we can to support him."

Cho, who works as the digital marketing manager for GT Bicycles, was a professional rider for several years, and was in excellent health.

"He's an integral part of the team and a good friend to many in the company and industry. We wish him a very speedy recovery," a company spokesperson told CTV Vancouver.

Cho's job took him around the globe to biking competitions, including Crankworx and World Cup events, and he quickly met friends wherever he went, said Brody.

News of his injury quickly spread on the cycling and mountain biking site PinkBike.com. On a forum page, hundreds of commenters from Canada and the U.S., all the way to the UK, Germany, Brazil, France and Australia shared their love, prayers and fond memories.

"The mountain bike community is a tight-knit crowd, and everyone here at the office is pulling for you," Rocky Mountain Bicycles wrote in a social media post sharing the news.

"Andrew is one of the most positive guys I've ever known. Please send healing vibes his way," Andrew Sherry wrote on Facebook.

GT Bicycles released a video with the hashtag #GotChoBack with messages of support from riders and friends from the cycling community worldwide.

Friends and family are "overwhelmed" with the support, and so many people want to visit Cho in hospital Brody had to set up a Google appointment calendar.

"He's the last person on earth this should happen to," Brody said. "He doesnt have a mean bone in his body."

http://www.ctvnews.ca/canada/former-pro-biker-makes-remarkable-recovery-after-becoming-paralyzed-1.3402259

Former pro biker makes remarkable recovery after becoming paralyzed

To watch video, you need an Adobe Flash Player Update.Please click to download.

Former athlete learns to walk, run after injury

Michele Brunoro reports on the remarkable recovery of former pro athlete Andrew Cho after he suddenly found himself paralyzed.

CTVNews.ca Staff
Published Sunday, May 7, 2017 1:59PM EDT
Last Updated Sunday, May 7, 2017 3:46PM EDT

Pro biker turned marketing manager, Andrew Cho, has made an astonishing recovery after suddenly becoming paralyzed earlier this year.

Cho is not only lucky to be alive but now hes walking again and taking part in a run to raise money for spinal research.

Its liberating. For me its like regaining independence, he told CTV Vancouver.

RELATED STORIES

'Scariest moment': Former pro mountain biker speaks out after sudden paralysis
Former pro biker uses SIRI to call 911 after sudden paralysis

PHOTOS

Andrew Cho is walking again and taking part in a run to raise money for spinal research. (CTV)

Andrew Cho was left paralyzed after mysteriously breaking a blood vessel on Jan. 6. (GoFundMe)

Back in January, a blood vessel burst in the 30-year-olds spine leaving him paralyzed from the neck down. He managed to drag himself to his phone and used his tongue to activate Siri to call 911.

Hes been on the long path to recovery ever since.

In the past four months, Cho had to learn to stand again, build up enough strength to take his first steps and finally walk on his own.

Mentally and physically, the toughest thing Ive ever done in my life, Cho told CTV Vancouver.

You cant move your hands, cant move your feet. You dont even know where your hands and feet are, he said.

On Sunday, he will join others to run in support of an organization called Wings for Life, which raises money for spinal cord research.

Im really running for those that cant and obviously spinal cord injury is something that hits very close to home, he said.

While Cho has made remarkable strides towards a full recovery, he told CTV Vancouver hes not 100 per cent just yet.

Dexteritys still an issue for me, he said, but added that hes seeing improvements every day and said its only a matter of time before hes back to mountain biking.

Its not so much a question of if Ill ride again. Its just when will I do it, Cho said.

642. https://www.grough.co.uk/magazine/2017/05/08/teen-injured-in-gisburn-forest-fall-after-mountain-bike-splits-in-half

Teen injured in Gisburn Forest fall after mountain bike splits in half

John McHale, Reporter
Monday 08 May 2017 04:00 PM GMT

Rescue team members place the injured cyclist on the stretcher at the scene in Gisburn Forest. Photo: Bowland Pennine MRT

A teenager was injured at a popular mountain biking venue when his machine split in half, causing him to fall.

Bowland Pennine Mountain Rescue Team was called out at 2pm on Saturday when the 16-year-old was hurt on the Hope Line in Gisburn Forest in Lancashire.

The team was undertaking fundraising activities rattling tins in Chorley when the request for help came from the North West Ambulance Service.

The incident happened on the advanced section of the forest.

A team spokesperson said: Once Bowland Pennine Mountain Rescue had arrived on scene they quickly assessed the young man and determined he had potential hip and pelvis injuries.

Carrying out immediate casualty care and placing him in to a vacuum mattress, the rescue team then loaded him on to a mountain rescue stretcher and carried him to the nearby air ambulance which had flown from Manchester.

The young mountain biker was then airlifted to the Royal Preston Hospital for further treatment.

The rescue involved 24 members of the team.

643. http://www.stuff.co.nz/sport/other-sports/92533262/paralysed-queenstown-mountain-biker-to-continue-riding-after-skyline-crash

Paralysed Queenstown mountain biker to continue riding after Skyline crash

DASHA KUPRIENKO

Last updated 12:06, May 16 2017
Paralysed mountain biker remains positive
JOHN KIRK-ANDERSON/Stuff.co.nz

Paralysed Queenstown mountain biker Liam Keenan remains positive after a crash near the resort's gondola.

A Queenstown man has swapped his mountain bike for a wheel chair after a "freak accident" but says that won't stop him biking in the future.

Liam Keenan, 20, was left paralysed after he fell at the top of Skyline mountain bike track above Queenstown last month.

He broke his fifth and sixth thoracic vertebrae and four ribs, and punctured lungs in the crash. He can not feel his body below his chest and is recovering in Burwood Hospital, in Christchurch.
JOHN KIRK-ANDERSON/FAIRFAX NZ

Queenstown's Liam Keenan is paralysed after a MTB crash at the Gondola.

He has been told he only has a small chance of walking again.

Keenan says he rode the track at least five times a week after he finished work as a bike mechanic. He considered it a "chilled run" but on this occasion he fell near the luge - before even reaching the track.
JOHN KIRK-ANDERSON/FAIRFAX NZ

MRI scan showing mountain biker's spinal cord.

"It was a first run so maybe I wasn't warmed up...hit the wrong spot. It's a freak accident," Keenan said.

Despite the severity of his injuries he is optimistic and looking forward to getting back into extreme sports.

"There's heaps I can do," he said.

Next year he hopes to try adaptive skiing and mountain biking on specially designed quad bikes developed by Wanaka-based company Gravity Quad NZ.

"It is something I enjoy so much and mountain biking is my favourite thing to do so I am going carry on with it," he said.

"I can't change it so I will move on and deal with it."

The biker praised his safety gear for saving his life and kept the cracked helmet in the hospital room.

"If I didn't have a helmet and a neck brace my injury would have been a lot worse or I could have have been dead," he said.

Mountain bikers should invest in good equipment to avoid serious injuries, Keenan said.

"Spend as much money as you can afford because, at the end of the day, you would rather have less money than end up with my conditions or worse."

He paid about $600 for the neck brace and $700 for the helmet, he said.

Keenan's friend, who was also paralysed after a mountain biking accident when 16, was helping him learn wheel chair skills.

"He helped me to come to terms with my injuries and accept the injury," he said.

The community support had been awesome, Keenan said.

He expected to be in hospital until the end of July and he would go to Auckland to live with his family before returning to Queenstown next year.

His parents were shocked about the accident but were positive about Keenan's recovery, he said.

Keenan thanked Lakes District Hospital, Christchurch Hospital, Burwood Hospital and Skyline staff for the support.

644. If expert mountain bikers can kill themselves mountain biking, there's not much hope for anyone else!

Mike

http://www.nationmultimedia.com/news/breakingnews/30315916

Top downhill mountain biker killed in training accident

May 22, 2017 09:45
By The Nation

A leading downhill mountain biker died of injuries sustained in a fatal accident while riding in Suphan Buri province, police said.

Captain Damrong Thawornkul, an inspector of Suphan Buris Derm Bang Nang Buat district police station, said he was informed by the district hospital that Thanapol Jarupeng, 27, died at the hospital on Sunday afternoon.

Damrong said Thanapol was teaching downhill racing to 10 riders at about 3.30pm on Saturday when the accident occurred.

Damrong said Thanapol was leading the group on a downhill section from Khao Yai in Moo 2 village in tambon Khao Phra when he crashed into a tree.

645. http://www.thenorthernecho.co.uk/news/15326349.Mountain_biker_died_days_after_breaking_leg_in_30ft_fall_at_Hamsterley_Forest/

Mountain biker died days after breaking leg in 30ft fall at Hamsterley Forest

Charlotte Bowe cboweechoReporter (Darlington)

Hamsterley Forest. Picture: KATIE RICHARDSON

AN ADVENTUROUS 34-year-old died five days after breaking his leg in a mountain biking accident, an inquest heard.

Richard Jennings, who was nicknamed Stitch by his family and friends, was a keen cyclist who had attempted to tackle a steep downhill track in Hamsterley Forest.

The rig worker from Skelton, east Cleveland, was heard screaming by passers-by after being thrown over the handlebars and down a 30ft drop in the woodland on February 25.

North East Ambulance Service paramedics assessed Mr Jennings, who had suffered a broken leg and wrist, at the scene before taking him to Darlington Memorial Hospital for surgery.

Assistant coroner Dr Leslie Hamilton said: There was concern that his oxygen levels were falling significantly his lungs werent working very well.

Mr Jennings had a fat embolism thats where the marrow of the broken bone is released into the bloodstream and marrow contains globules of fat.

When that gets to the lungs they get filtered out but they block the transfer of oxygen into the bloodstream.

Richard continued to deteriorate and had to be put onto a ventilator and was receiving 100 per cent oxygen.

At this point, the team in Darlington contacted Glenfield Hospital, in Leicester.

A team from the hospital, Europes largest extra corporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) centre, dedicated to critically-ill patients with heart and lung failure, was despatched to Darlington to take Mr Jennings back to the Leicester, where he later died.

A statement from a consultant at Glenfield said: It was very appropriate that the team in Darlington contacted us.

Mr Jennings went into cardiac arrest while they waited for the team from Leicester to arrive and he was successfully resuscitated.

Unfortunately, while he was on the ECMO machine, he went into multi-organ failure and sadly died.

Assistant coroner Dr Hamilton told the Crook inquest: We have a young man engaging in exercise and sport he obviously enjoyed it and it was something he was quite experienced at.

Accidents are not uncommon in mountain biking and he suffered what seemed to be a relatively straightforward injury in a broken leg.

The majority of people with a broken leg recover uneventfully after an operation. However, some patients develop an embolism and theres no specific treatment for that.

Despite the use of cutting edge technology, he died. Its a rare complication, but even rare complications do happen from time to time.

Its very upsetting to hear a young person dying doing the activity they enjoyed.

Dr Hamilton concluded Mr Jennings death on March 2 was accidental.

646. What a "healthful" sport!

Mike

http://www.nbcconnecticut.com/news/local/Search-Underway-for-Missing-Hiker-Underway-in-Danbury-429653503.html

Mountain Biker Reported Missing in Danbury Found Dead

A man who had been missing for more than a day was found dead in Danbury.
(Published 4 hours ago)

A mountain biker reported missing in Farrington Woods in Danbury has been found dead, according to officials.

A man, who was around 56 years old, went mountain biking Monday, did not return home. Police said he has been missing since 10:20 p.m. Monday and a search began around midnight at Farrington Woods, a 192-acre recreation area on Mill Plain Road.

The mountain biker's name has not been released, but police said he was an experienced hiker who has ridden in Farrington Woods before.

He was found around near a trail, three-quarters of a mile away from the entrance to Farrington Woods around 11:30 a.m.
Search Underway for Missing Hiker in Danbury

Police said his death does not appear to be suspicious, but the investigation is continuing. He is from the Danbury area, but was not a Danbury resident, according to police.

The medical examiner will determine the cause of death.

Source: Mountain Biker Reported Missing in Danbury Found Dead | NBC Connecticut http://www.nbcconnecticut.com/news/local/Search-Underway-for-Missing-Hiker-Underway-in-Danbury-429653503.html#ixzz4kayjFFxI
Follow us: @nbcconnecticut on Twitter | NBCConnecticut on Facebook

647. What a "healthful" sport!

Mike

https://au.news.yahoo.com/a/36060525/teen-mountain-biker-patrick-cooper-killed-by-black-bear-mid-race/#page1

Teenage mountain biker killed by black bear mid race

Yahoo US on June 20, 2017, 12:59 pm

A teenage mountain bike rider has been killed by a black bear after he veered off the trail during the middle of a race.

BLACK BEAR KILLS TEEN DURING MOUNTAIN RACE IN AK

VIDEO Black bear kills teen during mountain race in AK

Patrick Cooper had already turned around after reaching the halfway point in a popular mountain race in Alaska when he somehow veered off the trail and became lost. That's when the 16-year-old Anchorage boy encountered the black bear that would take his life in a rare predatory attack.

Cooper began running, and at one point he reportedly placed a frantic call to his brother, saying he was being chased by a bear on Sunday in the Robert Spurr Memorial Hill Climb race south of Anchorage. The brother notified race director Brad Precosky, who alerted race crews to begin searching for Cooper, known as Jack.

It took a couple of hours for responders to locate the teen, whose body was found about a mile up the path, at about 1,500 vertical feet (457 vertical meters). The bear was found at the site, guarding the body.
Patrick Cooper was killed by a black bear in what has been described as a rare predatory attack.

A Chugach State Park ranger shot the 113 kilogram bear in the face, but the animal ran away.

Alaska State Troopers said the boy's remains were airlifted from the scene on Sunday.

State park staffers were scouring the area Monday looking for the bear, State Fish and Game spokesman Ken Marsh said. Sunday's attack was believed to have been a rare predatory move, not a defensive action such as when a female bear will protect her cubs, he said.

"It's very unusual," Marsh said of the mauling. "It's sort of like someone being struck by lightning."

Later Monday, a second fatal mauling at the hands of a black bear was reported nearly 300 miles northeast of Anchorage. Officials with an underground gold mine reported a contract employee hired to take geological samples was killed and another injured in a black bear attack.

Earlier reports say Cooper texted his mother that he was being chased by the bear.

No names have been released. Alaska State Troopers and federal mine officials are investigating the mauling at Pogo Mine.
The trail remained closed following his tragic death.

Matt Wedeking, division operations manager with Alaska State Parks, said the predatory behavior of the bear in the attack on the teen was not normal. Asked if there were cubs around this black bear, he said, "We don't know. There could have been. But right now I don't have any information about the bear."

Areas where wilderness races such as Sunday's take place are inherently risky when it comes to bear encounters, Precosky said. Competitors in the Bird Ridge race sign a liability waiver as part of the registration process.

But competitors often train alone in such areas and are fully aware of the dangers. Races actually can be said to cut down on the risk of a bear encounter because so many people are there, making noise and making their presence known, Precosky said. "There's no safer time to be on a mountain than on a race," he said.

648. Mountain biking is supposed to prevent this kind of thing.

Mike

http://www.newsandstar.co.uk/news/latest/Woman-dies-after-falling-ill-while-mountain-biking-in-Lake-District-2d6d5c9f-7967-49b5-8f71-b6a361cd00a8-ds

Woman dies after falling ill while mountain biking in Lake District

GV of Penny Rock Wood, Grasmere

A woman has died after suffering a suspected cardiac arrest while mountain biking in the Lake District.

Her husband and a number of witnesses performed immediate CPR after the woman had fallen from her bike.

Paramedics, first responders and mountain rescue volunteers also helped the woman at the scene before she was airlifted to hospital for further treatment.

The woman had been riding in Penny Rock Wood at Grasmere early this afternoon when her condition deteriorated.

Members of Langdale Ambleside mountain rescue team were alerted at around 1.20pm and 10 members of the team assisted.

An update on the mountain rescue team's website at 8pm states that it has been informed that the woman died in hospital.

649. So much for this "healthful" sport....

Mike

http://www.denverpost.com/2017/07/03/man-dies-mountain-biking-snowmass/

65-year-old man dies mountain biking at Snowmass Ski Area

By JASON AUSLANDER | The Aspen Times
July 3, 2017 at 4:18 pm

A 65-year-old man died Monday afternoon at Snowmass Ski Area after crashing his mountain bike, Aspen Skiing Co. officials and police said.

The accident occurred about 1:30 p.m. on the east side, or Elk Camp side, of the ski areas summer mountain biking trails, said Snowmass police Sgt. Dave Heivly. According to a resort official, the crash occurred on the Valhalla trail.

A guest found the unresponsive man on the trail and alerted patrollers. CPR had been started when patrol arrived, and Snowmass Wild Cat Fire Department also arrived on scene but was unable to revive the man, according to a Skico statement.

http://kdvr.com/2017/07/05/man-killed-in-snowmass-mountain-biking-crash-identified/

Man killed in Snowmass mountain biking crash identified

POSTED 10:27 AM, JULY 5, 2017, BY CHUCK HICKEY

ASPEN, Colo. A 67-year-old man who died in a mountain biking crash at Snowmass Ski Area has been identified.

The Pitkin County Coroners Office said David Duff of Chavies, Kentucky, broke his neck after falling from his bike on Monday. The death has been ruled an accident.

Duff crashed on Snowmass Elk Camp side on the Valhalla trail after going over a jump and losing control. He handed on a second jump, the coroners office said. The trail is recommended for intermediate to advanced riders.

Duff has owned a house outside of Aspen since December 2012 through Kentucky-based limited liability company Water Mtr, the Aspen Times reported.

The newspaper reported that Duff bought the 8,000-square-foot home for $15 million. Duff owned Pine Branch Coal before selling the company, WYMT reported.

http://www.aspentimes.com/news/snowmass-mountain-bike-victim-ided-as-david-duff-of-kentucky/

Snowmass mountain bike victim IDd as David Duff of Kentucky

The victim of Monday's fatal mountain-bike crash was the owner of an Aspen-area home who once ran a family coal business in Kentucky.

David Duff, 67, of Chavies, Kentucky, died after crashing a mountain bike at Snowmass Ski Area, the Pitkin County Coroner's Office said Tuesday.

"The cause of death was from a neck fracture after a fall from his bike," the Coroner's Office said in a statement. "The manner is accidental."

Officials said Monday that Duff went over a jump on the Valhalla trail and then lost control when he landed on a second jump. Valhalla trail is located on the Elk Camp side of the ski area, which provides lift access to mountain bikers during the summer.

Duff, through a Kentucky-based limited liability company called Water Mtr, has owned a house outside of Aspen on McLain Flats Road since December 2012, according to Pitkin County property records. He paid $15 million for the 8,000-square-foot home, records show.

Duff once owned Pine Branch Coal before selling the company, reported WYMT, an media outlet based in eastern Kentucky.

Duff was being remembered on social media as a generous man who helped families in eastern Kentucky. Former workers at his coal company referred to him as a "good man" and a "great supporter of the community."

Aspen Skiing Co. spokesman Jeff Hanle told The Aspen Times on Monday that he believed Duff's death was the first fatality since Snowmass began offering lift-served riding.

650. http://kdvr.com/2017/07/03/50-year-old-montrose-mountain-biker-dies-on-telluride-trail/

50-year-old Montrose mountain biker dies on Telluride trail

Posted 9:53 am, July 3, 2017, by Aaron L. Erickson

TELLURIDE, Colo. A 50-year old man from Montrose died while mountain biking on a trail in the Telluride Ski Area on Sunday, the San Miguel County Sheriffs Office said.

The man was cycling with his wife on the Prospect Trail loop when he slumped and fell over, the sheriffs office said.

The woman called 911 while other cyclists stopped to administer CPR. EMTs took over when they arrived just east of the bottom of Lift 11, but they couldnt resuscitate the man.

We had a lot of people do everything they could to help, from helping responders locate the scene, to performing CPR, and anything and everything we asked them to do, San Miguel County sheriffs deputy Chris White said.

The mans name was not released.

651. http://www.newsandstar.co.uk/news/Mountain-biker-rescued-at-accident-blackspot-in-Cumbrian-forest-b2ab94a2-5c16-45d9-bb91-867a86b7ae47-ds

Mountain biker rescued at accident blackspot in Cumbrian forest

Keswick Mountain Rescue Team, Whinlatter Forest.

A mountain biker suffered back and neck injuries after coming off his bike at an accident blackspot in Whinlatter Forest.

The 45-year-old came off his bike at high speed in the spot where there were about three or four incidents last year.

Keswick Mountain Rescue Team was called at about 4pm on Sunday.

Members were on scene in about 20 minutes and treated the man before lifting him onto a stretcher and putting him in a vacuum splint to protect his back.

He was transferred to the Cumberland Infirmary, Carlisle, by the North West Ambulance Service.

There were 13 members from Keswick MRT involved in the rescue which took almost two hours.

652. http://www.itv.com/news/border/update/2017-07-04/mountain-biker-airlifted-with-multiple-injuries-after-crash-near-keswick/

Mountain biker airlifted with multiple injuries after crash near Keswick

Credit: GNAAS

A mountain biker has been airlifted with multiple injuries, following a crash on a Lake District fell.

The man in his thirties sustained injuries to his shoulder, wrist and ribs, whilst biking on Latrigg, near Keswick.

The Keswick Mountain Rescue Team and North West Ambulance Service worked together to recover and treat the man, who arrived at the Cumberland Infirmary within 12 minutes, in a stable condition.

653. http://kdvr.com/2017/07/05/man-killed-in-snowmass-mountain-biking-crash-identified/

Man killed in Snowmass mountain biking crash identified

POSTED 10:27 AM, JULY 5, 2017, BY CHUCK HICKEY

ASPEN, Colo. A 67-year-old man who died in a mountain biking crash at Snowmass Ski Area has been identified.

The Pitkin County Coroners Office said David Duff of Chavies, Kentucky, broke his neck after falling from his bike on Monday. The death has been ruled an accident.

Duff crashed on Snowmass Elk Camp side on the Valhalla trail after going over a jump and losing control. He handed on a second jump, the coroners office said. The trail is recommended for intermediate to advanced riders.

Duff has owned a house outside of Aspen since December 2012 through Kentucky-based limited liability company Water Mtr, the Aspen Times reported.

The newspaper reported that Duff bought the 8,000-square-foot home for $15 million. Duff owned Pine Branch Coal before selling the company, WYMT reported.

http://www.aspentimes.com/news/snowmass-mountain-bike-victim-ided-as-david-duff-of-kentucky/

Snowmass mountain bike victim IDd as David Duff of Kentucky

The victim of Monday's fatal mountain-bike crash was the owner of an Aspen-area home who once ran a family coal business in Kentucky.

David Duff, 67, of Chavies, Kentucky, died after crashing a mountain bike at Snowmass Ski Area, the Pitkin County Coroner's Office said Tuesday.

"The cause of death was from a neck fracture after a fall from his bike," the Coroner's Office said in a statement. "The manner is accidental."

Officials said Monday that Duff went over a jump on the Valhalla trail and then lost control when he landed on a second jump. Valhalla trail is located on the Elk Camp side of the ski area, which provides lift access to mountain bikers during the summer.

Duff, through a Kentucky-based limited liability company called Water Mtr, has owned a house outside of Aspen on McLain Flats Road since December 2012, according to Pitkin County property records. He paid $15 million for the 8,000-square-foot home, records show.

Duff once owned Pine Branch Coal before selling the company, reported WYMT, an media outlet based in eastern Kentucky.

Duff was being remembered on social media as a generous man who helped families in eastern Kentucky. Former workers at his coal company referred to him as a "good man" and a "great supporter of the community."

Aspen Skiing Co. spokesman Jeff Hanle told The Aspen Times on Monday that he believed Duff's death was the first fatality since Snowmass began offering lift-served riding.

654. Pretty expensive rescues! I hope they paid for their rescues!

Mike

https://www.grough.co.uk/magazine/2017/07/05/two-lakeland-mountain-bikers-injured-in-high-speed-crashes-in-two-days

Two Lakeland mountain bikers injured in high-speed crashes in two days

John McHale, Reporter
Wednesday 05 July 2017 08:11 PM GMT

The injured rider is stretchered to the team vehicle in Whinlatter Forest. Photo: Keswick MRT

Two mountain bikers were rescued after suffering injuries in high speed crashes on successive days in the Lake District.

Keswick Mountain Rescue Team was called out to the first incident on Sunday when the 45-year-old man came off his machine in the Whinlatter Forest.

The team was alerted about 4.05pm to the accident on the route in the South of the Forest, in which the rider suffered shoulder and back injuries.

A team spokesperson said: This accident happened at a location where we have been three or four times in the last year.

The team responded swiftly, and were on scene within 20 minutes. The casualty was assessed, and then given analgesia before being lifted on to the stretcher and packaged into a vacuum splint to protect his back.

When the ambulance crew arrived, he was given more analgesia to help him through the transfer from casualty site to vehicle. He was then stretchered to one of our Sprinter ambulances and driven down to the North West Ambulance Service ambulance about 400m away, which then took him to the Cumberland Infirmary for treatment.

The rescue lasted almost two hours and involved 13 team members.
The Great North Air Ambulance Service helicopter at the scene on Latrigg. Photo: GNAAS

The following day Keswick MRT was called out to similar incident on Latrigg.

A 34-year-old mountain biker crashed at high speed after hitting a rock on the path on Sponney Green Lane.

He suffered injuries to his shoulder, chest, wrist and knee.

A team spokesperson said: The North West Ambulance Service requested the teams assistance, and the team were swiftly on scene.

Two vehicles full of personnel attended, and the Great North Air Ambulance was also mobilised to the incident. After the casualty had been assessed by the doctor from Helimed 58, the casualty was placed in a vacuum mattress, and then stretchered to the air ambulance.

The patient was flown to the Cumberland Infirmary for treatment. The team stood by until the aircraft was airborne, and then stood down.

Fifteen team volunteers were involved in the rescue, which took just over 1 hours.

655. http://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/keen-denbighshire-sportsman-died-18-13293795

Keen Denbighshire sportsman died 18 months after 'catastrophic' mountain bike accident

Roger Pearce had been back home from hospital only a matter of days when he was taken ill and rushed to Wrexham Maelor
BYGARETH HUGHES
17:46, 6 JUL 2017
The 64-year-old died at Wrexham Maelor

A keen sportsman died 18 months after suffering catastrophic injuries in a mountain-biking accident, an inquest heard.

Roger Pearce had been back home from hospital only a matter of days when he was taken ill and rushed to Wrexham Maelor, where he died at the age of 64.

After reading about his sporting achievements, John Gittins, coroner for North Wales East and Central, said: I cant help but be impressed.

In a statement read at the inquest in Ruthin, Mr Pearces wife Irene, of Cynwyd near Corwen, said the jig and toolmaker had worked for 33 years for the local firm of Ifor Williams Trailers.

A keen motorcycle triallist, he went on to fly microlight aircraft and a paraglider, and built his own paraglider.

He then turned to cycling and competed in several gruelling endurance races.

In August 2015, he had an accident while riding in woodland near Corwen and fractured his spine, which left him paralysed from the shoulders down.

He spent the next 18 months in hospitals in Bangor, Stoke, Southport and Gobowen, and despite his disability learned to operate a computer with his mouth.

He returned home in February 2016, and carers visited him every day.

On March 16, Mrs Pearce was awakened by his unusual breathing and dialled 999.

He died shortly after arriving in the emergency department in Wrexham.

656. http://www.kbzk.com/story/35835095/mountain-biker-rescued-near-spanish-peaks-on-thursday

Mountain biker rescued near Spanish Peaks on Thursday

Posted: Jul 07, 2017 11:56 AM PDTUpdated: Jul 07, 2017 11:56 AM PDT
By MTN News

BIG SKY -

A mountain biker had to be rescued near Spanish Peaks in Big Sky after crashing on Thursday.

The 34-year-old man from Los Angeles injured his shoulder, chest, and ribs in the crash that happened at approximately 12:30 p.m.

The Big Sky Division of Gallatin County Sheriffs Office Search and Rescue team, Big Sky Fire Department & EMS, and Gallatin County Sheriff deputies responded to the call.

Big Sky EMS crew members hiked up to the patient prior to Search and Rescues arrival for assessment and initial treatment. Personnel from the Gallatin County Sheriffs Office Search and Rescue team hiked to the biker with a one-wheeled litter.

He was then brought to the trailhead by rescuers.

657. http://www.sltrib.com/home/5191585-155/what-you-can-learn-from-a

What you can learn from a death on Deer Valleys Holy Roller mountain biking trail

By John Davis The Salt Lake Tribune
First Published Jul 11 2017 09:33AM Updated 3 hours ago

(Trent Nelson | The Salt Lake Tribune) Mountain bikers on Deer Valley�Holy Roller trail, Saturday July 8, 2017.

Mountain biking Layton mans fatal crash at Deer Valley last year serves as a warning on the dangers of popular flow trails.

Richard Schmutz had taken up mountain biking only a couple of months before he went riding at Deer Valley Resort for the first time.

"He went up there just wanting to have a good time," said his wife, Nikki Anne Schmutz. "He bought a brand-new helmet, he had all the gear, and he said he was just going to go on the easiest trails."

Schmutz a 41-year-old electrician from Layton, father of four and Boy Scout leader took a selfie while riding on a chairlift that day, Sept. 3, 2016. About a half-hour later, he died from injuries he suffered in a crash on the Holy Roller trail.

"I don't think there's anything that can explain the feeling you get when you just saw someone a few hours ago and then you get that call," said Nikki. "It's a lot of shock."

Biking trend Deer Valley's website describes the Holy Roller, which opened last summer, as a 3-mile trail that "flows from the top of Bald Mountain to Silver Lake Village, providing riders an easy and fun option to descend the upper mountain."

The resort classifies the trail as Easier. The other classifications are Moderate, Difficult and Experts Only.

The website warns: "Be aware that even though a trail may be marked Easier, all trails still require basic mountain bike handling skills, mountain travel skills and physical fitness." And Deer Valley's chairlift customers are required to sign a waiver acknowledging that they are aware of the risks and the resort is not responsible for injuries.

Designed by the Whistler, British Columbia-based company Gravity Logic, the Holy Roller is part of a trend in mountain biking, a "flow trail."

According to the Colorado-based International Mountain Bicycling Association's website, flow trails "take mountain bikers on a terrain-induced roller coaster experience, with little pedaling and braking necessary. This style of trail typically contains features like banked turns, rolling terrain, various types of jumps, and consistent and predictable surfaces. Conspicuously absent are abrupt corners or unforeseen obstacles."

As Schmutz rode downhill, the trail passed through a relatively steep, grassy area and into a stand of trees. There, he encountered a couple of rises in the path, where he crashed, suffering massive facial and head injuries. Nobody is known to have witnessed the accident.

Moments later, rider John Thomson came upon the scene. Two other riders a father and son had arrived before him.

Schmutz was lying unconscious on the ground, his helmet cracked and pushed back on his head.

"We immediately knew he was fighting for his life," said Thomson, a 50-year-old Salt Lake City resident.

The father and son said Schmutz had passed them while they took a break just a minute or two before they found him on the ground. He had not been riding at excessive speed, they told Thomson.

Thomson surmises that Schmutz picked up velocity through the grassy area before coming upon the double rises.

"My guess is, he got a little bit out of control, grabbed his front brake and went over the handlebars," Thomson said.

Called by the onlookers, Deer Valley bike patrol members arrived 5 or 6 minutes later, Thomson said. Park City Fire District personnel also responded to the call, but they were unable to revive Schmutz. He died at the scene.

658. http://punemirror.indiatimes.com/pune/civic/city-cyclist-dies-in-ladakh-mishap/articleshow/59566188.cms

Pune Speaks

CITY CYCLIST DIES IN LADAKH MISHAP

By Salonee Mistry, Pune Mirror | Updated: Jul 13, 2017, 02.30 AM IST
Padval was known for his skill and enthusiasm for adventure sports
Mountain biker Ajay Padval hit his head on a stone at Khardung La and succumbed to his injuries at the civil hospital

In a tragic accident, 22-year-old Ajay Padval, well-known in the city for his mountain biking skills, passed away in Leh on Wednesday around 8 am. On a backpacking trip with friends, Padval had on Tuesday gone for a trip with a few other cyclists to Khardung La, where he met with an accident. Although he was rushed to the civil hospital as early as possible, he succumbed to his injuries after being on the ventilator for a while.

Padval started his road trip with two other friends on July 1. Their destination was Leh, but they chose to go through Kargil. His last post on Facebook was on July 5 when he informed everyone that he was travelling in Kargil and would be out of coverage for a few days. Abha Pandit, a friend travelling with him, said, On Tuesday morning, Ajay said he was going to cycle down Khardung La and would be back by 3 or 4 pm. When he did not return, we went down to the shop from where he had rented a cycle and thats when we learned of his accident. His two friends then immediately rushed to the civil hospital in Leh to find their friend on the ventilator.

Following this, the two did a lot of back and forth from one army camp to another in the hope that they could arrange an airlift for their friend. However, it was not possible due to lack of permissions. A tweet by cyclist Sandeep Madaan to the defence ministry requesting for permission for the young cyclist to be transported to the nearest city went in vain. By the time I reached the hospital, it was about 8 pm. Ajays friends had already visited most of the offices to ask for permission to airlift him, but I was later told that it was not possible because he was not a resident of Leh, said Madaan. He added, No one is absolutely certain of how the accident happened, since Ajay was riding a little ahead of the others. One of the assumptions is that since there were stones fallen on the tar road on which he was riding, these could have been falling from the mountains and made him lose his balance. He hit his head on a stone and even though he was wearing a helmet the impact was major and he had internal injuries.

Padvals brother flew down to Leh on Wednesday morning and will be flying back to Pune with the body by Thursday afternoon.

Padval was well loved among the mountain biking community in the city and known as the go-to guy. Vinay Menon, a fellow mountain biker who knew Padval since he was eight years old, said, He was always extremely interested in the sport and would always want to know more about it. He did a lot of trail building and was always enthusiastic and ready for any adventure sport. He was also learning slack-lining and had got pretty good at it, Menon said. He also added that as a part of his mountain biking, Padval has done some pretty dangerous trails and had major accidents, but none of them ever stopped him Another friend of his from when he was studying in Symbiosis Institute of Management Studies, Umang Goel, said, He was full of energy and enthusiasm a splendid person to get to know. Zhen Paintal, who worked with Padval for a brief period, said, He was like a little kid, willing to participate in everything. I remember when I was on my trip to the North, he would call me every other day to ask how it was going and if I was all right.

659. http://www.getsurrey.co.uk/news/surrey-news/leith-hill-fall-cyclist-police-13336989

Mountain biker flown to hospital with life-threatening injuries after fall at popular cycling spot

The man, in his 50s, is in a critical condition after he fell from his bike in the Leith Hill area
BYOLIVER FLORENCE
14:55, 15 JUL 2017
UPDATED14:58, 15 JUL 2017
NEWS
Leith Hill near Dorking (Image: Surrey Advertiser)

by Taboola

A mountain biker was flown to hospital with life-threatening injuries after coming off his bicycle in the Leith Hill area.

Police and the ambulance service attended after the incident at around 10.40am on Saturday (July 15) near Coldharbour Lane in Dorking.

A man in his 50s was taken to hospital by air ambulance, where he remains in a critical condition with his family by his side.

Anyone who may have seen the incident is asked to call Surrey Police on 01483 639 922, quoting reference 17177926.

660. https://dirtmountainbike.com/news/mountian-biker-dies-crash-surrey-hills.html

A MOUNTAIN BIKER HAS DIED AFTER A CRASH NEAR LEITH HILL ON SATURDAY JULY 15.

Mike King (56), known as Kinger, came off at around 10:40am near Coldharbour lane. Leith Hill is home to Summer Lightning, an official waymarked trail, as well as semi-official trails such as Yoghurt Pots, Telegraph Road and Barry Knows Best. It is not yet known which trail the rider crashed on.

The rider was taken to hospital by air ambulance with life threatening injuries but tragically passed away on Sunday with his family by his side.

Mark was a father of four and a much loved figure in his local community. He was an instrumental member of the local rugby club and they paid tribute to him today. Shaun Hammond, chairman of Dorking RFC, told the Surrey Mirror: He was a big chap at 6 foot 6 but still larger than life in terms of his intellect and the way he lived life. He was a great friend and the most humorous man I have ever known. I and everyone who knew him are going to miss him terribly.

Anyone who may have seen the incident is asked to call Surrey Police on 01483 639 922, quoting reference 17177926.

Our thoughts are with Marks family and friends in this difficult time.

661. http://www.stowetoday.com/waterbury_record/news/local_news/perry-hill-bike-trail-honors-andy-langlois/article_a5793090-6d5b-11e7-b0c4-6f9272a023a5.html

Perry Hill bike trail honors Andy Langlois

By Tommy Gardner | Waterbury Record
Jul 20, 2017 Updated 6 hrs ago
(0)

John and Nellie Langlois speak Tuesday at the official opening of a new trail in the Perry Hill mountain biking network dedicated to their son. Andy Langlois died in a bike accident in 2014. The new trail provides a gentler approach to the network.
Photo by Gordon Miller

Andys trail.
Photo by Gordon Miller

The mother and father of a man who died three years ago in a mountain bike crash helped dedicate a new Perry Hill trail to their son Tuesday.

John and Nellie Anne Langlois held hands, gently rubbed each others back, allowing a couple of dozen mountain bikers, engineers, builders and foresters to mist up along with them, saying that their son was happiest when he was outside.

Andy Langlois died Aug. 29, 2014, after crashing during a routine after-work bike ride in the Perry Hill trail network in Waterbury.

The man from Gardner, Mass. had lived in Vermont for only a year, but had a circle of friends in his co-workers at Sisler Builders, who nicknamed him Young Buck. Langlois was 25.

He was a wicked character, as we would say in Boston, John Langlois said.

Tuesday afternoon was a sunny and slightly humid day a temperate one in a wet summer like this in the C.C. Putnam State Forest, home to the Perry Hill trail network.

Diana Frederick of the Vermont Department of Forest, Parks and Recreation noted the state has partnered with mountain bikers since the late 1990s to develop the trails.

That partnership has become more robust in recent years, as the state sees mountain biking as a recreation boon, and mountain bikers as allies. In this case, the state is working with the Waterbury Area Trails Alliance.

That groups head, Jay Provencher, gave kudos to the contractor who got the trail completed, in one rainy month, for cracking the whip and getting the crew to work in the rain.

Brooke Scatchard, a local trail engineer and rider and inventor of a fat bike that swaps out a front wheel for a ski designed the new approach.

The new route is a gently swooping series of switchbacks that serves the all-important role of getting riders out of the parking area and into the Perry Hill trail network. These types of trails are all-important, because the only certainty in pedal-powered trail access is youve got to go up before you get your downhill thrills. Approach trails need to get you there efficiently and elegantly without expending all your energy on the approach.

Nellie Langlois spoke in the summery sylvan setting about a time before her son Andy moved to Vermont, coming to visit the state, and sitting on a mountain vista. She leaned over to her son and said it was as if one could reach out and touch the hand of God.

We have faith that he has grasped that hand and is now safely home, sharing this magnificent summer day with us, she said.

662. "Healthful" sport, huh?

Mike

https://www.usnews.com/news/best-states/montana/articles/2017-07-25/man-dies-while-mountain-biking-in-montana

MONTANA NEWS

Man Dies While Mountain Biking in Montana

An 18-year-old man has died while mountain biking at southwest Montana resort.

July 25, 2017, at 5:47 p.m.

BOZEMAN, Mont. (AP) An 18-year-old man has died while mountain biking at southwest Montana resort.

The Gallatin County Sheriff's Office says it was notified of the incident on Monday afternoon at Big Sky Resort.

It says the man was biking with friends when he collapsed and became unresponsive.

The victim died at Big Sky Medical Center.

The incident is under investigation.

663. http://www.abc15.com/news/region-northeast-valley/anthem/mcso-boy-seriously-injured-after-mountain-biking-crash-near-anthem

MCSO: Boy seriously injured after mountain biking crash near Anthem

abc15.com staff
11:51 AM, Jul 28, 2017
anthem | northeast valley

ANTHEM, AZ - A 14-year-old boy is in the hospital with life-threatening injuries after a mountain biking crash in the Anthem area.

The Maricopa County Sheriff's Office said the incident happened at Daisy Mountain Trail on Friday morning.

The boy was transported to Phoenix Children's Hospital with severe head trauma and a leg injury.

The Daisy Mountain Fire Department said the incident happened when the boy was biking with his three friends. Two of his friends went to get help while the third friend stayed with him.

Air15 video in the player above showed a medical helicopter and MCSO helicopter on the scene near Interstate 17 and Anthem Way.

Stay with abc15.com and ABC15 Mobile for updates.

664. Evolution in action!

Mike

http://www.myeasternshoremd.com/qa/spotlight/article_8df2ed04-c5dc-5c2e-a612-be4ae8312104.html

Biker overcomes injures for No. 1 title

By HANNAH COMBS hcombs@kibaytimes.com
10 hrs ago

Logan Pringle in action, downhill mountain bike racing.
CONTRIBUTED PHOTO

Logan Pringle competes this season in Downhill Mountain Biking and Dual Slalom competitions, both regionally and nationally and is currently ranked nationally as the No. 1, 16-year-old Category 1 (expert/semi-pro) Men's Dual Slalom racer in the U.S. He is No. 4 in the Category 1, 15- to 18-year-old Jr. Men's age group.
CONTRIBUTED PHOTO

STEVENSVILLE Fifteen-year-old Logan Pringle of Stevensville has been riding a whirlwind tour of bike races this summer before returning to school at Kent Island High in just a few, short weeks.

Logan competes in Downhill Mountain Biking and Dual Slalom competitions, both regionally and nationally and is currently ranked nationally as the No. 1 16-year-old Category 1 (expert/semi-pro) Mens Dual Slalom racer in the U.S. He is No. 4 in the 15- to 18-year-old Jr. Men Category 1.

He is also the No. 1 nationally ranked 16-year-old in Mens Downhill Category 2, and is No. 3 in the 15- to 18-year-old Jr. Men rankings. The rankings are issued via USA Cycling the governing body of cycling sport in the United States. Logans racing age is 16 however, all season he is actually 15, since racing age is based on age as of Dec. 31 of the current year.

All of this would be an impressive feat on its own, but Logans story took a hard turn the summer he was 10 years old.

Logan began racing Bicycle Motocross (BMX) in the National Bicycle League at 7 years old, while living in Traverse City, MI. His mother, Michelle Pringle, said Logan took to the sport immediately.

When he was 8, Pringle said their family temporarily relocated to Northern Virginia, and Logan continued to be a competitive NBL Novice racer, finishing 4th in the State of Virginia, after having won the State Finals Competition.

Logan was asked at that time to join the non-factory Powers Bike Shop racing team and moved up in class to the NBL Intermediate level. During his 9-year-old season, Pringle said they once again relocated, this time to Severn, MD.

Logan set goals to be the No. 1 Intermediate rider in the state, region and nation within the NBL that year, she said. Riding at the local track, Chesapeake BMX, every chance he could, Logan had a very busy competitive schedule. He was able to accomplish all but one of his goals, as he brought home the No. 1 plate for the NBL State and National series, having finished third in the NBL Regional Series. He also rode a second bike that year, in the Cruiser class, and was NBL State No. 1 (MD) and NBL National No. 8.

After having won the National title, he was asked to join a forming Factory race team, Doublecross Bikes, out of Oklahoma. He also moved on to Expert Level. He had a respectable year, in a newly merged bicycle league now known as USA BMX. Although, never able to capture the magic in class, on a 20 inch bike, he was able to garner a USA BMX National Age Group #10 on his cruiser bike.

The summer Logan was 10, he sustained a severe traumatic brain injury, while racing in Delaware. Pringle said Logan was given mandatory time off riding and racing, until just before the USA BMX Grand National Championships, held in Tulsa, OK.

Logan was unable to ride or train in any way for the weeks leading up to the race, as he recovered and started physical and vestibular therapy, and eye exercises for the malfunctioning left eye that had sustained nerve damage. He begged the doctors and the therapists to allow him to attend USA BMX Grands, happening over the upcoming Thanksgiving weekend, said his mother.

He had promised the team owner he would bring the team a NAG title, she said. Three weeks before leaving for Tulsa, OK for the race, Logan was granted permission to ride his bike, but not to race. One week before leaving, he was given permission to go to the race, with the express agreement he would have to do his eye exercises on the trip. So, he did them on the plane, in the hotel, and anywhere he could, Pringle said.

He competed, was fith in the semis and secured his National Age Group No. 10 title.

The following year presented on and off the bike challenges Logan was unable to overcome, and in the summer of 2013, at Hagerstown during a State Qualifier, Logan experienced yet another crash, where he hit his head, broke his wrist, and sustained a hematoma on his hip.

At the time of the initial crash, Logan checked out fine cognitively and his other injuries were more acute, said Pringle. That was Logans last ever BMX race.

Despite his injuries, Logan was able to secure the MD State Cruiser Champion age group title. He had a commanding lead for the season, and he won the title by bumping the gate which, Pringle explained, means he didnt race, but got in the start gate until it dropped to start the main event.

As a result of his injuries, Logan had poor memory, emotional issues and couldnt read anything below 24 font, said Pringle, but he continued to be an honor roll student at Severn Elementary, and subsequently at Stevensville Middle School. With the help of faculty at STMS, the subtle symptoms of cognitive and visual deficits were detected and by late November of that year, Pringle said they knew he had to be re-evaluated, even though Logan dreaded the news that he might not be able to ride again competitively.

Logan was seen Jan. 3, 2014, by his neurologist, and that was when they learned how extensive the cumulative damage was from the combination of his initial head injury, some smaller head bumps and that last BMX accident, said Pringle. At that point, he was retired from biking. Logan was removed from competing in all sports for over two years, during time which he endured extensive therapies to help him recover from the effects of the initial brain injury, said his mother.

That is until March 2015, when Logan was, against the odds, granted tentative permission from a pediatric neurologist at Johns Hopkins to begin sporting activities, with the express understanding that BMX, soccer, rugby, lacrosse and football would not be among them.

Pringle said they discussed the possibility of mountain bike sports, as there is less outside interference from other competitors.

We were told the risks, Logan was told the risks, and the decision was not easily reached, that he would begin riding bikes once more. His demeanor and attitude changed, and he was exceedingly happy, said Pringle.

Ironically, being allowed to ride again, is what helped him to heal and begin to live life more normally again, his mother added.

In April 2015, Logan began racing Dual Slalom and Downhill. He finished the season as one of the top Category 3 (beginner), 0-14 racers in each discipline within the Gravity East Series, a regional series. In 2016, he was Category 3, Jr. Men 15-18 Gravity East Series Champion, overall No. 2 in the Category 3, Jr. Men 15-18 Mid Atlantic Cup Dual Slalom Series Championship.

He was ranked at the end of that season, by USA Cycling, as the No. 1, 15-year-old Category 3 Downhill Mountain Biker within the national ProGRT Series.

This summer Logan has been on a tour of bike races, up the East Coast, including the National Championships in Killington, VT. The last race of this season a dual slalom race is slated for October near Frederick.

Logan said he continues to be passionate about mountain biking and wants to encourage other kids to get out and ride bikes. Although, he also enjoys basketball and has played two seasons with the Kent Island Slam program and represented Kent Island High School as a freshman player, Logan said he would really love to help build a biking program at the KIHS.

His long term goals are to graduate from KIHS, attend a college with an established collegiate biking program, while focusing on an engineering degree, and possibly compete on an international level at World Cup Mountain Bike events.

Pringle said Logan has had great support along the way and is currently sponsored by Bike Doctor Kent Island and long time supporter Onyx Racing Products out of Minnesota. Bobby Wooley, of the Edge Training Center in Stevensville, has also been a supporter of Logans endeavors, she said.

His head injuries have changed his life forever, Pringle said. It changed his personality, his outgoing nature, his reading ability and what kind of cognitive work he can do before becoming too fatigued. [But] it did not change his love for the sport of biking, and we continue everyday to support him, while praying that he makes every run safely.

An athletes passion is their passion and part of who they are, she said.

665. http://www.walesonline.co.uk/business/business-news/mountain-biker-who-broke-neck-13460970

Mountain biker who broke his neck built a new business from his hospital bed

Ben Jones broke his neck but started designing a website three days later on his phone
BYMARCUS HUGHES
20:40, 10 AUG 2017
Mr Jones was in hospital for a week

by Taboola

A mountain bike fanatic who broke his neck in a bike crash has launched a new business which he designed and built from his hospital bed.

Ben Jones, from Taffs Well, was in hospital for a week after he fractured vertebrae in his neck in an accident in Mountain Ash in June.

When doctors told the 27-year-old website designer he wouldnt be able to work for a while, he began trying to think of ways to make money.

He decided to build an online platform for cyclists to find accommodation called Bed and Bike.
Mr Jones' bike on the morning of the accident

Man to cycle up the Black Mountain 42 times for pal left disabled in attack

Only three days after the crash and while he was still in hospital, Mr Jones bought the domain name and began designing the website on his phone.

I like having a project, Mr Jones said. I cant rest.

I have got to have a project. I know Im supposed to rest but my mind just wanders.

I had to lie down and do it because I wasnt allowed to sit up.
He didn't tell his girlfriend until a few days after he started designing the website

35 Welsh start-ups to watch: The companies pushing the boundaries of creativity and innovation

Mr Jones had travelled to a trail in Mountain Ash for a day trip of mountain biking with his brother Danny, who is also a keen mountain biker.

But during the second run of the morning, Mr Jones misjudged one of the jumps and fell head-first into a gap between two ramps.

At this moment I knew something was wrong, he said. I blacked out for 30 seconds.

I was in shock. My initial reaction was I cant feel my body, I need to get up.
Ben is now at home in Taff's Well and continuing to build his business

These 20 legendary things to do in Wales will turn you into a true adventurer

He found he could stand up but wasnt able to support his head.

With the help of two other riders, Mr Jones managed to walk to a van, before Danny took him to Prince Charles Hospital in Merthyr Tydfil.

Doctors told him he had fractured vertebrae in his neck, as well as his ribs and back.

If it had been fractured two millimetres more I would have died pretty much because it would have hit one of my arteries.

After returning home, Mr Jones continued working on his website Bed and Bike a platform for people to find accommodation near the worlds best cycling destinations.
Mr Jones on a biking trip in Morzine, France

Having launched in the first week of August, Bed and Bike already has 10 properties listed and Mr Jones says he is in talks with holiday providers in Wales and across the UK.

His 25-year-old brother is going to take two weeks off work to help with the launch.

Mr Jones expects to make a full recovery and plans to get back into cycling, but currently still has to wear his neck brace.

He describes the accident as a blessing in disguise, adding: It gave me the time to do this. Before this I was working all the time.

For more information, you can visit www.bedandbike.co.uk

666. http://www.dailynews.com/sports/20170811/sheriffs-reserve-deputy-dies-after-competition-in-la-world-police-amp-fire-games

Sheriffs reserve deputy dies after competition in LA World Police & Fire games

L.A. County Sheriffs Reserve Deputy Jacob Castroll Photo courtesy L.A. County Sheriffs Department

By City News Service

Posted: 08/11/17, 1:19 PM PDT | Updated: 3 hrs ago
L.A. County Sheriffs Reserve Deputy Jacob Castroll Photo courtesy Association For Los Angeles Deputy Sheriffs

LOS ANGELES >> A reserve Los Angeles County sheriffs deputy died Friday while participating in the mountain biking competition at the 2017 World Police & Fire Games, authorities said.

Paramedics took Reserve Deputy Jacob Castroll, 68, from the Castaic Lake area to Henry Mayo Newhall Hospital about 9:30 a.m. in full (cardiac) arrest, said county fire Inspector Joey Marron.

Deputy Ryan Rouzan of the Sheriffs Information Bureau later said the reserve deputy was pronounced dead at the hospital. He reportedly suffered a heart attack, but Rouzan said the cause of death would be investigated by the coroners office.

Sheriff Jim McDonnell issued a statement expressing sadness on behalf of the department over the deputys death.

We offer our prayers and condolences to his family, friends and partners during this difficult time, he said.

Castroll is survived by his wife Rody and three children, Victor, Lea and Rica, according to the sheriffs department.

Jacob was an avid bicyclist in his free time who participated in numerous Police Unity Tours, according to an ALADS statement that described Castroll as well-known throughout the department.

Our condolences are with Reserve Deputy Castrolls family, friends and coworkers, the union statement said.

The bicycle racing in Castaic was among the days events, which include dragon boat races at Santa Fe Dam in Irwindale; basketball, boxing, darts and volleyball at the Los Angeles Convention Center; horseshoe tossing at Richard Rioux Park in Santa Clarita; pocket billiards at Hard Times Billiards in Bellflower; and rugby at the Balboa Sports Center in Encino.

There also will be pistol shooting at the Los Angeles Police Academy in Elysian Park and Pitchess Detention Center in Santa Clarita; softball at Big League Dreams in West Covina, swimming at the Exposition Park Swim Stadium, tennis at Griffith Park, and track and field at West Los Angeles College.

The bowling competition will take place at Pinz Bowling Center in Studio City.

The 11-day Olympics-style competition for active and retired police officers and firefighters from around the world will continue through Wednesday.

Staff Writer Elizabeth Chou contributed to this report.

667. https://www.theacorn.com/articles/deputy-dies-in-bike-race/

Deputy dies in bike race

| August 17, 2017
By Sylvie Belmond
belmond@theacorn.com

Castroll

Jacob Castroll, an avid mountain bike rider and reserve deputy at the Lost Hills Sheriffs Station, died unexpectedly while participating in the Aug. 11 World Police and Fire Games near Castaic Lake.

The 67-year-old resident of Newbury Park fell while competing in a downhill mountain bike race at the games and died a hospital soon after, according to a statement from the Association for Los Angeles Deputy Sheriffs.

The games are an Olympic-style event involving 10,000 athletes from firefighting and law enforcement agencies worldwide.

Castroll, a keen mountain biker who only two years ago rode 250 miles from New Jersey to Washington D.C. in honor of a Ventura County sheriffs deputy killed in the line of duty, was found unresponsive by another rider, the sheriffs association said.

DEVOTEDJacob Castroll rode here in the 2014 Police Unity Tour on behalf of a fellow deputy who was struck and killed by a drunk driver. ACORN FILE PHOTO

According to the Los Angeles County coroner website, the death was an accident caused by blunt-force trauma to the head and neck. Its unclear what made Castroll fall from the bike.

Born in the former Soviet Union, Castroll moved to the U.S. for college. He and his wife, Rody, were married for 47 years.

The owner of a Studio City- based insurance brokerage, Castroll began volunteering with the Lost Hills Sheriff Station in Calabasas in 2010.

In an interview with The Acorn in 2014 to discuss his participation in the 250-mile Policy Unity Tour, Castroll said he was inspired to volunteer for the sheriffs department after a major fire threatened his then-home in Calabasas.

The father of three dedicated his 2014 ride to Ventura County Sheriffs Dep. Eugene Kostiuchenko, who was struck and killed by a drunk driver the year before on the 101 Freeway while walking to his car after completing a traffic stop in Camarillo.

Being on the inside, I can see the hard work and dedication police officers put into their jobs, Castroll told The Acorn. People often forget that police officers, day in and day out, put their lives on the line to protect their communities.

He served as a civilian volunteer at the Lost Hills station for a year and then attended the academy so he could become a sworn deputy.

In addition to patrolling the local community, Castroll volunteered at DUI checkpoints and at the LASD sheriffs academy.

Jacob was a good man, and he had a warm heart with good moral and ethical character, said LASD Reserve Deputy Amin Ballout, who worked with Castroll.

He was a man of integrity and dedication. This was one of his most valuable character traits, his willingness to help anyone, anytime, anyplace he could, Ballout said.

Castroll also worked in weapons training, investigations and search and rescue.

His passing came as a shock to everybody. He was a gentleman in every aspectand he was healthy, Ballout said.

Castroll is survived by his wife and three children, Victor, Lea and Rica.

His funeral took place Aug. 14 at Mount Sinai Hollywood Hills in Los Angeles.

668. http://www.vaildaily.com/news/massachusetts-man-dies-after-vail-mountain-bike-crash/

Massachusetts man dies after Vail Mountain bike crash

VAIL A mountain-bike crash on Vail Mountain killed a Massachusetts man this week.

Mark Johnson, 26, died Tuesday afternoon following a mountain bike accident near the top of Chair 8 on Vail Mountain. Eagle County Coroner Kara Bettis said Johnson, who was visiting Vail, died of blunt-force injuries to his abdomen.

David Williams was raised in Vail and now lives in Annapolis, Maryland. Williams was in the valley for a visit, and on the last day of his vacation, he decided to do some mountain biking.

Williams said he was rounding a curve on a trail near the top of Chair 8. He rode high on the berm, and as he was coming out of the curve, he spotted a little bit of a bike tire sticking up off the trail.

He said he hustled back to investigate and found Johnson, who was still conscious.

On the other side of that berm, the land drops sharply and is strewn with tree stumps and large rocks.

Williams said he called 911, and Vail Mountain patrollers were on the scene in moments. Patrollers worked for more than 30 minutes trying to resuscitate Johnson, Williams said.

Bettis said Johnson was transported to the Vail Valley Medical Center, where he was pronounced dead.

Staff Writer Randy Wyrick can be reached at 970-748-2935 or rwyrick@vaildaily.com.

669. https://www.castanet.net/news/Penticton/204619/PENSAR-to-the-rescue

PENSAR to the rescue

Darren Handschuh - Aug 20, 2017 / 2:27 pm | Story: 204619
Photo: File photo

Despite not having an accurate location, Penticton Search and Rescue still managed to find and rescue an injured mountain biker Saturday.

Randy Brown, with PENSAR, said at 4 p.m., BC Ambulance requested assistance with a medical evacuation of an injured male mountain biker in the Max Lake Road area (West Bench area of Penticton).

The male subject, who had been biking alone, had fallen from his bike and had sustained a severe head injury and had lost consciousness for some time, said Brown. A passing mountain biker found the injured biker and was able to call 911 but was unable to provide dispatchers with an exact location other than they were up Max Lake Road on a mountain bike trail.

With minimum details, PENSAR responded with an air rescue and a ground team on all terrain vehicles to the area. Communication was then re-established with the initial 911 caller who was able to meet rescuers on Max Lake Road.

The injured 67-year-old man was located and transported by all terrain vehicle to a nearby ambulance and then to Penticton Regional Hospital.

Penticton & District Search and Rescue encourage users of backcountry cycling trails to download the Trailforks App which is a mobile companion to the Trailforks.com website. It allows the cycling user to download offline trail maps for use on rides, add data, have the latest trail info and assists with emergency location.

670. This story demonstrates why bikes don't belong on trails. EVER!

Mike

From: Karen Sullivan <greymare56@gmail.com>
Date: Wed, 23 Aug 2017 23:35:30 -0700
Subject: Volunteer dies from injuries after being hit by bike Aug 15, 2016

http://journalstar.com/news/local/911/volunteer-dies-from-injuries-after-being-hit-by-bike/article_b0d7e97d-5a95-54cb-99b4-aa9866a01796.html

A 62-year-old Lincoln woman who was hit by a bicycle while working
along the Antelope Valley Trail last week has died, Lincoln police
said Sunday evening.

Paulette Johnson was picking up trash along the trail in Union Plaza
north of O Street on Friday morning when a 36-year-old female
bicyclist struck her around 10:45.

The bicyclist saw Johnson before the collision and called out to her,
but neither women had time to move, Officer Katie Flood said Monday.

Johnson was cleaning up the trail with two coworkers.

Police Sgt. Kathleen Phillips said Johnson suffered head injuries when
she was hit by the bike. Police received a call about her death around
8 p.m. Saturday.

The investigation continues, and police said no one has been cited.

671. https://lawestmedia.com/lawest/16-year-old-biker-rustic-canyon/

16-Year-Old Biker Seriously Injured on Rustic Canyon Trail in Pacific Palisades

August 26, 2017

A 16-year-old boy suffered serious injuries Saturday when he crashed his mountain bike while on a trail at Rustic Canyon Park, in the Pacific Palisades.

Firefighters and paramedics were dispatched at 10:37 a.m. to 4000 Sullivan Fire Road.

The boy was airlifted to an area trauma center, said Margaret Stewart of the Los Angeles Fire Department.
Summary
Article Name
16-Year-Old Biker Seriously Injured on Rustic Canyon Trail in Pacific Palisades
Description
A 16-year-old boy suffered serious injuries Saturday when he crashed his mountain bike while on a trail at Rustic Canyon Park, in the Pacific Palisades.
Author
City News Service; image by Warren Goldswain

672. https://www.shropshirestar.com/news/crime/2017/08/28/cycle-race-organisers-to-appear-in-court-over-death/

Llangollen cycle race organisers to appear in court over spectator death

By Andrew Morris | Llangollen | Crime | Published: 19 hours ago | Last Updated: 17 hours ago

Organisers of a mountain bike event in which a spectator died after being struck by a cycle were today appearing in court.

image: https://www.shropshirestar.com/resizer/MrrpWC79BRJyuYhF4cRPWFDwCyI=/1000x0/filters:quality(100)/arc-anglerfish-arc2-prod-shropshirestar-mna.s3.amazonaws.com/public/LTVP6LIPBREAHEJCZDSAHNUEZM.jpg

The British Cycling Federation, an official and a marshal at the British Downhill Series Mountain Biking event at Llangollen back in August 2014, were all due to appear in court tomorrow.

They will make their first appearance in court at Flintshire Magistrates Court at Mold.

It follows the death of 29-year-old spectator Judith Garrett, who had been at the event to watch her boyfriend compete.

The charge against The British Cycling Federation, based at Stuart Street in Manchester, alleges that on August 31, 2014, at Tan y Craig Farm in Llangollen, it failed to conduct its undertaking in such a way as to ensure the health and safety of people attending.

A marshall, Kevin Ian Duckworth, 41 of Addison Street in Accrington, Lancashire, is alleged to have failed to ensure that his health and safety duties as a marshal were complied with.

Race official Michael Marsden, 40, of Gressingham Drive in Lancaster, is alleged to have failed to conduct the event in such a way that people were not exposed to risk.

It is alleged that he failed to ensure the safety of spectators at the competition and failed to provide marshals with adequate training regarding the safety of spectators.

The final charge alleges that he failed to report the death of Miss Garrett at the British Downhill Series Mountain Biking Competition.

Judith Garrett, 29, of Prudhoe, had been living with her boyfriends family at Whitley Bay.

She was airlifted to the University Hospital of North Staffordshire in Stoke but died the following day.

Peter Walton and Judith had been a couple for three years.

Judith had recently been promoted to the position of senior quality control officer.

She was said to have died from major head injuries after being struck by a cycle when a rider lost control.

As well as her boyfriend, Miss Garrett left behind her father Bill, mother Lorna and sister Jane.

Miss Garrett had been due to move in to her first home with her boyfriend two weeks after the tragedy.

Read more at https://www.shropshirestar.com/news/crime/2017/08/28/cycle-race-organisers-to-appear-in-court-over-death/#pexq0OBA7TjXAekV.99

http://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/llangollen-bike-race-spectator-death-13693286

Organisers of mountain bike race where spectator was killed deny health and safety charges

The British Cycling Federation, an official and a marshal appeared in Mold in relation to the death of Judith Garrett at Llangollen
BYELWYN ROBERTS
13:24, 29 SEP 2017
UPDATED13:32, 29 SEP 2017
NEWS

The organisers of a mountain biking event in which a spectator died after being struck by an out of control cycle have pleaded not guilty to health and safety charged

The British Cycling Federation, an official and a marshal at the event at Llangollen back in August 2014, appeared at Mold Crown Court today (Fri).

Not guilty pleas were entered to all charges and Judge Rhys Rowlands fixed a trial on June 4.

It is expected to last four weeks

The proceedings follow the death of spectator Judith Garrett, 29, who had been at the Borderline Downhill Series Mountain Biking event to watch her boyfriend compete.
Judith Garrett, who died after being struck by a mountain bike during the Llangollen bike race in August 2014, with her boyfriend Pete Walton

The charge against The British Cycling Federation, based at Stuart Street in Manchester, alleges that on August 31, 2014, at Tan y Craig Farm in Llangollen, it failed to conduct its undertaking to ensure the health and safety of people attending.

Family of woman killed at bike race in court to see organisers face charges over her death

Race official Michael Marsden, 40, of Gressingham Drive in Lancaster, is alleged to have failed to conduct the event in such a way that people including Miss Garrett were not exposed to risk.

It is alleged that he failed to ensure the safety of spectators at the competition and failed to provide marshals with adequate training regarding the safety of spectators.
Michael John Marsden (Image: David Powell)

The final charge against him alleges that he failed to report the death of Miss Garrett at the competition.

Judith Garrett: Tributes to Llangollen mountain bike race victim

A marshal, Kevin Ian Duckworth, 41 of Addison Street in Accrington, Lancashire, is alleged to have failed to ensure that his health and safety duties as a marshal were complied with.

Prosecuting barrister Andrew Green, appearing on behalf of Denbighshire County Council, said that legal arguments would need to take place before the trial. A pre-trial review will be held on March 26.
Kevin Ian Duckworth leaves Flint Magistrates Court in Mold after appearing over an incident at a cycling event in Llangollen in 2014. (Image: David Powell)

He said that he wished to clarify that the fatality occurred at a Borderline Downhill Event and not as stated in the original charges before the magistrates court.

Spectator killed at North Wales mountain bike race suffered major head injury

Duckworth and Marsden were granted unconditional bail.

Judith Garrett, 29, of Prudhoe, had been living with her boyfriends family at Whitley Bay.

She was airlifted to the University Hospital of North Staffordshire in Stoke but died the following day. She was said to have died from major head injuries.

673. http://www.wearvalleyadvertiser.co.uk/news/15501103.Mountain_biker_suffers_life_threatening_injuries_while_riding_in_forest___cyclists_warned_about_trying_out_yet_to_be_opened_trail/

Mountain biker suffers life-threatening injuries while riding in Hamsterley Forest, near Bishop Auckland

Katie Richardson @EchoKatieRReporter (Teesdale)

CRITICAL: The man was in a critical condition when he was flown to hospital Picture: GNAAS

MOUNTAIN bikers have been warned to take extra care after a man was left with life threatening injuries while riding in a popular forest.

The 52-year-old fell off his bike while riding in Hamsterley Forest, near Bishop Auckland, at about 4pm on Sunday.

The Great North Air Ambulance Service (GNAAS) helped paramedics from the North East Ambulance Service and the man was placed in an induced coma and flown to James Cook University Hospital within 15 minutes.

The man was in a critical condition when he arrived after suffering injuries to his head, arm and pelvis.

Recreation and Public Affairs Manager for the Forestry Commission in North-East England, Alex MacLennan, said the incident happened on the new K-Line trail which does not officially open until October and urged cyclists not to ride it until then while always being cautious with new trails they are not familiar with.

He said: Of course, by taking some sensible precautions when out in the forest means the chances of you needing the assistance of the emergency services will be greatly reduced.

Top of the list is always wear a helmet, make sure your bike is in good condition, ride within your ability and dont take chances.

Riding in a group is always sound advice and if you are riding on your own make sure someone knows where you are going and when to expect you back.

He added: As Hamsterley Forest is remote, you should make an effort to be self-sufficient and have your own small first aid kit, including a foil blanket, and an additional spare warm layer.

Know your terrain and where to get to the nearest exit road and where you would be able to get mobile phone reception.

Most of the forest is devoid of mobile coverage although even if you do not get reception, try 999 or 112 as this will access all networks.

Mr MacLennan also praised GNAAS, which is publicly funded, for coming to the rescue.

Hundreds of mountain bikers raise thousands of pounds for the charity by taking part in the annual Hamsterley Beast, a fundraiser for the charity which is held in the forest.

The next fundraiser will be held on May 13, 2018.

674. This is mountain biking's future!

Mike

https://www.toacorn.com/articles/teen-determined-to-walk-again-after-mountain-bike-crash/

Teen determined to walk again after mountain bike crash

Wreck left 15-year-old paralyzed

| August 31, 2017
By Thomas McMahon
Special to the Acorn

PHYSICAL THERAPYNewbury Park High School sophomore Sam Audenino uses an electrical stimulation bike as part of his recovery from a mountain biking accident in July. Courtesy photo

Until this summer, Sam Audeninos goal had been to go pro in mountain-bike racing, but a critical crash shifted his priorities.

Now the 15-year-olds goal is to walk again.

Sam, a sophomore at Newbury Park High School, was mountain biking in Big Bear on July 15 when he took a spill over his handlebars and injured his spinal cord. Since then, he has not had the use of his legs.

After spending the past month in rehab in Century City, Sam is slated to return home Sept. 1, but his battle to overcome paralysis is far from over.

Need for speed

The youngest of three Audenino children, Sam got hooked on mountain biking four years ago. He could often be found riding with friends in the hilly terrain around Newbury Park.

If he wasnt in school or in youth group, he was on the trails somewhere, said his mother, Roxanne.

For the teen, the adrenaline rush was the main attraction.

I really just kind of like tearing fast down a mountain . . . the thrill of it, honestly, Sam said.

For the past two years, he has been competing in downhill mountain-bike racing. In this form of the sport, riders rush down rugged trails, pressing into steeply banked turns, catching air off jumps and putting their bikes suspension to the test as they roll over rocks.

I wanted to get up to the level of professional riding, Sam said. That was kind of my main goalto race in the World Cup for downhill.

Airborne spill

Everything changed July 15. Sam had set out early with a group of local parents and youths to ride at Snow Summit in Big Bear. The ski resort turns into a mountain biking park in summer.

ONE WRONG TURNBefore his accident, Sam, 15, could often be found riding with friends in the hills that surround Newbury Park. Courtesy photo

It was sunny as Sam and three friends reached the top of the ski lift, mounted their bikes and took off down the trail.

On the first descent of the day, Sam took flight off a jump and landed badly. He flew over his handlebars and hit the ground hard, briefly losing consciousness. When he came to a moment later, he couldnt feel anything below his waist.

Sams fellow riders sprang into action. His friend Jake Hildreth, 15, stayed with him and helped him stay calm. Jakes brother Josh, 13, rode down the trail to get help. Joshs friend Austin Miller, also 13, went uphill from the jump to stop other riders.

At the base of the mountain, Josh found his mother, Erin, and told her what had happened to Sam.

I just immediately felt sick and a sense of urgency, Erin Hildreth said.

The gravity of Sams condition was confirmed after the ski patrol staff brought him down the hill. Emergency responders reached him and said he would have to be airlifted to a hospital in Loma Linda.

Back in Newbury Park, Roxanne Audenino received a call with the news. She and her husband, Mark, got in the car and rushed to their sons side.

Severe injury

At the hospital, doctors discovered that Sam had shattered his T8 and T9 vertebrae, and the bone fragments had damaged his spinal cord. In surgery, the bone fragments were removed and rods were placed in his spine.

The initial diagnosis was that Sam had a complete spinal cord injury, but that was later upgraded to incomplete, which typically has a better chance for recovery. Still, Sam remains paralyzed from the sternum down.

About a week after the crash, Sam was transferred to the California Rehabilitation Institute in Century City. Since then hes been undergoing intensive physical and occupational therapy.

Three times a week, Sam is hooked up to a functional electrical stimulation bike, which gets his muscles working and stimulates his nerves with electrical pulses. It isnt mountain biking, but the motion is comfortingly familiar.

Family and friends have come often to visit Sam. Playing video games and working on a Rubiks Cube have helped break up the monotony of the extended hospital stay.

Caring community

To prepare for their sons return, the Audeninos have been renovating their two-story house so he can get around in a wheelchair. That includes building ramps, widening doorways and making the shower accessible.

Along with the home-renovation costs, the family is paying many out-of-pocket medical expenses, some for treatments insurance wont fully cover.

Meanwhile, the community has stepped up to help. Fundraisers have been held at Old New York Deli and Boney Mountain Tavern. Online, a GoFundMe campaign has raised more than $35,000 toward a $40,000 goal for the family.

Weve just had an outpouring of support for Sam, both financially and emotionally, Roxanne said, noting that its still unclear what the costs will amount to or how long recovery will take. Forty thousand was just an early estimate.

Sam will start his sophomore year in home study, with plans to return to the Newbury Park High School campus in January. For now, hes focused on getting back on his feet, literally.

At this point, I have a pretty good hope that Im going to walk again, he said.

Erin Hildreth said that Sams determination in the face of adversity has brought many people together to support him.

I think hes an inspiration, she said. Hes shown so much strength through this whole situation.

To follow Sams recovery, go to www.facebook.com/sam.audenino.roadtorecovery. The Audeninos GoFundMe account is at www.gofundme.com/sam-audenino.

675. http://www.stokesentinel.co.uk/news/local-news/staffordshire-family-hope-raise-21k-449689

Mountain biker left paralysed after breaking bone in neck in freak accident

Family describe brave dad-of-two Karl Clay as an inspiration
BYAIMI REDFERN
05:00, 11 SEP 2017
NEWS

MOUNTAIN biker Karl Clay has been left paralysed and needing 24-hour care after a freak accident.

The 54-year-old suffered fractures to his neck, spine, ribs and collarbone and spent four weeks in intensive care at the Royal Stoke University Hospital.

He then spent a further 11 months at a specialist spinal injuries unit, in Sheffield, as doctors warned he would not be able to support his own head, eat or speak.

But Karl has defied the medics and is now back at home and able to do those three things.

Now family and friends have launched a 21,000 fund-raising appeal to buy a functional electrical stimulation (FES) bike which activates muscles through electrical charges to try to improve Karls health and enrich his life.

Daughter Joanne who competes at a national level in mountain biking was riding in the Hope Valley, in the Peak District, with her dad and boyfriend when the accident happened on May 29 last year.

The 32-year-old said: We were nearly at the end when there was a slightly tricky descent. Dad went over the handlebars. He instantly lost consciousness and turned blue.

My boyfriend Andy started performing CPR and I ran to get help.

Karl was airlifted to the Royal Stoke and underwent surgery.

Wife Louise, aged 54, of Thorncliffe, near Leek, said: We were devastated. It was like we were looking down on it happening to someone else. His heart stopped many times over the first few weeks.

When it first happened the doctors said perhaps it would be better for him to go into a home, but we said no chance, that would never happen.

It has been difficult he needs 24-hour care and has two carers in the house all of the time. But we are just glad he is home.

While in hospital Karl was shown an FES bike, which would allow him to experience the feeling of riding a bike again while also improving his mobility, muscle tone and circulation.

His family have so far raised 17,000 towards the cost of the bike.

676. http://www.gloucestershirelive.co.uk/news/gloucester-news/mountain-bikers-life-saved-helmet-492192

Mountain biker's life 'saved by helmet' after serious accident

Mountain bike centre say his decision to hire a helmet before going out saved his life
BYJANET HUGHES
12:28, 18 SEP 2017
UPDATED12:29, 18 SEP 2017
NEWS

A mountain biker is lucky to be alive after making a last-minute decision to hire a helmet before being seriously injured in an accident in the Forest of Dean.

Staff at Pedalabikeaway say the mans decision to hire helmet before taking to the downhill trail could have saved his life.

They say the man is still in a critical condition in hospital but Sundays accident could have been a lot worse.
Downhill mountain bike competition at Pedalabikeaway at Cannop
READ MORE

M5 fatal crash update: Police hail 'bravery' of public after four die and woman and two children are seriously hurt when lorry crosses central reservation

And staff at the bike-hire centre said the accident should serve as a warning to the hundreds of mountain bikers who take to the Forest tracks every weekend.

On Monday they posted a message on their website which read: Yesterday there was a pretty serious crash on one of the downhill trails. The person in question is still in a critical condition in hospital.

He had turned up yesterday without a helmet, but decided to hire one from us before he went riding. It saved his life.

We don't want to preach, but please don't ride your bike off road without one. Yes, they're sometimes hot when you are riding up hill, and sometimes your kids won't want to wear one, but you never know when you'll need it #staysafe
Phil Morton, District Forester Recreation with the Forestry Commission, near the siting of a new bridge leading away from the Pedalabikeaway centre in Cannop.

The real reason you should never go down a slide with your child on your knee

A spokesman for the air ambulance said it was called out on Sunday after a man came off his bike at Newland near Coleford in the Forest of Dean, but at this stage it is unclear if this is the same accident Pedalabike are referring too.

A spokesman for Great Western Air Ambulance said a critical care team was flown into the Forest at around 11.30am on Sunday.

They tended to a mountain biker at the scene and he was taken to hospital by air ambulance.

Great Western Ambulance service say they were called out to a man who had suffered a neck injury after coming off his bike near Scowles Road, Coleford.

The man was taken by road accident to Nevill Hall Hospital in Abergavenny.

677. http://www.nj.com/monmouth/index.ssf/2017/09/mountain_bicyclist_rescued_after_suffering_heart_a.html

Mountain biker saved after heart attack deep in Howell woods

Posted on September 22, 2017 at 5:27 PM

By Spencer Kent

skent@njadvancemedia.com,

NJ Advance Media for NJ.com

HOWELL -- A man was hospitalized Thursday evening after suffering a heart attack while riding his bicycle deep in the woods of Allaire State Park.

The 48-year-old Colts Neck man had been riding his bicycle on a trail in the woods near Herbertsville Road with two friends, according to the Howell Police Department.

The man's friends called 911 after he began suffering a heart attack.

Within minutes, officials said, Howell police officers arrived at the scene and began searching a massive area of woods.

Howell officers as well as officers from the Wall Police Department and the State Park Police were able to find the bicycle riders and carried the man several hundred feet to a trail where a Ramtown Fire Department brush truck was waiting. The brush truck then took the man to a Howell police ambulance, which was standing by.

The officers commended one of the friends of the man, along with a good Samaritan, for helping lead them through the woods.

The man was taken to Jersey Shore University Medical Center.

Spencer Kent may be reached at skent@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @SpencerMKent. Find the Find NJ.com on Facebook.

678. https://thewest.com.au/news/wa/wa-mountain-biker-miraculously-walks-away-from-horror-crash-ng-b88611008z

WA mountain-biker miraculously walks away from horror crash

Claire TyrrellTuesday, 26 September 2017 2:57AM

WA mountain-biker miraculously walks away from horror crash

0:16 | Jen Honey-Smith

Logan Wakeling was thankful to walk away from this horrifying crash.

The 15-year-old Bunbury mountain-biker was competing at Albanys Urban Downhill contest on Sunday, as part of the Southern MTB festival.

With two years of mountain-biking under his belt, Logan experienced one of his worst stacks in front of hundreds of people in Albany.

It was my race run, so my final run for the day - I went to jump the full distance but came up a bit short, he said.

My suspension compressed under me then when it came back up it shot me over the bars.
When I got home and watched the video, I realised how it couldve been a lot worse than it was.

Logan, in Year 10 at Australind High School, said he felt confident taking off but after several metres in the air knew he was in trouble.

Towards the end I was getting a bit worried so I kind of braced myself .

The young daredevil went face first into the bitumen, grazing his hip and his arm and destroying his helmet.
Logan Wakeling's damaged helmet is of no use to him any more.Picture: Supplied

Dazed and sore, he was checked out by St John Ambulance but cleared to go home.

He said if it was not for his full face helmet, he probably would not have a face anymore.

I was really lucky, he said.

When I got home and watched the video, I realised how it couldve been a lot worse than it was.

It was like a miracle crash.
Up-and-away - and then crashing down for Logan Wakeling.Picture: Jen Honey-Smith

Logan said he would not hesitate to get on the bike again and would race this weekend.

I just need to get a new helmet, he said.

Thousands of people flocked to Albany for Southern MTB, which includes 50km and 37km cross county races, a dirt jump competition and a kids downhill event.

The event, which ran from Friday to Sunday was in its third year this year.

Organisers say there were no serious injuries this year, and everyone who fell off either walked away of got back on their bikes.

Downhill mountain-biking is immensely popular in Albany, with a strong membership at Albany mountain-bike club.

The town has a purpose built downhill trail at Mount Clarence.

679. http://www.stgeorgeutah.com/news/archive/2017/09/30/cgb-mountain-bike-rider-crashes-in-bear-claw-poppy-reserve-gets-flown-to-hospital/

Mountain bike rider crashes in Bear Claw Poppy Reserve, gets flown to hospital

Written by Cody Blowers
September 30, 2017
This February 2017 file photo shows a rescue of a rider who was injured while riding near the Green Valley Loop, St. George, Utah, Feb. 25, 2017 | Photo by Cody Blowers, St. George News

WASHINGTON COUNTY A mountain bike rider was injured on a trail near St. George Saturday and was flown to the hospital after he said could no longer feel his legs.

Shortly before 1 p.m., emergency personnel were dispatched on report of a man who crashed and sustained a possible head injury while mountain biking in the Bear Claw Poppy Reserve on the Green Valley Loop Trail.

The rider, a man in his 30s, was with a group of other riders when the crash occurred.
Green Valley Loop trail in the Bear Claw Poppy Reserve where a man was injured mountain biking Saturday, Washington County, Utah, Sept. 30, 2017 | Photo by Cody Blowers, St. George News

Among the riders was an anesthesiologist who helped to stabilize the injured rider while rescuers were en route.

Intermountain Life Flight was dispatched to the area to assist after the rider reported he was having difficulty feeling anything below his waist, Washington County Sheriffs Search and Rescue Liaison Darrell Cashin said.

That is indicative of a possible neck or back injury, but that could be temporary because its a shock to the spinal cord, Cashin said, but still we didnt want to take any chances.

Once rescuers arrived, the rider was placed on a backboard to immobilize him and reduce chance of further injury. He was then loaded into the medical helicopter and flown to Dixie Regional Medical Center for evaluation and treatment.

According to statements made at the scene, the man came upon a steep downward slope while riding along the trail and started to pick up speed as he descended the hill, Cashin said. Nearing the bottom, the rider lost control of the mountain bike and flew over the handlebars before hitting the ground head-first.

Washington County Search and Rescue teams were joined by St. George Fire Department, Gold Cross Ambulance and Intermountain Life Flight who responded and assisted with the scene.

Located approximately 6 miles west of St. George, the Green Valley Loop is several miles long and begins at Canyon View Drive in Green Valley and ends at Navajo Drive in the Bloomington neighborhood of St. George; it is part of the Bear Claw Poppy Reserve.

This report is based on statements from emergency responders and may not contain the full scope of findings.

680. http://www.motorcycle.com/whatever/whatever-the-grim-reaper.html

"Bicycles are the devil, really. A few years ago, a competitive mountain biker pedalling through Whiting Ranch, here in beautiful Orange County, was killed by a mountain lion. My friend Downhill Danny, a super-competitive action sports guy, turned his head to look back for a friend while riding his mountain bike, hit a rock wrong, and has been a quadriplegic for the last decade."

681. http://www.recorder.com/Biker-airlifted-after-Berkshire-East-accident-12981662

Biker airlifted after Berkshire East accident

A man was airlifted to Albany, N.Y. from Hawlemont Regional School following a mountain biking accident at Berkshire East on Saturday, Oct. 7, 2017. Photo courtesy of the Hawley Volunteer Fire Departments Facebook page

A helicopter arrives at Hawlemont Regional School to transport a man involved in a mountain biking accident at Berkshire East on Saturday, Oct. 7, 2017. Photo courtesy of the Hawley Volunteer Fire Departments Facebook page

A man was transported by Colrain Ambulance and then airlifted to Albany, N.Y. from Hawlemont Regional School following a mountain biking accident at Berkshire East on Saturday, Oct. 7, 2017. Photo courtesy of the Hawley Volunteer Fire Departments Facebook page

Recorder Staff
Sunday, October 08, 2017

CHARLEMONT A man was airlifted from Hawlemont Regional School Saturday morning following a mountain biking accident at Berkshire East.

According to a post on the Hawley Volunteer Fire Departments Facebook page, the biker suffered injuries to his head and shoulder, and also sustained two leg fractures.

Hawley firefighters helped extricate the man at Berkshire East, after which Colrain Ambulance, assisted by paramedics from Highland Ambulance, transported him to the landing zone at Hawlemont Regional School, the Facebook post reads.

A LifeNet helicopter arrived to transport the biker to an Albany hospital.

682. http://mainepublic.org/post/north-berwick-man-dies-while-mountain-biking-new-hampshire

North Berwick Man Dies While Mountain Biking In New Hampshire

By AP 10 HOURS AGO

NORTH CONWAY, N.H. - New Hampshire's Fish and Game Department says a mountain biker has died after he went out riding with friends for several hours.

The department says 58-year-old Robert Summa, of North Berwick, Maine, was found by a member of the group on a trail near an area called Pudding Pond in North Conway at about 1 p.m. Sunday. After phoning 911, the caller performed CPR on Summa until medical personnel responded.

Members of the North Conway Fire and Rescue agency tried to treat Summa, but he was pronounced dead at the scene.

683. http://www.thenorthernecho.co.uk/news/local/southdurham/weardale/15621697.Mountain_biker_suffered_broken_scapula__bleed_on_brain__eye_nerve_damage__dislocated_finger_and_broken_shoulder_blade_in_Hamsterley_Forest_crash/

Coma dad's family from York thankful after bike ride crash in Hamsterley Forest

Lizzie Anderson

A MOUNTAIN biker who was put into an induced coma after seriously injuring himself on a forest trail has thanked the medics who came to his aid.

Ivan Astbury crashed his bike while cycling through Hamsterely Forest, near Bishop Auckland with his son, Matthew, on August 27.

The 55-year-old sustained a broken scapula, a bleed on the brain, nerve damage to his eye, a dislocated finger, a broken shoulder blade, bruising to his jaw and face and other numerous cuts and bruises.

A doctor-led Great North Air Ambulance Service team airlifted him to hospital.

As his son, 28, had cycled on ahead, there were no witnesses to Mr Astburys crash, so it is cause is likely to remain a mystery.

Mr Astbury, from Bishopthorpe, York, said: I dont know what I did to fall off my bike, but the next thing I remember is waking up in hospital and wondering what had happened.

At the time of the incident, his son was waiting for him to catch up some way down the trail. But when Mr Astbury failed to make an appearance, his son turned back and found his father lying on the ground.

He rang for the emergency services before ringing his mother, Sally, to tell her the news.

Mrs Astbury said: On the phone Matthew said Ivan was talking so I thought he wasnt going to be that bad. So when we found out Ivan had been put into an induced coma, it was a shock for both of us.

The father-of-two spent six days in hospital, but has since made a good recovery, though due to the nerve damage in his eye, he remains unable to fully open his right eyelid.

Mrs Astbury added: At the end of the day, I dont know what would have happened if GNAAS werent there. Ill always be indebted to these guys and I cant thank them enough for their help.

The GNAAS is a registered charity and flies three air ambulance helicopters to help those in need across the North-East, North Yorkshire and Cumbria. The charitys doctors and paramedics bring pioneering pre-hospital care to the scene, rescuing hundreds of severely injured or ill patients each year.

It relies on donations from the community it serves.

If fit and well by next year, Mr Astbury plans to tackle the 20-mile route of the Hamsterley Beast off-road cycle ride with his son to raise funds for GNAAS.

To sign up to the Hamsterley Beast, which takes place on May 13, 2018, visit hamsterleybeast.com/entry

GNAAS needs volunteers to help the event run smoothly. For more information and to sign up, visit greatnorthairambulance.co.uk/challenges/event_volunteer/

684. http://www.sltrib.com/news/2017/11/04/man-dies-while-mountain-biking-near-moab/

Man dies while mountain biking near Moab

By Tiffany Caldwell
9 hours ago

A man who had been mountain biking with friends near Moab died while riding up a rock ledge Friday evening.

Eric Dube, 30, had been riding uphill on the Captain Ahab Trail, 20 miles southwest of Moab, at 5:35 p.m., according to a release from the Grand County Sheriffs Office.

Dube lost his balance and fell off the bike, police said. He lost consciousness and was declared dead at the scene.

He had reportedly been experiencing chest pain prior to the fall, according to the police.

He was wearing a helmet, as well as other protective gear at the time of the crash. His body has been transported to the state medical examiner to determine the cause of death.

Dube is from Breckenridge, Colo. but was reportedly familiar with the area, according to Grand County Lt. Kim Neal. He had been biking with three friends from Colorado.

685. http://www.fox10phoenix.com/news/arizona-news/mountain-biker-collapses-dies-on-south-mountain-park-trail

Mountain biker collapses, dies on South Mountain Park trail

POSTED: NOV 05 2017 01:35PM MST

VIDEO POSTED: NOV 05 2017 05:56PM MST

UPDATED: NOV 05 2017 05:56PM MST

PHOENIX (AP) - Authorities say a mountain biker rider is dead after collapsing on South Mountain Park trail in Phoenix.

The name of the 43-year-old man wasn't immediately released Sunday.

by Taboola

Phoenix and Tempe fire crews responded to calls about a biker collapsing on the trail.

Image Gallery2 PHOTOS

Bystanders and other bike riders in the area performed CPR on the man until fire crews arrived, but authorities say he died.

The man reportedly had no major medical problems, but Phoenix police are investigating the death.

by Taboola

686. http://www.cuestonian.com/cuesta-student-death-ruled-potential-result-of-mountain-bike-accident/

Cuesta student death ruled potential result of mountain bike accident

Stephen Kondor
November 16, 2017
News

Screenshot of Eric McNeils GoFundMe to cover costs for the funeral.
Photo posted by the McNeil family

By Garrett K. Smiley
Editor-In-Chief

A Cuesta student died recently in what authorities say may be due to a mountain biking accident.

Eric McNeil, a 58 year-old student who was working toward an Addiction Studies Certificate of Specialization, died Oct. 31 while mountain biking on Johnson Ranch trail in San Luis Obispo.

McNeils death was ruled as accidental with two causes: a heart attack and multiple blunt force trauma injuries from the mountain biking accident, authorities said.

However, authorities said they are uncertain which came first and which was the cause of death.

Mountain biking fatalities are rare, whereas injuries occur more frequently while attempting unsafe tricks or jumps while on a trail, experts said.

According to his memorial and GoFundMe page, McNeil was an avid outdoorsman who enjoyed many activities both in and out of water.

A memorial paddle out will be held Nov. 26 at 11 a.m. at Avila Beach. It will be followed by a celebration of his life at Atascadero Lake Pavilion from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m.

Donations may be made to McNeils GoFundMe page here.

The proceeds will be used to cover the celebration of life expenses and excess funds will be donated to the Van Curaza Surf School as a scholarship for children who would not otherwise be able to afford it.

Lindsay Darbyshire, Rachel Barnes and Taylor Saugstad contributed to this article.

687. http://www.vaildaily.com/news/report-breckenridge-man-dies-while-mountain-biking-near-moab/

Report: Breckenridge man dies while mountain biking near Moab

Summit Daily News staff report
November 5, 2017

The Salt Lake Tribune is reporting that a 30-year-old Breckenridge man died Friday evening while mountain biking with friends near Moab, Utah.

Citing a Grand County Sheriffs Office news release, the newspaper identified the man as Eric Dube and says he was riding up a rock ledge 20 miles southwest of Moab when he lost his balance and fell from his bike.

Dube was reportedly experiencing chest pain before the fall, lost consciousness when he fell and was pronounced dead at the scene.

He was wearing a helmet and protective gear at the time, and his body is undergoing an autopsy, according to the Tribune.

688. http://www.yorkpress.co.uk/NEWS/15621778.Horror_crash_dad_says_thanks_to_helicopter_crew/

Horror crash dad says thanks to helicopter crew

Victoria Prest Press_VictoriaPPolitical reporter

A MOUNTAIN biker from York who was left with a catalogue of injuries after a crash has thanked the helicopter team who saved him.

Fifty-five year old Ivan Astbury, from Bishopthorpe, was cycling with his son Matthew, 28, in Hamsterley Forest, County Durham, when he came off his bike.

He had to be put into an induced coma before the Great North Air Ambulance Service (GNAAS) could take him to hospital, but as Matthew had gone on ahead and there were no witnesses to Ivans crash, its cause is likely to remain a mystery.

Ivan said: I dont know what I did to fall off my bike, but the next thing I remember is waking up in hospital and wondering what had happened.

Matthew was waiting for him to catch up some way down the trail, but turned round to look for him when his father failed to appear.

He found Ivan lying on the ground and rang for the emergency services before ringing his mother, Sally Astbury, to tell her the news.

Ivans crash had left him with a broken shoulder blade, a bleed on the brain, nerve damage to his eye, a dislocated finger, bruising to his jaw and face and other numerous cuts and bruises.

Sally said: On the phone Matthew said Ivan was talking so I thought he wasnt going to be that bad.

"So when we found out Ivan had been put into an induced coma, it was a shock for both of us.

The father-of-two spent six days in hospital but has made a good recovery, although due the nerve damage in his eye means he still cannot fully open his right eyelid.

Sally added: At the end of the day, I dont know what would have happened if GNAAS werent there.

"Ill always be indebted to these guys and I cant thank them enough for their help.

If fit and well by next year, Ivan plans to be back on his bike in time to tackle the 20-mile route of the Hamsterley Beast off-road cycle ride with Matthew, helping the GNAAS as the same time.

All profits from the event go to the GNAAS.

It takes place on May 13, for information or to sign up go to www.hamsterleybeast.com/entry.

689. http://ipswich.wickedlocal.com/news/20171114/bikers-body-found-in-ipswichs-willowdale-forest

Bikers body found in Ipswichs Willowdale forest

Two mountain bikers found the body of Mark Porter in Willowdale State Forest. [COURTESY PHOTO/STATE POLICE]
By Dan Mac Alpine
ipswich@wickedlocal.com
Posted Nov 14, 2017 at 3:50 PMUpdated Nov 14, 2017 at 3:50 PM

Two mountain bikers found the body of Ipswich resident Mark Porter in Willowdale State Forest the day after State Police suspended the search for him.

The Stoneham-based family printed Porters obituary in a Boston newspaper on Sunday, Nov. 12, for services at St. Patricks Church in Stoneham Tuesday morning, Nov. 14.

The family requested donations in Porters memory be made to AMI Massachusetts (National Alliance on Mental Health) The Schraffts Center; 529 Main St., Suite 1M17; Boston, MA 02129-1125.

Essex County District Attorney spokesman Steve OConnell confirmed two mountain bikers had found Porters body in Willowdale Tuesday, Nov. 7.

We dont suspect foul play, OConnell said.

State Police suspended the search for Porter on Monday, Nov. 6, at 2 p.m. The search included Ipswich police and firefighters. The State Police search included the air wing and mounted search patrols.

Porter, 54, went missing Friday, Nov. 3 and State Police issued a missing person report for him on that Monday.

Police believed Porter was mountain biking in Willowdale at the time of his disappearance.

The obituary described Porter as, Kind, loving, always willing to help those in need, passionate, well-travelled, outdoorsman, skilled master carpenter/craftsman.

According to the obituary, Porter was the son of Henry J. and Martha (Hanright) Porter, Jr., of Stoneham; brother of Meg Porter, of Brussels, Belgium, Neil and Charlene Porter, of Stoneham, Martha Porter, of Andover, and John and Erin Porter, of Wakefield; and uncle to Kelsey, Kathryn, Riley and John Henry.

690. http://www.stokesentinel.co.uk/news/stoke-on-trent-news/mountain-biker-dies-after-collapsing-799924

Mountain-biker dies after collapsing at country park

Land and air ambulances were scrambled to the scene
By
Matt SimpsonSenior Reporter
11:47, 19 NOV 2017
NEWS

A cyclist has died after collapsing while mountain-biking at a country park.

The air ambulance, alongside land ambulances, were called to the car park of Apedale Community Country Park shortly before 8.50am this morning.

The cyclist, a man believed to be 50 years old, had been with friends at the park, between Silverdaleand Chesterton when he collapsed.

He was taken to hospital having suffered a cardiac arrest, but sadly nothing could be done to save him and he was pronounced dead.

A Staffordshire Police spokesman said: "We were called at 8.50am by our colleagues at the ambulance service to Apedale Country Park.

"The reported a man, who had been mountain-biking with friends, complained about feeling unwell before he collapsed.

"It appears he suffered a cardiac arrest. He was taken to hospital but was confirmed dead on arrival. The man's family have been made aware."

691. http://morungexpress.com/kohima-downhill-mtb-race-dec-4/

Kohima Downhill MTB Race on Dec 4

November 26, 2017

Kohima, November 25 (MExN): The 4th edition of Native Stations Kohima Downhill will be held on December 4.

After a successful race at Phesama village last year, one of the most exciting mountain biking event in India is set to go higher up as racers will compete in the mountains of Viswema village.

The downhill race will start from the mountain top above Viswema village as the riders race down in their mountain bikes at high speeds, jumping obstacles and finishing at 1.5 kilometers above Hope Garden.

Without any Government support, this one of a kind adventure sports event organized by Native Station Nagaland is supported only by young entrepreneurs, professionals and start-up companies who stepped in to support the race including young patrons Lhouvi Mezhur Sekhose, Manager, Africa and Asia Pacific Area, Commonwealth War Graves Commission & Kley Enterprise; Chan Kikon, Senior Integration Engineer, Jitterbit Inc; Dr Ruovinuo Theunuo, Junior Resident, Govt Medical College Kozhikode, Kerala; Kekhrie Mezhur, Asst Planning Officer, Dept of Planning & Coordination, and Seyie Auto.

Start up mountain bike and components manufacturing company Psynyde Bikes is the lead sponsor along with Nagaland based clothing and design company Winter Made, Food & Picnic partner Fat Fryday.

Made in Nagaland stone carved medals called Firestone hand crafted by Naga designer and master craftsman Veta Huprem will be presented to the winners. Nagaland based branding and design consultancy Kemp Design conceptualized and developed the brand identity of Kohima Downhill www.nativestation.org

The race will witness 36 participants from India and abroad including 3 female participants supported by Red Bull India where the race track is being designed by Architect/Designer Ollie Hemstock of Hemstock Design from United Kingdom along with the track design team from Nagaland comprising of Seyieo Sekhose, Kaolim Hanso, Kevilebo Zhotso and Atoba Longkumer (Trail Hounds Mokokchung).

Kohima Downhill 2017 will pay tribute to popular Indian mountain biker Ajay Padval who died earlier this year from a mountain bike accident in Manali. Ajay came out 4th in last years Kohima Downhill at Phesama. Ajay Padvals mother would be attending this years event to be held in tribute to her son.

692. https://www.usnews.com/news/best-states/hawaii/articles/2017-12-08/california-man-dies-from-mountain-biking-crash-on-big-island

California Man Dies From Mountain Biking Crash on Big Island

A 53-year-old man who fell while mountain biking on the Big Island has died from his injuries.

Dec. 8, 2017, at 2:47 a.m.

California Man Dies From Mountain Biking Crash on Big Island

KAILUA-KONA, Hawaii (AP) A 53-year-old man who fell while mountain biking on the Big Island has died from his injuries.

West Hawaii Today reports that the man and his wife were riding an off-road trail on Thursday around the Mauna Kea volcano when he fell.

Hawaii Fire Department Battalion Chief John Whitman said an off-duty firefighter and bystanders who came across the scene performed life-saving procedures until a rescue crew arrived by way of helicopter.

The man was flown to a hospital, where he was pronounced dead.

The fire department said the man was wearing a helmet when he fell.

The department said he is a resident of San Francisco, California.

693. http://komonews.com/news/nation-world/sisters-stand-up-to-help-their-injured-dad-walk-again

Sisters stand up to help their injured dad walk again

by Nate Bynum, KATU News

Aurora Espinoza Chaney, right, and her sister, Moira. (KATU Photo)
WASHOUGAL, Wash. (KATU)

Aurora Espinoza Chaney, 14, and her 17-year-old sister, Moira, have had to deal with more than most teenagers. In October their dad, Skye, was seriously injured in a mountain biking accident in Moab, Utah. Skye's spinal cord was severed and he was paralyzed from the chest down.

"It was pretty devastating. When we found out, we were pretty upset. Originally, we were just worried, is he going to survive? He was in ICU for quite a while with really severe injuries, and with a spinal cord injury theres other things that you need to worry about," said Christy Espinoza, Moira and Aurora's mother and Skye's ex-wife.

Skye is an avid outdoorsman, but for the last few months he's been in a Denver hospital beginning the recovery process. For Skye's family, it's been a difficult time.

"He was such an adventurous person. He would always be hiking or kayaking or doing something that he loved to do, and so, me thinking that he couldnt do it was pretty hard to think, and I was like, so what can I do to help him?" said Aurora.

After doing some research, the sisters came up with a way to help their dad. Without telling their parents, Moira and Aurora started a GoFundme account for their dad with the goal of raising enough money to get him an exoskeleton system, which is an evolving technology designed to help people with spinal cord injuries walk.

"We just kind of did it, and its been going pretty good so far," said Aurora.

In fact, the account has raised over $16,000 of their $70,000 goal, something that means the world to Skye, who spoke to KATU by phone from his hospital room in Denver.

"Its unexplainable. I dont really have any other words than that. It means a lot. It makes me want to keep going forward and keep moving," Skye said.

In October of 2016, Adam Gorlitsky made history as the first paralyzed man to walk in the Portland Marathon. The idea of one day walking again is Skye's goal.

"Being able to realize that theres a chance to walk and get around real good with that, its hard to put it into words," Skye said.

As for his daughters, they know there's a long road ahead, and they'll be there for a father who continues to inspire them.

"Well, it makes me believe that no matter what happens to me I can get through it because my dad who now can't walk is still pushing through," Moira said.

694. http://www.stokesentinel.co.uk/news/stoke-on-trent-news/funeral-held-after-dad-four-909021

Funeral to be held after dad-of-four, 50, collapsed while out mountain biking

Francis Hamlett founded Niteriders cycling club and was a member of Trentham Running Club
By
Rob Andrews
05:00, 12 DEC 2017
NEWS
Cyclist Francis Hamlett founded the Niteriders group

by Taboola

The funeral takes place this morning of a popular triathlete who died after collapsing at a beauty spot.

Francis Hamlett was a member of Trentham Running Club and founded the Niteriders cycling club.

His sudden death shocked both groups after he suffered a cardiac arrest and collapsed while out mountain biking with friends at Apedale Country Park, near Chesterton, on Sunday, November 19. He was later pronounced dead at the Royal Stoke University Hospital.

Now family and friends are preparing to say their final farewells to the 50-year-old Hartshill father-of-four at today's service.
Francis Hamlett founded the Niteriders group

Dozens of cyclists in special A34 tribute to Niteriders founder Francis Hamlett after his shock death

A requiem mass will be held at St Wulstan's Church, in Wolstanton, at 10am, followed by burial at Keele Cemetery.

The bereavement notice states: "Francis was deeply loved and will be sadly missed."

695. https://www.stuff.co.nz/dominion-post/news/hawkes-bay/99885017/hawkes-bay-principal-john-warren-died-after-losing-control-of-mountain-bike-coroner-finds

Hawke's Bay principal John Warren died after losing control of mountain bike, coroner finds

ANDRE CHUMKO

Last updated 11:43, December 15 2017

Shannon Warren, principal of Iona College in Havelock North, with her husband John Warren.

School principal John Mitchell Warren died after he lost control of his mountain bike, the coroner has found.

On February 7, the 60-year-old fell about 20 metres from his bike at Te Mata Peak in Havelock North while descending a newly-formed track.

Warren and his wife Shannon had recently moved to Hawke's Bay from Adelaide, after Shannon was appointed principal of Havelock North's Iona College in 2014. John was principal of Adelaide's Eynesbury Senior College from 2008 to 2014.
ROB STEPHENSON

John Warren is airlifted to hospital by the Lowe Corporation rescue helicopter.

Shannon described John as very fit and an experienced road cyclist who had been cycling for 42 years. When he came to New Zealand, John took up mountain biking.

He had been riding on Te Mata Peak hundreds of times before his death, and was also coaching a cycling team at Shannon's school.

John was described as "an enormously generous person who always had time, an open door, and a positive message for all".

On the day of John's death, Shannon said everything was normal.

She went to work about 3.50pm and received a text from John about collecting the family's dogs from day care and visiting a friend.

When she arrived home later on, someone called her to say there had been a bike crash on Te Mata Peak.
VIVIENNE HALDANE/HB COUNTRY SCENE

Warren died after falling off the edge of a cycling track on Te Mata Peak in February.

She then contacted a friend and they went to the peak where they found John, unconscious, lying near some pine trees.

Martin Sharpe was walking down the Te Mata Peak road about 6.15pm on the evening of John's death when he heard a "loud scream" coming from the cycle track, as if someone was in trouble.

He then saw John and his bike go over the edge of the track. While both John and his bike hit a lower track, John continued to fall a further 20 metres down the cliff.
NORRIS KENWRIGHT/SUPPLIED

The coroner did not find anything particularly dangerous about the track except that it traversed the steep side of the peak, "which is almost vertical".

Sharpe said it "was as if the cyclist was sliding down the side of the cliff as opposed to falling through the air".

Sharpe went to assist John, and found him alive but unconscious. Sharpe also found John's helmet on the bottom track, which had become dislodged at some point. The coroner was satisfied John was wearing a helmet before the crash.

Another witness, Colin Hill, was at the top of the track with his wife when he saw John fall off and heard him scream. Hill was the first to arrive to assist John, followed by Sharpe.

"Put simply, John lost control of his mountain bike," the coroner said.

The coroner did not find anything particularly dangerous about the track except that it traversed the steep side of the peak, "which is almost vertical".

He recommended Te Mata Peak Park trustees undertake a safety audit of the track, with the input of "one or more very experienced" adult mountain bikers.

"Otherwise I accept that there is an element of risk about many sporting activities, and mountain biking is just one of these."

John was flown to Hawke's Bay Hospital via rescue helicopter, where he died that evening as a result of chest injuries sustained during the incident.

A post-mortem found no drugs except for caffeine in his system.

John's former school in Adelaide described him as "an enormously generous person who always had time, an open door, and a positive message for all".

The coroner offered his condolences to John's family, especially Shannon.

696. http://www.illawarramercury.com.au/story/5128557/teen-suffers-serious-head-injuries-in-balgownie-mountain-bike-crash/?cs=300

Teenager suffers serious head injuries after Balgownie mountain bike crash

Angela Thompson

Local News

Update 4.15pm: An ambulance carrying an injured teen has departed Balgownie for Wollongong Hospital.

Specialist paramedics from a rescue chopper accompanied the teen to hospital but the helicopter, which landed in nearby parkland, was ultimately not required.

The teen was carried from the bush on a stretcher, with about 12 police, firefighters, paramedics and onlookers assisting.

The Mercury understands the teen is in a stable condition.

Earlier: A Dapto teenager has been seriously injured in a mountain bike accident at Balgownie on Monday afternoon.

New South Wales ambulance paramedics were called to a bushland location off Doonan Place about 2.40pm with reports a teenager had come off his mountain bike and landed on his head.

The 15-year-old boy suffered serious injuries to the right side of his face one eye is completely closed and he has suspected skull fractures.

The boys father, Wayne Aleckson, said his son was riding with three of his mates when he crashed.

He lost consciousness for a while but hes with us now, Mr Aleckson said.

He doesnt remember what happened and didnt remember where he was, but he does now.

Hes pretty sore, pretty black and pretty bloody at the moment.

Mr Aleckson said these were only the latest injuries for his son, competitive rider Jayden Aleckson, who broke three vertebrae in another riding accident earlier this year.

It's part of the territory they play in, Mr Aleckson said.

A rescue chopper is en route to the site.

Paramedics will put the boy on a stokes litter stretcher and carry him to the helicopter landing zone.

697. http://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/judith-garrett-killed-llangollen-race-14059744

Organisers of mountain bike race where spectator was killed to stand trial in June

The British Cycling Federation, an official and a marshal deny health and safety breaches in relation to the death of Judith Garrett at Llangollen
By
North Wales Daily Post
18:25, 19 DEC 2017
NEWS
The organisers of a mountain biking event in which a spectator died will stand trial in June.

Judith Garrett, 29, died after being struck by an out of control cycle at the Borderline Downhill Series Mountain Biking race in Llangollen in August 2014.

Not guilty pleas were previously entered in September by the British Cycling Federation, an official and a marshal at the event.

They are being prosecuted by Denbighshire County Council.
Judith Garrett, who died after being struck by a mountain bike during the Llangollen bike race in August 2014, with her boyfriend Pete Walton

The case was mentioned at Mold Crown Court this afternoon when various directions for the case were made.

Family of woman killed at bike race in court to see organisers face charges over her death

Judge Rhys Rowlands confirmed that the trial would take place on June 4.

Miss Garrett was at the race to watch her boyfriend Pete Walton compete.

The charge against The British Cycling Federation, based at Stuart Street in Manchester, alleges that on August 31, 2014, at Tan y Craig Farm in Llangollen, it failed to conduct its undertaking in such a way as to ensure the health and safety of people attending.
The organisers of a Llangollen mountain bike race in which spectator Judith Gartett, pictured, died, appeared in court. Pictured top right is Michael John Marsden and Kevin Ian Duckworth

Race official Michael Marsden, 40, of Gressingham Drive in Lancaster, is alleged to have failed to conduct the event in such a way that people including Miss Garrett were not exposed to risk.

Judith Garrett: Tributes to Llangollen mountain bike race victim

It is alleged that he failed to ensure the safety of spectators at the competition and failed to provide marshals with adequate training regarding the safety of spectators.

The final charge against him alleges that he failed to report the death of Miss Garrett at the competition.

A marshal, Kevin Ian Duckworth, 41 of Addison Street in Accrington, Lancashire, is alleged to have failed to ensure that his health and safety duties as a marshal were complied with.

Ms Garrett was airlifted to the University Hospital of North Staffordshire in Stoke but died the following day from major head injuries.

698. https://www.sunlive.co.nz/news/169473-mountain-biker-seriously-injured-crash.html

Mountain biker injured in crash

The BayTrust Rescue Helicopter landed near the crash site. Supplied photo.

A mountain biker has been rushed to hospital after being seriously injured in a crash.

The BayTrust Rescue Helicopter was called to Whakarewarewa Mountain Bike Park, where a 17-year-old male had serious injuries after crashing his bike.

A spokesperson says a fellow rider raised the alarm when he discovered the injured biker yesterday afternoon.

He was flown to Waikato Hospital in a serious but stable condition.

699. http://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/news/article.cfm?c_id=1&objectid=11958036

I should be dead: Cooper Snowdon is defying odds after he broke his neck mountain biking

27 Dec, 2017 5:00am
Cooper Snowdon, 16, and his mum Kim Ostern in the Burwood Spinal Unit. Photo / Supplied
By: Amy Wiggins
amy.wiggins@nzme.co.nz

This week, the Herald is speaking to Kiwis who have survived illnesses, accidents and crimes that almost killed them, as part of our I Should be Dead series.

In the week after Cooper Snowdon broke his neck doctors told his family he would either die or be reliant on a ventilator for the rest of his life.

Nine months later, the tough teen is proving them wrong.

The 16-year-old was mountain biking with his older brother Geordie at Kowhai Park in Whanganui on March 21 when he went over a jump, landed on his head and broke his neck.

He was airlifted to Christchurch hospital where he was in a coma for two weeks and spent 69 days on life support.
Cooper Snowdon, 16, while he was in the Burwood Spinal Unit recovering after breaking his neck. Photo / Supplied

Cooper is paralysed from the neck down but can breathe, eat and talk on his own and is making the most of life back home in Whanganui.

He had already bought a V8 ute for him and his brother to work on since getting home in August, Mum Kim Ostern said.

Instead of using the hoist to lift the engine, the pair used it to hoist Cooper over the motor so he could instruct Geordie about what he wanted done, Ostern said.

While Cooper can't move his fingers, he could lift his right arm up to his face and the family were hopeful he might regain some more movement in it to help him become more independent.

"He's doing so much more than they ever said he would do," she said.

In hospital he learnt to use a computer mouse which he could operate with his head to allow him to use Facebook and watch Netflix.

His first Facebook post since the accident came in late May when he used the mouse to type two simple words: "I'm back".
Cooper Snowdon, 16, and his mum Kim Ostern in the Burwood Spinal Unit. Photo / Supplied

Back in Whanganui, where he moved to from Tauranga just days before the accident, 20-year-old Geordie is Cooper's carer and tries to make life as normal as possible for him.

"Like a typical 16-year-old he doesn't like to hang out with his mum," Ostern laughed.

While there were hard times, Cooper was getting on with life and was already looking to the future.

He has told his mum he wants to do a mouth painting course.

Ostern said she was amazed by all the support she and the family had received both through Givealittle, where almost $24,000 was raised, and by the team working with Cooper to help him recover.
Cooper Snowdon, left, with his older brother Geordie Snowdon before the accident. Photo / Supplied

But most of all, Ostern said she was proud of how both her boys were handling the situation and amazed by Cooper's resilience and attitude towards life.

"I can't even believe anyone can think about living life how he is," she said. "He's really strong. He's an amazing, amazing young character."

Throughout it all, Cooper had done things his way, Ostern said.

Doctors did not think he would breathe on his own again, but he did. They thought he would need therapy to learn to speak again, he didn't.
Teenager Cooper Snowdon on a stretcher arriving at Christchurch hospital after the fateful Kowhai Park mountain bike accident. Photo / Supplied

The family was now working toward giving Cooper as much independence as possible, Ostern said.

"We're just focusing on doing things he loves to do. We're just so thankful to have Cooper. He's an amazing young guy. He's going to do amazing things. Watch this space."

700. ANOTHER Quadriplegic Created by Mountain Biking

Discussion in 'Mountain Bikes' started by Mike Vandeman, Jul 5, 2007.

Mike Vandeman Guest

Put THAT in the Mountain Biking Hall of Fame!

More media hype about mountain biking. It never seems to end:

Take a long, hard look at the mother's face in the picture. It speaks
more than a 1000 words ever can. How many more pictures like this will
we see before mountain biking is "tamed"? Another article following
this tragedy (turned glorification of mountain biking) continues to
"hype" this sport. From the same newspaper, the same day. How ironic!
How sad! When will the insanity end? Over handlebar injuries are way
too common with mountain biking. It is like playing Russian roulette
in the woods with every fall "over the handlebars". Both this kid, and
the adult who recently died in a bike crash on the North Shore, both
flew over their handlebars. Most of the time, the rider is lucky to
"escape" with nasty cuts, or a broken collar bone. Not much solace
there.

[a friend]

From the North Shore Outlook newspaper:

A different path

Forging ahead - A mountain biking accident has paralyzed 15-year-old
John Ramsden. Despite the life-changing incident, the West Vancouver
resident, pictured here with his mother Marguerite Stolar, is ready to
embark on a new life with his family. Daniel Pi photo

By DANIEL PI Staff Reporter

Jul 05 2007

John Ramsden knew. In the split second it took him to recover from the
shock of the fall, he knewhis life had changed forever.

“I’m paralyzed,” he told his friend James who had rushed to his side.

As other mountain bikers gathered around, offering first aid and help,
Ramsden experienced what most people do during life-altering moments.

He remembered landing on his chin, the mouth guard of his full-faced
helmet taking the brunt of the six-foot fall after his mountain bike’s
front wheel suddenly tumbled off the narrow log beam obstacle, sending
him over the handle bars.

His body tingled, yet he couldn’t feel anything.

He knew what had happened, but he couldn’t believe it either.

On April 29, Ramsden and friend James were mountain biking on the
Boogie Man Trail on Mount Seymour when he took his freak fall.

“The second I fell I knew I was paralyzed,” Ramsden, 15, recalls at
G.F. Strong Rehabilitation Centre, where he’s now recovering. “I was
thinking this can’t have happened, this couldn’t have happened even
though I was totally aware at the time that it happened.”

As he lay on the ground, mountain bikers Hubert Wehlgmuh, Scott
Schneider, Ken McCarty, Simon Cameron and Craig Zarazun jumped off
their bikes to help, offering first aid and calling for paramedics.

Even though Ramsden was having trouble breathing because his helmet’s
neck strap was partially choking him, the mountain biker rescuers
wouldn’t move it, fearing it would shift his neck and do further
damage.

The paramedics were on their way. It was about 4:30 p.m.

At the same time, Ramsden’s parents, Michael Ramsden and Marguerite
Stolar, also heard the news. They were out the door of their West
Vancouver home immediately.

They arrived after firefighters and paramedics, and his father set up
the mountain to be with his son while Stolar remained behind, getting
constant updates by radio.

Ramsden saw his father just as rescuers were putting him onto a
specialized stretcher and preparing to wheel him down the mountain.

“He talked to me and reassured me,” Ramsden says, adding his rescuers
then had to navigate the numerous mountain bike obstacles down to the
ambulance and his mother.

She accompanied him to BC Children’s Hospital where doctors stabilized
his neck before transferring him to Vancouver General Hospital. There
he underwent a nine-hour surgery where doctors installed a metal cage
to replace the broken fourth vertebrae.

The injury has paralyzed Ramsden from this upper chest down. He still
has some feeling in his arms and has limited mobility with his left
arm.

He needed a ventilator to help him breathe at first since the
paralysis robbed him of the use of most of his muscles, and over a
10-day weaning process, Ramsden learned to breathe using his
diaphragm.

“So I had to learn to breathe again basically.”

Ramsden spent six weeks recovering at VGH before he was “medically
stable” and could be transferred to G.F. Strong for rehabilitation.
There two weeks now, he recently had a tracheotomy tube removed from
his throat and on June 27, doctors removed the neck brace.

He proudly states he’s now able to breathe on his own and hold his
head up.

“There are bad days and good days and I’ve accepted that I’m starting
a new life now,” he says. “But I can still do a lot.”

Ramsden acknowledges he won’t be able to play many of the sports that
he loved, particularly mountain biking, which he first started as an
eight-year-old with his father.

But he doesn’t want his story to stop others from doing what they
love, be it mountain biking or another activity because it’s
dangerous.

“You come to terms with it, you do what you love,” he says. “I was
just riding down a simple part of the trail, it was just a fluke
accident.”

While crashes are common on the mountain bike trails, Cam McRae, owner
of mountain biking website and e-magazine nsmb.com, says spinal cord
injuries like Ramsden’s don’t happen often. “It certainly isn’t
unheard of to get a spinal injury riding your mountain bike, but on
the North Shore, it’s the first that I’ve heard of,” McRae says.
“Mountain biking, like anything we do in life, has its risks.”

For Ramsden’s parents, this has been the toughest period in their
lives, but his mother, Stolar, has drawn strength watching her son
overcome this ordeal.

“That’s what we have to do, be as brave as he is,” Stolar says. “I’m
very proud (of his behaviour).

“From the get-go he’s been very selfless, his first concern out of
surgery was ‘Have we properly thanked his rescuers?’”

Ramsden’s mature behaviour hasn’t gone unnoticed by the community
either. Accolades have been posted on mountain biking forums on the
internet and at least one well-known North Shore mountain biker has
visited the 15-year-old in hospital.

Although he has never met Rick Hansen, B.C.’s legendary spinal cord
injury spokesperson, James Wilson, owner of Obsession Bikes in North
Vancouver, isn’t shy about comparing Ramsden with the Man in Motion.
“This guy’s rock solid,” he says.

Ramsden’s story has also galvanized the mountain biking community and
through Wilson’s lead they’ve dedicated an upcoming fundraising event
to help the teenager and his family cope with the recent events.

Following the final North Shore Ripper event, the Triple Crown, the
North Shore Mountain Biking Association is hosting a Las
Vegas-inspired after party at Bella Candela with proceeds going to the
Ramsden family.

“I was thinking about what a tight-knit community the mountain biking
community is,” says McRae, a co-founder of the Ripper series with
Wilson and Sharon Bader. “I wanted (Ramsden) to know he was still part
of the community.”

Wilson adds: “I always wondered if there’s not something more we can
do? And there’s nothing better to do than help someone in need.”

The support has clearly touched Ramsden’s mother, who believes very
few sport communities would rally like the mountain bikers.

“That’s been so wonderful and extremely touching because they provide
support on a whole other level that we can’t provide,” she says.

Ramsden is equally touched, and although doctors have told him he
still has another five to six months rehabilitation in G.F. Strong,
he’s anxious to attend the July 7 fundraiser with his family.

He already has an idea on what he wants to do with the money raised:
get himself a new set of wheels, his own wheelchair.

“It certainly isn’t unheard of to get a spinal injury riding your
mountain bike, but on the North Shore, it’s the first that I’ve heard
of,” McRae says. “Mountain biking, like anything we do in life, has
its risks.”

For Ramsden’s parents, this has been the toughest period in their
lives, but his mother, Stolar, has drawn strength watching her son
overcome this ordeal.

“That’s what we have to do, be as brave as he is,” Stolar says. “I’m
very proud (of his behaviour).

“From the get-go he’s been very selfless, his first concern out of
surgery was ‘Have we properly thanked his rescuers?’”

Ramsden’s mature behaviour hasn’t gone unnoticed by the community
either. Accolades have been posted on mountain biking forums on the
internet and at least one well-known North Shore mountain biker has
visited the 15-year-old in hospital.

Although he has never met Rick Hansen, B.C.’s legendary spinal cord
injury spokesperson, James Wilson, owner of Obsession Bikes in North
Vancouver, isn’t shy about comparing Ramsden with the Man in Motion.
“This guy’s rock solid,” he says.

Ramsden’s story has also galvanized the mountain biking community and
through Wilson’s lead they’ve dedicated an upcoming fundraising event
to help the teenager and his family cope with the recent events.

Following the final North Shore Ripper event, the Triple Crown, the
North Shore Mountain Biking Association is hosting a Las
Vegas-inspired after party at Bella Candela with proceeds going to the
Ramsden family.

“I was thinking about what a tight-knit community the mountain biking
community is,” says McRae, a co-founder of the Ripper series with
Wilson and Sharon Bader. “I wanted (Ramsden) to know he was still part
of the community.”

Wilson adds: “I always wondered if there’s not something more we can
do? And there’s nothing better to do than help someone in need.”

The support has clearly touched Ramsden’s mother, who believes very
few sport communities would rally like the mountain bikers.

“That’s been so wonderful and extremely touching because they provide
support on a whole other level that we can’t provide,” she says.

Ramsden is equally touched, and although doctors have told him he
still has another five to six months rehabilitation in G.F. Strong,
he’s anxious to attend the July 7 fundraiser with his family.

He already has an idea on what he wants to do with the money raised:
get himself a new set of wheels, his own wheelchair.

701. http://www.southcoastregister.com.au/story/5150048/mountain-biker-dies-in-hospital-after-fall-in-yerriyong/?cs=203

Mountain-biker dies in hospital after fall in Yerriyong

Rebecca Fist

Local News

A 65 year-old man died in Liverpool Hospital overnight after falling off his mountain bike on a trail in Yerriyong yesterday afternoon.

The man suffered serious head injuries, and was airlifted to hospital.

He was mountain biking on a fire trail off Wandean Road when the accident happened and emergency services were called at about 4pm on Wednesday.

702. http://www.nzherald.co.nz/bay-of-plenty-times/news/article.cfm?c_id=1503343&objectid=11971832

Injured mountain biker's two hour wait for help in remote Bay of Plenty

9 Jan, 2018 9:57am
The Trustpower TECT Rescue Helicopter was called to the Oropi mountain bike track at 3pm yesterday after a 37-year-old man fell and suffered a serious back injury. Photo/Supplied
Bay of Plenty Times

A mountain biker who seriously injured his back had to wait for about two hours in a remote area of the Bay of Plenty until help arrived.

The Trustpower TECT Rescue Helicopter was called to the Oropi mountain bike track at 3pm yesterday after a 37-year-old man fell and suffered a serious back injury.

A rescue helicopter spokesman said because the man had fallen in such a remote area of the track he had to lay there for about two hours until other mountain bike riders arrived and called 111.

"The rescue helicopter was able to land in an area close to where the patient was," the spokesman said.

The man was stabilised at the scene and flown to Middlemore Hospital for treatment.

703. https://www.verdenews.com/news/2018/jan/09/jerome-fire-district-rescues-injured-mountain-bike/

Jerome Fire District rescues injured mountain biker

Emergency personnel came to the aid of a seriously injured mountain biker who was located approximate two miles down the Yeager Canyon Trail on Thursday afternoon. (Photo courtesy of Jerome Fire Department)

Staff Reports
Originally Published: January 9, 2018 3:17 p.m.

JEROME Jerome Fire District personnel came to the aid of a seriously injured mountain biker who was located approximate two miles down the Yeager Canyon Trail Monday afternoon.

Around 2:37 p.m., crews from six agencies, along with two helicopters were dispatched to the incident involving a 21-year-old male.

Crews made their way down to the location of the patient with a stokes basket and other gear to help facilitate the rescue, said Fire Chief Rusty Blair in a news release.

The on scene EMT determined that the best approach for extraction was via DPS Ranger helicopter for a short-haul, said Blair.

The patient was lifted and transported to a landing zone located next to the Methodist Church camp on Mingus Mountain off Forest Road 104. He was transferred to a waiting Guardian Air Angel 2 helicopter and transported to the Flagstaff Medical Center.

704. https://thewest.com.au/news/wa/how-staying-still-gave-wa-mountain-bike-rider-andrew-mann-a-second-chance-at-life-ng-b88697943z

How staying still gave WA mountain bike rider Andrew Mann a second chance at life

Claire Tyrrell
Wednesday, 10 January 2018 12:30PM
Claire TyrrellIf Andrew Mann had decided to get up after his crash, he may never have walked again.Picture: Facebook

Andrew Mann knows he has been given a second chance at life.

The Margaret River mountain biker could be in a wheelchair if things had played out differently two years ago.

Mr Mann, 44, was riding with his friends on trails near his house in November 2015 when he lost control and crashed.

I was going down a trail I had been down many times before ... I went down a berm and there was a double jump, I was going way too fast, he said.

I cleared the double jump and landed on the ground and slid into a log. The last thing I remember was putting my hands down.

Mr Mann folded over himself and compressed his spine, shattering a bone in his back, bursting a lung and rupturing his liver. Coughing up blood but still able to move his legs, he thought he had broken ribs.

With his friends at his side and an ambulance on its way, Mr Manns instinct was to get up and walk. My friends told me, No mate, stay still I still did not think I had done anything to my spine, he said.

Which Travel Card Has the Most Valuable Miles?Wise Bread Sponsored

Hospital scans revealed he had broken his T7 vertebrae , so he was taken to Royal Perth Hospital by the Royal Flying Doctor Service. After a seven-hour operation to fuse his spine, Mr Manns surgeon told him he was lucky to be walking.

My doctor told me nine out of 10 people dont walk away from an injury like this, he said.

I could have been a paraplegic he told me if I had tried to stand up (after the crash) it would have been a different story. My doctors said my injuries were consistent with a motorbike crash. I was going about 30km/h.
Andrew Mann is now back on his bike.Picture: Steve Ferrier, The West Australian

Mr Mann said he was eternally grateful to his friends and his wife Louise for not letting him move after he crashed.

He said people should always assume a person has a spinal injury in a severe crash, for the best chance at recovery.

705. https://patch.com/california/sanjuancapistrano/injured-mountain-biker-airlifted-ocfa-rescue-helicopter

Injured Mountain Biker Airlifted By OCFA Rescue Helicopter

Orange County Fire Authority was on the scene of a helicopter extraction in Black Star Canyon Wednesday, rescuing an injured mountain biker.

By Ashley Ludwig, Patch Staff | Jan 17, 2018 5:29 pm ET | Updated Jan 17, 2018 5:33 pm ET

SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO, CA A 40-year old man fell from his mountain bike about 4 miles from the entrance of Black Star Canyon, Wednesday afternoon, according to Orange County Fire Authority.

"The man suffered acute injuries and is being packaged up by OCFA," OCFA Capt. Larry Kurtz said. According to the report, the patient suffered critical neck injuries and is being airlifted out to an area hospital as of 2:30 p.m. Wednesday.

Orange County Sheriff's Department's Duke helicopter also arrived on scene, but was called off by OCFA who had the situation well in hand, according to Kurtz.

The OCFA rescue personnel were first to the scene to conduct the air hoist rescue in the Cleveland National Forest, after a heated debate between the Sheriff's Department and Orange County Fire Authority on whose job it is to conduct search and rescue operations in Orange County.

706. From: [a friend]
Subject: Higher Faster Stupider.....
Date: Mon, 22 Jan 2018 17:30:00 -0800

https://www.outsideonline.com/2270296/stop-progression

Flight for Life Colorado reported a 12 percent year-to-year risein rescues, with much of the bump in flights, at least anecdotally, attributed to folks crashing mountain bikes, busting themselves up jumping off bridges, and generally getting in way over their heads. Mountain bike injuries are on the rise as a whole. So, too, roadie deaths. In 2016, five cyclists died in Boulder County alone, and one lost his arm after descending a famed local climb too fast and entering the oncoming lane.

707. http://www.scoop.co.nz/stories/AK1801/S00435/man-injured-while-mountain-biking.htm

Man Injured While Mountain Biking

Tuesday, 23 January 2018, 2:14 pm
Press Release: Westpac Rescue Helicopter

Man Injured While Mountain Biking

The Waikato Westpac Rescue Helicopter was dispatched at 11:30 am today to a quad bike accident at Marakopa, south of Kawhia. A 78-year-old Hamilton man had crashed off his quad bike earlier this morning and suffered a serious head injury.

Unfortunately it took several hours for the alarm to be raised as the mans condition meant he had to crawl 100m before he could get a neighbours attention.

He was flown to Waikato Hospital for further assessment and treatment

708. http://www.illawarramercury.com.au/story/5193868/mountain-bike-rider-suffers-serious-injuries-in-tongarra-crash/

Mountain bike rider suffers serious injuries in Tongarra crash

Agron Latifi

Local News
A 31-year-old woman was airlifted to hospital on Sunday after a mountain biking accident in Tongarra, just off the Illawarra Highway.

NSW Ambulance Inspector Norm Rees said the patient sustained serious injuries after being thrown over the handlebars of her mountain bike.

She has come off the mountain bike and gone over the handlebars and got some multiple fractures as a result, Inspector Rees said.

She has got a fractured femur and pelvis and some other major deformities.

The incident happened about 200 metres in the Tongarra bush just before 3pm.

Shes been managed at the scene and because of her injuries we are relocating her to the Helo base and then shes going to be flown to Sydney, Mr Rees said.

The helicopter doctor will decide which hospital to take the women after assessing her injuries.

709. http://napavalleyregister.com/news/local/chp-injured-mountain-biker-rescued-at-napa-s-skyline-park/article_b9aeb391-f51e-5239-80e0-b6ea478dc1d8.html

CHP: Injured mountain biker rescued at Napas Skyline Park

Staff report
Jan 27, 2018 Updated Jan 27, 2018

A 33-year-old mountain biker was transported to the hospital with major injuries after being rescued via helicopter from Skyline Park in Napa on Saturday morning, according to California Highway Patrol.

The bicyclist was found by the responding CHP helicopter within minutes of the request, which was made about 10:15 a.m., near Lake Marie inside the park, officials said. The helicopter landed on a nearby dam, loaded the cyclist into the helicopter with help from the Napa County Fire Department and AMR, and headed to Queen of the Valley Medical Center.

Although major, the bicyclists injuries were non-life-threatening. The cyclist is expected to fully recover, officials said.

710. Even a bike helmet and being an experienced mountain biker won't protect you from death!: "Authorities said Thomas was an experienced cyclist who was familiar with the Hitt Road trail, which is often used for mountain biking."

Mike

http://ktvl.com/news/local/ashland-man-dies-while-mountain-biking

Ashland man death while mountain biking ruled an accident

by KTVL

(Jackson County Sheriff's Office)
ASHLAND, Ore.

A 56-year-old Ashland man has died while mountain biking on Hitt Road, two miles south of Strawberry Lane in Ashland on Monday.

Jackson County Sheriff's Office says the man and his bicycle was found by a hiker in a common route for hikers and for biking.

JCSO Medical Examiner's Office is currently working to confirm the cause of death. The family of the man has been notified and his name will be released at a later time.

No other information is available.

[UPDATE 2/6/18 1:50 PM] The Jackson County Medical Examiner has determined the cause of death as accidental. An autopsy revealed that 56-year-old John Edward Thomas Jr. had sustained significant head trauma after falling off his bicycle. Thomas was wearing a helmet at the time of the accident.

http://www.oregonlive.com/pacific-northwest-news/index.ssf/2018/02/mountain_biker_found_dead_on_a.html

Mountain biker killed in fall on Ashland trail

Updated 2:08 PM; Posted 12:24 PM
John Edward Thomas Jr., 56, was found dead after crashing on Ashland's Hitt Road trail, which is often used for mountain biking.(The Associated Press)

By The Associated Press

CENTRAL POINT Authorities say a mountain biker was killed in a fall on an Ashland trail.

A hiker on Monday found John Edward Thomas, Jr., 56, dead on the Hitt Road trail near his bike.

The medical examiner ruled the death accidental, saying Thomas, who was wearing a helmet, sustained significant head trauma in the fall.

Authorities said Thomas was an experienced cyclist who was familiar with the Hitt Road trail, which is often used for mountain biking. Thomas was apparently negotiating a dip in the trail when he lost control and crashed.

-- The Associated Press

711. From: [a friend]
Subject: Concussions and MTB
Date: Sat, 3 Feb 2018 11:41:43 -0800

Doreys first handful of concussions came from mountain biking as a kid. He used to black out for a few hours, ask people who he was and where he was, then feel everything click back into place. When, in his 20s, he began suffering concussions during his halfpipe runs, the symptoms started to change.

After one fall in 2012, when he was in his early 20s, Dorey felt something he had never felt before: abject panic.

Ive never had a panic attack, but it was like what I would imagine that would feel like. I just had this crazy anxiety, this fear and panic the world was going to end, Dorey said.

Since that one, the symptoms started shifting less from memory stuff to more anxiety, irritability, nightmares. Ive been able to focus pretty well, but I dont really know how to describe them. Nightmares. A lot more emotional.

He continues to deal with those symptoms to this day.

https://www.washingtonpost.com/sports/olympics/concussions-are-serious-but-would-you-let-one-ruin-your-olympic-dream/2018/02/02/d75cac72-069e-11e8-8777-2a059f168dd2_story.html?utm_term=.2f3b19fccfca

712. https://www.stuff.co.nz/nelson-mail/news/100258633/mountainbiker-airlifted-to-nelson-hospital-after-fall-on-golden-bay-track

Mountainbiker airlifted to Nelson Hospital after fall on Golden Bay track

Last updated 12:53, December 30 2017

The Nelson Marlborough Rescue Helicopter airlifted an injured mountainbiker to hospital after he fell on Friday afternoon.

A mountainbiker has been airlifted to Nelson Hospital with suspected multiple injuries after a fall on Motupipi Hill track, near Takaka in Golden Bay.

Nelson Marlborough Rescue Helicopter pilot Barry McAuliffe said the call came just before 3pm on Friday.

The 20-year-old mountain biker, of Palmerston North, had been riding with a group of other people when he fell.

"We had a bit of trouble finding him; he was hidden away in some trees," McAuliffe said. "We did a few laps of the park looking for him and finally someone stood out in the open."

The helicopter hovered low to the ground so the medic could get out to attend to the injured man. Later, the pair were winched back on board for the flight to Nelson Hospital.

713. https://www.stuff.co.nz/sport/other-sports/101668162/worldclass-queenstown-mountain-biker-pumped-to-be-alive-after-accident

World-class Queenstown mountain biker 'pumped to be alive' after accident

DASHA KUPRIENKO

Last updated 15:04, February 27 2018
Dasha Kuprienko/ Stuff

Mountain biking super star Alanna Columb is recovering from a severe brain injury after a bike accident and looked after by mother Marilyn Columb in Queenstown.

Queenstown downhill bike star Alanna Columb is "pumped to be alive" despite her eye not opening, after a serious bike crash earlier this year.

The three time national champion and international top ten downhill biker is now undergoing an uphill recovery after she suffered a severe brain injury when she landed on her jaw at Gorge Rd Jump Park on January 10.

She was placed in an induced coma for four days and underwent four weeks of intensive care treatment at Dunedin Hospital.
SIWilliams.co.nz

Alanna Columb is three time national champion, a top ten female rider in the world and she won the downhill title at the Oceania mountain bike championships in 2016

Now staying at her parents' Queenstown home Alanna, 29, said she had progressed from not knowing who she was to walking, and talking, and almost being "the old Alanna".

However, her right eye nerves were damaged and were a key focus of her ongoing rehabilitation.

But Alanna says she is happy, despite only using one eye and getting tired easily.

"I am just pretty pumped to be alive to be honest. It's phenomenal how well it [recovery] has gone," she said.

It was difficult staying indoors after spending years racing bikes and keeping active.

"It's been pretty crazy traumatic. You go into a weird depression."

Her mother Marilyn Columb was "over the moon" about her daughter's speedy recovery.

"She's very lucky that it has been a surprisingly good recovery. She's getting the help she needs and she's doing so, so well."

Work has been put on hold for at least six months and so has mountain biking. Alanna was keen to start riding again but doctors have told her it would take "quite some time" before she was ready.

"She loves her biking, she loves the outdoors and she has a new passion of yoga so she would like to possibly teach that down the track," Marilyn said.

To stay active Alanna has started going for walks around the block.

"I just like being outdoors," she said.

She is not planning a return to competitive mountain biking but is hoping to teach young women the basics of biking and yoga.

Alanna's brother motocross rider Scott Columb said she was wearing protective gear when the accident happened.

He had noticed a big improvement in Alanna's health since flying with her in the helicopter to the hospital.

"She was in intensive care for three days, the doctors were not saying too much. The fact that she's walking and talking - she is doing well."

Alanna being young and fit helped with the recovery, Scott said.

As well as being the New Zealand mountain bike downhill champion three times she won the Oceania mountain bike championships in Queenstown in 2016.

714. https://www.stuff.co.nz/dominion-post/news/101840438/i-still-ride-his-bike-mountain-bikers-work-restarts-thanks-to-family-friends

'I still ride his bike': Mountain biker's work restarts thanks to family, friends

JOEL MAXWELL

Last updated 16:01, February 28 2018

Kapiti mountain biker Peter Woodman-Aldridge, with his daughters, from left, Anna Woodman-Aldridge, 11, and Kate Woodman-Aldridge, 7.

It was the summer solstice, the longest day of the year, when Peter Woodman-Aldridge died mountain biking with mates in the Tararua Range.

For a year after his 2016 death his work went quiet, but on Sunday it exploded back into life

Woodman-Aldridge's annual mountain bike races for kids have restarted thanks to his wife - and riding mates who tried to save him when he died.

Peter Woodman-Aldridge, second from left, with members of the Coastal Crew who rode with him before his death in 2016.

Dirt School, a two-part series of races for under 17s on the K piti Coast, north of Wellington, have restarted with the second part to run on March 25.

His wife Angela Woodman-Aldridge said their two daughters Anna, 11, and Kate, 7, were "buzzing" when Dirt School restarted last Sunday.

A family of cyclists, from left, Peter Woodman-Aldridge, Anna Woodman-Aldridge, 11, Kate Woodman-Aldridge, 7, and Angela Woodman-Aldridge.

"They both rode because it was something that they always did with dad, and they helped organise ... when Kate rode, she beat all the boys ... that look on her face, it was like watching mini-Pete."

Peter Woodman-Aldridge who worked for Sport Wellington before he died was a former New Zealand representative motorcross rider who took up mountain biking after retiring from competition.

Riding mate Iain Guest said Woodman-Aldridge would ride every week with a group called the Coastal Crew.

Peter Woodman-Aldridge snaps a selfie with some of the riders in Dirt School, the mountain biking event he started to get kids on bikes.

They were doing their annual summer solstice ride, from dawn till dusk, a group of 14 mates "out at the back of the Akatarawas", when Woodman-Aldridge went down.

"We called a helicopter, which got there as quickly as it could. In the meantime the group pulled together and did CPR with Pete, and rescue breathing, and tried to keep him going as long as we could."

The "fit and very strong" 44 year old died from a massive heart attack.

The Coastal Crew still rides every week, and the members are still coping with the death of their mate, Guest said.

Fellow rider Bryce Lorcet said not a single ride went by where Woodman-Aldridge didn't get a mention.

"We were all there that day," Lorcet said, so the group acted as a support network for each other.

As for his bikes, Angela Woodman-Aldridge said she rides on them now. "We're the same frame size."

She said mountain biking was her husband's passion and outside of work he merged the two and started Dirt School to get kids on bikes.

The event was growing but stopped last year, along with a raft of other initiatives he was working on to boost biking on the coast.

This year friends and family got together to restart the event - bringing in about 80 young riders on the weekend.

* Dirt School at Waikanae Park on March 25, fun races for all abilities and age groups up to 17 years. Registrations are from 1pm. Age group races start at 1:40pm. Under 5 year olds are free. Over 5s are $5. The races cater for all fitness and skill abilities. Interschool races are booked for April 10, open to riders from all local primary schools.

715. https://www.thescottishsun.co.uk/news/2308148/mountain-biker-peter-lloyd-paralysed-fall-justgiving-raised-8000/

'PLEASE DIG DEEP'

Generous punters raise more than £8,000 for paralysed Edinburgh mountain biker after neck break in horror fall

Brave Peter Lloyd, 21, who lives in Edinburgh, suffered horrific injuries after plunging from his bike in the last 100m of a race.

The uni student - who uses his chin to control his wheelchair - is determined to finish his degree and head to the USA to get specialist physiotherapy

By Matt Coyle

3rd March 2018, 8:35 am

Updated: 3rd March 2018, 8:45 am

GENEROUS punters have raised more than £8,000 for a stricken mountain biker left paralysed in a horror fall.

Brave Peter Lloyd, 21, who lives in Edinburgh, suffered a horrific neck break after plunging from his bike in the last 100m of a race.

Peter Lloyd suffered the shocking injury last year

Uni student Peter was left quadriplegic – when all four limbs are paralysed – in the shock accident last August.

Now pals, punters and fellow mountain bikers have raised a staggering £8,000 in just three days to help the young sportsman in an online crowdfunding campaign.

Peter ended up breaking his neck and shattering a vertebra after landing on his head.

Peter performing a jump during a previous race

He then spent seven weeks in intensive care hooked up to a ventilator and dialysis machine before being transferred to a specialist spinal injuries unit in Glasgow.

He’s still receiving treatment.

Peter says: “I’m paralysed from the neck down now and use my chin to control my wheelchair.

“The s**t has hit the fan but I’m still here. We’ll work it all out eventually.

“I still plan to live as well as my condition allows, along with my incredibly strong and supportive fiancée.

“I’m so thankful that I didn’t suffer a head injury, so am still the same person I have always been.

“Thank you so much to everybody for their very kind donations.

“In the future, I hope to use the funds to travel to America for intensive physiotherapy, along with any future clinical trials which might improve my condition.

“My other plans are to get a chin-controlled off-road wheelchair to allow me to go riding with friends.

“Even if it is rather different to how it was before and to buy an accessible van so that I can get around and also return to university to complete my degree in mechanical engineering.”

Heroic Fife villagers dig through HALF A MILE of 8ft snow to get vital supplies

A fellow member of the cycling community, Ben Mills, launched the JustGiving appealto support Peter’s recovery and rehabilitation.

Ben says on the page, “Pete is going to need as much support, both emotionally and financially, as possible as he adapts to the changes he has been dealt and goes through rehabilitation.

“Please dig deep whether you are a friend, fellow racer or part of the MTB community.”

716. http://chelmsford.wickedlocal.com/news/20160805/chelmsford-man-dies-after-mountain-bike-accident

Chelmsford man dies after mountain bike accident

By Independent staff reports

Posted Aug 5, 2016 at 11:46 AMUpdated Aug 5, 2016 at 11:46 AM

A Chelmsford man has died from injuries sustained in a mountain-biking accident, according to an obituary posted by Blake Funeral Home.

Frank Wojtas, 65, died Aug. 3 at Lahey Medical Center in Burlington. He graduated from Chelmsford High School, and was a Vietnam veteran, honorably discharged in 1971. According to his obituary, Wojtas was an avid mountain biker and enjoyed biking in many areas, especially Utah.

Wojtas is survived by his three children, Enid Orlando and her husband Joe of Lowell, Stacey Wojtas and her husband Jon Moy of Chelmsford, and Frank Wojtas and his wife Beth of Groton; his siblings, Town Constable Charles Wojtas and his wife Joan of Chelmsford, Peter Wojtas and his wife Alina of Holden, Robert Wojtas, Selectman Patricia Wojtas,and Marie Wojtas all of Chelmsford, and Kathy Wojtas of Cambridge. He is also survived by his grandchildren Faith, Nya, Joey, and Jade.

A wake is set for Saturday, Aug. 6, at Blake Funeral Home in Chelmsford, noon to 1 p.m. A funeral service with military honors will follow. Burial will be private.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in FWojtas’ name to the New England Mountain Bike Association, NEMBA Grants, PO Box 2221, Acton MA 01720.

The Independent will post more information as available.

717. http://www.nzherald.co.nz/bay-of-plenty-times/news/article.cfm?c_id=1503343&objectid=11504223

Young biker dies in Redwoods crash

28 Aug, 2015 9:15am

4 minutes to read

Cole Walker, 20, died after a mountain biking accident at the weekend.

Bay of Plenty Times

By:

A young Te Puke man with an infectious smile and a sparkle in his hazel eyes has died from critical injuries sustained in a mountain biking accident.

Cole Walker, 20, was mountain biking in Rotorua's Redwoods when a freak accident threw him from his bike.

Two riders found Mr Walker, who appeared to have been riding by himself on a grade 5 trail in the core network of the Whakarewarewa Forest, on Saturday. He was taken to Waikato Hospital with head injuries but died in hospital on Wednesday night.

Tributes flowed yesterday for the keen mountain biker and small engine apprentice.

Cole was "way too special for this world", aunt, Vicky Mathews said.

"If every family had a Cole, the world would be a perfect place," she said.

"Those eyes, that smiled and laughed" as an infant is what uncle Mark Walker would miss about his nephew the most.

"That smile and laughter remained with him right through. If you see a photo now, you're still looking at that kid who was 18 months old, it's the same expression. He has never grown out of it or changed."

Cole was the life of the party wherever he went, he said.

"Without being loud, Cole had a way of blending in, being good fun. He was a daredevil but wasn't silly about it. Just a good bugger. He just lived life. What keeps coming to my mind is, it is not how many years in your life, it's how much life in your years and that saying doesn't suit anyone better than him."

Uncle Brent Mathews said his nephew never left anything in the tank. "He loved extreme activities and was prepared to take the risk."

Biking, skiing, caving, hiking, and jumping off every cliff whether it was from 3m to 20m, he did it, he said.

"He was just a kid that loved to do stuff but no matter what that boy did, you couldn't help but like him," he said.

"He would just light up a room."

Cole's death was a loss to the whole community, neighbour and family friend Debbie Dean said.

Cole had grown up down the road from the Deans, eventually helping out on their farm in the weekends and holidays as a teenager.

"The main thing about Cole is that wherever you saw him he'd always greet you with a big cheesy smile.

"Rosalie and Greg have done a sterling job bringing up their family. It's a real loss to them and the community losing Cole."

Cole was always on his mountain bike, from the moment he could "ride two wheels", Mrs Dean said.

The Rotorua Mountain Bike Club posted on Facebook on Wednesday night.

"Our thoughts tonight are with family and friends of Cole Walker who has passed away following a bad accident in the forest this past week. The forest brings so much joy to people ... It is not often that we have to accept this kind of sad news.

"The club and its members want to extend their deepest condolences to Cole's family."

Club treasurer Malcolm Thomas said there was talk of a memorial ride in the forest and if that was something the Walker family wished to hold then it would support them.

The former Te Puke High School student did the school proud, Cole's school dean Michael Pointon said.

"He was a lovely boy, really well liked. He always had a big smile on his face and never got into trouble ... He was just a really good fella."

Cole would always have a laugh winding up the teachers, deputy principal Simon McGillivray said, "but he always had a twinkle in his eye and a smile on his face".

"He was a really likeable young man."

He showed promise in mechanics early on, named the top engineering student in year 11 and went on to do a small engine apprenticeship at Te Puke Stihl Shop after graduating high school in 2012.

718. http://www.nj.com/essex/index.ssf/2017/07/at_essex_reserve_where_cyclist_died_just_what_are.html

Mountain bikes already banned in park where fatal fall occurred

Updated on August 31, 2017 at 12:35 PM Posted on July 3, 2017 at 7:05 AM

Gallery: Mountain biking at Mills Reservation

By Steve Strunsky

sstrunsky@njadvancemedia.com,

NJ Advance Media for NJ.com

CEDAR GROVE -- People who frequent Mills Reservation to hike, run, or walk their dogs say mountain bikers are a common sight on the trails snaking through the wooded, 157-acre Essex County park.

"We see them all the time on their bikes," said Oscar McKee, a Montclair resident who was walking his dog at Mills this week with his wife, Cynthia. "And it's usually older men. They look like hearty, robust guys."

But mountain biking is prohibited at Mills Reservation, according to Essex County officials.

"It's clearly posted, bikes should stay on the paved roads," said Sheriff Armando Fontoura, whose officers patrol the county park system. "But people will do things that are not allowed or a little dangerous."

Attention was focused on mountain biking at Mills Reservation last week, after a 50-year-old Wayne man was killed Monday morning, while he and his brother were were riding along a cliff at the park's southern rim.

The twisting dirt trail, which rises from the park's Old Quarry Road entrance, is less than two feet wide in stretches where there is an unguarded drop.

Kerry James Rivera, a 13-year veteran of the Paterson Fire Department and a father of three, lost control of his bike and plunged off the rocky precipice on Jun 26. Fontoura said Rivera fell from a height of at least 40 feet.

Rivera's high school sweetheart and wife of 25 years, Rena Mason Rivera, told NJ Advance Media that her husband lived for his children, his job protecting others, and sports, especially football. She said mountain biking was something he had taken up just a couple of months ago, and enjoyed with his brother.

To defray the family's expenses, friends started a GoFundMe pagedescribing Rivera as, "a hero, in every sense of the word."

Kerry James Rivera, 50, was a member of the Paterson Fire Department.

For Mills Reservation visitors who have hiked or ridden the trail where Rivera fell, the danger is well known.

"I don't let my kids go near there," a nearby resident, Eddie Kloss, said after accident. "You could fall right off. There's no fence."

A few paces from where the accident occurred, there is a bench facing the Manhattan skyline to the east. Nearby is a circular concrete platform that once supported an anti-aircraft gun during World War II.

"The place is a safe place," Fontoura said. "We patrol there regularly."

Fontoura said his officers issued 33 summons at Mills Reservation last year for violations including riding bikes or letting dogs run free. Another 15 summonses have been issued at Mils so far this year, and two arrests made, both for marijuana possession.

"We're up there regularly," Fontoura said. Referring to Monday morning, he added, "Unfortunately, this was a time we were not there. We can't be everywhere."

The signs at the park at different entrances offer some conflicting information about whether bikes are permitted. One sign near the accident site lists a number of prohibited activities, but biking is not among them.

But a spokesman for Essex County Executive Joe DiVincenzo reiterated the prohibition against mountain biking at Mills.

The spokesman, Anthony Puglisi, said DeVincenzo visited Mills the day after the accident. But Puglisi declined to comment on any possible steps that might be taken as a result of the accident, whether changes in signage, protective measures along the trails, or otherwise.

"We have no comment at this time because the investigation is still ongoing," he said.

Steve Strunsky may be reached at sstrunsky@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @SteveStrunsky. Find NJ.com on Facebook.

719. http://www.news.com.au/national/south-australia/rider-seriously-hurt-in-mountain-bike-accident-at-cudlee-creek/news-story/ad385ea975b5bad4a6aad0e663615fd5

Man and woman seriously hurt in separate mountain bike accidents at Cudlee Creek

TWO PEOPLE have been injured in separate mountain bike accidents at Cudlee Creek.
The AdvertiserMARCH 12, 20181:58PM

A woman, 28, fell off her bike near Fox Creek Rd about 12.15pm on Monday.

She has been flown to the Royal Adelaide Hospital in a life-threatening condition.

In an unrelated accident, a 47-year-old man has been hurt after crashing his mountain bike, also at Cudlee Creek.

The accident happened just after 1.30pm.

His injuries were serious and he has been taken to Royal Adelaide Hospital via ambulance.

720. https://timesofsandiego.com/crime/2018/03/11/mountain-biker-airlifted-from-poway-trail-with-serious-injuries/

Mountain Biker Airlifted from Poway Trail with Serious Injuries

POSTED BY TONI MCALLISTER ON MARCH 11, 2018 IN CRIME
A San Diego Fire-Rescue Department helicopter lands on a nearby sports field before making the rescue. Photo: OnSceneTV

A mountain biker who was seriously injured on a Poway trail Sunday had to be hoisted out of the area by helicopter, an official said.

The male biker fell and suffered serious neck and leg injuries while on the trails behind Meadowbrook Middle School around 11 a.m.

A San Diego Fire-Rescue Department helicopter lifted the victim from the crash scene and transported him to a nearby hospital in unknown condition, according to Poway Fire Department Battalion Chief Scott Post.

Video footage from the scene showed the chopper making a temporary landing on a nearby sports field, disrupting play in the area, before the rescue.

721. http://fox13now.com/2018/03/11/mountain-bikers-rescued-by-search-and-rescue-teams-near-gooseberry-mesa/

Mountain bikers rescued by Search and Rescue teams near Gooseberry Mesa

POSTED 11:18 AM, MARCH 11, 2018, BY BROCK DAMJANOVICH, UPDATED AT 11:24AM, MARCH 11, 2018

WASHINGTON COUNTY Two mountain bikers are recovering from a ride that left them stranded in in a remote rugged area near Gooseberry Mesa.

According to St. George News, Dispatch received the emergency call around 1 p.m. on Friday afternoon. Washington County Sheriffs Search and Rescue was informed that a woman in her late 20s was experiencing chest pain after crashing while riding her mountain bike.

Teams including EMTs and paramedics came together at the Gooseberry trailhead before riding ATVs as close as they could to the incident then hiking several more miles to the injured bikers location.

Before rescuers arrived another woman in the mountain biking group suffered a seizure, but declined to be treated once they arrived.

They began treating the crash victim for broken ribs and prepared her and the other ill rider for the long ATV ride back to the trailhead.

The rider was in excruciating pain, Sgt. Darrell Cashin, Washington County Sheriffs Search and Rescue liaison told St. George News. It ended up being a single rescue with more than one victim.

St. George News reports, the rider with broken ribs was transported to the Dixie Regional Medical Center for evaluation and treatment.

The rescue was completed in a little more than four hours.

I felt that the interface with the search and rescue guys was excellent, Hildale/Colorado City Fire Chief Kevin Barlows said, and the rescue went very well.

722. Dave Swetland ... suffered a series of concussions that ultimately ended his life (BC)
The blurb to this video states it all:

"In the backwoods of British Columbia, a small movement of renegade mountain bikers rose up, challenged the status quo, and changed cycling in ways that no one could have ever imagined including themselves.

Defying convention, the industry, environmentalists, and physics itself, these riders, filmmakers, and photographers stopped at nothing to show the world what could be done on a bike.

But with so much resistance it didnt come easy. The mountain bike industry did not endorse their wild personas and the riders often risked life and limb to prove themselves.

Tragically, the wild lifestyle took its toll on one of freeride mountain bikings most shining stars Dave Swetland who suffered a series of concussions that ultimately ended his life.

This movie chronicles how a small movement by a handful of mountain bike enthusiasts completely transformed the sport, launched its originating athletes into superstardom, and influenced millions of mountain bikers today."
https://vimeo.com/ondemand/themomentofficial (The full movie will be on sale soon...) It exposes the insane mountain biking cult for what it really is... https://nsmb.com/articles/moment-sizzle-teaser-and-pre-order/

RedBull pretty much spells out the horrific injuries that are inevitable with mountain biking: https://www.redbull.tv/video/AP-1S58YT5BS1W11/downhill-mtb-injury-risks

With the sport of downhill mountain biking getting faster every year, the riders are faced with new injuries that come with pushing the limits. The sport's elite talk about the risks and how they deal with the pain that comes when things go wrong.

(Here in BC there is little, if any, opposition to mountain biking... )

723. https://www.dcourier.com/news/2018/apr/03/mountain-biker-dies-after-medical-incident-prescot/

Mountain biker dies after medical incident on Prescott trail

Fellow bicyclist tried saving man, as did emergency responders

Pictured is David Mangan on a local mountain bike trail. On the Prescott Mountain Biking Facebook page his friend and fellow outdoorsman Dave Sewell posted, "Many great memories of David Mangan out on the trail. Flagstaff, BCT, Sedona, Cottonwood, and of course our local byways. He was always friendly and exceedingly kind. Thanks for the mentoring Dave!" (Photo courtesy of Dave Sewell, Prescott Mountain Biking)

By The Daily Courier
Originally Published: April 3, 2018 6 a.m.

While mountain biking with several riders from a local cyclist group Sunday, April 1, 71-year-old David Mangan of Prescott collapsed and died, according to a Yavapai County Sheriffs Office news release.

The incident occurred on the West Side Story Trail, located off a forest road south of Iron Springs Road and east of Highland Pines in Prescott, at about 1:30 p.m.

Prescott Fire Department and the Central Arizona Fire and Medical Authority were the first to respond.

They were able to find Mangans exact location by pinging the 911 callers cell phone, giving them GPS coordinates, said Prescott Fire Department Battalion Chief Scott Luedeman.

However, since the emergency was along a trail system, it took responders about 35 minutes to reach Mangan, Luedeman said.

When they arrived, an off-duty nurse riding with the group had already started CPR, according to the news release.

Fire department personnel took over, but were unable to save Mangan. A prior medical condition may have contributed to Mangans death, the release stated.

One of the cyclist group members told deputies Mangan met the group about 1 p.m. and he appeared OK. The group left the trail head about 1:10 p.m. and took a break around 1:30 p.m. About 5 minutes later Mangan collapsed.

With warmer weather, Luedeman said that before going out on the trails, the following precautions should be taken:

Carry a charged cell phone

Dress appropriately for the days weather

Bring plenty of water and food for the days activities

Let someone know where you will be going

Keep track of your location regularly as you progress on your adventure. In the event you have an emergency, your exact location can help emergency crews reach you in the fastest way possible.

724. http://www.theboltonnews.co.uk/news/bolton/16133169.Man_dies_after_suffering_cardiac_arrest_while_mountain_biking/

Man dies after suffering cardiac arrest while mountain biking in Roddlesworth

Rosalyn Roden RosalynERoden

INCIDENT: Bolton Mountain Rescue Team was called to the Tockholes Plantations. Picture, Google Maps

A MAN has died after suffering a cardiac arrest while out mountain biking with friends.

The 35-year-old man was given CPR by members of the public, before ambulance crews arrived at around 2.30pm.

A member of Bolton Mountain Rescue Team (BMRT) who had been walking at Tockholes Plantations, Roddlesworth, where the incident happened immediately called for the team to attend. The man was taken to the Royal Blackburn Hospital following the incident on Sunday, March 25.

BMRT said: "The team carried the man on a stretcher, back to the road, whilst resuscitation attempts continued. He was then transferred to Royal Blackburn Hospital in an NWAS ambulance for further treatment.

"Sadly despite the best efforts of the NWAS, NWAA and Bolton MRT we learned that the man later died at the Royal Blackburn.

Our thoughts are with his family and friends at this very sad time.

725. http://www.auburnjournal.com/node/312289?fb_comment_id=fbc_711972712237139_712763835491360_712763835491360#f16aaef3a688e3

Thursday Dec 31 2015

Rocklin woman dies on mountain bike trail ride near Auburn

By: Journal Staff

A Rocklin woman died Thursday while mountain biking on a trail near Auburn.

The 49-year-old woman had what the Placer County Sheriff’s Office described as a “physical event” while riding at about 2 p.m. on the Connector Trail near Lake Clementine in the Auburn State Recreation Area.

The remote location hampered efforts to get to the area where the woman was, with initial plans for a helicopter to lift her out abandoned because the closest was available from Napa. Instead, Cal Fire firefighters were dispatched to recover the body of the cyclist, who was pronounced dead at the scene.

The woman had been cycling for about 14 miles on trails in the rugged recreation area before being stricken, a Sheriff’s Office spokesman said Thursday. Her identity was not being released until relatives had been notified. An autopsy is being held to determine the cause of the woman’s death, which didn’t involve a crash or fall.

– Gus Thomson

726. http://www.auburnjournal.com/article/4/11/18/death-crest-auburn-area-hill-placer-county-mountain-biker

Wednesday Apr 11 2018

Death at crest of Auburn-area hill for Placer County mountain biker

Fatal bike ride seen as a rarity in Auburn State Recreation Area
By: Gus Thomson, Reporter/Columnist

One minute, a 66-year-old mountain bicyclist was enjoying a spring day and kibitzing with an Auburn State Recreation Area ranger at the start of a popular but challenging trail.

A couple of hours later, Granite Bay resident Kenneth Mutch was in severe distress after cresting a hill on his bike with his wife, Meg.

Mutch was reported this week by State Parks to have died on the trail in what is considered a rare occurrence in a park that attracts hundreds of mountain bikers on many of its busiest days.

Supervising Ranger Scott Liske said he was in contact with Mutch the day of the incident, when the two were at the Foresthill Divide Loop trailhead off Foresthill Road between Auburn and Foresthill.

I talked to him at the trailhead and we discussed the great weather, Liske said. A couple of hours later we received the report of a medical emergency.

The 12-mile loop trail is considered challenging for cyclists but Liske said he cant remember a cyclist collapsing in a similar condition in his 15 years patrolling the recreation area.

Mutch was pronounced dead at the scene of his collapse March 27. Meg Mutch started CPR and other cyclists who came on the scene also assisted but they were unsuccessful in reviving him.

Justin Wages, one of the mountain bikers at the incident before emergency personnel arrived, said in a blogpost that firefighters using a defibrillator couldnt get Mutchs heart started.

It was an incredibly emotional experience for everyone there and absolutely heartbreaking for the woman that had started this 12-mile loop with her husband and would be going home without him, Wages said.

727. https://www.odt.co.nz/regions/wanaka/moment-her-world-came-crashing-down

Saturday, 21 April 2018

Moment her world came crashing down

By Mark Price
Regions
Wanaka

Photo: Getty Images
It is not just gold medal-winning mountain bikers at the Commonwealth Games who need to show a better attitude, it is also regular riders using shared tracks and trails around New Zealand.

That is the view of a former Wanaka woman, now in the Burwood Hospital spinal unit with a broken neck, the result of being hit and knocked off her mountain bike by another mountain biker. Mark Price reports.

One minute she was pedalling her mountain bike uphill on a Timaru track. The next she was lying face down in the gravel with a broken neck.

The 60-year-old Timaru woman, formerly of Wanaka, has spent the past two months in Burwood Hospitals spinal unit, paralysed apart from having some movement in her arms.

Her goal is to walk again, but it is too early to tell. She expects to be in hospital for up to another five months.

"I talked to the consultant and he said I would have to be more patient.

"Im used to being a mountain climber, and this is not something you do in five minutes."

The woman prefers not to be named but wants it known how carelessness and lack of consideration by mountain bikers can have serious consequences.

She recounted to the Otago Daily Times the events of the crash on Waitangi Day weekend.

A fit and able mountain biker with a love of the outdoors, she was heading home on the Centennial Park bike track/walking track in Timaru.

"I was just tootling home ... trying to be a good considerate trail user."

She stopped to share a few words with a woman walking her dogs, then began climbing a hill.

Around the corner at speed came a man on a mountain bike, who shouted something and a moment later ran into her, knocking her to the ground, breaking her nose and glasses, smashing her helmet and damaging her spinal cord.

"I thought he said, get out of the way, but I cant remember actually; I had concussion as well.

"I definitely remember the impact, feeling him crash into me, then being on my face down on the ground and being unable to move.

"I knew instantly that I had had a spinal injury."

The man asked her if she could move her legs but then the woman with the dogs, who was a physiotherapist, appeared and said: "dont move, dont do anything".

The Centennial Park bike track/walking track in Timaru. Photo: Alexia Johnston
The man called an ambulance, but thats the last contact the woman has had with him.

"What I want is not to expend my energy thinking about him.

"This guy will have to live with this in his life.

"I think it will be a hard thing to live with, but thats his world, not mine.

"Ive got to focus on my world and getting well ..."

What she does want is for other mountain bikers to consider how their approach to riding a shared trail can bring about life-changing consequences.

"Your whole life is suddenly changed by someone being really careless.

"Im not saying anyone goes out thinking they are going to cause an accident.

"But their carelessness means that thats whats happened.

"This has changed my life forever."

The woman was admitted to hospital 10 days before her 60th birthday.She would like her experience to influence the way other mountain bikers approach similar tracks.

"If you are using a trail labelled a multi-use trail, you have a responsibility to always ride in control and be able to stop.

"Whenever you turn a corner, and see whatevers in front of you, its your responsibility."

A friend, Nicola Martinovich, has spoken to other mountain bikers and multisport athletes, including Commonwealth Games mountain biker Anton Cooper, and says all agree that it was common sense for both parties on a track to be considerate and respectful.

Where a track was too narrow for two bikes to pass each other in opposite directions, then it was an "unwritten rule" the person on the bike coming downhill would give way.If that meant stopping and dismounting, then that was what needed to happen.

Bike Wanaka spokesman Simon Telfer told the Otago Daily Times there were no hard and fast rules around giving way on mountain-bike tracks.It often depended on how the track was designated there were tracks for uphill, downhill and two-way traffic.

"If its a downhill track, you probably wouldnt expect people to be coming up it."

However, the woman says the track she was on was not designated for the exclusive use of mountain bikers and had signs saying: "Share with Care".

"This was like the Outlet Track, in Wanaka a multi-use track where you have families and dogs and people ambling and not paying attention and youre in the situation where if you are riding a bike, you are only one of many users of that trail.

"Its your job to be in control.

"My accident was due to someone riding this trail as if they were on a dedicated mountain-biking trail and going at speed rather than being prepared to stop."

The mountain bikers code of conduct developed by the Mountain Bike Association of New Zealand starts with the words: "Respect others".

It goes on to say: "Stay in control so you can safely avoid others and keep yourself intact."

It does not, as yet, advise mountain bikers to give way if going downhill.

728. http://www.itv.com/news/border/2018-04-25/mountain-biker-airlifted-to-hospital-after-suffering-serious-head-injury-in-cumbria-woods/

Mountain biker airlifted to hospital after suffering serious head injury in Cumbrian wood

Cockermouth Mountain Rescue Team assisting the bikerPhoto: Cockermouth Mountain Rescue Team

A mountain biker had to be airlifted to hospital with a serious head injury after crashing in some woods in Cumbria.

Cockermouth Mountain Rescue Team assisted the biker at Setmurthy Woods, who also sustained shoulder, chest and leg injuries.
A helicopter was flown in due to the severity of the biker's injuries Credit: Cockermouth Mountain Rescue Team

North West Ambulance Service paramedics attended along with mountain rescuers to stabilise the casualty.

The biker was flown to the Cumberland Infirmary in Carlisle by an HM Coastguard AW189 helicopter.
Last updated Wed 25 Apr 2018

729. http://fox13now.com/2018/04/30/man-fighting-for-his-life-after-terrifying-bike-crash-in-canyonlands/

Man fighting for his life after terrifying bike crash in Canyonlands

POSTED 9:13 PM, APRIL 30, 2018, BY KIERSTEN NUхZ, UPDATED AT 07:07AM, MAY 1, 2018
man hurt in Canyonlands crash

NORTH OGDEN, Utah - A North Ogden man is struggling to survive after a mountain bike crash in Canyonlands Thursday.

Nate Malan, a father of six, rode off a cliff on his bike and remains in critical condition.

The Malans are in a Colorado hospital and say the last 24 hours have been especially tough.

Nate crashed 3 and a half miles into the challenging 100-mile four-day long bike trip.

He's ridden this trail numerous times, said Cameron Quayle, Nates brother-in-law.

Still, only a few miles into the switchbacks on the white rim trail, Nates eyes did not adjust from the bright noonday sun into the canyon shade.

His brother was only ten feet behind him and he saw Nate veering toward the cliff and he told him to turn right turn right and Nate didn't hear, Quayle said.

Nate crashed 35 feet off the rocky cliff. Those in his biking group who were doctors and EMTs did all they could but knew Nate needed additional medical attention.

He was deteriorating in our hands, Quayle said.

Meanwhile, another biker somehow got cell service and found out an ambulance was already at the visitors center, responding to someone having chest pain.

It normally is an hour drive from where the ambulance arrived in 15 minutes, Quayle said.

Nate was taken to the hospital in critical condition and when his wife finally got there, she said he heard her voice and moved.

Without him opening his eyes, he heard her voice, and his brow furrowed, and you could see the emotion that he finally knew she was there and it was priceless; absolutely priceless, Quayle said.

With bleeding in his brain, 15 broken ribs, and fractures in his pelvis, its a long road to recovery, but Nate is making small but powerful steps.

His oldest child is getting married in a few weeks.

The family is far from home and overwhelmed with medical bills.

Loved ones created a GoFundMe page, to help with hospital bills during this difficult time.

730. Too bad no one tells the truth about the risks of mountain biking, or he might still be alive!

Mike

https://www.kivitv.com/news/co-founder-of-boise-trails-website-dies-in-mountain-biking-accident

Co-founder of Boise trails website dies in mountain biking accident

Steve Dent
1:35 PM, May 14, 2018

Boise - One of the founders of boisetrails.com died after a mountain biking accident on Saturday on a foothills trail near Avimor.

38-year-old Jason Delgadillo crashed his bike into a steep gulch on the Spring Creek Valley trail, Delgadillo died at the scene despite life-saving efforts from his riding partner, he was wearing a helmet.

6 on Your Side has received several emails highlighting how big of a loss this is for the biking community, the outdoor community and Boise in general.

Emails detailed that Delgadillo was well known in the community, a great advocate for the trail system, and an amazing individual says one email.

Another email called Delgadillo a pillar to the Boise mountain biking scene, Delgadillo teamed up with Kirk Cheney to create a website dedicated to informing people about the trails in and around the Boise foothills.

Here is a link to a story 6 on your Side did back in January when the website launched.

Jason leaves behind an incredible legacy, but also five children and a wife, here is a link to a Go Fund Me page that has been set up for his memorial.

https://www.google.com/url?rct=j&sa=t&url=http://www.idahostatesman.com/news/local/article211089929.html&ct=ga&cd=CAEYACoSMTg1MTcxNjIxNDU4ODU0NDg4Mho4NTU3MjNmZWQ3MTE0MDdhOmNvbTplbjpVUw&usg=AFQjCNFti05kuDxLhqENpYDVLm8TcnoTxA

Avimor's Spring Valley Creek Trail
Take a look at Avimor's Spring Valley Creek Trail. Chadd Cripe ccripe@idahostatesman.com

Man who died in Boise mountain biking accident was an experienced trail rider

BY NICOLE BLANCHARD AND CHADD CRIPE

nblanchard@idahostatesman.com

ccripe@idahostatesman.com

May 14, 2018 09:51 AM

Updated 2 hours 53 minutes ago

A 38-year-old man died Saturday in a mountain biking accident on a Boise-area trail system, according to the Ada County Sheriff's Office.

Jason Delgadillo of Boise was riding on the Avimor trail system about 9 a.m. when he went off the trail, falling 15-20 feet into a steep gulch and landing in a creek. The crash happened along Spring Valley Creek trail, a main thoroughfare in Avimor's trail system. The Ada County Coroner's Office on Monday afternoon confirmed Delgadillo's identity but said it still was investigating the cause of death.

Delgadillo, an experienced mountain biker, was the co-founder of BoiseTrails.com. A GoFundMe has been created to assist Delgadillo's wife and five children, ages 4 to 13.

Kirk Cheney, Delgadillo's partner in BoiseTrails.com, started dis-inviting himself from some business meetings because of Delgadillo's people skills.

"I knew they'd like us better if I just sent Jason instead. He was just that likable," Cheney said. "That's showing up in all the comments (about his passing). He'd hang around and talk to a person for an extra 30 minutes, remember them, remember their kids. All that stuff adds up. Everyone remembers him. He was a kind, generous, unassuming, thoughtful guy. That's what made me admire him so much and made me want to be more like him."

According to Ada County Sheriff's Office spokesman Patrick Orr, emergency dispatchers were told Delgadillo was not breathing and people on-scene were performing CPR. By the time paramedics arrived, a group of people had moved Delgadillo up to the trail and continued CPR.

"Witnesses later told investigators (Delgadillo) was riding on the trail with another man when they got separated. The other rider could not locate (Delgadillo) and asked some hikers if they had seen another cyclist," Orr said. "They did not, so the rider began backtracking and found an area where tire marks went off the trail."

The other cyclist saw Delgadillo and his bike lying in the bottom of the gulch and began performing CPR before flagging down some hikers to call 911.

According to ACSO, an air ambulance helicopter arrived shortly after paramedics but Delgadillo was declared dead at the scene. Witnesses said he was wearing a helmet.

Cheney initially learned about the accident by text from the man who was riding with Delgadillo. The crash didn't happen in the rocky section of the trail nor in an area that is severely downhill, Cheney said. The ride had started at Hidden Springs.

"It was just a normal ride," Cheney said. "They weren't going for records or anything."

The Spring Valley Creek trail at Avimor has some technical sections for mountain bikers because of rocks embedded in the trail.
Chadd Cripe ccripe@idahostatesman.com

The Spring Valley Creek trail would be considered a blue, or intermediate, run on a ski hill, said Marc Grubert, the trail coordinator for Avimor a planned community along Idaho 55 north of Boise.

"There's a rocky section ... but for the most part it's a green kind of run," Grubert said. "That's pretty much everyone's favorite trail up here."

Grubert is an avid mountain biker. He was out of town when the crash happened.

"It's a reminder that it's an inherently dangerous sport," he said. "It's so sad. It just kind of puts a lump in your throat when you think about it."

Cheney, who received the first text while Delgadillo was being tended to by paramedics, figured his friend was knocked out and perhaps would have a concussion.

"I thought that was the level of seriousness never just, like, death," he said. "That's why a lot of people ride mountain bikes instead of road bikes. On a road, people get hit by a car and die. But on the trail, you usually just get scraped up or a broken collarbone."

Ridge to Rivers, the multi-agency partnership that manages most of the Foothills trail system but not Avimor, hasn't had a fatal mountain bike accident during manager David Gordon's 14 years here, Gordon said.

"You just don't think things like that will happen when you ride all the time," said Gordon, a longtime mountain biker. "Those thoughts don't enter your mind. It's kind of sobering when something like that serves as a reminder that it can happen."

Gordon met Delgadillo through the BoiseTrails.com project.

"A good guy. ... Very sincere about wanting to help things in the Foothills, sincere about doing the right thing and helping others do the right thing on the trails," Gordon said.

Delgadillo, who worked in accounting at Agri Beef Co., biked the Foothills trails with Cheney several mornings a week as part of a small group. They started on weekdays at 5:30 a.m. (or 4:30, when they were feeling ambitious), riding uphill with lights and descending as the sun rose. Delgadillo called that descent the "golden hour."

Delgadillo grew up here and started mountain biking in 1995. But he got serious about the sport six years ago, when he returned from a couple of years in Texas 50 pounds heavier than when he left.

Its become a lifestyle for me, he said during a January interview with the Idaho Statesman. I need that part of my life to stay sane and healthy.

Delgadillo finished sixth last year in the Idaho Smoke 'n' Fire 400. He completed the 400-mile course in 2 days, 14 hours and 43 minutes.

"He's super hardcore," Cheney said earlier this year. "We're all trying to keep up with him."

But Cheney doesn't want his friend remembered only as the guy on the bike. Delgadillo was devoted to his family, a Boy Scouts leader and a mentor who took teens on Sawtooth Mountains trips and made videos of the journeys for them, Cheney said.

Delgadillo and Cheney launched BoiseTrails.com, a site that provides trail conditions and other info for the Boise Foothills trail system, on Jan. 15. The project sprouted from their @BoiseTrailPics Instagram account.

Cheney says it will be difficult to maintain the website project without Delgadillo, who was always pushing new ideas. But he plans to try because the site has been well-received and any proceeds could be directed to Delgadillo's family, he said.

"The whole fun of it was doing it together," Cheney said.

He posted a tribute to his friend on their shared Instagram account Saturday.

"Jason was an amazing person, father and rider," Cheney wrote. "As I think of all the times Ive grinned ear to ear on a bike, most of those times Jason was right there with me. He brought joy to everyone around him."
Jason Delgadillo died in a mountain biking accident on the Avimor trail system on Saturday morning, according to his BoiseTrails.com business partner, Kirk Cheney. Courtesy of BoiseTrails.com

731. http://www.abc.net.au/news/2018-05-16/marathon-champion-colin-oliver-dies-in-hobart-after-accident/9764682

Tasmanian marathon champion Colin Oliver dies after mountain bike accident

Updated about an hour ago
PHOTO: Mr Oliver is being remembered as a dedicated and respected athlete. (Facebook: Colin Oliver)

Well-known Tasmanian marathon champion Colin Oliver has died in Hobart two months after a mountain biking accident.

Mr Oliver was a five-time Cadbury Marathon winner and a keen mountain bike rider.

The 49-year-old suffered a fall while biking in March, according to Athletics Tasmania, and died from his "significant injures" at the Royal Hobart Hospital on Tuesday morning.

He won the Cadbury Marathon five times, most recently in 2003 and 2004, and then took over as race director until 2010.

Posts on social media have paid tribute to Mr Oliver, with the Athletics Tasmania Facebook page saying the "dedicated athlete lost his battle with significant injuries suffered from a fall whilst mountain biking".

Mike Dalton said he had trained with Mr Oliver for years.

"Colin was one dogged competitor who would just never give an inch and would wear opposition down with his nuggety style and consistent pace," he said.

"The thing that struck me about Colin was his even temperament no matter what was going on around him.

"Always concerned for the wellbeing of others, it was no surprise when he told me he was going into nursing a natural fit for this gentle and kind man.

"Hard to believe he has gone but so glad he has a legacy left to remember him by. RIP old mate."

Another former Cadbury Marathon race director, Richard Welsh, remembered Mr Oliver as an outstanding athlete and a good man.

"You touch on his achievements as an athlete, but I worked side-by-side with him for a number of years and he was just a really easy-going guy, nothing was too difficult," he said.

"He was just a really, really nice guy and it's terribly sad and quite the shock."

Former teacher Gerard Leary said it was "extremely sad news".

"I remember Colin very fondly through his involvement in athletics and I taught him when he attended Ulverstone High School. He was a great champion and very modest. RIP Colin."

732. http://www.oregonlive.com/pacific-northwest-news/index.ssf/2018/05/1_dead_1_injured_in_washington.html

Cougar attack kills 1, injures another, 30 miles east of Seattle

Updated May 20, 7:57 AM; Posted May 19

By The Associated Press

Updated 8 a.m. Sunday

NORTH BEND, Wash. — One man was killed and another seriously injured when they encountered a cougar Saturday while mountain biking in Washington state, officials said.

Authorities said the two men were on a morning bike ride in the foothills near North Bend when the attack occurred. The town is about 30 miles (48 kilometers) east of Seattle.

The mountain lion ran into the woods and officers with the Washington Department of Fish and Game later tracked it down and shot and killed it, said Capt. Alan Myers of the state's Fish & Wildlife Police.

The 31-year-old survivor was taken to a hospital in Seattle. He was initially listed in serious condition in the emergency room but was alert and talking; his condition was later upgraded to satisfactory, The Seattle Times reported.

A search and rescue team was dispatched to recover the body of the deceased man.

8 things to know about cougars -- and sightings -- in Oregon

The statewide population of cougars is growing, according to the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife. Agency officials said that anecdotally the number of cougar sightings in the metro area and north Oregon coast is rising -- especially the number of confirmed sightings.

KIRO-TV reported that the injured man called 911 shortly before 11 a.m. and shouted, "Can you hear me? Help!" and then the call hung up.

Authorities found the cougar standing over the body of the dead biker, the station reported.

It wasn't immediately clear if the two victims were biking together or separately.

In the last 100 years in North America, roughly 25 fatalities and 95 nonfatal cougar attacks have been reported, the Washington Department of Fish & Wildlife said, but there was only one other fatal attack in the state. However, more attacks have been reported in the western United States and Canada over the past 20 years than in the previous 80 years.

What to do if you come across a cougar

- Cougars often will retreat if given the opportunity. Leave the animal a way to escape.

- Stay calm and stand your ground.

- Maintain direct eye contact.

- Pick up children, but do so without bending down or turning your back on the cougar.

- Back away slowly.

- Do not run. Running triggers a chase response in cougars, which could lead to an attack.

- Raise your voice and speak firmly.

- If the cougar seems aggressive, raise your arms to make yourself look larger and clap your hands.

- If in the very unusual event that a cougar attacks you, fight back with rocks, sticks, tools or any items available.

— Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife

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There's never been a fatal cougar attack in the wild in Oregon, an official said in 2017.

Over 6,000 cougars live in Oregon, according to the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife. It's rare for people to see or encounter them, the agency said, but sightings have increased.

The Washington Department of Fish & Wildlife says that adult male cougars average about 140 pounds but can hit 180 pounds and measure 7 to 8 feet long, counting the tail. Adult females are about 25 percent smaller. The agency says the cats can leap 30 feet from a standstill and 15 feet straight up. Their normal prey includes deer, elk, and wild sheep.

This report will be updated.

— The Associated Press

733. http://www.nwemail.co.uk/news/lakes/Mountain-biker-rescued-by-Lake-District-MRT-after-sustaining-fracture-39d252b2-f768-4c71-8efe-d904b5eaaa5e-ds Mountain biker rescued by Lake District MRT after sustaining fracture

A crew from Langdale and Ambleside was called in

20 May 2018 9:56AM

A MOUNTAIN rescue crew was called in to assist an injured mountain biker in the Lake District.

A team from Langdale and Ambleside MRT was called out at around 1.05pm on Saturday, May 19 to a report a male mountain biker had fallen at Rydal Cave and fractured his femur.

He was assisted by nine team members and evacuated from the area in two hours.

734. https://globalnews.ca/news/4237515/near-fatal-bike-crash-stars-fundraiser/

Near-fatal mountain bike crash leads to unexpected journey for Calgary man supporting STARS

By Carolyn Kury de Castillo Reporter Global News

WATCH: A Calgary man who was seriously injured in a mountain bike crash near Bragg Creek is hoping to join his best friend on a cross-country cycling journey to raise awareness about STARS Air Ambulance. Carolyn Kury de Castillo reports.

In an adventure that started with a near-fatal mountain biking crash, two Calgary friends are about to start a cross-Canada journey in support of STARS Air Ambulance.

In November 2016, Guy Leblanc and Jeremy Carabeo were biking in Kananaskis Country, west of Calgary, on a trail near Moose Mountain when Carabeo crashed while coming down a steep trail. He says he has no memory of the incident, but Leblanc remembers how shocking it was to find his best friend lying on the trail unconscious.

It happens pretty quick, Leblanc recalled. You see your friend lying on the ground, I wanted to do as much as I could, but you dont want to move him too much because Im not a doctor I dont know what to do.

Theres a lot of feeling on that day for sure and I was in shock. But he was in good hands and he was going to the hospital right away and the people would take care of him.

In a remote area with no cell phone, the pair was fortunate that a doctor happened to be on the trail as well. Lucky, as well, that STARS was able to fly in from Calgary and get Carabeo out with a sling. He was taken to the Foothills hospital in Calgary in serious condition with a brain injury.

I definitely owe STARS a lot because they are the ones that saved my life, Carabeo said on Monday. It still gets emotional just thinking about it.

During a critical moment, there werent any EMS vehicles and there wasnt any access out there at all.

Amazed by the work STARS does, Leblanc has decided to bike across Canada to raise money and awareness for the air ambulance service.

I want to meet as many people as I can and I want to inform people about what STARS does and tell them the great work they do, Leblanc said.

Despite still recovering from the crash that nearly claimed his life, Carabeo will be back on his bike supporting Leblanc as he rides through the Alberta portion of his cross Canada adventure. They plan to ride from Calgary to Regina where theyll give a talk at the STARS base in the region.

I want to say that I worked hard through this with all sorts of therapy and exercising and trying to build myself up and just to get back to this level, Carabeo said. Im not 100 per cent yet but definitely will be there.

Leblancs first goal was to raise $5,400 the average cost of a STARS mission. Hes already reached $8,000 and his cross-country bike ride, which starts in Vancouver, doesnt get underway until June 1.

You can follow Leblancs journey online at #GuyRides4STARS.

735. http://www.koaa.com/story/38300735/mountain-biker-rescued-near-gold-camp-road

Mountain biker rescued near Gold Camp Road

Posted: May 29, 2018 1:57 PM PDT

Written By Tom Kackley
COLORADO SPRINGS

Colorado Springs firefighters and El Paso County Search and Rescue crews rescued a mountain biker who fell on the section 16 trail off of gold camp road.

CSFD said the man fell about 20 feet and suffered serious, but non-life threatening injuries. He was brought out at the Section 16 trailhead in the Red Rock Open Space area.

They said he was transported to a local hospital.

No other information about the person involved has been released.

736. https://www.grough.co.uk/magazine/2018/05/29/mountain-biker-airlifted-after-suffering-critical-injuries-in-grizedale-forest-fall

Mountain biker airlifted after suffering critical injuries in Grizedale Forest fall

John McHale, Reporter
Tuesday 29 May 2018 08:08 PM GMT
The North West Air Ambulance and Coniston team vehicle at the scene. Photo: Coniston MRT

A mountain biker was critically injured in a fall in a Lake District forest.

Coniston Mountain Rescue Team was called to the incident in Grizedale Forest about noon on Sunday.

The man fell from his machine on the North Face Trail at the site. Rescue team members joined ambulance and fire and rescue crews, along with North West Air Ambulance at the scene.

Medically trained passers-by also helped resuscitate and stabilise the injured biker who was reported to be in cardiac arrest.

A Coniston MRT spokesperson said: Team members assisted with the initial carry to stable ground, the subsequent further medical treatment and the final carry to the helicopter for the onward journey to the Royal Preston Hospital.

Ten Coniston MRT volunteers were involved in the incident for 2 hours.

On Monday, the team was called out when a teenager fell about 5m while gill scrambling in Church Beck near Coniston, injuring his leg.

The team spokesperson said: The casualtys injuries were treated initially by team members and further checks and treatment were administered by the crew of a North West Air Ambulance which had been able to land a short distance away.

The casualty was stretchered from the ravine, using a technical rope system and carried to a waiting Coniston MRT Land Rover ambulance. He was then transferred to the helicopter for transfer to Furness General Hospital, Barrow in Furness.

The incident involved 11 Coniston team members.

737. https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/death-spectator-mountain-bike-race-14742981

Death of spectator at mountain bike race was 'completely avoidable', court hears

The event organiser, a marshal and the British Cycling Federation deny health and safety failings led to death of Judith Garrett
By
Eryl Crump
17:27, 4 JUN 2018
by Taboola by Taboola

A death of a spectator who was propelled backwards into a tree when a mountain bike rider lost control during a race was completely avoidable.

Judith Garrett was left with a fractured skull and devastating brain injuries when she was struck at the Borderline Downhill Series Mountain Biking race in Llangollen on August 31, 2014.

Despite immediate medical attention from an off duty paramedic at the scene and treatment at a specialist trauma unit she died the following day, Mold Crown Court heard.

Miss Garrett, 29 from Prudhoe, Northumberland was as at the race to watch her boyfriend Pete Walton compete.

The organiser of the race, a marshal and the British Cycling Federation who sanctioned the event are being prosecuted by Denbighshire County Council over failing to ensure the health and safety of spectators.
Michael John Marsden, top left and Kevin Ian Duckworth, bottom left are in court on health and safety charges after Judith Gartett, pictured right with boyfriend Pete Walton was killed wathcing a mountain bike race.

Michael John Marsden, 41, of Gressingham Drive in Lancaster, denies failing to conduct the event in such a way that people including Miss Garrett were not exposed to risk.

Kevin Ian Duckworth, 42, of Addison Street, Accrington, Lancashire, is alleged to have failed to ensure that his health and safety duties as a marshal were complied with.

The British Cycling Federation faces a charge of failing to conduct its undertaking in such a way as to ensure the health and safety of people attending the event.

They deny the charges.
Judith Garrett

Outlining the prosecution case to the jury prosecutor James Hill QC said Ms Garrett had walked up to an area close to the finish of the 2km course, where cyclists could hit speeds of up to 40mph.

Despite what Mr Hill described as an obvious area where riders would lose control at high speed it was not roped off to spectators.

The route, through Tan y Graig farm, was said to be one of the most challenging in Britain and the area where Miss Garrett stood was one of the most challenging sections for the riders.

The prosecution says what happened was a complete accident but one which was completely avoidable, Mr Hill said.
Michael John Marsden (Image: David Powell)

An investigation into the incident revealed the risk assessment was wholly inadequate.

Marsden as organiser was required to submit details of risk assessments of the course in respect of both riders and spectators to the British Cycling Federation who subsequently sanctioned the event.

Mr Hill said rider safety was considered but no one else was included.

It was also apparent, the prosecution says, that the assessment is generic and not specific to this site, he added.

Duckworth was a marshal near the spot where Miss Garrett was fatally injured but he was alleged to have been resting on a crash mat near a jump.
Kevin Ian Duckworth (Image: David Powell)

The prosecution do not blame him for the accident. It was not expected he would set up his own exclusion zone but he is charged with doing nothing at all.

"He was not in a position to prevent anyone walking on the course or advise anyone where to stand.

Mr Hill said a healthy young woman had lost her life watching a sporting event. He urged the jury of nine women and three men to set aside their emotions and consider the evidence objectively.

Both defendants, he added, are men of good character and the British Cycling Federation is a national institution.

The trial, expected to last four weeks, continues.

738. A mountain biker from Pontypool was killed when he crashed into a tree on a race track he designed himself: https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-wales-south-east-wales-44414066

739. http://www.wmur.com/article/mountain-biker-injured-in-hales-location/21262044

Mountain biker injured in Hales Location

Joshua Preece was thrown from his bike, officials say

Updated: 12:05 AM EDT Jun 11, 2018
Cassidy Swanson
Assignment Editor/Digital Producer
Mountain biker injured in Hales Location

HALES LOCATION, N.H.

A mountain biker needed to be airlifted to the hospital after being injured in Hales Location Sunday.

At about 10 a.m., New Hampshire Fish and Game was notified of an injured mountain biker in the vicinity of White Horse Ledge, identified as Joshua Preece, 42, of North Conway.

Several mountain bikers were mountain biking in area. Preece was riding his bike down a steep slab when he was thrown from his bike and hit a tree. One of the mountain bikers called 911 for assistance.

Preece was carried out of the area by North Conway Fire and Rescue first responders. He was transported to Memorial Hospital in North Conway, then flown to Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center in Lebanon on a DHART helicopter for further evaluation and treatment.

No further information about Preeces condition is available at this time.

740. http://www.kcra.com/article/cyclist-rescued-after-200-foot-fall-down-el-dorado-co-cliff/21253735

Cyclist rescued after 200-foot fall down El Dorado Co. cliff

The biker suffered "moderate injuries" in the fall near the Confluence Trail along the American River, CHP said

Updated: 5:36 PM PDT Jun 10, 2018
KCRA Staff
CHP Valley Division Air Operations SOURCE: CHP Valley Division Air Operations
Cyclist rescued after 200-foot fall down El Dorado Co. cliff

SACRAMENTO, Calif. (KCRA)

A mountain biker was rescued in El Dorado County on Saturday after falling more than 200 feet down the side of a cliff, authorities said.

The cyclist suffered "moderate injuries" in the fall near the Confluence Trail along the American River, according to the California Highway Patrol.

CHP said it used a helicopter to hoist the cyclist to safety from what was described as difficult terrain. Cal Fire and California State Parks personnel also responded.

The H-24 landed on Highway 49 and transferred the mountain biker to a waiting ambulance, CHP said. No other information was provided.

741. https://www.jhnewsandguide.com/news/cops_courts/article_86babff6-14f6-5193-ad5e-8a0815348524.html

Person injured after falling from ski lift

By Emily Mieure Jackson Hole Daily
Jun 13, 2018

A mountain biker catches air in 2014 at Jackson Hole Mountain Resort. A rider hit a feature improperly Tuesday and injured his neck at the resort.
SOFIA JARAMILLO/Jackson Hole Daily FILE

A woman was taken to the hospital Wednesday afternoon after falling from Teton Villages Teewinot chairlift.

Four tourists were loading the lift at 3:20 p.m. when they misloaded and two of them fell, Jackson Hole Mountain Resort spokeswoman Anna Cole said.

It was not a large vertical fall, she said. The two that fell did sustain some injuries.

Mountain patrol responded, as did Teton Village Fire Department and Jackson Hole Fire/EMS. The chairlift stopped while medics cared for the patients.

An elderly man was not transported to the hospital, but the woman was taken for evaluation. Shes expected to be OK.

Our risk and safety manager talked through everything with employees on scene and patrol, Cole said. It was human error.

Jackson Hole Mountain Resorts summer incident plan was also executed Tuesday when a mountain biker sustained a neck injury.

We had a pretty sad mountain bike accident, Cole said.

Just before 5 p.m. an older gentleman hit one of the features improperly in the bike park. He was wearing a helmet and riding his own bike.

Rick Unruh landed on his head and injured his C3 and C4 vertebrae in the middle part of the back of his neck.

Our team responded immediately, and he was flown to Eastern Idaho Regional Medical Center, Cole said.

Cole said the bike park is conducive for beginners and experts, but she encouraged visitors to consider hiring a guide if ability is in question.

They can get you comfortable on the features, Cole said. It was an unfortunate accident.

Unruh is listed in serious condition.

Contact Emily Mieure at 732-7066, courts@jhnewsandguide.com or @JHNGcourts.

742. https://www.thefreepress.ca/news/mountain-biker-rescued/

Mountain biker rescued

An injured mountain biker has been rescued by Fernie Search and Rescue.
Kimberley Vlasic
Jun. 17, 2018 2:30 a.m.
News

Fernie Search and Rescue has thanked passing mountain bikers who stopped to help an injured rider on a local trail.

On Saturday, June 16, Fernie SAR was tasked by the RCMP to rescue a 52-year-old man who had sustained a suspected fracture to his right hip while riding a popular mountain biking trail in the Ridgemont area.

Three SAR members were quickly dispatched to locate, assess and stabilize the man.

Others brought in the gear needed to transport the rider to the SAR rescue truck before he was handed to the BC Ambulance Service.

Fernie SAR thanked passing mountain bikers who assisted on scene.

743. https://patch.com/california/missionviejo/mountain-biker-crashes-rescued-ocfa

Mountain Biker Crashes, Rescued By OCFA

A woman was rescued off Water Works Trail by OCFA firefighter/paramedics over the weekend after crashing her mountain bike.

By Ashley Ludwig, Patch Staff | Jun 18, 2018 3:41 pm ET

MISSION VIEJO, CA A woman was injured over the weekend after crashing on her mountain bike in the remote area of Water Works trail, Orange County Fire Authority Captain Steve Concialdi told Patch.

The mid-40s woman, who severely injured her shoulder and collar bone, was treated in the field for pain, before responding firefighters and Orange County Sheriff's Deputies carried her down the trail on a back board. She was wearing a helmet, which protected her head, Concialdi said.

Orange County Fire Authority remind all who mountain bike or hike in remote areas to bring ample water and a charged cell phone with them, in case of emergency.

744. https://infotel.ca/newsitem/injured-penticton-mountain-biker-rescued/it53431

Injured Penticton mountain biker rescued

Steve Arstad
Penticton Search and Rescue personnel stayed with an injured mountain biker last night, June 18, 2018, awaiting daylight to proceed with a helicopter evacuation.
Image Credit: SUBMITTED
June 19, 2018 - 10:09 AM

PENTICTON - A Penticton man is fortunate his calls for help were heard after suffering injuries in a mountain biking accident yesterday.

Penticton Search and Rescue spokesperson Randy Brown says they were notified of a man in distress around 10 p.m. yesterday, June 18.

Saliken Drive residents reported hearing someone calling for help in Ellis Creek canyon above their homes on Pentictons east side.

Search and rescue members and RCMP attended the area where they detected a man calling from a ridge across Ellis Creek in the Wiltse Flats area.

A number of rescue personnel climbed into the area, locating a 47-year-old mountain biker with numerous injuries suffered after losing control on steep terrain.

With oncoming darkness, the searchers decided to remain with the man overnight before attempting to evacuate him.

Around 5:20 a.m. today, June 19, the man was evacuated by helicopter and taken to Kelowna General Hospital for further treatment.

An injured mountain biker is evacuated from a trail in the Wiltse Flats area early this morning, June 19, 2018.
Image Credit: SUBMITTED

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745. http://www.nbc-2.com/story/38477202/paralyzed-er-doctor-beats-the-odds-returns-to-work

Paralyzed ER doctor beats the odds, returns to work

After a biking accident landed him in a wheelchair, a Minnesota physician says he's now a better doctor.
Thursday, June 21st 2018, 10:47 am EDT
Updated:
Thursday, June 21st 2018, 10:47 am EDT

For Dr. Daniel Grossman and his close friend Ron Garber, biking has been their bond. It was their escape their time to talk about life, love, even death. But during a mountain biking trip last Labor Day weekend, all of that changed in an instant.
On their final run in a northern Minnesota park, on a trail called Easy Street, Grossman took a fall, slamming him to the ground. He has no memory of how it happened.

I went up a little hill, he said. The next thing I know I'm on the ground with people hovering above me."

Dr. Daniel Grossman, right, with his best friend and biking buddy, Ron Garber.Courtesy Dr. Daniel Grossman

Grossman, an ER doctor at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota, couldnt get up or feel his abdomen.

"I remember feeling a sort of band around my belly, sort of a numbness. And wondering if I could move my legs or if I could feel my legs."
He tried to move them, but nothing was happening.

A helicopter whisked Grossman away to the ER, where a scan revealed a shattered vertebrae, causing irreparable damage to his spinal cord. Grossman was devastated. He knew he would never walk again.

I've seen enough of those in the past. I know what that means when I see it, he said.

But Grossman's instinct to care for others would not be broken by the accident.
When he was lying on the ground waiting for the helicopter, he asked his friend Garber to call the hospital where he works. He was scheduled to cover a shift the next day for another doctor and he wanted to make sure it would still be covered.

Dr. Daniel GrossmanCourtesy Dr. Daniel Grossman

When Grossman describes the immediate aftermath of the accident, he talks about the support he received from friends and family, who dropped everything to be at his side.

It was a pretty amazing experience to be surrounded by love and compassion, Grossman said. Having friends who are unconditionally there, who will cry with you, is incredible.

BACK IN THE ER

He quickly came to terms with his new reality, resolving to be as independent and active as possible. If you accept what's happened, your primary goal is to learn how to live the most amazing life that you can from a wheelchair, he said.
Grossman has learned to do simple things on his own, like get out of bed, shower and get dressed. He even learned to drive again.

But his main goal was getting back to the emergency room as a doctor.

I love being a physician. It's the only thing I ever wanted to be and it's part of my identity, he said. "When I'm there I'm smiling all the time, 'cause I could have been dead. And instead, I get to practice medicine. I get to influence the lives of others. That's an incredible feeling."

He set a goal to be back at work within six months and met it.
While Grossman admits that hes not as efficient as he once was, he can still do all of his work.

In fact, Grossman says being in a wheelchair has made him a better doctor. At 6-foot-5 he often towered above his patients, but now he speaks to them on their level.

I hold their hand, said Grossman. The conversations have become much more intimate. I understand what they're going through and I can relate when things are scary for them.
Dr. Daniel Grossman just needed a little push to keep his recovery going. Courtesy Dr. Daniel Grossman

As remarkable as his story is, he prefers for people to see him as motivating, rather than inspiring.
When people say it's inspiring, I always wonder, what change have you made in your life as a result of hearing my story?

For his biking buddy, Grossmans accident was a chance to repay kindness. Garbers young daughter, YaYa, had died from a rare genetic condition so biking with Grossman was therapeutic for his friend.

Daniel was there for me during the hardest time in my life, so of course I would be there for him, said Garber.

When Grossman was first brought to the hospital and received his diagnosis, Garber felt a crushing guilt over what happened. But Grossman wouldnt allow it. The first thing he said was, It's not your fault, don't blame yourself, Garber said. Even in that very, very difficult moment for him, he was thinking of me.
Each step of Grossman's recovery was an emotional challenge for the two best friends from the ambulance ride and the transfer out of the ICU, to Grossman going home and living alone. But perhaps the most meaningful step was when they were finally able to bike together again. With Grossman on a hand bike, they set out on a trail and back to bonding.

Its awesome, said Garber. The best part about it is that now we're just living our lives.

746. http://www.krqe.com/news/albuquerque-metro/cyclist-recovering-after-taking-bad-fall-at-new-mexico-bike-park/1260266064

Cyclist recovering after taking bad fall at New Mexico bike park

By: Rebecca Atkins

Posted: Jun 24, 2018 10:04 PM MDT

Updated: Jun 25, 2018 07:45 AM MDT

Cyclist recovering after taking bad fall at New Mexico bike park

ANGEL FIRE, N.M. (KRQE) - Dani Pedroza is an avid cyclist that quickly grew a love for the sport a few years ago.

"She decided to jump into the mountain bike scene, started racing. Raced her first season this year, and won her first series this year," said Dan Pedreza.

Dan is Dani's husband, and said last week they traveled to Eagle Nest for a bike trip with friends.

"Mainly it's to come up and get away from the city, and enjoy the mountain bike and the air of New Mexico," said her husband.

Last Sunday, they were at the Angel Fire Bike Park, biking down the mountain when..."Towards the bottom of the trail she got a little out of control on one of the table top jumps and landed incorrectly," said Pedroza.

His wife took a bad fall, but everyone thought she just had a concussion.

"It put a strain on the arteries in her neck and it cracked her helmet at the same time," he said.

However, Dani's condition quickly got worse.

"She was slurring her speech, she had no movement on her left side, her left arm, left hand, left leg," said Pedroza.

After being seen at a hospital in Taos, she was then airlifted to UNMH, and the prognosis was concerning.

"She had suffered multiple strokes from the damage she had had in her carotid arteries," he said.

Now, the cycling loving woman is on a long road to recovery.

"She has to relearn how to speak... how to walk. Every aspect that we take for granted that we learned as a baby, she'll have to relearn again," said Dan Pedroza.

With tremendous community support, the family is staying strong for Dani.

"We all take risks everyday walking across the street... she was doing what she loved and we're just being positive," said JJ Smith, Dani's mom.

A GoFundMe has been set up for Dani Pedroza, as well as a Caring Bridge page with updates.

747. https://www.thefreepress.ca/news/mountain-biker-rescued-in-fernie/

Mountain biker rescued in Fernie

A mountain biker is recovering from a serious spinal injury after hitting a tree on a Fernie trail.
KIMBERLEY VLASIC
Jul. 11, 2018 5:30 p.m.

Emergency services personnel rescue an injured mountain biker from the Swine Flu trail in Fernie. Photo courtesy of Fernie Search and Rescue.

A Calgary man is recovering from a serious spinal injury after hitting a tree while mountain biking in Fernie.

About 8 p.m. on Tuesday, July 20, Fernie Search and Rescue was called to the Swine Flu trail, where the young man had been riding with his brother and local man.

According to a Facebook post by SAR, the man fell off his bike on the downhill and struck a tree with his back, sustaining a serious spinal injury.

SAR responded with BC Ambulance Service and Fernie Fire and Rescue to stabilize and extricate the man, who was then taken to the Elk Valley Hospital.

In view of the serious nature of the injury, STARS Air Ambulance was activated but had to delay due to poor weather conditions.

The injured biker was eventually flown to Foothills Medical Centre in Calgary later that night.

748. http://www.krqe.com/news/albuquerque-metro/cyclist-recovering-after-taking-bad-fall-at-new-mexico-bike-park/1260266064

Cyclist recovering after taking bad fall at New Mexico bike park

By: Rebecca Atkins

Posted: Jun 24, 2018 10:04 PM MDT

Updated: Jun 25, 2018 07:45 AM MDT

Cyclist recovering after taking bad fall at New Mexico bike park

ANGEL FIRE, N.M. (KRQE) - Dani Pedroza is an avid cyclist that quickly grew a love for the sport a few years ago.

"She decided to jump into the mountain bike scene, started racing. Raced her first season this year, and won her first series this year," said Dan Pedreza.

Dan is Dani's husband, and said last week they traveled to Eagle Nest for a bike trip with friends.

"Mainly it's to come up and get away from the city, and enjoy the mountain bike and the air of New Mexico," said her husband.

Last Sunday, they were at the Angel Fire Bike Park, biking down the mountain when..."Towards the bottom of the trail she got a little out of control on one of the table top jumps and landed incorrectly," said Pedroza.

His wife took a bad fall, but everyone thought she just had a concussion.

"It put a strain on the arteries in her neck and it cracked her helmet at the same time," he said.

However, Dani's condition quickly got worse.

"She was slurring her speech, she had no movement on her left side, her left arm, left hand, left leg," said Pedroza.

After being seen at a hospital in Taos, she was then airlifted to UNMH, and the prognosis was concerning.

"She had suffered multiple strokes from the damage she had had in her carotid arteries," he said.

Now, the cycling loving woman is on a long road to recovery.

"She has to relearn how to speak... how to walk. Every aspect that we take for granted that we learned as a baby, she'll have to relearn again," said Dan Pedroza.

With tremendous community support, the family is staying strong for Dani.

"We all take risks everyday walking across the street... she was doing what she loved and we're just being positive," said JJ Smith, Dani's mom.

A GoFundMe has been set up for Dani Pedroza, as well as a Caring Bridge page with updates.

749. https://www.morganton.com/news/mountain-biker-rescued-from-table-rock/article_c283cb24-798e-11e8-acea-37f60f2a67f6.html

Mountain biker rescued from Table Rock

Chrissy Murphy staff writer
Jun 26, 2018 Updated 3 hrs ago

A man was rescued and flown to a hospital after a mountain biking wreck on a trail at Table Rock on Saturday afternoon.

The man, whose identity has not been released, was found unconscious on a biking trail about 8 miles from the Table Rock parking lot around 8:15 p.m., according to Wes Taylor with Burke County Search and Rescue.

The biker was flown by helicopter to Mission Health System with severe injuries, Taylor said.

Burke County EMS began treatment as soon as the biker was located.

Due to the bikers location, an extensive extraction was planned that included rescuers carrying the biker half a mile to an ATV, taking the ATV to an ambulance and the ambulance to the helicopter, he said.

The call originally came in around 6:30 p.m., but the wreck occurred around 5:15 p.m., he said. Friends of the biker did not have cellphones with them and had to ride back to the parking lot before making the call.

The group of bikers were locals and knew the area well, Taylor said. The path the biker was found on wasnt a publicly known trail.

The biker was conscious for part of the extraction, he said.

Longtown Fire Department, Lake James Fire Department, Oak Hill Fire and Rescue, Burke County Emergency Management, Linville-Central Rescue Squad and Jonas Ridge Fire and Rescue assisted Burke Search and Rescue and Burke EMS.

750. http://www.deeside.com/injured-mountain-biker-airlifted-off-moel-famau/

Injured mountain biker airlifted off Moel Famau

Published: Thursday, Jul 12th, 2018

Volunteers from Mold based North East Wales Search and Rescue (NEWSAR) were called into action this morning, Thursday July 12 to reports of an injured female mountain bike rider on Moel Famau.

Following a call from North Wales Police the team responded with two Landrovers to the summit of Moel Famau, the highest hill within the Clwydian Range.

A spokesperson for the NEWSAR team said:

Due to the nature of the suspected injuries it was considered better to fly the casualty to hospital rather than bring them down the rough track in our Landrover.

We requested the assistance of the Coastguard Rescue helicopter from Caernarfon.

The casualty was given immediate first aid by one of our team doctors who was also winched aboard the helicopter to travel to hospital with the patient.

751. https://www.pinkbike.com/news/video-what-an-injured-riders-dreams-are-made-of.html

Video: What An Injured Rider's Dreams Are Made Of

Joseph Loveridge Mills is a 16-year-old Enduro Racer from Wanganui, New Zealand. On June 10th 2018, while filming this video, Joe had a big crash resulting in traumatic brain injury. He spent the first week after the crash in the Wanganui Hospital Critical Care unit where he was in an induced coma for 3 days. He then spent the next 4 weeks in the ABI Rehabilitation Centre.

One month later, he is now back at home, walking, doing physiotherapy and is the keenest he has ever been to get back on his bike! Once he gets clearance to ride again from the physiotherapist, of course. Joseph does not want people to be scared away from mountain biking because of his accident but thought this would be a good opportunity to remind them to wear protection.

752. https://www.castanet.net/edition/news-story-231506-1-.htm

Fall on KVR, no helmet

Madison Erhardt - Jul 16, 2018 / 9:56 am | Story: 231506
Photo: Contributed

An injured mountain biker sustained serious injuries Sunday after falling on the Kettle Valley Railway wearing no helmet.

The Central Okanagan Search and Rescue were called out to the KVR just after 1 p.m.

"We got a call for an injured mountain biker on the KVR. A female tourist in her 60's from South Africa crashed and sustained head injuries and a possible concussion because she wasnt wearing a helmet. She was stabilized and turned over to B.C. ambulance services," COSAR said.

A reminder to cyclists that wearing a helmet while biking is the law in B.C. Those who fail to abide by the law could be fined for not wearing one.

753. https://www.theunion.com/news/local-news/mountain-biker-rescued-after-crash-near-scotts-flat-lake/

Mountain biker rescued after crash near Scotts Flat Lake

July 20, 2018

A medical rescue was conducted Friday afternoon near Scotts Flat Lake for a mountain biker who reportedly sustained an injury involving a tree branch through his arm.

The cyclist was located two miles up from the Scotts Flat Campground on a trail below Highway 20 and called 911 just before 3 p.m.

A passing cyclist reportedly came across the subject and offered assistance to rescuers in helping to locate the victim.

By 3:50 p.m. rescuers located the subject and prepared him for transport back to the campground.

754. https://www.kcra.com/article/mountain-biker-hoisted-to-safety-after-crash-near-tahoma/22509647

Mountain biker hoisted to safety after crash near Tahoma

Updated: 1:04 PM PDT Jul 22, 2018
KCRA Staff
SOURCE: CHP Valley Division Air Operations
TAHOMA, Calif. (KCRA)

New video shows an injured biker being hoisted to safety after crashing Saturday near Tahoma.

Saturday afternoon, a 60-year-old mountain biker crashed and broke bones on the General Creek Trail, according to the California Highway Patrol.

An area fire department helped treat the man's injuries. Because he was injured in a remote area, however, a CHP helicopter was requested to assist.

The helicopter hoisted the injured biker from the trail.

He was then taken to Lake Tahoe Airport, where he was driven to a local hospital.

755. https://www.wral.com/-a-miracle-happened-nc-state-grad-recovering-after-bike-accident-left-him-paralyzed-/17735878/

'A miracle happened:' NC State grad recovering after bike accident left him paralyzed

Posted 5:06 p.m. today

By Adam Owens, WRAL reporter

ASHEVILLE, N.C. A former North Carolina State University athlete is recovering after a fall from his bike nearly killed him last month.

Phillip Hatcher and his wife, Kelly, share a love of outdoor adventure. He has always been a competitor and was a decathlete at North Carolina State University.

At 58 years old, Hatcher was still running and pedaling, until a terrible accident in June when he, his wife and a friend were mountain biking along Linville Gorge in the western part of the state.

Hatch came around a blind corner and there was a tree blocking the path, Hatchers wife, Kelly Hatcher, said.

Kelly Hatcher said her husband suffered a severe spinal cord injury and remains hospitalized in Asheville.

While their friend biked miles out of the woods to get help, Kelly Hatcher worked to keep her husband alive in the wilderness.

For the first few minutes, it was really kind of touch and go. There were a couple other times I had to breathe for him and I told him You have one job and this is to breathe, if you cant breathe, I will breathe for you, she said.

Doctors said Phillip Hatchers injury was similar to Christopher Reeves, and that he may never walk again, but Phillip Hatcher refused to accept that prognosis.

There has been slow progress, with movement in his hands and feet. Kelly Hatcher shares regular updates to an army of supporters online.

Donations and fundraisers are helping the couple get through, and Kelly Hatcher said prayers will get her husband back on his feel.

I know a miracle happened with him there, and it happened right in front of me, she said.

Kelly Hatcher said her husband began moving his fingers Monday, which is a big milestone for somebody with his type of injury. She said her husband still plans to get on a mountain bike again someday.

756. https://www.kansascity.com/news/local/article216140145.html

Joel Diffendaffer, the chair of performing arts at Pembroke Hills upper school, died Aug. 4, 2018, from an aortic dissection suffered while on a mountain biking trip in Colorado. He was 44. Courtesy Pembroke Hill School

Pembroke choral director dies; memorials come in song and on wheels

BY JOE ROBERTSON

jrobertson@kcstar.com

August 05, 2018 05:45 PM

Pembroke Hill Upper School choral director Joel Diffendaffer died Saturday after being hospitalized with a sudden tearing in his heart, suffered while mountain biking recently in Colorado, the school announced Sunday.

He was 44.

Memorials planned for Diffendaffer, Pembrokes chair of performing arts and previously the choir director at The Barstow School, will feature some of his favorite activities singing Sunday night, and a morning bike ride Monday.

The Class of 2018 was planning to lead a singing gathering at Pembrokes Ward Parkway campus at 9:30 p.m. Sunday, the school said.

757. https://www.hometownsource.com/sun_thisweek/community/eagan/death-reported-at-lebanon-hills-mountain-bike-trails/article_d1eed778-9a5b-11e8-826d-d3f55565c666.html

Death reported at Lebanon Hills mountain bike trails

by Andy Rogers
Aug 7, 2018 Updated 3 hrs ago

Hennepin County Medical Examiner to determine cause

The Eagan Police Department confirmed a 40-year-old male died due to a "serious medical event" while at the Lebanon Hills Regional Park mountain bike trails Monday.

The name will be released once the Hennepin County Medical Examiner has made a positive identification and notified the family.

Eagan police officers responded to a report of a man on a bike path who was not breathing at Lebanon Hills Park at about 6:52 p.m. Monday.

When officers located a 40-year-old man, emergency personnel began resuscitation efforts, but the man was ultimately pronounced deceased on the scene.

According to the Eagan Police Department, officers interviewed the caller who reported seeing the man go down. The caller said the man had been involved in a minor crash while biking but appeared uninjured. But, a short time later, the man fell unconscious.

The police do not suspect foul play. Both the Eagan police and fire departments responded to the scene.

The park was temporarily closed.

The Hennepin County Medical Examiner will be determining the cause of death.

758. https://www.bozemandailychronicle.com/opinions/letters_to_editor/reckless-cyclists-must-slow-down-watch-for-others/article_ee77a85f-bed6-5210-ae64-dc97f07bedb0.html#utm_source=bozemandailychronicle.com&utm_campaign=opnion-headlines&utm_medium=email&utm_content=read%20more

Reckless cyclists must slow down, watch for others

Eileen Hansen

Recently I was injured while walking the Sourdough Trail between Goldenstein and Graf. A bicyclist hit me head-on and the violent impact threw me onto my back into the bushes with the rider and his bike landing on top of me. I sustained a concussion, cuts to my arm and an open wound with severe bleeding to my leg. At the emergency room I received many stitches which will require a lengthy process of painful healing and result in permanent scarring.

Many others have reported the careless behavior of the speed of cyclists. In addition, the Tuckerman parking lot now has a public restroom only to increase the traffic on this once serene trail.

The trail is a beautiful path enjoyed by seniors, parents with small children, dog walkers and bird watchers. Its time to ride and be mindful of the safety of others. Slow down, use a bell or other warning and dont drive recklessly.

Eileen Hansen

Bozeman

759. http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-5895341/Beloved-schoolteacher-father-left-paralysed-grisly-crash-mountain-bike-race.html

He cant feel anything from the waist down: Beloved schoolteacher and father is left paralysed with a shattered spine after a grisly crash during a mountain bike race

A beloved teacher and father has been paralysed in a horrific accident
John Blunden was competing in an endurance mountain bike race near Gympie
Mr Blunden was paralysed in the accident and suffered multiple bone breaks

By ADAM MCCLEERY FOR DAILY MAIL AUSTRALIA

PUBLISHED: 06:28 EDT, 28 June 2018 | UPDATED: 06:28 EDT, 28 June 2018

A beloved school teacher and father of two has been paralysed and left in the ICU after a mountain bike accident during a race on Sunday.

Sunshine Coast man and Sienna Catholic College teacher John Blunden was taking part in the endurance race in Kybong, Queensland, 13km from Gympie when the accident occurred, 7 News reported.

Mr Blunden suffered a punctured lung, 10 broken ribs a cracked sternum and vertebra in his cervical spine and 3 shattered vertebra in his thoracic spine.

John Blunden (pictured) suffered a punctured lung, 10 broken ribs a cracked sternum and vertebra in his cervical spine and 3 shattered vertebra in his thoracic spine

As a result the community has rallied around Mr Blunden and started a GoFundMepage to help raise funds in support.

'As a result of the injury to his thoracic spine he has no feeling or function from the waist down,' the page read.

'John was operated on and surgeons removed all bone fragments from around the spine and inserted metal rods from T4 - T9 in his spine. He is currently in ICU recovering from surgery.'

The beloved father and teacher works at Siena Catholic College (pictured) on the Sunshine Coast

Mr Blunden was taking part in the endurance race in Kybong, Queensland, 13km from Gympie when the accident occurred (stock image)

The page is asking for any support possible to help Mr Blunden on his road to recovery.

'The road to recovery for John, his wife Carolyn, their son (12 years) and their daughter (8 years) will require many months of treatment and rehabilitation,' the page reads.

'John is a teacher on the Sunshine Coast. Carolyn will be travelling to and from Brisbane for an unknown time to support John as he recovers from his accident, any support that can be offered will be gratefully received.'

It's hoped the page can raise up to $200,00 for Mr Blunden and his family, which includes an eight-year-old daughter and 12-year-old son.

So far the page has raised $21,000.

760. https://globalnews.ca/news/4415629/injured-mountain-biker-rescued-on-north-shore-trail/

Injured mountain biker rescued on North Shore trail

By Erin UbelsNews Anchor CKNW

District of North Vancouver Fire and Rescue Services/Twitter

Fire crews in the District of North Vancouver were called to rescue an injured mountain biker on Mount Seymour Tuesday night.

Fire Chief Brian Hutchinson said they responded to the call at around 6:30 p.m. on a trail with very steep terrain.

Our initial assessment was that the adult male was feeling limited movement in his extremities from mid-chest down. That gave us some cause for concern, he said.

Hutchinson said they then stabilized the man and requested North Shore Rescues helicopter to help get him off the mountain.

He said the man was fully conscious and was transferred over to BC Ambulance care.

From: [a friend]
Subject: Update on the paralyzed Seymour "tourist" mtber....
Date: Tue, 25 Sep 2018 11:48:15 -0700

The "update" on the mountain biking "tourist" (he was not exactly a tourist, in the usual sense of the word) who was severely injured on an illegal mountain bike trail on Seymour re: https://www.nsnews.com/news/mount-biker-receives-severe-spinal-injuries-on-north-van-trail-1.23417236 The high healthcare cost of mountain biking is clearly seen here....

https://www.gofundme.com/lets-help-yuri

Juraj Jakubac (pronounced Yuri) is 30 years old avid mountain biker, passionate climber, fisherman, photographer and traveler. He is originally from Slovakia and he came to Canada with his girlfriend 18 months ago through work and travel program to enjoy BC's outdoor playground - especially world-famous bike trails on North Shore and Sea to Sky region and climbing walls of Squamish. Yuri was a bike mechanic in Slovakia for last 5 years, and he hoped to work in a cycling-related field here in Canada as well, but he ended up working as rope access technician.

On Tuesday August 28th, Yuri and his three riding buddies went to ride their favorite trail on Mt Seymour in North Vancouver after work. There are few technical and steep rock faces they've all ridden before, but this time one of these rock faces changed his life forever. When Yuri tumbled down and landed on his head all of his friends immediately knew that this is very serious, Yuri wasn't moving but was awake and describing that he was unable to feel nor move from neck down.

His friends did an incredible job of looking after him and running up the trail to meet the firefighter crew, then the North Shore Rescue were able to assist just in time with Talon helicopters flying to airlift him off the mountain before darkness. Yuri was taken to the hospital and underwent emergency surgery in order to have the best chance to recover.

Yuri's sister, who is also a resident of the Mount Seymour area with her young family, got the call the next morning confirming the surgery went very well, but her brother suffered a very severe spinal injury in the neck area (C6). Doctors said that he will not be able to walk again, but they hope that Yuri will at least have limited functionality in his hands which should allow him to live his life independently.

We, Yuri's family, partner, and friends would like to express our sincere thanks and appreciation to; Yuri's bike buddies, the members of North Vancouver Fire Department, North Shore Rescue and Talon Helicopters for their heroic efforts. Also the medical professionals from BC Ambulance and Vancouver General Hospital for their amazing care and expertise.

Yuri is currently benefiting from the excellent care of spinal cord injury specialists in Vancouver General Hospital. Every day he is doing better than the day before. He is not fed via tube anymore, he is breathing on his own and he started with exercises to strengthen his muscles. He can control his biceps, wrist and partly triceps sadly not his fingers yet.
There is long and demanding road ahead of him, but Yuri is a very tough guy with extremely positive attitude to life so we have no doubt that he can prove to recover better than expected.

This page is to raise money to help with the many costs that come from this life-changing bike accident. Yuris hospitalisation is covered for now, but doctors and specialists estimated that the total costs of Yuris recovery and adaptation to new life can easily exceed 80 000 CAD. The most significant items are:

- the long road ahead of rehabilitation and treatments (50 000 CAD and up):
          - rehabilitation
          - physiotherapy
          - stem cell therapy
- the purchase of the necessary equipment to adapt to new life
          - power wheelchair (5 000 - 15 000 CAD)
          - ceiling lift (5 000 - 10 000 CAD)
          - bed mattress (up to 4 000 CAD)
          - electric bed frame (up to 3 000 CAD)
          - commode / toilet ( up to 5 000 CAD)
- other at this point unknown expenses

If you are able and would like to support Yuri, please make a donation. Even small contributions will make a difference when they come from many of us.

If you are intersted in how Yuri is doing and how raised funds were used, please follow Yuri @ https://www.facebook.com/pg/JuroYuri/

761. https://www.stuff.co.nz/nelson-mail/news/106991318/nelson-mountainbiker-suffers-spinal-injury

Nelson mountainbiker suffers spinal injury

TIM NEWMAN

Last updated 16:56, September 11 2018
Patrick Hamilton

Promising Nelson rider Finn Richardson was flown to Christchurch after his horror crash.

A young Nelson mountainbiker has sustained potentially serious back injuries following a crash.

Finn Richardson, 17, was airlifted to Christchurch Hospital on Saturday after falling off his mountainbike at a property in Todds Valley.

Nelson Marlborough Rescue Helicopter Trust pilot Barry McAuliffe said a chopper was sent out after a call was received at 2pm on Saturday.

McAuliffe said Richardson landed heavily after going over the handlebars and landing on his head and neck.

With suspected back injuries, Richardson was winched into the helicopter and flown directly to Christchurch's spinal unit, where he arrived at about 4.45pm.

Richardson posted about his "potentially life changing crash" on his Instagram page on Sunday.

He said he had broken his T5 vertebrae, and was trying to stay positive while looking forward to a long period of recovery.

A Christchurch Hospital spokesperson said on Tuesday afternoon that it was still "too early to tell" the extent of Richardson's injuries.

762. https://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/news/northern-ireland/mountain-biker-suffers-serious-injuries-in-mourne-event-37319870.html

Mountain biker suffers 'serious injuries' in Mourne event

The emergency services were praised for their teamwork. Pic Mourne Mountain Rescue.

By Jonathan Bell

September 15 2018

A mountain biker suffered serious injuries in a fall while taking part in an event on the Mournes.

It happened just before 3.30pm on Saturday.

Emergency services including the Mourne Mountain Rescue and the Air Ambulance were sent to the scene.

St John's Ambulance personnel were on duty during the event and administered first aid.

The casualty was treated, packaged and carried by stretcher to the Air Ambulance helicopter before being rushed to hospital.

The incident was stood down at 6.30pm.

"Great teamwork from the ambulance service, NI Air Ambulance, St John's Ambulance and PSNI," said a spokesperson for the Mourne Mountain Rescue team which had 14 members on the scene.

763. https://www.stuff.co.nz/nelson-mail/107120579/finn-richardson-on-the-recovery-trail-after-serious-mountainbiking-accident

Finn Richardson on the recovery trail after serious mountainbiking accident

TIM O'CONNELL

Last updated 17:15, September 16 2018
3
Supplied

With a long road to recovery predicted, efforts are underway to raise money for young Nelson rider Finn Richardson and his family.

With the prognosis of a long recovery likely, efforts are underway to support the family of young Nelson rider Finn Richardson.

It has been one week since the 17-year-old Nelson mountain biker sustained serious back injuries following a crash.

Richardson was airlifted to Christchurch Hospital last Saturday after falling off his mountain bike at a property in Todds Valley, north of Nelson.
Supplied

Finn Richardson was recovering in Christchurch's Burwood Spinal Unit following a serious mountainbiking crash near Nelson.

Nelson Marlborough Rescue Helicopter Trust pilot Barry McAuliffe said last week that Richardson fell heavily after going over the handlebars and landing on his head and neck.

In an Instagram post following the accident, Richardson said he had broken his T5 vertebrae, and was trying to stay positive while looking forward to a long period of recovery.

Richardson underwent spinal surgery that night and was subsequently moved from ICU Christchurch to Burwood Hospital on Tuesday.

He will be staying in the spinal unit for the next two to three months and is currently been treated as a paraplegic.

Family spokesperson Dulkara Martig said Richardson has started some physiotherapy rehabilitation and next week will begin a more comprehensive programme.

"Finn is staying positive and is thankful for all the love and support from everybody," she said.

Martig said the family will not have more information about the extent of Finn's injuries for at least four weeks.

His parents Claire Bawtree and Glenn Richardson acknowledged the "amazing" staff and facilities at Burwood, and also thanked the rescue helicopter personnel and the people of Nelson for the overwhelming amount of support and kind messages received so far.

A bank account has been set up for the family to support them during the rehabilitation process.

Donations can be made to:

Account name: 'Finn Richardson'

Account number: 03-1354-0475622-16

A fundraising campaign to set up an 'Adventure Fund' to help Finn get back into adventuring during his recovery period and beyond is also underway.

If you have a product or service you are willing to donate to this, please email dulkara.martig@gmail.com with 'Finn' in the subject line.

764. https://www.illawarramercury.com.au/story/5649113/mountain-biker-injured-at-budderoo-national-park/

Cyclist injured at Budderoo National Park

Brendan Crabb

Update 11am: The woman, who is in a stable condition, is being transported via helicopter to Wollongong Hospital.

Earlier:

Emergency services are responding to a cyclist who was injured at Budderoo National Park on Monday morning.

A 59-year-old female has fallen off a mountain bike and fractured her pelvis.

The incident occurred just before 10am.

The Ambulance NSW helicopter was sent to a meeting place at the junction of Mountain Road and Budderoo Mountain Road, about 5km from where the accident occurred in the bush.

It's understood the cyclist was travelling downhill about 20km/h when the accident happened.

The Mercury also understands that the right side of the woman's helmet took the brunt of the impact.

765. "This is the second mountain-biking death on the trail in just over a year, according to the Times. A 67-year-old man from Kentucky died on the Valhalla trail in July 2017." Apparently, humans can't learn from their or others' mistakes.

Mike

https://denver.cbslocal.com/2018/09/30/man-dies-mountain-biking-snowmass/

Report: Man Dies Mountain Biking On Expert Trail At Snowmass Ski Area

September 30, 2018 at 5:58 pm
Filed Under:Aspen Snowmass Ski Resort, Mountain Biking
Gondola line goes up mountain as it sits empty in the summer at Snowmass, Colorado. (iStock/Getty Images)

ASPEN, Colo. (CBS4) A man died while mountain biking on an expert trail at the Snowmass ski area Saturday afternoon, the Aspen Times reported. The man was 61 years old, but his name and cause of death have not been released.

The man was riding on the Valhalla trail and appeared to be riding alone, the Times cited Skico spokesman Jeff Hanle as saying.

Another biker found the man and called Skico patrol at 1:10 p.m, Hanle told the Times. An off-duty patroller arrived at 1:12 p.m. and started CPR. A medical team arrived at 1:20 and continued CPR for 25 minutes.

The Aspen Snowmass website describes Valhalla trail as an advanced freeride trail.

Valhalla is the original freeride trail at Snowmass Bike Park. The trail winds through aspen forests over its 2.8 mile course, dropping 1,400 vertical feet back to the base. Valhalla challenges riders with numerous jumps, set ups and wooden features, the website states.

Snowmass Village Police Chief Brian Olson told the Times Skico will handle the investigation because there was no crime involved.

This is the second mountain-biking death on the trail in just over a year, according to the Times. A 67-year-old man from Kentucky died on the Valhalla trail in July 2017.

766. If a Trek director can't safely mountain bike, then no one can!

Mike

https://cyclingtips.com/2018/10/trek-director-found-unconscious-after-riding-incident-tennis-star-slams-cycling-for-doping-problem-daily-news-digest/

Trek director found unconscious; Tennis star slams cycling: Daily News Digest

by CyclingTips

October 16, 2018

WELCOME TO YOUR DAILY NEWS DIGEST. HERES WHATS HAPPENING TODAY:

Trek-Segafredo director Steven De Jongh failed to return from a ride and was found unconscious in Spain today. The Dutchman was found lying in a ravine along a popular biking road in the Catalonia region. Also, tennis sensation Novak Djokovic slammed cycling for its doping problem and a South African mountain biker received a four-year ban for biological passport abnormalities. Those stories and more in todays Daily News Digest.

STORY OF THE DAY: STEVEN DE JONGH FOUND UNCONSCIOUS AFTER RIDE IN SPAIN

Trek-Segafredo Director Sportif Steven De Jongh went missing early Monday morning after he didnt return from a ride in the Catalonia region of Spain. He was found hours later by helicopter, unconscious but breathing. Reports indicate that De Jongh regained consciousness at the hospital.

De Jonghs wife Ren饠Meijer made a call for help on Twitter after her husband didnt return from his ride. Meijers tweet was retweeted over 2,000 times before news finally broke that De Jongh had been found.

Thank you kind people, the helicopter has found @stevendejongh . More news later. He breaths and has a pulse .

Renee Meijer (@reneemeijer02) October 15, 2018

Strava seems to have played a part in helping to find De Jongh. The Dutchmans ride was shared on Twitter and showed him suddenly stopping along a common bicycle route between the towns of Calonge and La Bisbal del Ampurdᮮ The police are currently investigating whether De Jongh was hit by a car or the rainy weather had anything to do with the incident.

Need to find Mark Roberts https://t.co/QNmMpqyqn9 he might have more information. pic.twitter.com/gNu3SUsjQq

Robert van Klinken (@robertvklinken) October 15, 2018

De Jongh has been a staple on the cycling scene for decades. He won the E3 Prijs Harelbeke in 2003 and was twice victorious at Kuurne-Brussel-Kuurne. He turned pro in 1996 and retired from racing in 2010 after spending his final year on Team Sky. Hes been with Trek-Segafredo for the last few seasons and also previously worked with Alberto Contador during the Tinkoff-Saxo Bank years.

Update: Trek-Segafredo has revealed that De Jongh suffered a severe concussion in the crash but that scans revealed no broken bones.

767. https://www.thefreepress.ca/news/fernie-sar-rescues-mountain-biker/

Fernie SAR rescues mountain biker

The man sustained a neck injury while riding Todays Special, a new trail in Fernie
KIMBERLEY VLASIC
Oct. 20, 2018 9:30 p.m.

A mountain biker has been rescued from a new trail in Fernie.

On Saturday, Fernie Search and Rescue was called to Todays Special, a black diamond-rated singetrack located at Castle Mountain and recently opened to the public.

According to Fernie SAR, the biker, a local man, sustained a neck injury when he fell from his bike.

The agency responded with four Class D Fixed Line technicians to stablize and extricate the man, who was handed over to BC Ambulance Service in Fernie.

768. https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-scotland-south-scotland-45937795

Mountain biker rescued from Ae forest after fall

22 October 2018
Image copyrightMOFFAT MOUNTAIN RESCUEImage captionThe accident happened in the Ae forest in Dumfries and Galloway

A mountain biker has been rescued after falling from his bike and suffering concussion in the Ae forest in Dumfries and Galloway.

Moffat Mountain Rescue Team were alerted to the unconscious man at about 15:00 on Sunday and said he had fallen on a steep route, deep in the forest.

A rescue helicopter was also called out from Prestwick.

The man regained consciousness and the mountain rescue team managed to get him to an ambulance.

The team's doctor then aided the ambulance crew before the man was taken to Dumfries and Galloway Royal Infirmary.

769. https://www.thenorthernecho.co.uk/news/16997736.hamsterley-forest-mountain-biker-taken-to-hospital-with-serious-head-injuries/

Hamsterley Forest mountain biker taken to hospital with "serious head injuries"

By Rachel Conner-Hill echorachelcReporter (Durham)

Teesdale and Weardale Search and Mountain Rescue were called to help an injured mountain biker in Hamsterley Forest Picture: TWSMRT

A MOUNTAIN biker was taken to hospital with "serious head injuries" after coming off his bike in a forest.

The man came off his bike while riding in Hamsterley Forest, in County Durham, on Saturday.

It happened at about 1pm and Teesdale and Weardale Search and Mountain Rescue Team (TWSMRT) was called to assist the North East Ambulance Service to get him out of the forest.

A TWSMRT spokesperson said: "The team called to assist NEAS evacuating a mountain biker in Hamsterly Forest who had come off his bike and suffered serious head injuries.

"The cyclist was evacuated down to a NEAS ambulance for transportation to hospital."

770. http://kbnd.com/kbnd-news/local-news-feed/386532

Young Bend Mountain Biker Rescued After Crash

Posted: 2018-10-22 07:25:00by Heather Roberts

MT. BACHELOR, OR -- A boy from Bend was hurt in a mountain biking accident near Swampy Lakes Snow Park, Sunday afternoon.

Deschutes County Search and Rescue responded to the area and provided some medical treatment. He was then wheeled to the trailhead where Bend Fire medics took over and transported him to St. Charles Bend with non-life threatening injuries.

771. https://280living.com/people/shelby-county-commissioner-on-the-mend-after-bike-accident1022/

Shelby County commissioner on the mend after bike accident

by LEAH INGRAM EAGLE

October 22, 2018

Photo courtesy of Mike Vest.

Shelby County Commissioner Mike Vest was injured in a bike riding accident at Oak Mountain State Park in August, and he has been slowly recovering from a broken neck, concussion and Central Cord Syndrome.

Mike Vest has been an avid mountain biker for six years. Although hes had wrecks in the past, nothing came close to the one he had the evening of Aug. 6.

After leaving work that Monday evening, he headed to Oak Mountain State Park to ride on the North Lakes Connector Trail. Mike Vest, who is also the Shelby County District 6 commissioner, remembers crossing two bridges before being face down, unable to move and his vision going black. He landed on the right side of his head and had a softball-sized injury on his knee.

He doesnt know how much time passed before an angel Graham Alexander, a 16-year-old Mountain Brook resident who was fishing nearby found him.

Who would be fishing at 6 oclock at night and hear my cries for help that far away? Mike Vest said.

Alexander called 911 and Mike Vests wife, Diana. She had been working in her shop all day and had just gotten home when her phone rang. She said she did worry about her husband riding alone but thought this was a minor accident and that theyd be home in a few hours.

Never could I have imagined that it was as serious as it was, she said.

When she arrived at OMSP, after calling their son Griffin and the pastor at Double Oak Community Church, Diana Vest saw her husband strapped to a back board with his neck stabilized. He was alert and talking to her.

I never had a single moment of fear, she said. I knew that God had his hand in this and that Mike would be all right.

Mike Vests neck was broken and he was later diagnosed with a concussion and Central Cord Syndrome. His spinal cord was swelling and compressed due to bone spurs that existed before the accident. Surgery was performed the next day to clean the area up and reduce swelling in his spinal column. A metal rod was also placed in his neck to help stabilize it.

Since Mike Vest was unable to eat solid foods and didnt want to drink the blended meals that were provided, he lost 20 pounds during his stay. He also was unable to move his fingers for over a week due to CCS.

Through daily physical and occupational therapy, he relearned to walk and regained fine motor skills in his hands.

Diana Vest said through it all, he always had a smile or joke for the nurses and they all loved him. She knew if he said he would walk out in four weeks, he would without a doubt.

I just want people to know what they were doing worked, and the thousands of people that were praying for me, that their prayers worked 1,000 percent, Mike Vest said. I was out of there because God heard their prayers.

Though he was initially told his stay would be five to eight weeks, he was out in just three and a half weeks. Mike Vest was released on Aug. 30 and immediately went to Chick-Fil-A in Greystone to surprise his son Griffin at work. A few days later, he would surprise his team at the Addiction Prevention Coalition, where he serves as executive director.

Mike Vest is continuing his rehab at home and at Encore Rehab. He is still experiencing tingling from his forearms to fingertips and from his shins to his toes, which might not ever go away. His upper body and lungs are still weak and as a former professional country music singer of nine years, he is looking forward to getting his singing voice back.

Things like shaving, brushing his teeth and eating take longer than hes used to.

My strength and energy level in my mind says Im not tired, but my body is telling me nerves are still damaged, Mike Vest said.

During his time in the hospital, he only missed two Shelby County Commission meetings and was glad to get back to serving his district.

Mike Vest said the outpouring of love, prayer and support he and his family received blew me away.

After the accident, his friend Chad Scroggins went to OMSP to retrieve and clean up his bike. Mike Vest took it for one last ride but said his days of trail riding are over.

As Mike Vest continues his healing process, he is optimistic and grateful.

Im glad God chose me to go through this, he said. I havent asked or thought one time, Why me, Lord? Im so glad I had this opportunity because Gods got something bigger out there for me and my family. I dont know what it is, but I count it all joy.

772. https://www.dng24.co.uk/rescue-for-biker/

Rescue for biker

Amanda Kennedy, Friday 26th October 2018
Section: Dumfries and West, Moffat | Tags: Ae, MMRT, moffat mountain rescue team

RESCUERS were called to the aid of a mountain biker found unconscious in Ae last weekend.

Moffat Mountain Rescue Team (MMRT), police, ambulance services and a Coastguard rescue helicopter were all deployed to Ae on Sunday to help a collapsed university student. The mountain biker had fallen from his bike and suffered concussion on a steep route deep in the forest.

James Cole, of MMRT, said: It was possible to get the biker who had now recovered consciousness to the ambulance, where the our doctor was able to assist the ambulance crew with treatment. The helicopter was able to return to base and the ambulance transferred the casualty to Dumfries and Galloway Royal Infirmary.

He added: More teams members stood by in case a carry out was required, but fortunately this was not required. This incident occurred less than a week before the teams major annual joint exercise where all four team across the Scottish Border join forces to practice and hone their Mountain Rescue skills for precisely this sort of incident.

773. https://globalnews.ca/news/4603242/mountain-biker-hospital-bragg-creek-injuries/

Mountain biker airlifted to hospital after suffering injuries in Bragg Creek

By Christa DaoDigital Journalist Global News

A mountain biker found near Bragg Creek was flown to hospital after suffering serious injuries on Saturday.
File/Global News

A mountain biker found near Bragg Creek was flown to hospital after suffering serious injuries on Saturday.

According to Redwood Meadows fire chief Rob Evans, the biker was found on a trail in west Bragg Creek and was suffering from head and shoulder injuries. He was discovered by a passerby who immediately called 911.

STARS said the 47-year-old man sustained traumatic injuries from the accident and was flown to Foothills Medical Centre in Calgary in non-life-threatening condition.

Emergency responders were called to the trail at around 11:20 a.m.

Redwood Meadows fire department said it assisted STARS Air Ambulance with a landing zone.

774. https://www.gazetteherald.co.uk/news/17187164.scarborough-and-ryedale-mountain-rescue-team-called-to-mountain-biker/

Scarborough and Ryedale Mountain Rescue Team called to mountain biker

Karen Darley

Scarborough and Ryedale Mountain Rescue Team (SRMT) were called at 1.34pm on Sunday to a male mountain biker who had sustained an arm injury on a descent from White Cliff Rigg in Dalby Forest.

Working with Yorkshire Ambulance Service and Forest Rangers the team administered pain relief, splinted the injured limb and loaded the man onto their bell stretcher.

SRMT used ropes to protect the carry out to a forest track before transferring him to the North Yorkshire Ambulance for transport to hospital.

A spokesperson said: " Our last action was to transport his bike back to the visitor centre car park for his riding partners to take home. We wish him a speedy recovery."

Photos - Scarborough and Ryedale Mountain Rescue Team

775. https://www.concordmonitor.com/Dunbarton-NH-man-died-biking-incident-worked-in-human-rights-21264952

Dunbarton man known for humanitarian work dies after mountain bike crash

Raymond Sumner Perry, Jr., riding his bike on Mount Washington. Perry died after suffering injuries in a September 27 biking crash in Dorchester. Courtesy

By CAITLIN ANDREWS
Monitor staff
Thursday, November 01, 2018
DUNBARTON NH

A Dunbarton man known for his work with human rights died after a mountain biking accident in Dorchester.

Raymond Ry Sumner Perry, Jr., 67, was biking the Green Woodlands trails close to the Vermont border with a friend last Saturday when he crashed his bike two miles away from the trailhead, a spokesperson for New Hampshire Fish and Game said.

Multiple local emergency services responded and transported him to Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Hospital by Warren-Wentworth Ambulance. He later died from his injuries.

An avid cyclist, Perry regularly competed in races, including Mount Washington Hill Climb, 24 Hours of Great Glen and Crank the Kanc. His love affair with cycling started with much smaller distances, however; as a grad student without a reliable car, he used to ride his bike to Franklin Pierce Law School in Concord, according to his obituary.

Perry was known in the community for his dedication to human rights. He was the first person to receive the HR Hero Award from the Human Resources Community of New Hampshire, an award given to someone who takes pride in advancing the HR profession and devotes valuable time to volunteering in their community, according to the website.

He has also been recognized by the Granite State Independent Living Foundation for his work with individuals with disabilities.

Ry made his way through the world with modesty and a fearless commitment to equality and justice, his obit reads. He honored the humanity in each of us and worked tirelessly on behalf of those who needed a voice.

His past experience included time as the executive director for the New Hampshire Commission for Human Rights; the director of client and legal services at the behavioral health division of the state Department of Health and Human Services, and time at the law firm Sheehan Phinney Bass & Green.

Perry is survived by his sister, Kathryn Firczuk of Durham and his son, Christopher Perry of Concord, and partner Judy Caron.

Those who knew Perry are invited to remember him during a gathering at Waters Funeral Home from 4 to 6 p.m. Friday.

776. https://www.pinkbike.com/news/yuris-story-paralysed-mountain-biker-sea-to-sky.html

Telling Yuri's Story

Nov 4, 2018
by Jan Valaska

Yuris story

My name is Jano and I am originally from Slovakia. I came to Whistler in 2009 on a one-year work permit, and I immediately fell in love with the local lifestyle. I moved to Canada because of skiing, but 9 years later and I am still here mainly because of mountain biking. In the meantime, I married a Slovak girl and moved to North Vancouver, but I never stopped riding and exploring mountain bike trails in the Sea To Sky region. My young family (wife and 1-year-old daughter) now calls Canada home and life has been really great until recently.

One and half years ago my wife's brother Yuri came to Canada as a temporary worker and him being a bike mechanic and biker his whole life in Slovakia, he got addicted to local trails instantly. We were riding together a lot, and Yuri quickly built up his skills and soon enough he was able to tackle the gnarliest trails on North Shore and in Sea To Sky region.

One evening in late August, I got a phone call from my riding buddy who told me that Yuri had a very nasty crash on steep rock-roll on the new trail we had recently found on Mt. Seymour and they need help to get him out of the mountain. Two hours later Yuri was taken by helicopter to Vancouver General Hospital and underwent emergency surgery. Next morning the doctor informed us that Yuri suffered severe spinal cord injury and will most likely never walk again, but they hope that he will have at least limited functionality in his hands which will allow him to live his life independently to a certain extent.

For the next few days I had a feeling that what is happening around me cannot be real and it is just a bad dream. How is it possible that my brother-in-law, normally a very active guy is suddenly laying down in the hospital bed all day long, is being fed via tube, a machine is helping him to breathe, and all he can do is just blink with his eyes? I hoped that I would wake up from this nightmare soon, but eventually I realized that this is not a dream, this is our new reality.

Yuri spent first 10 days in ICU (intensive care unit) and once his vital functions stabilized he was transferred to spinal unit, where he was currently waiting for an open spot in GF Strong Rehabilitation Centre. His condition got much better since his first day in ICU, but this is just the beginning, and there is a long road ahead of him. His current state is that he can breathe on his own, talk, feed himself and he is exercising every day to build strength in his muscles. He can control his biceps, wrist and partly triceps. Unfortunately, he is not able to use his fingers yet, but Yuri is a tough guy with an extremely positive attitude to life so we all believe he will regain functionality at least in his fingers one day.

Immediately after his accident, I kept asking myself what could have I done better or differently to avoid this situation?. The simplest answer that came to my mind was not ride at all, but that is of course not acceptable for a biker. I realized that I should be asking myself how should I ride in order to minimize the chances of getting into a similar situation?. Yuri and I brainstormed about it, and we came up with the following list, which might help you to ride in smarter, safer and more sustainable way without sacrificing joy from riding.

Never ride alone

Yuri would most likely have died (frozen to death) on the trail if he was riding alone that day because after his crash he wasnt able to move at all. It happened in the evening on the remote trail so no one would be able to find him until next day.
Please do your best to ride with at least one, ideally with two buddies. If something goes wrong, one person can stay with the injured rider, and the other one can go get help.

Carry essential gear

Even if you are going just for a short ride on your local mountain after work be prepared for the unexpected. Your bike might break, you could get lost while exploring a new area or someone might get hurt. You will be able to deal with an unanticipated event more easily if you pack following items with you: multi-tool, tube patch kit, pump, headlamp, first aid kit, charged cell phone.

Please be wise and do not ride without essential gear.

Keep your body ready

Most of us bikers find stretching lame and time-wasting, but as we all know mountain biking is a very demanding sport for our bodies. Regular stretching and exercise (e.g. yoga) will help to prepare your body for a ride, will reduce chances of you getting seriously hurt and will significantly decrease your recovery times if you get hurt. This does not apply only to more experienced AKA older riders, it is very beneficial for youngsters as well.
Please invest time in your body and give it some love regularly. It will reward you by allowing you to continue to enjoy riding for many more years and with fewer injuries.

Do your warm-up lap

Starting your ride on a gnarly and challenging double black trail is much more fun than an easy peasy ride down the blue trail, but your body needs a bit of time to reach proper operating temperature, which will allow it to function at its best. Warmed up muscles or ligaments absorb impacts much better and is less likely to get damaged or torn during the crash.
Please take it easy on your first run of the day, especially when you are shuttling (not pedaling) to your trail.

Follow your gut

Should I go for it? you might find yourself asking this question when you are standing at the top of the drop or in front of the gap jump. One day you might feel strong and confident, another day you might feel weaker and not so sure about same drop or jump.
Please dont go for it if you are not feeling it that day - you can come back and try again another day.

Have appropriate insurance

Most of us bikers would choose to spend money on drivetrain upgrade or fork tuning instead of purchasing proper insurance. This is totally understandable, but it might not be the wisest thing to do. This applies especially for bikers who are riding outside of their motherland.

From my understanding, there are 3 types of insurance at play when biking abroad. The first one is your home countrys medical insurance. It covers you when you get hurt in your homeland or once you are transported back to your home country in the case you get injured out of the country. The second type is travel insurance which covers unexpected critical care abroad and cost of transporting you back home. If you have been living long enough in a foreign country, you might become eligible for insurance offered to local residents. That is the third type of insurance. The catch with this type is that it does not cover your transport home. Additionally, your coverage might get cancelled by issuing country under certain circumstances, and you would have to pay for your stay in the hospital out of your pocket. As an illustration, be aware that one day in Canadian hospital can cost you up to 15,000 CAD, your bill for surgery will be at least 50,000 CAD and price of transportation with a medical team from Canada to Europe is somewhere between 60,000 to 80,000 CAD.

Please be smart and always make sure you are covered by adequate travel insurance when riding abroad. And make sure that it covers high-risk sports like mountain biking.

When I saw Yuri in ICU for the first time, I was convinced that I would not want to ride my bike ever again. Today I feel different, and I know that I will not stop biking because it is a big part of me and it gives me too much pleasure. But I will definitely ride differently...

I hope Yuri's story will not discourage you from biking. I hope it will provoke you to think instead and will encourage you to take steps to minimize risks associated with the sport we love to prevent life-changing injuries similar to the one that happened to Yuri.

Most of the people might consider Yuris accident devastating for him and his family. I concur that it is life-changing, but definitely not life-ending. I already noticed a few very positive effects it had on us - closest people around Yuri. It made us:
- more grateful for everything we have
- more careful about everything we do
- more caring for people around us
- more united as a family

Have fun out there, but please PLAY SAFE.

If you are interested in how Yuri is doing, you can follow him at on his Facebook page.

Jano

777. http://www.moabsunnews.com/news/article_52fa8e7e-e37d-11e8-a9f8-4b9844817a80.html

Mountain biker dies on Porcupine Rim trail

Emergency crews respond to fatal accident

Posted: Thursday, November 8, 2018 10:40 am

A 57-year-old woman from Edwards, Colorado, died on Sunday, Nov. 4, after reportedly falling from her mountain bike on Porcupine Rim in the Matt Martin Point area.

The Grand County Sheriffs Office dispatch received a call of a mountain bike accident at 1:35 p.m. First responders with Classic Air Medical and the Grand County Sheriffs Office responded to the accident scene.

A report from the Grand County Sheriffs Office said the womans fatal injuries were the result of a fall. The decedent was transported to the Utah State Medical Examiners Office for further determination on the cause of death, reports said.

778. https://www.stuff.co.nz/national/108509610/Mountainbiker-dies-in-crash-near-Takaka

Mountainbiker dies in crash near Takaka

Skara Bohny and Oliver Lewis14:33, Nov 11 2018

The Rameka track in Golden Bay is rated as an intermediate track. (File photo)

Golden Bay's mountainbiking community is "reeling" after a man died in a crash near Takaka.

Antoni Robert Langtry, from Feilding, was found by a member of the public on the Rameka Track about 2.30pm on Saturday.

Despite attempts at CPR, the 52-year-old died at the scene. It is not yet known what caused the crash, and his death has been referred to the coroner.

No other people were involved.

Golden Bay Mountain Bike Club acting president Chris Burtenshaw said the mountainbiking community was "reeling" in the wake of the crash.

"We're feeling pretty sad, and feeling for his family and sorry that the accident has happened, and condolences to the family and friends," he said.

Langtry had been biking on a lower section of the Rameka Track, on a stretch of trail called The Klicks.

Burtenshaw said members of the mountainbike club were among the first people to find him. He did not want to speculate if any medical conditions were involved.

"To all intents and purposes, it looks like a crash.

"People are trying to make sense of it. It's not an area known to be dodgy or dangerous or hard. It's just really unfortunate that it's happened."

A police spokesman said a serious crash analyst went to the crash site and mapped the gradients of the surrounding terrain to assist the coroner's investigation.

"At this point in time it looks like a tragic and unfortunate accident as opposed to a medical event," the spokesman said.

The Rameka Track is an Intermediate track that starts in the Canaan Downs area on the Takaka Hill.

Its first 5 kilometres is through beech forest, but it also has rocky sections, creek crossings and a steeper descent for the last section.

779. https://www.themorningbulletin.com.au/news/rocky-teen-in-coma-after-simple-bike-accident/3591909/

Rocky teen in coma after 'simple mountain bike accident'

780. https://cyclingmagazine.ca/sections/news/north-shore-crash-victim-identified/

North Shore crash victim follow up

Vancouver mountain biker killed on May 7.

June 12th, 2012 by Rob Sturney | Posted in News

The identity of a mountain biker who died from injuries sustained while riding The Coiler on Cypress Mountain in West Vancouver, British Columbia was identified a week after the accident. Forty-three year old Jonathan Tobias Pilley died on May 7 from chest injuries caused by a collision with a tree after landing a jump.

Pilley, of Vancouver, was a enthusiast and advocate of mountain biking. He was familiar with the Coiler, technically skilled and protected by goggles, gloves, a full-faced helmet and body armour. The jump, made in steep terrain, caused Pilley to be thrown over his handlebars and into a tree. Police characterized Pilleys death as a case of tragic misadventure.

Mark Wood of the North Shore Mountain Bike Association said that its believed that Pilley is the first fatality ever from a mountain bike injury on the famed North Shore. Pilleys family has requested that all donations in his honour be donated to the NSMBA [Oh, great! They want to support more mountain biking deaths!].

781. https://www.wbur.org/hereandnow/2018/12/24/daniel-grossman-er-doctor-paralyzed

ER Doctor Feels 'Increasing Sense Of Loss' 1 Year After Paralyzing Accident11:08

December 24, 2018

Last year, a mountain biking accident left emergency physician Daniel Grossman paralyzed below his mid-abdomen. Just months later, he returned to work, determined to maintain the life he had before the accident. His recovery has been difficult, but Grossman says he's more comfortable working in the emergency room at the Mayo Clinic these days.

"It's sometimes scary caring for other patients with spinal cord injuries. Maybe they broke a foot because they hit it against a wall, or they have a systemic infection from a skin sore thats become infected," he says. "All things that could and may happen to me at some point."

Grossman, who traveled to more than 60 countries before the accident, recently took his first international trip in a wheelchair.

"[It] was a major hurdle to a feeling of normalcy and being able to do what I'm passionate about," Grossman says of his trip to London.

Here & Now's Jeremy Hobson traveled to Minnesota with producer Chris Bentley for a glimpse at Grossman's recovery earlier this year.

782. https://www.pe.com/2019/01/02/lawsuit-says-delays-in-searching-for-corona-mountain-biker-contributed-to-death/

Lawsuit says delays in searching for Corona mountain biker contributed to his death

Andres Marin called home to say he was injured there was no search until the next day.

By RICHARD K. DE ATLEY |
PUBLISHED: January 2, 2019 at 3:03 pm | UPDATED: January 2, 2019 at 4:43 pm
Christyna Arista, left, last heard from her husband, Andres Marin, about 5:30 p.m. Saturday, March 1, 2014, when Marin called to say he had gotten lost while bicycling Santiago Peak in the Cleveland National Forest near Corona.

A Corona family spent a night anxiously waiting for Riverside County sheriffs deputies to organize a search for Andres Marin after he called his wife just before sunset, injured and sounding disoriented after he said he fell while mountain biking on Santiago Peak, a lawsuit says.

But there was no search by authorities for Marin, the father of four, on that chilly and rainy night of March 1, 2014, his 34th birthday.

Outfitted for a daytime ride in moderate temperatures, he was found on a mountain fire road the next morning, dead from hypothermia, according to the Riverside County Coroners office. Another listed significant condition, though not related to the cause of death, was a blunt-impact injury to his head.

His wife, Christyna Arista, and her attorneys say there was another cause of death for her husband: Negligence, because there was no authorized and sworn search-and-rescue team within the Riverside County Sheriffs Department for emergencies such as this.

That helped to create to a shambolic evening, with the family believing deputies would soon organize a search, only to learn late at night that they would not, she says in a lawsuit. Further, the suit says, Arista had to endure overhearing a sheriffs lieutenant comment at her home that perhaps Marin was actually out cheating on her. One of Aristas attorneys, John E. Tiedt, called the comment pure speculation and said there was absolutely no reason for such a conclusion.

Turned down in Riverside County Superior Court, the familys wrongful-death lawsuit was recently revived by an appellate court ruling.

The night Marin called, Arista contacted various authorities to report her husband as missing and in danger, with sheriffs personnel assuming command of the incident and arriving at the family home at around 8 p.m. But the family was told, two hours later, there would be no organized search for him until morning, court papers say.

In the days after Marins death, authorities told the Southern California News Group, that steady rain that night prevented a helicopter rescue, that heavy rain the day before left the clay soil too slick for rescue vehicles, and conditions made hiking to look for Marin dangerous.

The family said it had been asked by deputies not to look for Marin on its own, but after learning there would be no organized search that night, Arias and six other family members hiked into the Cleveland National Forest at 3:45 a.m.

Waiting at home was the hardest part, Arista said in a phone interview. I felt I should have been out there looking for him.

When she raised fear about hypothermia as the evening grew chilly, the lawsuit says, she was told by a sheriffs lieutenant that Marin was a grown man and could survive the night. She was told a helicopter would be sent if Marin were a child, according to the suit.

The defendants let Marin die on their watch, the lawsuit claims.

Marins body was discovered the next morning by a Good Samaritan, Aristas lawsuit says, who had learned that the biker was missing from another member of the volunteer Riverside Mountain Rescue Unit. He rode a motorcycle on the Santiago Trail to look for Marin, discovering the body before search and rescue could even finish their briefing, the suit says.

It was unclear when Marin died.

The Sheriffs Department and a county official, Ray Smith, declined to comment on the lawsuit.

Despite an internal study dated less than a month before Marins death that advocated for the creation of a department-wide Search Management and Rescue Team, Arista and her attorneys said in an interview, the Riverside County sheriffs search-and-rescue command structure has remained unchanged. That study noted search-and-rescue calls had gone from 115 in 2011 up to 237 in 2013, the final full year before the study was issued.

While some sheriffs stations have search-and-rescue teams Hemet, Palm Desert and Colorado River others use such teams made up of volunteers and reserve deputies. The study said there was no agency-wide team of sworn search-and-rescue personnel, so training and coordination is often lacking.

The Sheriffs Department, in a statement, has said that while the agency does not have a dedicated search management and rescue team, it does have sworn personnel who are formally trained in search-and-rescue techniques and stationed throughout the county. The department also has several internal teams and bureaus to aid in search-and-rescue operations, as well as volunteer groups, and uses mutual aid from outside counties.

Riverside Countys defense

In court papers, Riverside County has argued that its employees had no duty to rescue Marin, that it did nothing to put him in danger, nor did it prevent a qualified person from performing a rescue, adding that there is no constitutional duty to provide trained rescue employees. The county also denied creating a special relationship in which Arista and her family might have expected its employees to search for Marin.

A Riverside County Superior Court judge upheld the countys arguments in April 2017. Arista appealed, and on Nov. 21 the Fourth District Court of Appeal Division Two reversed most of the lower courts ruling, saying Arista could indeed seek damages for wrongful death, negligence, and negligent infliction of emotional distress, but not for a civil rights violation.

The appeals court noted that sheriffs deputies had, on March 1, 2014, pinged Marins cell phone to ascertain that he was at Santiago Peak; collected information about Marin from Arista; instructed Verizon personnel in the Santiago Peak area to be vigilant for Marin; placed deputies at trailheads; set a time for a search; and appointed an incident commander.

Assuming the foregoing facts are true, the appellate court wrote, Sheriffs Department personnel (the deputies), through their actions, undertook the responsibility of rescuing the victim. That included using reasonable care not to increase the risk of harm.

The case would return to the lower court, although Riverside County has asked the California Supreme Court to review it.

The family was ready to go out and search for Marin at 6 p.m. the night that Marin was missing, but that was delayed because the group felt assured authorities would take care of it, said Marc S. Hurd, one of Aristas lawyers in a phone interview.

While the lawyers seek compensation for the family, they also seek improvements on how the search-and-rescue efforts are structured.

My goal is that they get a search-and-rescue team that is effective and in place, so that no other family goes through what we went through, to save some other life so that my husbands life was not lost in vain, Arista said. That is my goal.

The fatal ride
The mountain bike that Andres Marin was riding when he died sits next to a memorial shrine in his familys Corona home on March 3, 2014.

Marin, a forklift operator, had left the family home in Corona at 6:30 a.m. for a birthday bike ride up 5,689-foot elevation Santiago Peak, taking a fire-service access road that starts at Foothill Parkway and Skyline Drive in Corona. His plan was to ride to the peak, then return on fire-access roads that end at Indian Truck Trail and De Palma Road, making it back for a 2:30 p.m. return to his home and a family celebration.

Marin and Arista used Google Maps to calculate the distance of the ride, about 55 miles, and printed out maps before the ride. Marin, the lawsuit says, was an experienced mountain biker with several previous rides of 70 miles or longer.

Temperatures in Corona were in the 50s to 60s when Marin left. He was wearing knee-length bike shorts, bike gloves, a mountain bike jersey, calf-length socks, shoes and a helmet. He had $10 in cash, water, light snacks and a cell phone.

There is no indication anyone else was on the ride with him.

When Marin failed to return by 3 p.m., Arista began calling or texting his cell phone every 15 minutes, but did not get an answer until 5:14 p.m., her lawyers said. Marin told Arista he had fallen from his bike and was injured.

During this conversation, Marin seemed disoriented and confused, the lawsuit says.

Arista called the Trabuco Ranger Station, believing it was the closest source for help, but got no answer. She called the Cleveland National Forest Service but could not reach a live operator, then called 911.

Corona police came to the family home at 6:30 p.m., and Arista told them what she knew, gave them photos of Marin and copies of the route maps for his ride. But it was Riverside County sheriffs personnel who took command of the incident at some point, with personnel arriving at the family home at 8 p.m., the lawsuit says.

There was a light but steady rain that evening. The National Weather Service did not record the temperature atop Santiago Peak, but it got down to 39 degrees on nearby Pleasants Peak, about 1,800 feet lower in elevation.

783. https://www.expressandstar.com/news/local-hubs/wolverhampton/2018/02/01/help-needed-to-get-paralysed-wolverhampton-cyclist-home-to-his-family/

50k appeal for father paralysed in Cannock Chase bike crash

By Megan Archer | Wolverhampton | News | Published: Feb 1, 2018

Chris Evans was enjoying his usual bike ride on Cannock Chase when disaster struck.

image: https://www.expressandstar.com/resizer/8cEOAJrGbtS42OmwYfELFQTSPZc=/1000x0/filters:quality(100)/arc-anglerfish-arc2-prod-expressandstar-mna.s3.amazonaws.com/public/T74SPTEWNVAA3IQ2CS2QHKMY6E.jpg
Chris Evans with daughters Rachel and Katie, wife Yvonne, doberman Diesel and Rachel's boyfriend Jack

A mountain biker has been overcome by the generosity of strangers - after a tragic cycling accident left him paralysed from the chest down.

Keen cyclist Chris Evans, aged 53, was out in Cannock Chase on one of his regular weekend bike rides with friends in July when he navigated a tiny jump.

It was one he had done many times before, but this time tragedy struck.

The father-of-two from Fallings Park, Wolverhampton, hit the ground chin first, severely damaged his spinal cord and was airlifted to Royal Stoke University Hospital.

image: https://www.expressandstar.com/resizer/Rjxh88BCCwxYnvNiFE8J84xjP2Q=/600x0/filters:quality(100)/arc-anglerfish-arc2-prod-expressandstar-mna.s3.amazonaws.com/public/KNVLN3NQQRC4RAI74CBAOIJHHI.jpg
Chris Evans and wife Yvonne before the accident

Despite the best efforts of medical staff, he is now tetraplegic and unable to move any of his four limbs or torso.

He will also have to remain on a ventilator due to damage to his left lung.

A long, difficult journey followed but Chris, who used to work as an articulated lorry driver for Royal Mail in Birmingham, battled through and is now determined to get home to his wife and daughters and beloved doberman Diesel.

image: https://www.expressandstar.com/resizer/PbosRhgNkBysAl83T7OMITYpm9k=/600x0/filters:quality(100)/arc-anglerfish-arc2-prod-expressandstar-mna.s3.amazonaws.com/public/4PQNK4BVIRB7FPXGBX6P4VYZPI.jpg
Chris Evans at the top of Helvellyn in the Lake District.

Family, friends and even strangers have been sending in donations thick and fast to make that happen.

Daughter Rachel Evans, 23, said: "He won't be coming home for about six to nine months as we're having to renovate the house for him - everything needs to be digital too, voice dictated.

"And we're looking to get him an off-road wheelchair so he can still go outdoors. It's something for him to look forward to.

image: https://www.expressandstar.com/resizer/z0OBvgS5s0YAw3YaZTdytG_N1rk=/600x0/filters:quality(100)/arc-anglerfish-arc2-prod-expressandstar-mna.s3.amazonaws.com/public/PNRZCVT5TRH2VCF5H3V6FAAI2Y.jpg
The family in festive outfits this Christmas

"Every single Sunday he would go out and cycle 40 to 60 miles - he was a die hard mountain biker. He always used to say 'I work hard to play hard'.

"But now, whenever he has a procedure he has to lie flat for 72 hours."

Wife Yvonne, 54, and daughters Katie, 28, and Rachel are on a mission to raise 50,000 to help their man come home.

They have already amassed more than 16,000 in donations, a gesture which has touched Chris.

image: https://www.expressandstar.com/resizer/pOc5hdFCXC9fHMNuEojGGe6-MM0=/600x0/filters:quality(100)/arc-anglerfish-arc2-prod-expressandstar-mna.s3.amazonaws.com/public/332AGREGZVEEVOC7PFTT3BGR5A.jpg
Chris with daughters Rachel and Katie in 2010

Speaking from the specialist spinal facility at Sheffield Northern Hospital, where he is now based, Chris said: "I can honestly say I am so humbled by people's generosity and support, I had no idea people who both know me and dont know would want to help. Im eternally grateful."

Many fundraising days are also going ahead in a bid to get closer to the 50,000 target.

Chris' colleagues at Royal Mail will be taking part in Coast to Coast cycle ride from April 13 to 15, there will be a Beer Fest Day in Birmingham in May, and Katie and Rachel are taking part in a triathlon in June.

Visit justgiving.com/crowdfunding/chrisevans-volume2 to donate or find out more or email chrisevansvolume2@outlook.com to find out about joining various fundraising events.

Read more at https://www.expressandstar.com/news/local-hubs/wolverhampton/2018/02/01/help-needed-to-get-paralysed-wolverhampton-cyclist-home-to-his-family/#VCrouMbCJ6FhGsxD.99

784. https://www.gazettelive.co.uk/news/teesside-news/nineteen-volunteers-help-stretcher-injured-15643414

Nineteen volunteers help stretcher injured mountain biker to waiting ambulance after fall

The Cleveland Mountain Rescue Team has completed its first rescue of 2019, at Guisborough Woods
By
Mike Brown
20:23, 7 JAN 2019
NEWS
Volunteers attend their first rescue of 2019, a mountain biker who sustained head injuries in a fall at Guisborough Woods (Image: Cleveland Mountain Rescue Team)

A mountain biker was carried to safety after hitting his head in a fall in the first call-out of 2019 for volunteer rescuers.

Cleveland Mountain Rescue were called at around 3pm on Sunday by the ambulance service to help with getting the injured male mountain rider to hospital.

He had fallen from his bike in Guisborough Woods.

A post on the Cleveland Mountain Rescue Team Facebook page said: "By good luck some team members were already at our base having already been out in a team vehicle, allowing us to respond very quickly.

"He had been cycling with friends on the popular paths and mountain bike routes in Guisborough Woods. He came off his bike on a steep descent near Holme Farm, his friends quickly raised the alarm and called for help.

"Team members approached the scene in our two Land Rover ambulances and on foot, where NEAS personnel treated the man's head injury.

"We then carried the man on our stretcher off the muddy path and down a track around 300m before he was transferred to the waiting ambulance, for further assessment and transfer to hospital.

"19 team members attended the incident which lasted 45 minutes."

It was the first time in 2019 that the volunteers were called into action and came hot on the heels of a busy 2018, in which extreme weather - both in winter and summer - led to its busiest year ever, with 78 callouts in total.

785. https://news.aamc.org/patient-care/article/helping-paralyzed-patients-walk-again/

Helping paralyzed patients walk again

From Iron Man-like suits to implanted electrical stimulators, scientific breakthroughs hold out new hope for people with spinal cord injuries.
Wearable robotics are helping paralyzed patients walk again. Credit: ReWalk Robotics

Jeff Marquis, a professional chef, loved nothing better than snowboarding, hiking, and mountain biking on the trails near his Montana home. Then, in 2011, catastrophe struck. Marquis, 29 at the time, was thrown from his bike. I remember lying on the ground, realizing my hands werent working right and I couldnt get up, he says.

Marquis was told that a severe spinal cord injury meant hed never stand or walk on his own again. But during rehabilitation, he learned about the efforts of researchers at the University of Louisville School of Medicine who were testing whether implanted electrical stimulators could help restore some movement for paralyzed patients. I decided to go for it, he recalls.

Five years later, Marquis stood on a specially designed treadmill at the universitys Kentucky Spinal Cord Injury Research Center and took his first tentative steps. Thanks to a revolutionary combination of targeted physical therapy and electrical stimulation of neurons in his spine, Marquis is now able to walk up to a quarter of a mile, using horizontal poles for balance.

The image of a paralyzed person getting up and walking is almost biblical."

Charles Liu, MD, PhD
Director, Neurorestoration Center
Keck School of Medicine of the University of Southern California

Marquis is among the estimated 1.2 million people in the United States who had little or no hope of walking after a spinal cord injury. Now, though, that grim prognosis is changing for the better. After decades of scant progress, researchers are making major advances in mechanical engineering, computer sciences, rehabilitation medicine, and neurobiology that have spawned a range of possibilities, from implantable devices like the one Marquis uses to Iron Man-like robotic exoskeletons.
Kelly Thomas and Jeff Marquis have been able to walk thanks to a cutting-edge study at the University of Louisville. Credit: Tom Fougerousse/University of Louisville

The image of a paralyzed person getting up and walking is almost biblical, says Charles Liu, MD, PhD, director of the Neurorestoration Center at the Keck School of Medicine of the University of Southern California, where researchers are working on a sophisticated brain-machine interface. But thats what were seeing.

This isnt a cure, explains Liu, who is a neurosurgeon and bioengineer. But were able to offer new hope to people who thought they would never be able to stand on their own or walk again.

Robots to the rescue

The first major advance for paralyzed patients came in 2014, when the FDA approved ReWalk Robotics request to begin marketing a robotic exoskeleton. Since then, two other exoskeletons, Indego and HAL, have been approved.

Although each model works differently, exoskeletons share some basic traits. A brace strapped to a patients legs uses motors and levers to power hip and knee motions, allowing patients to walk, turn, and even use stairs. In the case of the ReWalk model, sensors detect subtle changes in the wearers center of gravity, triggering the exoskeleton to respond accordingly. Repeated shifts in the center of gravity generate a sequence of steps that approximate a natural gait.
Robotic exoskeletons require special training in how to use them. Credit: ReWalk Robotics

Exoskeletons represent a huge advance for patients with spinal cord injuries, says Ashraf Gorgey, PhD, director of spinal cord injury research at the Hunter Holmes McGuire VA Medical Center in Richmond, Virginia, one of several sites studying the effect of exoskeletons on a patients quality of life. Just gaining the ability to get back up on your feet, to stand up straight, is a big thing for someone who has been paralyzed.

In addition to increasing paralyzed patients level of physical activity, exoskeletons offer other significant benefits, including fewer muscle spasms and improved bowel control, says Gorgey, who published a 2018 review of the devices in the World Journal of Orthopedics.

But exoskeletons also have drawbacks. They are fairly heavy and cumbersome to put on. Patients need to learn how to use them at a teaching hospital, medical school, or other special training center. And for all their high-tech gadgetry, they dont offer the same speed and mobility as wheelchairs.

Just gaining the ability to get back up on your feet, to stand up straight, is a big thing for someone who has been paralyzed.

Ashraf Gorgey, PhD
Director of spinal cord injury research
Hunter Holmes McGuire VA Medical Center

In addition, exoskeletons price tag of between $80,000 and $100,000 have put them out of the reach of many patients. Thats changing somewhat, though. In 2015, the U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs (VA) began paying for exoskeletons for veterans who meet specified criteria, such as a certain level of upper-body strength. And in 2018, the VA made access to the necessary training easier by agreeing to provide it in a broader range of medical facilities.

Private insurers, however, remain reluctant to cover the cost of exoskeletons, arguing that their health benefits remain unproven.

Building a better exoskeleton

Todays exoskeletons are just the beginning of whats possible, experts say, including much lighter, softer exosuits made of advanced textiles that could offer greater ease of use.

But an even more dramatic advance may be on the horizon. Using an Iron Man-esque, brain-machine interface, paralyzed patients may one day be able to direct an exoskeletons movements simply by using their thoughts.

The first goal is to decode the complex electrical signals that the brain transmits to control walking, explains Liu, whose center recently shared a National Science Foundation grant with Caltech and the University of California, Irvine, to pursue this research.

And since we know that sensory feedback is crucial, were also investigating ways to transmit information back to the brain about sensation and movement, in order to replicate the feedback loops that are part of normal walking."

Eventually, instead of external sensors controlling the exoskeleton suit, miniature devices implanted in the brain would enable patients to control standing, walking, and climbing via their thoughts.

Teaching injured spines new tricks

While some researchers pin their hopes on better exoskeletons, others are working on something even more audacious: restoring motor function by retraining the damaged nervous system itself.

Previously, animal studies showed that stimulation using electrodes implanted in the spine called epidural electrical stimulation, or EES can restore some movement after severe spinal cord injuries. Ten years ago, University of Louisville researchers decided that they had enough evidence to undertake an experiment with humans.

One of the paralyzed patients recruited was Jeff Marquis. The researchers implanted an off-the-shelf EES device, originally developed for chronic pain patients, over Marquis' lower spinal cord. Then he began a program of intensive physical therapy, including simulated walking in which therapists moved his legs while his weight was supported by a special device.

After a grueling 278 therapy sessions over 18 months, Marquis walked on his own for the first time since his injury.

In September 2018, the researchers reported their results in a landmark paper in the New England Journal of Medicine. Four subjects regained the ability to stand. Two, including Marquis, were able to walk again. Those participants still need support to maintain their balance, and taking steps requires great effort.

But the experience has been life-changing, says Marquis. Just being able to stand in my apartment and having improved strength and endurance means I can live independently for the first time since my injury, he notes.

Other research groups also have reported successes. For example, in 2018 researchers at Mayo Clinics Rehabilitation Medicine Research Center published results of a similar trial. After a combination of EES and 43 weeks of intensive physical therapy, the patient was able to stand independently and walk more than 100 yards with a wheeled walker.

Scientists still dont fully understand how the treatment works. They believe part of the answer may be that EES below the site of the injury stimulates nerve cells in the spine, which enables them to receive signals from the brain across the damaged area.

Much more work lies ahead. Researchers are still refining the best approach to physical therapy. Theyre also trying to understand which patients are most likely to benefit and how far the benefits extend, including, possibly, improved sexual function.

We still have a lot of questions to answer, says Susan Harkema, PhD, associate scientific director of the Kentucky Spinal Cord Injury Research Center at the University of Louisville. But we have shown that even a severely injured spinal cord can relearn and adapt. For spinal cord injury patients, that translates into something simple and profound: hope.

786. https://www.redding.com/story/news/2019/01/26/chp-helicopter-crew-rescues-injured-mountain-biker/2691539002/

CHP helicopter crew rescues injured mountain biker

Mike Chapman, Redding Record Searchlight
Published 4:17 p.m. PT Jan. 26, 2019 | Updated 5:41 p.m. PT Jan. 26, 2019

H-16 flew from Benton Field and the rescuers decided the best option was to hoist the man in a stretcher and take him directly to Mercy Medical Center. Mike Chapman

A California Highway Patrol helicopter crew hoisted an injured mountain bike rider off the ground and flew him to the hospital on Friday.

First responders were told the man had possibly fractured his hip or leg on a mountain bike fall around 11 a.m. and was in rugged terrain in the Keswick area where the Carr Fire had burned.

The California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection asked the CHP crew in H-16 to fly where the mountain biker was injured on the Nutter Butter Trail, the CHP said in a Facebook post.

A California Highway Patrol helicopter flies an injured mountain biker to Mercy Medical Center in Redding on Friday. (Photo: California Highway Patrol)

H-16 flew from Benton Field and the rescuers decided the best option was to hoist the man in a stretcher and take him directly to Mercy Medical Center.

The crew used a line to lower a CHP rescuer with equipment and the injured bicyclist was hoisted off the ground and up to the helicopter's skid. He arrived at Mercy after a five-minute trip.

An injured mountain bike rider is hoisted by a California Highway Patrol helicopter crew Friday so he could be flown to a hospital. (Photo: California Highway Patrol)

787. https://www.aspentimes.com/news/person-dies-sunday-morning-at-snowmass-resort-terrain-park/

Snowboarder dies Sunday morning at Snowmass resort terrain park

Jason Auslander
February 10, 2019
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David Krause / The Aspen Times

Makaha Park was closed Sunday after a person died in the terrain park at Snowmass Mountain Resort.
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A 20-year-old man died Sunday morning attempting a jump at a Snowmass Mountain Resort terrain park, officials said Sunday afternoon.

The snowboarder died after attempting the first jump at the Makaha Terrain Park just after 11 a.m. and ski patrol received a call from someone riding the Village Express lift, an Aspen Skiing Co. official said.

No other details about the victim, including his name or hometown, were immediately available Sunday, Pitkin County Sheriffs Deputy Michael Buglione said. That information will come from the Pitkin County Coroners Office once the family is notified.

Patrol responded immediately and found the man unresponsive with no pulse or breathing, Aspen Skiing Co. spokesman Jeff Hanle said Sunday afternoon. They began advanced life-saving procedures. They were unable to re-establish a pulse and the man was pronounced dead by the Pitkin County Coroner.

Our deepest sympathies and thoughts go out to the mans family and friends, and we are offering support and assistance.

The jump is just under the Village Express lift, which was shut down for a brief period Sunday after the incident.

The Makaha Park remained closed Sunday afternoon as ski patrollers continued their investigation at a jump.

According to the resorts website, the Makaha Park offers a logical next step up the progression ladder with its mix of intermediate and advanced features, ranging in size from medium to large. There are about 25 features in total, a progressive line of midsized jumps and about 15 jib features including all shapes of boxes and rails. Great area for learning new tricks and working on progression.

The last reported death at Snowmass in the winter was in February 2016 when well-known businessman and Aspen local Donald Drapkin on Feb. 15 fell from a standing position, hit his head but then got up. He died a week later from injuries sustained in the fall. Before that, three people died in the spring of 2014 at Snowmass.

Two men have died in the past two summers while mountain biking at the resort. David Eckardt 62, of Woody Creek died in September 2018 while riding the expert Valhalla trail, and David Duff, 67, of Kentucky died in July 2017 on the same trail.

788. https://www.odt.co.nz/regions/central-otago/mountain-biker-critical-after-fall-near-cromwell

Sunday, 17 February 2019

Mountain biker critical after fall near Cromwell

By Jono Edwards

A mountain biker has been flown to hospital with critical injuries after a fall near Cromwell today.

A St John spokesman said the patient had critical injuries after an incident in the Nevis area, southeast of the town.

An Otago Regional Rescue Helicopter was dispatched shortly after 11am.

The rider was flown to Dunedin Hospital.

789. https://www.burnham-on-sea.com/news/air-ambulance-and-rescue-crews-called-to-brean-down-to-help-injured-teenager/

Air ambulance and crews called to Brean Down to help injured cyclist

By
Burnham-On-Sea.com
-
February 19, 2019

An air ambulance landed on top of Brean Down on Monday (February 18th) to fly a teenager to hospital after he was injured in a cycling accident.

Members of Burnham-On-Sea Coastguard, BARB Search & Rescue and South Western Ambulance Service were called to the top of Brean Down to help the mountain biker.

As pictured here, a yellow Dorset and Somerset air ambulance touched down and its paramedics helped treat the cyclist and take him onboard using a stretcher.

The teenager had suffered a head injury in an accident, confirmed Coastguards.

Due to the terrain, BARBs multi-terrain Polaris vehicle was used to take crewmembers to the scene and also help Coastguards provide a safe area for the helicopter.

Tracy Bartram, Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance Communications Manager, told Burnham-On-Sea.com: I can confirm that Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance airlifted a teenager to Weston General Hospital this afternoon after it was reported that they had come off their pushbike and had reduced consciousness.

A spokesman for Burnham Coastguard added: The team was tasked today to assist South Western Ambulance Service NHS Foundation Trust medivac a teenager who had fallen and sustained a head injury while cycling on the top of Brean Down.

He added: A group of teenagers had decided to go for a spot of mountain biking along the challenging terrain of the Down towards the highest point. Brean Down is a very popular place for these kinds of activities as it provides lots of varied routes and challenges, so with no school and a bit of time on their hands they set off for a ride out.

After a good day riding and filming their skills, they were heading back, as they had done multiple times they filmed each other as they negotiated the different sized bumps, however on this occasion one of the group didnt quite land it as he wanted and flipped over the handlebars and faceplanted the floor, luckily he was properly equipped with a full face helmet that definitely saved him from extensive facial injuries.

Realising the situation the group of lads quickly called for help and one went off to get a blanket from the National Trust staff. Their quick actions meant that there was no delay in getting the help they needed, the Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance was scrambled and was quickly on scene and ambulance crews were awaiting a transfer at the base of the Down.

We made our way up to the top of the Down and after a brief chat with the Air Ambulance crew they were happy his injuries were not anything serious but as it was a matter of a two-minute flight they would take him to Weston Hospital.

As a precaution, we had already tasked BARB to assist as they have a great little off-road vehicle which wouldve saved us a lot of time if we had to stretcher carry the young lad anywhere. Once he was safely aboard the helicopter and they had departed we were able to return to station.

We would like to extend praise to the group of young lads they were quick to react in a calm and correct way and got immediate help, as a society we are always quick to point out the bad young adults but this shows there are still plenty of good ones out there who are able to deal with things in an intelligent and polite manner.

The lady from the National Trust was also very impressed with their ability to deal with their predicament. We wish the lad a speedy recovery and hope that he is back enjoying mountain biking again soon, and a big well done to his mates who acted so quickly a credit to the community.

790. https://www.thewestmorlandgazette.co.uk/news/17446482.woman-who-fell-off-mountain-bike-in-whinlatter-forrest-thanks-air-ambulance-and-mountain-rescue-team/

Woman who fell off mountain bike in Whinlatter Forrest thanks air ambulance and mountain rescue team

By Celia Powell

A WOMAN who fell off her mountain bike while riding in a forest has thanked the Great North Air Ambulance Service (GNAAS) and the Mountain Rescue Team for coming to her aid.

Hayley Crooks, 29, from Middlesbrough was riding the red trail in Whinlatter Forest, Keswick, with her then-fianc頃hris Crooks, when she fell on July 8 2016.

Mr Crooks said: Its our favourite trail and I often ride first and get a video of Hayley coming down, but Hayley decided to go first to get a video of me. I waited five minutes or so and enjoyed the view and then I went round and found Hayley crumpled up at the side of the trail.

Mr Crooks rang the emergency services and the Keswick Mountain Rescue Team (KMRT) arrived first on scene where it was decided they needed the assistance of GNAAS.

The paramedic and doctor team from GNAAS worked alongside North West Ambulance Service paramedics to assess and treat Mrs Crooks injuries before she was airlifted to the Royal Victoria Infirmary (RVI) in Newcastle for further treatment.

Mrs Crooks had broken her nose, knocked two teeth out, degloved her bottom lip and damaged her lower jaw as well as compressed two vertebrae in her spine.

It took nearly a year for Mrs Crooks to recover and she only has a small scar on her nose as a reminder of the incident.

In September last year she married her partner and they managed to raise 610 for GNAAS after asking for donations instead of presents. They also gave guests GNAAS and KMRT pins as a memento.

Mrs Crooks, who is an advanced practitioner at the North East Ambulance Service, said: Ive always supported GNAAS, it is invaluable and having been a patient its made me see them from a different perspective.

"The service they provide is incredible and they help save so many peoples lives."

Mrs Crooks has now ruled out mountain biking but still enjoys the great outdoors and has since climbed Scafell Pike, Helvellyn and Ben Nevis.

https://www.gazettelive.co.uk/news/teesside-news/hayley-celebrated-corn-cob-after-15866846

Hayley celebrated with corn on the cob after getting front teeth back following horror bike fall

She's thanked the Great North Air Ambulance Service for its help in saving her
By
Dave Robson
17:17, 21 FEB 2019
NEWS

A mountain biker left battered and bruised by a horrific fall has thanked air ambulance crews who came to her aid.

Hayley Crooks from Middlesbrough was riding the red trail in Whinlatter Forest, Keswick, with her then-fianc鬠Chris Crooks, when she fell badly off her bike.

After Mr Crooks rang the emergency services, first to arrive was the Keswick Mountain Rescue Team (KMRT), whose crew called out the Great North Air Ambulance Service (GNAAS).

The paramedic and doctor team from GNAAS worked alongside North West Ambulance Service paramedics to assess and treat Hayleys injuries before she was airlifted to the Royal Victoria Infirmary in Newcastle.

She had broken her nose, knocked two teeth out, de-gloved her bottom lip and damaged her lower jaw, as well as compressed two vertebrae in her spine.

She spent four nights in the RVI and had facial surgery, including realigning her nose to help her breathe properly, and stitching up her bottom lip.
Hayley and Chris Crooks (Image: evening gazette)

Hayley, 29, said: "Thankfully GNAAS picked up on my back injury and my back was immobilised with a vacuum stretcher.

"I didnt have front teeth for several months and I never really appreciated them until I lost them. Once I got my implants, I had a celebratory corn on the cob!"

It took Hayley nearly a year to recover from the July 2016 accident and she only has a small scar on her nose as a reminder of the incident.

When they married last September, Hayley and Chris raised 610 for GNAAS after asking for donations instead of presents.

They also gave guests GNAAS and KMRT pins as a memento.

An advanced practitioner at the North East Ambulance Service, Hayley said: "I've always supported GNAAS. Its invaluable and having been a patient, its made me see them from a different perspective. The service they provide is incredible and they help save so many peoples lives."
The bike helmet Hayley was wearing (Image: evening gazette)

Hayley has now given up mountain biking but still enjoys the great outdoors and has since climbed Scafell Pike, Helvellyn and Ben Nevis.

Last year, GNAAS was called out 1,062 times and needed to raise 5.1m.

To find out how you can help, visit www.gnaas.com or call 01325 487263.

791. http://www.wbtv.com/2019/02/21/wife-shares-video-burke-county-mans-first-hug-since-near-fatal-bicycle-wreck-2/

Wife shares video of Burke County mans first hug since near-fatal bicycle wreck

Cyclist recovering after bad accident
By Alex Giles | February 20, 2019 at 11:46 PM EST - Updated February 21 at 12:30 AM

CHARLOTTE, NC (WBTV) -A video of a Burke County woman hugging her husband has now been viewed hundreds of times on Facebook. Kelly Hatcher has been chronicling her husbands recovery from a serious mountain biking wreck on Facebook. This past weekend, she shared a video of her husband, Philip Hatcher, hugging her for the first time since the near-fatal incident.

Philip Hatcher has held track and field records at North Carolina State University and he said hes been an avid cyclist and runner throughout his life. He claims that one year, he participated in 63 different races.

However, a routine mountain bike ride on a Linville Gorge trail last June took a catastrophic turn that Hatcher says almost ended his life. He explained to WBTV what happened in an interview Wednesday.

(I was) riding on part of the trail and came around the corner and a tree had fallen and I tried to do a bunny hop over it and I think I probably hit my rear tire and next thing I knew I was flying through the air, said Philip Hatcher.

He said he broke his neck and within minutes was fighting for his life with his wife by his side. He said he was having trouble breathing and his wife had to help keep him alive. She described the situation to WBTV.

I said you have one job and your job is you have to breathe and when you cant breathe then Ill breathe for you and it was just like that for maybe 30 minutes, explained Kelly Hatcher.

The couple said that after hours of waiting for help in the woods, first responders were able to get Philip out of the area and transport him to a hospital.

Philip Hatcher said hes had surgery and was told hed probably never walk again, but already hes exceeding expectations.

On Facebook, his wife has shared videos of him adjusting to eating again, taking steps with a walker, and giving her a hug for the first time since the incident. The hug was a moment the couple has been looking forward to for seven months.

It was incredible. I really didnt know I could do it. I just did it. It was great, said Philip Hatcher.

For Philip, the hug is just a beginning to his journey to getting back to being the man he once was and knows he still can be.

Theres an end to this, and thats walking, said Philip.

The couple said they plan to stay in Charlotte for several more months while Philip continues to rehab. They said they are very grateful for the friends and family who have helped them since the incident.

A GoFundMe page has been created to help support the Hatchers during this tough time: https://www.gofundme.com/team-hatch.

792. Apparently, mountain bikers never learn anything from their many "accidents".

Mike

https://www.bicycleretailer.com/industry-news/2019/03/05/marin-museum-hold-auction-benefit-charlie-cunningham#.XIBz8yJKjIU

Marin Museum to hold auction to benefit Charlie Cunningham

Published March 5, 2019

FAIRFAX, Calif. (BRAIN) On Saturday, March 23 the Marin Museum of Bicycling will host a benefit to support mountain bike pioneer Charlie Cunningham. Cunningham had a tumble from his bike in 2016 and remains in treatment for severe complications suffered during his recovery.

The Marin Museum is home to the Mountain Bike Hall of Fame. The evening event will include a silent auction and the conclusion of a weeklong eBay auction of a specially built Cunningham Homage Bike. Proceeds from the bike sale will go to the Cunningham Relief Fund. Silent auction proceeds will be split evenly between the Cunningham Relief Fund and the Marin Museum of Bicycling, an all-volunteer 501(c) (3) nonprofit organization. Several Mountain Bike Hall of Fame inductees plan to attend.

The Cunningham Relief Fund is the brainchild of the Good Guys, a worldwide vintage-bike group founded by bike collector Lars Weber of Switzerland.

Cunningham has contributed to mountain biking since the 1970s. In 1979 he produced the first aluminum mountain bike, prototype for hundreds he would later build in Fairfax. Cunninghams CC Proto includes many firsts in the sport, and is in the museums permanent display. In 1982 Cunningham, along with Steve Potts and Mark Slate, co-founded Wilderness Trail Bikes (WTB).

The Homage bike was built by legendary framebuilder Frank Waddleton for the Good Guys. The frame has fat aluminum tubes inspired by Cunningham's bikes. Chris Kelly supplied the frames clear coat. Steve Potts created one of his Type II forks for the bike and the Good Guys donated vintage parts to the project. Aaron Faust built up the bike. The eBay auction opens Saturday, March 16 at 6:30 p.m. Pacific Time. The reserve on the bike is $5,000.

Mountain bike luminaries are donating special items to the silent auction. Yeti founder John Parker was first to contribute to the auction, donating his prized welding helmet. Gary Fisher has donated a klunker frame he painted in the early 1970s in the psychedelia of the day.

The Cunningham Homage Bike and Museum Auction items will be previewed at the North American Handmade Bicycle Show is in Sacramento on March 15-17 at the Marin Museum of Bicycling/Mountain Bike Hall Of Fame booth. Tickets for the March 23 event also will be on sale at NAHBS.

Tickets can be purchased in advance at the museum (Thursdays-Sundays, 11-5), and online at mmbhof.org/events. Tickets are $20 per adult ($10 for students and Marin Museum of Bicycling members). Some tickets may be available at the door the evening of the event, but advance purchase is strongly recommended.

793. https://www.pe.com/2019/03/16/mountain-biker-rescued-after-crash-south-of-corona/

Mountain biker rescued after crash south of Corona

Firefighters and AMR ambulance crew members roll a victim of a mountain biking crash south of Corona from a Cal Fire helicopter to an ambulance in the Eagle Glen area Friday, March 15. (Courtesy of Patrick Smith)
By CITY NEWS SERVICE |
PUBLISHED: March 16, 2019 at 11:00 am | UPDATED: March 16, 2019 at 3:33 pm

A mountain biker was injured in a crash south of Corona on Friday, March 15, and had to be airlifted to an ambulance.

The rider, who was described as a youth, possibly suffered a hip fracture while traversing rugged terrain, prompting Cal Fire/Riverside County firefighters to embark on a rescue.

The rider was reported down about 5:20 p.m. in the Cleveland National Forest, just off Joseph Canyon Trail, near unincorporated El Cerrito, Cal Fire said. Several engine crews were sent to the location and mounted a rescue attempt, walking through heavy vegetation to find the injured party, according to reports from the scene.

A Cal Fire helicopter crew flew the rider to the Eagle Glen area, where an ambulance took him to a hospital.

794. https://myaccount.news.com.au/sites/couriermail/subscribe.html?sourceCode=CMWEB_WRE170_a&mode=premium&dest=https://www.couriermail.com.au/news/regional/one-of-ours-community-stands-behind-beloved-teacher/news-story/3b8f5c99419bcb1128375bc38615e1d3?memtype=anonymous

What should have been a competitive weekend of mountain biking left John Blunden paralysed from the neck down after an unthinkable accident.

795. https://www.nzherald.co.nz/rotorua-daily-post/sport/news/article.cfm?c_id=1503436&objectid=12214288

Paralysed mountain biker Liam Keenan racing in Crankworx Rotorua

21 Mar, 2019 8:00am
Aucklander Liam Keenan has not let a broken back stop him from doing what he loves.
By: David Beck
David Beck is the Rotorua Daily Post's sports reporter
david.beck@nzme.co.nz@thedailypost

Suffering a severe injury is enough to put most people off whatever activity that lead to the injury in the first place.

Auckland's Liam Keenan can be described as someone who goes against the grain. An avid mountain biker, his life changed forever on April 10, 2017.

The 21-year-old was left paralysed after he fell from his bike at the top of the Skyline mountain bike track in Queenstown - but that life-changing event was not enough to stop him from competing in the sport he loved.

"I just enjoy the freedom of mountain biking, getting out there and doing your own thing. I used to ride freestyle BMX a lot, then I started a bike mechanics course in 2013 because I wanted to leave school. They took us out mountain biking and I was hooked basically from the start, just getting out among the trees with nothing to worry about," Keenan said.
Aucklander Liam Keenan has not let a broken back stop him from doing what he loves. Photo / Stephen Parker

This week, for the the first time since his crash, he's back at Crankworx Rotorua - a competition he was a regular at previously - and yesterday, he raced in the Crankworx Rotorua Air DH.

Prior to the crash Keenan would ride the Queenstown track at least five times a week after he finished work as a bike mechanic. On this occasion in 2017 he fell near the luge - before even reaching the track.

"My front wheel washed out going round a corner, I went over the bike and head butted a wooden post. It fully split my helmet and I had a neck brace on thankfully. It still compressed my spine enough to fully snap and dislocate it at T5-6, leaving me T4 paraplegic, which is basically nothing from the chest down," he said.

He knew "fairly quickly" after the accident that something was not right.

"I've got a friend who has been in a wheelchair for six or seven years, so every time I crashed I would wiggle my toes. This time I couldn't do that.

"I was lying on my stomach for a bit and couldn't move, couldn't get up. Having known my friend for so long I was pretty lucky, I was able to basically accept it while I was still lying on the ground. It was scary at first, people could pinch my legs and I couldn't tell, but it could've been a lot worse."

Aucklander Liam Keenan has not let a broken back stop him from doing what he loves. Photo / Todd Wallace

In terms of pain, Keenan said the broken back was more uncomfortable than anything, it was the other injuries that hurt more at the time.

"I did four ribs and punctured both lungs at the same time. It was getting hard to breathe and they had to drain blood from my lungs."

Despite all of that, even while in hospital, he was trying to figure out how he could get back on a bike.

"It wasn't so much a question of if I was going to ride, but more when for me."

Now he has a specially made bike with an electric motor and a special seat which he straps into.

"I was really excited, I got back on the bike 13 months after my injury. I've got the big bucket seat which holds me in and the battery mounted just underneath with a 1500w electric motor which gets me up and down the hills.

He was excited to be back racing at Crankworx Rotorua.

"It's awesome just being around a whole bunch of like-minded people, they're all super into bikes. Everyone stops and looks at the bike, they all interested in it because there's not many of them around. This is the only one in the country at this stage, it's a fairly new thing.

He does need a bit of help getting on and off the bike, but said that was never an issue with his fellow mountain bikers.

"Everyone that mountain bikes is generally pretty nice and helpful, it's a really cool community."

Keenan said the result of his crash would have been a lot worse had he not been wearing the safety equipment he was - something he advocates for whenever possible.

"Without the neck brace, if I was lucky I would've been a high level tetraplegic, but more than likely with the force it was I would've been dead.

"I had a very nice helmet on when I crashed which was lucky, it fully split but I didn't even have a headache afterwards. I'm a big advocate for spending as much as you can on good safety gear, especially a helmet and neck brace."

796. Of course, the mountain bikers "conveniently" omit the fact that this was a mountain biking accident, so they won't have to think about the possibility of this happening to them, and they won't have to explain to school officials why they are promoting another deadly sport just like football - or worse! ...

Mike

https://www.marinij.com/2015/10/14/fundraising-campaign-underway-for-injured-fairfax-mountain-bike-legend/

https://www.gofundme.com/w85tn3dg?utm_source=facebook&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=fb_dn_postdonate_r&fbclid=IwAR353cuDxJCbud4GBMNI9Ae4G4L7FF6vg0SpSUUT7WffTkvgnRS0DbJPSq8

Charlie Cunningham Medical/Rehab

In early August, 2015, Charlie Cunningham, bicycle builder, inventor and all around amazing person, fell off his bike and sustained several serious injuries.

Charlie suffered broken bones, bruises, and trauma to his head. At the time, he didn't feel his head injury was significant. Unfortunately, seven weeks later, the head injury manifested into a subdural hematoma, a life threatening condition that resulted in emergency brain surgery. Having been about two minutes from death or complete vegetative state, he endured a hell period of about six months, beginning with two months in intensive care, followed by months of doctor's visits and rehabiliitation. His days of getting around by bike were over, or so we thought.

Currently, Charlie is at the "plateau" level. He has no sense of direction, nor much vision (his brain was affected, leaving the upper half of his visual field empty, as well as the periphery). But he is walking, speaking normally, with very little aphasia, and still working on learning the alphabet. he can read a simple news headline after about five minutes of careful study of each letter. We move about Marin on a gorgeous tandem, which will soon get a motor so we can go offroad, away from traffic.

His 'genius' resides now in his efforts to recover what most of us take for granted: balance, literacy and agency, the will to do things and make things, which seems to have disappeared when the brain bleed happened. Your donations will help to offset the costs of his rehabilitation and the visits to UC Berkeley Eye Clinic, and the weekly respite care visits. Thank you for your generosity.

A bit about the fund: it was dreamed up by Caroline James, a good friend of Charlie and Jacquie's since the 1987. She's an artist, web designer and was an early Wombat. Since the end of the first year of the fund, I have taken over most of the administration. Grant Petersen of Rivendell renown, and 1,200 donors like you have helped move us along, for which we're ever grateful.

797. https://www.stuff.co.nz/sunday-star-times/111457501/paraplegic-mountain-biker-racing-again-less-than-two-years-after-lifechanging-crash

Paraplegic mountain biker racing again less than two years after life-changing crash

Benn Bathgate11:50, Mar 23 2019
MARK TAYLOR/STUFF
Liam Keenan, with his specially adapted mountain bike and the $700 helmet that saved his life.

When Liam Keenan came off his mountain bike, striking a fence post with his head, he immediately knew two things.

He was in serious trouble and he would ride again.

He was right on both counts.

Now a paraplegic, Keenan, 21, is back in the saddle at the Crankworx event in Rotorua, a gathering of the best of the best of the mountain biking world. He's competing too, taking part in the downhill races in the Whakarewarewa Forest.

Keenan caught up with Stuff at the main Crankworx base at Rotorua's Skyline at the Pivot Cycles tent it's the firm that made the frame that's part of his adapted, electric bike.

Under the shade of the tent, and as streams of riders and bike-mad spectators file past, Keenan goes back to 10 April 2017, the day his life changed completely.

The bike mechanic was at the Queenstown Skyline and off for a ride after work, heading for a track he reckons he'd ridden "about 400 times before".

He never made it.

He said he was approaching the track on a flat piece of land when his wheel slipped from under him, sending his head smashing into a fence post.

"I knew something was wrong very quick," he said.

The impact "fully snapped my spine".

Under the blazing Rotorua sun, Keenan reels off a laundry list of serious injuries: the broken spine, the broken ribs, the punctured lungs.

He said he had to have 1.8 litres of blood drained from each lung.

Remarkably though, he never lost consciousness. In fact, he said he "never even had a headache".

It was then, lying on the ground, that he made a promise to himself that he would ride again.

He said he was inspired by a friend in that dark moment. The friend is Aaron Ewan, a New Zealand Paralympian and another man who wasn't going to let being confined to a wheelchair keep him off his bike.

"When I was lying on the ground, I thought 'focus on what you can do'."

Thirteen months later, he was back on two wheels. The only snag? "I wanted to be back sooner."

He said his first ride after the enforced absence was across a flat grass field. After that, it was off to the Whakarewarewa Forest.

"It's a fair bit different," he said of his adapted bike.

"But I got used to it pretty quickly. It was pretty intuitive."

Keenan shows us the modified Pivot bike he now rides, with an electric motor and "bucket" seat a bike he was able to put together himself.

He also shows us the helmet he wore on the day of the crash, which carries a square dent on the top and a split right down the entire front.

It was, he says, the best $700 he'd ever spent.

Keenan said without that helmet, and a neck brace, he believes there would have been two outcomes. He would have been paralysed from the neck down, or dead.

Unsurprisingly, he's a big advocate of getting the best kit you can.

"Spend as much as you can afford," he said.

He's been enjoying his competitive return to Crankworx too, using the word "awesome" more than once.

The mountain biking community, the kit makers who have helped him get back on two wheels, the fellow competitors, are all awesome.

The spectators too.

"Halfway down, I could hear the crowd yelling," he said.

Keenan did admit his parents were slightly nervous about his return to biking, but he had a simple way to sooth their concerns.

"I'm already a paraplegic. There's not much else I can do."

798. https://lmtribune.com/obituaries/richard-elledge-hubbard/article_f98eb225-573d-5f7d-81b8-ed32006dfc86.html

Richard Elledge Hubbard

Mar 24, 2019 Updated 1 hr ago

Richard Elledge Hubbard, known to family and early friends as Dick and to later friends as Rich, was born on June 9, 1950, in Walla Walla, the second of Ralph Wood Hubbard and Maxine Harriet Elledge Hubbards two children. During Richs earliest years the family remained in Walla Walla, where they enjoyed the friendship of other young families in their unusually close-knit neighborhood.

In the summer of 1955, the Hubbards moved to Lewiston, where Rich spent his childhood riding bikes and later motorcycles, playing baseball, swimming, fishing and generally raising heck with other boys his age. In 1968, Rich graduated from Lewiston High School, where he considered himself one of the schools first hippies. Following high school, Rich remained in touch with many of his Lewiston friends and some became his lifelong ski, tennis, fishing, biking and camping buddies.

Rich began college in the fall of 1968 at Texas A&M University, and graduated summa cum laude in 1972 with a Bachelor of Science degree in wildlife science. Following his undergraduate studies, Rich was accepted into the Range Science Masters program at Colorado State University, where he graduated in 1975 with a Master of Science degree in range ecology.

Rich worked seasonally for federal agencies during his college years and, in 1976, he accepted a permanent range conservationist position with the Bureau of Land Management in Havre, Mont. Havre was considered a particularly remote Bureau of Land Management post and in 1979 Rich applied for a range conservationist position with the Spokane District BLM. Rich was selected for the job and spent the remainder of his career in Spokane, where he served as district range conservationist, district rangeland management specialist and for a time acting director of the district Scarce Skills Team.

While in Havre, Rich met and fell in love with Sandra Sandy Johnson and they were married May 3, 1980, in Spokane. Sandy had a 3-year-old son, Anthony Tony Bear, from her first marriage, and Rich became Tonys second father. The new family regularly skied and rode motorcycles together and enjoyed vacations in Canada, Oregon and Hawaii. The marriage, however, was not to last, and the couple divorced in 1994. Tony, though, remained in Richs life as his much-loved son.

In 1994, Rich met Ann Sharley, a seasonal archaeologist at the Spokane District BLM. The two fell in love and were married on the beach in Poipu, Hawaii, on Nov. 18, 1996. Rich and Ann enjoyed travel, particularly to warm locales, and vacationed in Bali, Tahiti, Hawaii, Aruba, St. Lucia, Jamaica, Florida, Oregon and Alaska. Other favorite activities included eating out, attending movies and plays, hiking, camping, partying with friends and watching sports on television.

Rich retired from the BLM in 2005, and spent the next 12 years riding his motorcycle, driving his Corvette, skiing with friends at Schweitzer and in Colorado, working out and riding his mountain bike, a period he frequently described as the best retirement a person could have.

In October 2017, Richs mountain bike brakes failed, resulting in a serious high-speed crash. Despite treatment from a variety of medical and mental health specialists, he never fully recovered.

On Friday, Dec. 14, 2018, Rich passed away in Spokane. He is survived by his wife of 22 years, Ann Sharley-Hubbard; his son, Tony Bear, of Spokane Valley; his sister, Gail Hubbard Callahan, of Walla Walla; two granddaughters; and many close friends. Even during his difficult last year, Rich placed great value on the friendship and love of his numerous friends and relatives. Rich was a kind and gentle soul, and he will be greatly missed.

A memorial service for Rich Hubbard will be held at 2 p.m. Tuesday, March 26, in the Ball & Dodd Funeral Home chapel, 5100 W. Wellesley Ave., Spokane. Interment will be at a later date in one of the Hubbard family plots at the Spangle Cemetery, Spangle, Wash. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests making a donation in Richs name to the charity of your choice.

799. https://www.google.com/url?rct=j&sa=t&url=https://www.odt.co.nz/regions/queenstown/seriously-injured-mountain-biker-flown-dunedin&ct=ga&cd=CAEYASoUMTA0OTAyMDE1MTc1NDM1MDQwMjIyGjg1NTcyM2ZlZDcxMTQwN2E6Y29tOmVuOlVT&usg=AFQjCNF-nKIsz2idpr-VKYeJ6kYiE-Q3fg

Seriously injured mountain biker flown to Dunedin

By Elena McPhee
Regions
Queenstown

A mountain biker was airlifted from Arrowtown to Dunedin Hospital with serious injuries this afternoon.

A St John spokeswoman said the call was received shortly before 4pm.

No further details were known at this stage.

800. https://www.tetongravity.com/video/bike/any-one-of-us-paul-basagoitias-journey-with-a-spinal-cord-injury

ANY ONE OF US : PAUL BASAGOITIAS JOURNEY WITH A SPINAL CORD INJURY

Mar 29, 2019 By: Katie Lozancich

Professional mountain biker Paul Basagoitia was living every riders dream. He was riding, filming and competing at the highest level until suddenly everything came careening to a halt. A spinal cord injury (SCI) at Red Bull Rampage would leave Basagoitia paralyzed from the waist down, forever changing his life.

With hopes of walking again, hed begin a long and arduous journey of recovery. The film Any One Of Us follows his story through raw and intense documentationfilmed at times by Basagoitia himself. Basagoitia has fought hard to build a new life for himself, a topic which is explored alongside other SCI survivors in the new feature-length documentary that will be released this fall. If you want to catch it before then, it'll be touring with Newport Beach Film Festival, Bentonville Film Festival, Telluride Mountain Film Festival, and the Greenwich International Film Festival.

801. https://www.walesonline.co.uk/news/wales-news/wales-live-breaking-news-plus-16054288

Rescuers help teen mountain biker after fall

Crews from the Western Beacons mountain search and rescue team help after boy had serious fall from bike

Police and mountain rescue crews helped out after a 13-year-old mountain biker suffered a heavy fall in the Beacons today. The boy was treated at the scene and stretchered to a nearby road where ambulance crews took him to hospital.

A spokesman for the Western Beacons Mountain Rescue team said: While out mountain biking a 13-year-old male unfortunately came off his bike sustaining potentially serious injuries. The Western Beacons Mountain rescue team responded and our team doctor treated the casualty so the team could extract him safely. The male was then taken to hospital by ambulance for further treatment.

802. https://www.ladysmithchronicle.com/news/vancouver-island-teen-airlifted-after-mountain-bike-crash/

Vancouver Island teen airlifted after mountain bike crash

14-year-old student released from hospital after incident on Mount Tzouhalem near Duncan
SARAH SIMPSON
Apr. 2, 2019 12:00 p.m.
LOCAL NEWS
NEWS

A student is recovering after being air-lifted off Mount Tzouhalem near Duncan Monday evening following a mountain biking accident.

The 14-year-old Quamichan School student had been riding with the Cowichan Secondary Mountain Bike Club when the incident occurred.

BC Emergency Health Services received a call at 5:10 last night for an incident on Mount Tzouhalem, confirmed BCEHS communications officer Shannon Miller Tuesday morning. A local paramedic crew was dispatched and on scene quickly, followed by an air ambulance auto-launched from Vancouver. The air ambulance helicopter arrived on scene at 5:44 and transported a patient in serious condition to hospital in Victoria.

School District 79 Superintendent and CEO Rod Allen confirmed the student was on a ride with the school club when the 14-year-old went over the handlebars.

Staff were on the ride and were able to immediately and effectively take care of the student until emergency services arrived, Allen said. They knew exactly what to do and were well prepared for the situation.

The decision to use the air ambulance was a precaution and the student was discharged from the hospital soon after assessment, Allen added.

We want to pass along a big thanks as well to the Maple Bay Fire Department, BC Ambulance Services, and all other first responders. There were also several parents who stayed behind to offer support, which was much appreciated.

803. https://www.courant.com/breaking-news/hc-br-middletown-wadsworth-death-20190402-fqsntz6bg5bkjodpvvsmtg36hi-story.html

Man found dead in state park in Middletown

By CHRISTINE DEMPSEY
| HARTFORD COURANT |
APR 02, 2019 | 1:18 PM

Wadsworth Falls State Park, where a man's body was found Monday night. (Mick Bolduc/Hartford Courant)

The body of a 34-year-old man has been found at Wadsworth Falls State Park in Middletown, according to state environmental police.

The cause of death has not been determined, although police ruled out foul play, Sgt. Christopher Dwyer said. An autopsy should allow investigators to learn how he died.

People driving by spotted the man in an area near Laurel Grove Road about 7:30 p.m., Dwyer said. The man lives nearby and was an avid mountain biker known to ride in the park.

The park straddles the Middletown and Middlefield lines and has more than 250 acres. Police from the state Department of Energy & Environmental Protection are investigating the death.

Christine Dempsey can be reached at cdempsey@courant.com.

804. https://fox61.com/2019/04/13/cyclist-who-died-riding-in-state-park-remembered-for-his-impact-on-the-sport-in-haddam/

Cyclist who died riding in state park remembered for his impact on the sport in Haddam

Posted 8:34 PM, April 13, 2019, by Taylor DiChello, Updated at 11:30PM, April 13, 2019

HADDAM - Connecticut's cycling community is mourning the loss of one of their most impactful leaders.

33-year-old, David Hoyle, was found in Wadsworth Falls State Park on April 1. DEEP says he died while mountain biking.

Saturday morning cyclists honored his legacy after his memorial service.

"He was like a second father to me, to all of us," says Lucas Huesman of Stonington. Huesman was one of the many kids Hoyle coached in racing. Hoyle was more than just the Executive Director of the Connecticut Cycling Advancement Program.

"He was a really, really good person to be with because he helped everybody at the office be better," says Aidan Charles, founder of CCAP and Hoyle's co-worker.

To cyclists across the state, he was coach, co-worker, mentor, and advocate. As the Executive Director at CCAP, Hoyle helped grow youth cycling in the state and traveled with kids to races as their coach.

"He led in the most subtle way possible by just setting an example," says Charles.

Hoyle's impact was not subtle. He was a big advocate for gun legislation in support of the Sandy Hook families. He helped form Team 26. They take annual bike rides from Newtown to Washington DC to raise awareness for gun control.

CCAP's motto used to be #ridelikeus. Now, everyone will #ridelikedave.

"To ride like Dave-- it's to ride with a good heart," says Huesman. "He was always on the good side of everything and he always looked at the bright side."

Hundreds of cyclists are going to ride like Dave by going on one of his favorite bike routes starting by going over the East Haddam Swing Bridge.

People lined up outside the doors of the Riverhouse in Haddam to pay their respects. Hundreds of cyclists joined in on the 26-mile tribute ride. Community members remembered his love for ice cream.

"We would always go on Google Maps and try to find the best ice cream place," says Huesman. "The ice cream is just a little symbol; symbolization of the big impact that he had on the community."

His legacy will live on through the people he's mentored throughout his life and career.

"I also want to start to teach the younger girls especially the kind of mindset that he would give me during races and before them," says Aeryn Northway of Cheshire.

DEEP says Hoyle's death is not being investigated as suspicious.

805. https://www.mapleridgenews.com/news/mountain-biker-admitted-to-hospital-after-being-sent-home/

(Contributed) Brendan Post suffered three fractured vertebrae.

Mountain biker admitted to hospital after being sent home

Released in Maple Ridge to go home with three fractured vertebrae
Neil Corbett
Apr. 19, 2019 6:00 a.m.
News

A 24-year-old man was twice sent home from Ridge Meadows Hospital with broken vertebrae.

Brendan Post, a local resident, said he was sent home from the emergency room in Maple Ridge twice on April 2 and 3, but later that week was admitted to Royal Columbian Hospital, and spent four nights there.

He is now being treated to keep what he is told is a permanently bent spine from getting worse.

His painful ordeal started March 31, when he was mountain biking at the series of trails known as The Woodlot. A poorly executed jump saw him go over his handlebars and land on his head.

If he hadnt been wearing a helmet, Post thinks he would have died.

When he could breathe normally, he still had to lay on the ground, unable to get up. His friends determined that he could wiggle his toes, and had feeling in his legs. But it was an hour before he could get to his feet and walk.

It was the worst pain hes felt in his life.

I thought I had pulled a whole bunch of muscles, Post said.

He had a restless night of sleep at home. His parents were away, so he was alone. Monday he went to a walk-in clinic and got a prescription for anti-inflammatory drugs.

On Tuesday, the pain was still severe, and Post went to the emergency department at Ridge Meadows Hospital. He had X-rays taken. Post said a doctor saw something that was not definite and asked him to return the next day for a CT scan. Post said he was prescribed muscle relaxants and painkillers.

Wednesday, Post returned for a CT scan. He waited in the ER for an estimated four to five hours.

Post was diagnosed with fractures in his T6, T7 and T11 vertebrae, then given a prescription for a thuracolumbar brace, and told to follow up with a doctor in casting.

He also had a small fracture in his scapula.

He said he was not admitted to the hospital.

Post said he was surprised to be walking and driving himself around, given his diagnosis.

He went to a Coquitlam orthotist for a brace and was advised to go to the ER at Royal Columbian Hospital.

Posts parents, Peggy and Ray Post, were vacationing in Costa Rica. He had said he would pick them up on Thursday when their plane landed.

He met them at the airport as promised, but told them: Dont hug me, my back is broken.

That Friday at 6 a.m., his parents took him to Royal Columbian. He said a physician looked at his CT scan and told him to lie down and not get out of bed until further instructed.

He said a new CT scan was performed, and the doctor conferred with an orthopedic surgeon about the best course of action.

Post was admitted to hospital for four days.

He was examined for possible internal injuries, and had his liver and kidney functions tested.

Post said Royal Columbian teams focus is to keep his vertebrae from collapsing further, to have them heal as close to straight as possible. But he said he will always stoop forward, at least slightly.

Post is back home, but has been limited to five-minute walks, five times a day. The rest of the time he tries to relax.

His father Ray is a former on-call firefighter and said an injury like his sons should have required a spinal board rescue.

His mother Peggy has written letters of complaint to both Fraser Health and MLA Bob DEith (Maple Ridge-Mission), and is awaiting a response.

Dr. Neil Barclay, Emergency Network Regional Medical Director for Fraser Health, offered a statement.

We work very hard to ensure our patients receive excellent, timely care every time they come into one of our emergency departments. Im sorry to hear this family feels this was not the case for them, he said.

We have reviewed the care they received and consulted physicians from both sites. The care plans were safe, appropriate and similar and would have ultimately had the same outcome.

We understand the family continues to have questions about the care their loved one received, and their physician will be speaking with them in the coming days to address them. We are committed to working with them to resolve any further concerns they may have.

Post said he will be off work for a minimum of six months from his job, in special effects in the movie industry.

A gofundme.com page has been set up by his friends, and can be found by searching Help Brendan Back.

Post is looking at six months in a back brace, as doctors hope to limit the curvature of his spine as his fractures heal.

806. https://patch.com/california/losgatos/mountain-biker-airlifted-injured-manzanita-trail-los-gatos

Mountain Biker Airlifted, Injured On Manzanita Trail In Los Gatos

The mountain biker sustained serious injuries when he fell in the St. Joseph's Open Space Preserve on Tuesday afternoon.

By Sue Wood, Patch Staff | Apr 30, 2019 6:56 pm ET | Updated Apr 30, 2019 7:27 pm ET

A Calstar air ambulance was brought in to transport the injured rider. (Santa Clara County Fire Department)

LOS GATOS, CA A mountain biker was seriously injured transported to the hospital via Calstar helicopter when he fell on a section of the Manzanita Trail at the St. Joseph's Open Space Preserve in Los Gatos, the Santa Clara County Fire Department reported.

A fire rescue crew responded the preserve at 1 p.m. and found the biker down on the trail. The medical helicopter was brought in to safely transport the patient about an hour later.

A Mid Peninsula Open Space crew also assisted with the response.

https://www.mercurynews.com/2019/04/30/injured-mountain-biker-airlifted-from-los-gatos-preserve/

Mountain biker gravely injured in crash at Los Gatos preserve

Man airlifted to trauma center

An injured mountain biker is moved to a medical helicopter at Saint Josephs Hill Open Space Preserve in Los Gatos on Tuesday, April 30, 2019. (Courtesy of the Santa Clara County Fire Department)
By Jason Green | jason.green@bayareanewsgroup.com | Bay Area News Group
PUBLISHED: April 30, 2019 at 4:54 pm | UPDATED: May 1, 2019 at 2:29 pm

LOS GATOS A man was seriously injured in a mountain bike crash at a Los Gatos preserve on Tuesday, authorities said.

Firefighters were dispatched to St. Josephs Hill Open Space Preserve at 1 p.m. for a report of a mountain biker down on a trail, according to the Santa Clara County Fire Department.

The man crashed while riding downhill on the Manzanita Trail, said Leigh Ann Gessner, a spokeswoman for the Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District that manages the 270-acre preserve. Two other mountain bikers found him and called 911.

Gessner said the man was wearing a helmet.

Firefighters called for a medical helicopter after learning that the mans injuries were serious, according to the fire department. He was airlifted from the preserve to a trauma center just after 2 p.m.

Open to all uses, St. Josephs Hill Open Space Preserve is popular with mountain bikers, said Gessner, adding that rangers use radar guns to enforce the 15 mph speed limit on trails.

Gessner said mountain bikers are urged to wear helmets, stay on trails and ride with a partner.

A lot of people use and enjoy the preserve every day, she said, and we want them to do so safely.

807. https://www.castanet.net/news/West-Kelowna/255876/Mountain-biker-rescued

West Kelowna

Mountain biker rescued

Alanna Kelly - May 9, 2019 / 2:55 pm | Story: 255876
Photo: COSAR

UPDATE: 2:50 p.m.

The female rider has reportedly sustained multiple injuries including a broken nose and arm.

A member from the group of riders says the female is an experienced rider.

The woman reportedly crashed coming off of a jump.

ORIGINAL: 10:53 a.m.

An injured mountain biker needed to be rescued from the Smith Creek area of West Kelowna Wednesday night.

Central Okanagan Search and Rescue were called at 8:40 p.m. after a female rider who was taking part in a group ride crashed on the Santas Revenge trail.

Spokesperson Ed Henczel said crews rushed to the scene with ATVs and used chainsaws to clear a path to get to the victim.

Her group did a really good job stabilizing her while we were called to the scene, he said.

The woman has extensive upper body injuries and was taken to hospital.

It took crews almost an hour to get to the woman.

COSAR is working to get a new hall to store its gear so response times can be faster, said Henczel.

The group is hoping for something more central because members respond to calls from Peachland to Lake Country.

808. https://www.townsvillebulletin.com.au/news/mountain-biker-injures-spine-after-3m-fall-at-douglas/news-story/4583686f71115967f3ce1139e0569ccd

Mountain biker injures spine after 3m fall at Douglas

KEAGAN ELDER, Townsville Bulletin
May 10, 2019 6:25pm

A CYCLIST needed to flown to hospital after falling about 3m in a horrifying mountain bike crash.

A Queensland Ambulance Service spokeswoman said the man fell onto rocks and wood and suffered suspected spinal injuries when mountain biking at the Douglas Mountain Bike Reserve.

Emergency services were called to the crash at 8.54am on Saturday.

Queensland Fire and Emergency Services helped paramedics retrieve the cyclist, who was flown to hospital by the Queensland Government Air rescue helicopter.

The man was in a stable condition.

Douglas Mountain Bike Park, situated off Angus Smith Drive, is popular with cyclists offering a number of trail of varying difficulty.

809. https://www.lincolnshirelive.co.uk/news/local-news/mountain-biker-injured-badly-fall-2872277

Mountain biker injured so badly in fall that it looked like he had been in a 70mph car crash

He almost died
By
Paul Whitelam
05:00, 16 MAY 2019
News

A man who suffered near-fatal injuries in a fall from his mountain bike has gone on to run marathons after he was saved by the Lincolnshire & Nottinghamshire Air Ambulance.

Simon Bryson, 54, was biking around Willingham Woods, near Market Rasen, when he came off as he negotiated a two foot jump and hit the ground with an almighty thump.

He suffered several fractured ribs, a broken collarbone, a punctured lung, a fractured vertebrae and a double fracture to his pelvis.
The air ambulance crew during an exercise to mark 25 years of saving lives (Image: Paul Whitelam)

Mr Bryson, from Keelby, spent three days in intensive care at Hull Royal Infirmary following his rescue and was in hospital for three months overall.

The college lecturer said on the 25th anniversary of the air ambulance that consultants told him that less seriously injured people than him had died.

He says that while his recovery is ongoing following the accident four years ago, his good level of fitness meant that he avoided serious disability.

Mr Bryson said: "One consultant said it looked as if someone had hit me at 70mph in a car.

"Had I not been wearing a helmet I wouldn't be here now."

He added: "The accident happened on Saturday, June 27, 2015. My son Euan, who was 13 at the time, and I had had a great day at the woods.

"I said: 'Let's do one last run.'. We got to the last 20 to 30 yards and I took a two foot jump.

"As I landed I had a tyre blow and I hit the ground. I remember being put in the helicopter and asking the skipper if my son could come with us.

"I remember being underneath the canopy of a beech tree looking up while on a cocktail of morphine and ketamine.

"I was in hospital for three months and my recovery continues.

"The level of my fitness helped me avoid serious disability."

Each ambucopter mission costs about 2,500 and it is called to around 1,000 emergencies a year.
Simon Bryson (Image: Paul Whitelam)

Back when Mr Bryson needed the air ambulance, the rescue mission cost the charity 1,200 but was free for him.

Once he was well enough, he decided to repay his 'debt' and he has since raised a total of 9,200 for the ambucopter with activities including running the London Marathon.

To support the charity visit www.ambucopter.org.uk

810. https://www.wbtv.com/2019/05/20/mountain-biker-rescued-after-fall-rowan-county/

Mountain biker rescued after fall in Rowan County

Crews had to make access 1.5 miles down the rail tracks and utilize a rope haul system to rescue the patient.
By David Whisenant | May 20, 2019 at 5:06 PM EDT - Updated May 20 at 5:24 PM

ROWAN COUNTY, N.C. (WBTV) - A man who crashed while riding a mountain bike near the Salisbury Community Park had to be rescued by emergency workers on Monday.

According to officials, the man crashed and was injured. He was not able to get himself out and was stuck near the railroad tracks and Majolica Road.

Multiple emergency crews responded including firefighters from Locke VFD and Salisbury Fire, Rowan emergency medical personnel, and Rowan Rescue Squad workers.

Using ATVs and other specialized equipment, they found the man and brought him out. Crews had to make access 1.5 miles down the rail tracks and utilize a rope haul system to rescue the patient, according to the Salisbury Fire Department.

The man was taken to the hospital with what were described as non life-threatening injuries.

811. Finally someone with some sense!

https://www.bristolpost.co.uk/news/bristol-news/woman-calls-bmx-jump-track-2887310

Woman calls for BMX jump track closure after partner's tragic death

"We don't want anyone else to experience the same grief we are"
By
Tristan CorkSenior Reporter
16:47, 20 MAY 2019
NEWS

The grieving partner of a man who died in an accident on a BMX bike track in a Bristol park has called for it to be closed down and removed.

Kerry Lefeuvre said she did not want anyone else to be hurt or killed on the track, which claimed the life of Russell Mann last week.

The 29-year-old from Knowle is understood to have died at the scene of the accident, which happened on the evening of Tuesday, May 14.

An accomplished off-road mountain biker, his friends said he always took proper precautions, but returned to do one last jump on the track when tragedy struck.

The track is in the north east corner of Arnos Court Park, directly behind Arnos Vale Hotel, in a public open space controlled by Bristol City Council.

The BMX jump track was officially installed in 2013, following a public meeting and formal planning application by the city council was given approval.
Russell Mann's partner Kerry Lefeuvre and their two children Alisa and Cody (Image: Bristol Live)

It is understood to have been the first fatality at the park.

The death of Mr Mann has been referred to Avon Coroner and a formal inquest will be opened at a later date.

Mr Manns death has left all those who knew him in South Bristol devastated.

A scaffolder by trade, he was a well-known DJ and character in Knowle who has left two children and a big wider circle of family and friends.
(Image: BristolLive)

At the BMX track in the park in Brislington, floral tributes have been left to Mr Mann, along with a poignant memorial bench made of scaffolding.

On Sunday, a large group of family and friends went on a fundraising march from the city centre of Bristol, through Bedminster to Knowle, collecting donations for Mr Manns young family.

A fundraising page set up to help them with ongoing costs has already passed the four-figure mark within just 48 hours of being set up.
Russell Mann who died tragically on Tuesday, May 14 at Arnos Court Park in Brislington. A fundraising walk was held from the city centre to Knowle on Sunday by family and friends (Image: Bristol Live)

His partner Kerry Lefeuvre said she wanted to focus on a campaign to reassess the safety of the BMX track itself, following Mr Manns death.

I want to shut down that track, because Ive heard of a lot of stories about it being dangerous, said Ms Lefeuvre.

My partner got killed there, and I want it shut down. A lot of people have told me theres been a few accidents there, and we dont want anyone to have the same grief as were experiencing now, she added.

Since the tragedy, the track has remained open, and apart from the inquest, it is unknown if any kind of investigation or inquiry is underway by the authorities.

Bristol Live has approached Bristol City Council for a comment and is awaiting a response.

812. What a "healthful" sport! ;)

https://www.keyt.com/news/santa-maria-north-county/mountain-biker-air-lifted-to-hospital-following-crash-near-orcutt/1079538866

Mountain biker air-lifted to hospital following crash near Orcutt

By:
Travis Schlepp

Posted: May 20, 2019 04:35 PM PDT

Updated: May 21, 2019 01:05 PM PDT

A mountain biker was airlifted to the hospital after suffering a major injury in a crash near Orcutt. (Santa Barbara County Fire Department)

ORCUTT, Calif. - A mountain biker was transported to the hospital by helicopter after crashing his bike near Orcutt.

The crash happened at around 1:30 p.m. near the intersection of Orcutt Road and Rice Ranch Road.

The Santa Barbara County Sheriff's Office arrived on scene and located the cyclist who appeared to have suffered a spinal injury.

The cyclist was air-lifted to the hospital for treament. The condition of the cyclist is unclear at this time.

813. https://www.vcstar.com/story/news/local/communities/simi-valley/2019/05/20/mountain-biker-died-undertow-trail-simi-valley-identified/3748056002/

Officials identify mountain biker who died on Simi Valley trail

Gretchen Wenner, Ventura County StarPublished 4:19 p.m. PT May 20, 2019

Open space (Photo: STAR FILE PHOTO)

Authorities have identified a mountain biker who died of natural causes while riding on a popular Simi Valley trail Saturday morning.

Eduardo Gutierrez Torralba, 52, was from Canyon Country in the Santa Clarita area, the Ventura County Medical Examiner's Office said Monday.

The incident was called in around 10:40 a.m. Saturday after Gutierrez Torralba had an apparent medical episode while riding with a group of friends near the Undertow Trail, according to the Simi Valley Police Department. The trail is in hillside open space generally north of Highway 118 and east of Kuehner Drive, south of Hummingbird Ranch.

Gutierrez Torralba reportedly said he was not feeling well, authorities said. His friends told him to turn around and they called 911. Ventura County firefighters and a sheriff's helicopter responded. He was pronounced dead at the scene.

The medical examiner's office said Monday the death was due to natural causes. [What's "natural" about mountain biking?]

Gretchen Wenner covers breaking news for the Ventura County Star. Reach her at gretchen.wenner@vcstar.com or 805-437-0270.

814. https://m.salisburypost.com/2019/05/20/man-injured-in-mountain-bike-crash-at-park/

Man Injured in Mountain Bike Crash at Park

815. What a great article! Now, with the e-MTBs hitting the trails in North America.... the issue will grow worse.

Mike

From: George Wuerthner
Date: Wed, 22 May 2019 09:34:33 -0700
Subject: bears and bikes

https://mountainjournal.org/scientists-say-mountain-biking-negatively-impacts-bears

Griz Expert Says 'Mountain Bikes Are A Grave Threat To Bears'

WHEN IT COMES TO SAFEGUARDING BEARS, SCIENTISTS SAY WILDERNESS-CALIBER LANDS, FREE OF RIDERS, ARE IMPORTANT TO BRUIN PERSISTENCE

by Todd Wilkinson
CONTRIBUTEGET NEWSLETTER
A Greater Yellowstone grizzly, part of just two healthy populations of grizzly bears in the Lower 48. What effect do mountain bikes have on wilderness and bears? For scientists who study them, there is no doubt. Photo courtesy Steven Fuller
Does mountain biking impact wildlife, any more than hikers and horseback riders do?

More specifically: could rapidly-growing numbers of cyclists in the backcountry of Greater Yellowstone negatively affect the most iconic speciesgrizzly bearsliving in Americas best-known wildland ecosystem?

Its a point of contention in the debate over how much of the Gallatin Mountains, managed by the U.S. Forest Service, should receive elevated protection under the 1964 Wilderness Act. The wildest core of the Gallatins, located just beyond Yellowstone National Park and extending northward toward Bozemans back door, is the 155,000-acre Buffalo-Porcupine Creek Wilderness Study Area.

Not only is the fate of the Gallatins considered a national conservation issue, considering its importance to the health of the ecosystem holding Yellowstone, but lines of disagreement have opened within the conservation community.

The Gallatin Forest Partnership, led by the Greater Yellowstone Coalition, The Wilderness Society, Montana Wilderness Association and aligned with mountain biking groups, is seeking to have 102,000 acres protected as wilderness in the Gallatins, but it doesnt include the Buffalo Horn-Porcupine.
So far I have only seen people who want mountain bikers to sacrifice and the assumption [is] that this will help wildlife, wrote Adam Oliver, founder of the Southwest Montana Mountain Bike Association recently on the Bozone Listserv. Show me the science, prove me wrong." [I already did that: https://mjvande.info/scb7.htm]

Meanwhile, another group, Montanans for Gallatin Wilderness and its allies, want 230,000 acres elevated to wilderness status, especially the Buffalo Horn-Porcupine. Their proposal has attracted widespread support from prominent conservation biologists, retired land managers and well-known businesspeople and citizens across the country. They say they arent anti-mountain biking; rather, they are pro-grizzly bear and favor foresighted wildlife protection in an age of climate change, a rapidly-expanding human development footprint emanating from Bozeman and Big Sky, and rising levels of outdoor recreation.

One flashpoint playing out publicly has been an online forum called the Bozone Listerv, which functions essentially as a digital community bulletin board. There, cycling advocates have claimed that riding their bikes in grizzly country does not cause serious impactscertainly none worse, they insist, than hikers, horseback riders and motorized recreationists.

If the Buffalo Horn-Porcupine has its status elevated from being a wilderness study area to full Capital W wilderness, motorized users as well as mountain bikers would be prohibited. However, illegal incursion and blazing of trails by motorized users and mountain bikers have already occurred in the wilderness study area with little enforcement coming from the Forest Service.

So far I have only seen people who want mountain bikers to sacrifice and the assumption [is] that this will help wildlife, wrote Adam Oliver, founder of the Southwest Montana Mountain Bike Association recently on the Bozone Listserv. Show me the science, prove me wrong or be willing to give up something yourself.

If Mr. Oliver desires to be shown the professional science relating to mountain bikes and concerns about grizzlies, he need only contact Dr. Christopher Servheen. Servheen, retired from government service, spent four decades at the helm of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Services Grizzly Bear Recovery Team in the West. He is an adjunct research professor in the Department of Ecosystem and Conservation Sciences at the University of Montana.

Servheen says that despite assertions by mountain bikers, the scientific evidence on impact is pretty clear based on human-bear incidents that have happened and thousands of hours of field observation and radio tracking of grizzlies.

I do believe that mountain bikes are a grave threat to bearsboth grizzly and black bearsfor many reasons and these are detailed in the Treat report and recommendations, Servheen told Mountain Journal. High speed and quiet human activity in bear habitat is a grave threat to bear and human safety and certainly can displace bears from trails and along trails. Bikes also degrade the wilderness character of wild areas by mechanized travel at abnormal speeds.
I do believe that mountain bikes are a grave threat to bearsboth grizzly and black bearsfor many reasons..." Christopher Servheen told Mountain Journal. High speed and quiet human activity in bear habitat is a grave threat to bear and human safety and certainly can displace bears from trails and along trails. Bikes also degrade the wilderness character of wild areas by mechanized travel at abnormal speeds.

By Treat report, Servheen is referring to a multi-agency Board of Review investigation into the death of Brad Treat who was fatally mauled by a grizzly on June 29, 2016 after colliding with the bear at high speed near the town of East Glacier, just outside of Glacier National Park in Montana. Servheen chairs that board and others investigating fatal bear maulings.

Investigators surmised that Treat was traveling at between 20 and 25 miles an hour and rode into the grizzly around a sharp turn in the trail, leaving him only a second or two to respond. The bear then responded defensively, demonstrating no pattern of otherwise being aggressive and no interest in consuming Treat. He was not carrying bear spray, a gun or a cell phone.

Mountain bikers often write on social media of how they enjoy getting hardy workouts over long distances which means they need to ride fast. Some also boast of their love for careening down steep trails.

Denial about impacts on wildlife is a common defensive response from mountain biking groups now pushing for construction of more riding trails on public lands, seeking to reduce the size of areas being proposed for federal wilderness status, and even enlisting lawmakers to amend the federal Wilderness Act so they can gain more access to wild country.

Servheen and others have seen claims made by mountain bikers who try to suggest there is no scientific evidence theyre affecting wildlife. Some selfish and self-centered mountain bikers are especially prone to this, Servheen said. The key factors of mountain biking that aggravate its impact on wildlife are high speed combined with quiet travel. These factors are exactly what we preach against when we tell people how to be safe when using bear habitat.

For years, mountain biking advocatesas they did at a SHIFT outdoor recreation conference in Jackson Holehave suggested it makes no difference whether one is riding in Moab and the Wasatch, the Sierras, Colorado Rockies or northern Rockies. Impacts to wildlife, they insist, are nominal.

None of those other areas possess the same level of large mammal diversity Greater Yellowstone does and, save for the Crown of the Continent/Continental Divide Ecosystem in northern Montana, they dont have grizzlies, considered an umbrella species for a long list of other animals.
Federal wilderness girds the southwest, southwest and eastern front of Yellowstone National Park, serving as a continuance of habitat for species that rely upon plenty of space and low densities of people. The Gallatins, pictured above, represent a crucial piece roadless land, north of the national park. Advocates have sought to get the Gallatin crest and its foothills protected for a century in recognition of the high wildlife values.
According to Servheen and others, capital W wilderness areas are biologically important for bears because they are notably different from the busy pace of human uses found on public lands managed for multiple use. Wilderness does accommodate recreation but the emphasis is on users moving at slow speed.

Its no accident that grizzlies select for unfragmented roadless habitat and wilderness in the Gallatins is certain to accrue ever more value for wildlife as human use levels in the Yellowstone River valley, to the east, and the Gallatin River corridor, dominated by exploding development at Big Sky, continue to surge.

Wild public lands that currently have grizzly bears present have those bears because of the characteristics of these places: visual cover, secure habitat, natural foods, and spring, summer, fall and denning habitat, Servheen said. All these factors can be compromised by excessive human presence, high speed and high encounter frequencies with humans. To compare places without bears, like Utah, to places with bears, like Yellowstone or all the wilderness areas with bears, is a flawed comparison.

Sharing the Board of Reviews findings and other scientific analyses, Servheen said, I see mountain bikes as a threat to human and bear safety in grizzly and black bear habitat and as an unnecessary disturbance in wilderness and roadless areas.

As part of its forest planning process which will guide management for a human generation, Custer-Gallatin officials will be compiling public comments about differing options being advanced for protecting the Gallatin Range and other parts of the forest as wilderness.

Observers note that should Gallatin managers choose to release wilderness study areas for motorized recreation or mountain biking (and the growing controversy over e-bikes) those lands will be disqualified from Wilderness designation in the future.

Thats why, given growing population pressure, proponents of more wilderness say the Custer-Gallatin needs to think proactively, anticipating the fact that habitat for grizzlies will shrink and become ever-more fragmented by rising intensity of recreational use. Further, once a use is established, it is extremely difficult to reel it back in. By the time wildlife field personnel realize that grizzlies are being displaced, it can often be too late.

Bear biologists say that because hiking and horseback riding happens at slower plodding speeds, such behavior is more predictable for grizzlies. Both mountain bikers and motorized users increase the likelihood of surprising bears and the fact that riders are focused on the trail, to avoid hitting a boulder or colliding with a tree, they are not as attentive. Its the growing numbers of mountain bikers overall, and the volume of riders on any given day, that concerns Servheen.

To show how fast mountain biking has emerged as user entity, reference the voluminous document titled Forest Plan Amendment for Grizzly Bear Conservation in the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem released in 2006. The plan pertains to all of the national forests in the Greater Yellowstone region and highlights changes necessary to solidify grizzly conservation in advance of them being removed from federal protection under the Endangered Species Act.

The document contains hundreds of thousands of words but bike is mentioned just twice. Today, mountain biking may be the fastest growing outdoor recreation pastime in Greater Yellowstone and forest supervisors, as a whole, admit they dont know what the impacts are on wildlife now and, most importantly, what they will be in the future.

Ten years after the document mentioned, above, was released, the Interagency Grizzly Bear Committee released its Conservation Strategy for the Grizzly Bear in the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem. In that document, the importance of secure habitat in the core of the ecosystem, which includes roadless stretches of the Gallatin Range, was spelled out:

History has demonstrated that grizzly bear populations survived where frequencies of contact with humans were very low. Populations of grizzly bears persisted in those areas where large expanses of relatively secure habitat were retained and where human-caused mortality was low, it states. In the GYE, this is primarily associated with national park lands, wilderness areas, and large blocks of public lands. Habitat security requires minimizing mortality risk and displacement from human activities in a sufficient amount of habitat to allow the population to benefit from this secure habitat and respond with increasing numbers and distribution.
Conservation proponents of more wilderness in the Gallatins say they are pro-grizzly, not anti-mountain biking, asserting that the area is more important for long-term survival of grizzlies in Greater Yellowstone than mountain bikers' need for more terrain. Grizzly photo courtesy Thomas D. Mangelsen (mangelsen.com). Mountain biker photo courtesy Leslie Kehmeier (www.flickr.com/photos/mypubliclands/20753967159). Composite image produced by Gus O'Keefe/Mountain Journal
Mountain bikers already have hundreds of miles worth of trail riding options within a relatively short driving distance from Bozeman and Big Sky on public and private lands, including over 50 miles of trail at Big Sky Resort and the Yellowstone Club. Ecoystemwide, they have thousands of miles if old logging roads and motorized trails are included.

Wildlife, however, does not have such a range of options. Grizzly bears fare better in solitude and they settle where necessity bring them. Besides bruins, some elk calving areas are many generations oldplaces where mothers, who were taught by their mothers, and so on, go to calf and raise their young where they are less likely to encounter human disturbance.

There are two main impacts of roads and trails on bears: displacement and increased mortality risk, Servheen explains. These impacts occur with both motorized and non-motorized access. As human use increases, the importance of areas where there is little or rare use by humans increases. If recreation increases to the point that bears have few secure places to be, then there can be many complex impacts.

Servheen cited the example of adult male bears seeking and using the most secure backcountry areas thereby forcing females with offspring into areas closer to humans and human disturbance as they try to avoid the adult males.

Thats, in fact, precisely what happened with famed Jackson Hole Grizzly 399 whose first cub was likely killed by a large male bear a decade and a half ago. She then moved from the backcountry of the Bridger-Teton and Grand Teton National Park to riskier roadside area to raise broods of cubs.

Fortunately, we have yet to get to the point of extreme displacement in most areas of grizzly habitat, but it certainly is possible if human use continues to increase in important bear habitat, Servheen explains.

The point is not having human uses of backcountry areas proliferate to the point where that happens. In the past, it was documented that old logging roads were linked to higher levels of elicit killing of grizzlies because they provided easy access. Thats not Servheens worry with recreation trails.

As for poaching, I define poaching as intentional vandal killing of bears. I doubt that increased human use will result in more poaching but it could result in more self-defense kills of bears as bears are surprised and perhaps defensive in more remote areas, he said. I worry less about direct deaths than I do about continual displacement and stress on bears trying to avoid humans wherever they go.

A dozen years ago, in 2007, Jeff Marion and Jeremy Wimpey published an assessment, Environmental Impacts of Mountain Biking: Science Review and Best Practices. Most of review focused on such things as soil erosion and minimizing conflicts with other users. Notably, it was published as a companion to IMBAs widely-circulated how-to book on trail building titled Trail Solutions.

While no mention was made of grizzly bearsin fact, just two viable grizzly populations exist in the Lower 48Servheen speaks favorably of Marions and Wimpeys recitation of the science.

Trails and trail uses can also affect wildlife. Trails may degrade or fragment wildlife habitat, and can also alter the activities of nearby animals, causing avoidance behavior in some and food-related attraction behavior in others. While most forms of trail impact are limited to a narrow trail corridor, disturbance of wildlife can extend considerably further into natural landscapes.

They went on, The opposite conduct in wildlife avoidance behavior can be equally problematic. Avoidance behavior is generally an innate response that is magnified by visitor behaviors perceived as threatening, such as loud sounds, off-trail travel, travel in the direction of wildlife, and sudden movements. When animals flee from disturbance by trail users, they often expend precious energy, which is particularly dangerous for them in winter months when food is scarce. When animals move away from a disturbance, they leave preferred or prime habitat and move, either permanently or temporarily, to secondary habitat that may not meet their needs for food, water, or cover. Visitors and land managers, however, are often unaware of such impacts, because animals often flee before humans are aware of the presence of wildlife.

Thus, here is a contraction: mountain bikers are told to make noise in order to alert bears of their presence and yet making noise, particularly if it involves people over a long period of time, might displace grizzlies from habitat.

The Board of Review report examining Treats death states, There is a long record of human-bear conflicts associated with mountain biking in bear habitat including the serious injuries and deaths suffered by bike riders. Both grizzly bears and black bears have been involved in these conflicts with mountain bikers, the authors wrote then drew the following comparison between prime grizzly areas around Yellowstone and the Canadian Rockies near Banff National Park.

Safety issues related to grizzly bear attacks on trail users in Banff National Park prompted Herrero to study the Moraine Lake Highline Trail. Park staff noted that hikers were far more numerous than mountain bikers on the trail, but that the number of encounters between bikers and bears was disproportionately high.Previous research had shown that grizzly bears are more likely to attack when they first become aware of a human presence at distances of less than 50 meters. Herrero...concluded that mountain bikers travel faster, more quietly and with closer attention to the tread than hikers, all attributes that limit place on a fast section of trail that went through high-quality bear habitat.

Herrero is Dr. Stephen Herrero, an animal behaviorist considered a world authority on bear attacks. He wrote the widely-cited book Bear Attacks: Their Causes and Avoidance. The Board of Review ended its report with this: There is a need for enhanced safety messaging at trailheads and in the media but it is usually aimed at hikers. However, mountain biking is in many ways more likely to result in injury and or death from bear attacks to people who participate in the activity. In addition, there are increasing numbers of mountain bikers using bear habitat and pressure to increase mountain bike access to areas where black bear and grizzly bear encounters are very likely.

There is also this analysis done in Jackson Hole. In 2014, consultant A. Grant MacHutchon was hired to compile a risk assessment on human-bear interaction in the Moose-Wilson road corridor. It connects Teton Village and dense development along the west side of the Snake River in Jackson Hole with Grand Teton National Park.

Again, its not only displacement of grizzlies, as Servheen and others note, but a matter of human safety.

Trail riding with mountain bikes is currently not allowed anywhere in the Moose-Wilson Corridor nor is it being proposed in any of the alternatives for the MWC. However, there is more information available on the human safety risks associated with mountain biking than there is for road biking on multi use pathways; consequently, I used this information for my assessment of the proposed multi use pathway.

Based on his congealing of studies, he said a sudden encounter occurs when a person approaches within 55 yards of a bear, apparently without the bear being aware of the person until the person is close by.
Mountain biking is often characterized by high speeds and quiet movement. This limits the reaction time of people and/or bears and the warning noise that would help to reduce the chance of sudden encounters with a bear. An alert mountain biker making sufficient noise and traveling at slow speed (e.g. uphill) would be no more likely to have a sudden encounter with a bear than would a hiker. However, on certain types of trails (e.g. flat, moderate downhill, smooth surface), the typical bicyclist can travel at much higher speeds than hikers, which increases the likelihood of a sudden encounter.
"An alert mountain biker making sufficient noise and traveling at slow speed (e.g. uphill) would be no more likely to have a sudden encounter with a bear than would a hiker. However, on certain types of trails (e.g. flat, moderate downhill, smooth surface), the typical bicyclist can travel at much higher speeds than hikers, which increases the likelihood of a sudden encounter. Wildlife research consultant A. Grant MacHutchon

Matthew Schmor, a graduate student at the University of Calgary, summarized survey data he collected from 41 individuals in the Calgary Canmore region who had had interactions with bears while mountain biking. Some of the interactions were aggressive encounters in which a bicyclist(s) was charged or chased by a bear(s). Most of the interactions (66 percent) were with black bears (27 of 41), 32 percent were with grizzly bears (13 of 41), and in one case the species was not identified.

Of the 41 bear bicyclist interactions reported by Schmor, most occurred on flat trails (51 percent vs nearly a third29 percenton downhills, and 15 percent on uphill riding. Equally as revealing is that 61 percent happened at speeds of 11 and 30 km/hour, a quarter at between 1 and 10 km/hour. Three-fifths of the incidents involved two or less riders.

Interestingly, Schmor found that 78 percent (32 of 41) of encounters occurred in high visibility areas with greater than 16 yards of open ground between the bicyclist and the bear. Schmor also found that 76 percent (31 of 41) of mountain bike riders had not contacted officials about their bear encounters.

The latter finding is extremely important because each encounter can result cumulatively over time in bears being disrupted and opting to abandon prime habitat for terrain where food and security cover is much less optimal. For grizzly mothers in their reproduction years, biologists tell Mountain Journalthat poorer nutrition and more stressful environments can actually result in fewer successful pregnancies and fewer cubs.

If grizzly bears in an ecosystem like Greater Yellowstone are going to persist and thrive, weathering changes brought by growing numbers of people and a shifting climate, they protecting the best bear habitat should be a priority, Servheen says. You are correct that I see mountain bikes as a threat to human and bear safety in grizzly and black bear habitat and as an unnecessary disturbance in wilderness and roadless areas, he said.

Whats the key to keeping free-ranging wildlife populations on the landscape? Whats the value of wilderness? What should conservation-minded recreationists be paying attention to? Intactness is the first thing that comes to mind. There are few places left intact in our highly fragmented world, says Gary Tabor, president of the Center for Large Landscape Conservation based in Bozeman but involved with wildlife issues around the world.

I think mountain biking and rapid recreational expansion into the backcountry is symptomatic of a growing push to build roads and sub-roads and trails everywhere we want to go without regard for the other beings out there and the high values inherent in leaving those places alone.

Tabor says the thinking about wildness has changed in an era focused on personal use and extreme athleticism. Lost is a literacy and understanding of ecology, an empathy for what uncommon creatures need in the rare spaces theyre able to inhabit.

Backcountry used to be backcountry, he says. Its not just mountain bikers crisscrossing places and riding fast to notch dozens of miles in a day. People are doing 50 kilometer walks and running their own ultra-marathons, covering as much ground in hours where you used to spend a week unwinding.

Tabor has watched the debate over Gallatin wilderness unfold on social media outlets and he has witnessed professional conservationists affiliated with the Gallatin Forest Partnership become defensive when other groups say that more habitat protection is better than promoting more human use. It isnt hard to know which conservation option is better for wildlife.

Groups that are working on behalf of the conservation community to represent conservation values should be open to peer review from other members of the conservation community, he said. They should not look upon it as criticism but welcome it as peer review to put forth a better conservation plan because we probably have one chance to get it right. Just because you are one of the few in a negotiating room doesnt mean you capture all of the conservation values that need a louder voice. As the fragmentation of nature accelerates and the future of the Gallatins is being decided, I think we all can ask ourselves, Is no place sacred?

EDITOR'S NOTE: Tim Hawke, a member of the Southwest Montana Mountain Biking Association, asserted on social media in response to this story that Mountain Journal and its founder Todd Wilkinson are "anti-mountain biking." Here is what Wilkinson wrote as a reply: "I am not now, and have never been anti-bike. There's a reason why we still have grizzlies in Greater Yellowstone and why they don't and will never exist in other wildland areas, that is owed to two things: landscapes not dominated by people and wildlands that are not fragmented. There are plenty of excellent places to mountain bike that are not as critical to wildlife as the central core of Greater Yellowstone. Your colleague, Adam Oliver, wrote this on the Bozone listerv: "So far I have only seen people who want mountain bikers to sacrifice and the assumption is this will help wildlife. Show me the science. Prove me wrong." It was an intriguing statement so I went to the chief of grizzly recovery for the last several decades. I think he answered the question about science posed by Adam. He and other biologists have a question of their own: When does anyone ever ask wildlife what they are willing to sacrifice? The extraordinary abundance of wildlife that exists in Greater Yellowstone and nowhere else in the Lower 48grizzlies, animal migrationsis exceeding rare in the world. We mountain bikers have exponentially more habitat to play in than grizzlies do to survive in."

816. https://www.eaglevalleynews.com/news/a-64-year-old-dies-while-mountain-biking-in-blind-bay/

A 64-year-old man was mountain biking in Blind Bay when he died of suspected cardiac arrest. (File photo)

Shuswap Search and Rescue came assist first responders at the scene
CAMERON THOMSON
May. 24, 2019 1:30 a.m.
NEWS

A 64-year-old man died while mountain biking on a trail between Balmoral Road and McArthur Heights, Thursday evening.

On May 23 about 4:30 p.m., 15 members of the Shuswap Search and Rescue arrived at the scene where first responders were already performing CPR, but there was no response.

The man was mountain biking with his wife when its believed he suffered a heart attack. The wife called was able to call 911, for help.

More to come.

817. From: [a friend]
Subject: Experts Warn Bikes and Bears a risky combination
Date: Sun, 26 May 2019 11:59:24 -0700

Another excellent article on how mountain bikers are disturbing the bears (grizzly and black bears) -- and it also mentions how mtber's dogs should be left at home...

https://www.dailyinterlake.com/local_news/20190526/experts_warn_bikes_and_bears_a_risky_combination

"Evidence suggested the collision occurred so quickly that neither Treat nor the bear could avoid it." In other words, not yielding right of way to pedestrians, as required by law.

"mountain bikers tend to focus on the trail close to the bike instead of looking ahead for bears, especially on single-track trails.": just what I have been saying.

"Bears must live in these areas while humans are just visitors, he said.": good point! But he forgot to say that mountain bikers can walk!

A February 2016 article at singletracks.com observes, Mountain biking is perhaps the most dangerous of the forms of recreating in bear country.

Ive hiked my whole life and Ive never had a black bear or a grizzly bear charge me, Hammer said. The two times Ive been charged I was on a mountain bike.

He said both occasions occurred when he was biking in the Krause Basin area east of Kalispell. One incident involved a black bear protecting cubs. The other involved a bear Hammer concluded was likely a grizzly. In that case, Hammer was traveling down a Forest Service road and heard a bear chasing him, with clacking of teeth and huffing.

Hammer sped up and escaped injury. He has not mountain biked since in the Krause Basin.

818. https://www.summerlandreview.com/news/search-and-rescue-say-app-helped-save-injured-okanagan-mountain-biker/

Members of the Osoyoos fire department assisted two stranded hikers on Saturday. (Photo courtesy of Osoyoos Fire Department)

Search and rescue say app helped save injured Okanagan mountain biker

Penticton group assists in incident involving a biker on the Three Blind Mice trail
KRISTI PATTON
May. 27, 2019 7:20 a.m.
NEWS

Penticton and District Search and Rescue was called out to an incident involving a biker on the Three Blind Mice mountain bike trail system in the Naramata area.

Kelvin Hall, PENSAR manager, said the team was stood down while enroute to assist the Oliver and Osoyoos search and rescues request for mutual aid on a rope rescue of stranded hikers only to be called out around 2 p.m. to help an injured female biker.

Hall said the mountain biker was on the Bronco trail in the south east corner of the Three Blind Mice trail when the incident occurred.

The quick response to the rescue was aided by injured parties companions utilizing a mobile application called TrailForks Mountain Bike to alert emergency officials and send rescuers the injured parties exact location, said Hall.

Due to the injuries sustained and the the terrain, Hall determined that in the best interest of the patient that a ground stretcher team extraction would not be appropriate and deployed PENSARs helicopter long line extraction to lift the subject out of the area to an awaiting ambulance.

Hall reinforced that anyone going into the backcountry to to load the free app TrailForks MountainBike whether you are riding a mountain bike, hiking or four-wheeling.

Over the past few years rescuers have been aided locating injured parties who have been able to deploy the emergency alert tab on the TrailForks application which pinpoints the exact location of the injured subject to rescuers, he said.

According to the Oliver and Osoyoos Search and Rescue team, the fire department members were able to walk the stranded hikers out of the situation they were in on the initial call for a rope rescue. The fire department said there were no injuries and reminded that hikers need to be prepared when they venture out and know their limits.

819. https://bhsregister.com/concussed-kilburn-third-times-the-harm/

Concussed Kilburn: third times the harm

By Julia Shannon-Grillo

May 28, 2019
Kilburn placed second in Mountain Bike Nationals in Snowshoe, West Virginia

In 2014, 2.87 million emergency department visits, hospitalizations, and deaths occurred as a result of traumatic brain injuries a 53% increase from the numbers seen in 2006.

Traumatic brain injuries, commonly called concussions, are caused by a bump, blow, or jolt to the head that disrupts the normal function of the brain. Symptoms such as impairments to thinking, memory, sensory, motor, or emotional function can last for weeksor a lifetime.

Picture an average high school student the week before finals. Cramming and stress are typical themes that come to mind. Yet for Burlington High School (BHS) senior, Gaelen Kilburn, pre-finals freak out means jetting off to Belgium for a three hour road race.

Kilburns interest in biking started when his dad brought him to the Wednesday Night Mountain Bike Series at the Catamount Outdoor Family Center in Williston, VT at the age of five.

I was on a single speed little kids bike, and then the next day we went out and bought a bike with gears, Kilburn said.

Kilburn was hooked; he began racing in the Catamount series every week, which eventually led to other local mountain bike races.

Kilburn encountered his first concussion in the Killington Stage Race during the spring of his 8th grade year. Kilburn describes the event as the worst crash hes had in his 13 years of biking.

Some guy took out like ten of us. For some reason his tire just blew upI just went over the handlebars, Kilburn said. I think we were going 40 miles an hour.

Though initially knocked unconscious, Kilburn was able to recover and got back to racing within six weeks.

At 14 years old, Kilburn got serious. He joined the Cyclocrossworld team, a national team that races whats essentially a road bike with knobby tires. Cyclocross began in France in the early 20th century and has since spread throughout Europe. Cyclocross courses are often built in cities and tend to run through city parks in order to ride on hills without the gravely grit preferred for mountain biking.

Kilburn raced for Cyclocrossworld throughout his freshman year until transitioning to the Hot Tubes Cycling Team, a group that identifies themselves as the premier junior development cycling team in the US. In the past 20 years, Hot Tubes has produced more than 100 national titles and two world champions. Kilburn raced with them for three years, beginning the spring of his freshman year.

In the fall of his junior year, 17 year old Kilburn accompanied many of his Hot Tubes teammates in rejoining the Cyclocrossworld team. Here, Kilburn faced his second concussion.

I crashed in a Cyclocross race and landed in some mud. I went over the handlebars, but it wasnt that bad. I kept racing and finished the race, Kilburn said.

Kilburn opted out of the next day of racing. He took a month off from biking and refocused his attention toward roller skiing and nordic skiing.

The third and worst concussion hit Kilburn at the end of his junior year. Kilburn traveled to Belgium for a road race. According to Kilburn, Belgium is known for fast and aggressive racing. Kilburn averaged 27-28 miles per hour for the three hour race, saying the flat landscape doesnt suit his climber style. On the cobblestone roads, some bikers choose to ride in the smoother pavement of the gutter. When they try to ride back onto the cobbles, they can sometimes catch a tire on a ledge.

The two guys in front of me just went down.I had nowhere to go. Theyre super narrow little roads, Kilburn said.

He flew over the handlebars, got back up, and kept racing.

I didnt think I was concussed from that. I didnt even hit my head really, my helmet wasnt dinged up at all, Kilburn said. He later discovered that the whiplash was enough to knock the brain around and cause a concussion.

According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Those who have had a concussion in the past are also at risk of having another one and may find that it takes longer to recover if they have another concussion.

Kilburn returned to face a week of final exams and the ACT, all while a bad stomach bug hid his concussion symptoms. Standardized tests with a head injury proved to be more of a struggle for Kilburn. The concussion caused Kilburn to process more slowly and compromised his achievement on the timed tests.

With school wrapped up, Kilburn flew back across the globe for more racing, still unaware of the head injury he carried as additional baggage. He continued to race throughout the summer. It wasnt until a race at Mount Ascutney in Vermont, where Kilburns heart rate averaged 190 BPM, that he knew something was up. Instead of flying to Ireland for the six day Junior Tour of Ireland stage race that evening, Kilburn finally saw a concussion specialist.
Kilburn previously placed second and won Best Young Rider in the Junior Tour of Ireland.

The protocol and everything is just changing constantly. When I had that first concussion, and even the one in fall of junior year, [the protocol] was dont do much of anything, Kilburn said. I would listen to like audiobooks and that was kind of it.

As of November, 2018, the CDC recommends a six-step plan for athletes recovering from a traumatic brain injury. In the CDCs plan, athletes are encouraged to return to light aerobic exercise as early as the second step.

Months and lots of treatment later, Kilburn still faces something called Post Concussion Syndrome (PCS). PCS is diagnosed in people whose various concussion symptoms may last weeks or months beyond the expected healing time.

Now theyre saying exercise, especially for the post concussion syndrome, exercise and the increased blood flow to the brain is actually really good, Kilburn said.

Kilburn was able to return to his other passion of Nordic skiing this past winter, although he missed out on racing for the Burlington High School team. Still, despite athletic injury and decreased cognitive functioning during the college application process, Kilburn committed to ski for the Dartmouth College varsity Nordic team after graduation.

I think it wouldve been nice to do some races this year and show [the coach] that Im getting better at skiing, because I just havent skied that much, and I wasnt really able to do that, Kilburn said.
Kilburn races in an Eastern Cup at Rikert Nordic Center.

Kilburn still sees biking in his future, but he says he may choose to give up road racing this year in the interest of safety. According to Kilburn, recreational riding is simply a lot less risky.

I definitely could be on a very different kind of path. A lot of my teammates are moving on to Action, which is like the top U23 team in the country right now. They might go to college for fall semester but then spring semester theyre off racing in Europe and all over the world pretty much, Kilburn said.

Instead of preparing for and competing in races every week, Kilburn spent this past summer swimming, kayaking, and fishing at his uncles house in Maine. Kilburn also spent the last year rediscovering his love for the fiddle, and he now tours with the musical group Young Tradition Vermont.

Ever the player, Kilburn has not given up on his athletic goals, though many have shifted focus from bike racing to nordic skiing. As he manages the struggle of overcoming repeated head injuries, Kilburn hopes to one day compete in the Cross-Country World Cup.
[The concussions] taught me that theres more to life than just bike racing.

820. https://rekordmoot.co.za/141588/west-man-makes-maraculous-turnaround-after-accident/

VIDEO: Mountain View man makes miraculous recovery after cycling accident

Doctors told me I was going to be a quadriplegic for the rest of my life.
Hannes Bester. Photo: Kayla van Petegem

A Moot mountain biker, who was paralysed after a serious accident earlier this year, has made a miraculous recovery.

Doctors told me I was going to be a quadriplegic for the rest of my life, said Mountain View resident Hannes Bester.

But I simply couldnt accept it.

Bester said the accident happened on 9 March during a bicycle ride in the Magaliesberg.

We were a group of 10 riders and I drove all the way at the back, said Bester.

ALSO READ: UPDATE: West teenager on way to recovery

One of the other riders had a technical problem with her bicycle and I stayed behind to help her, which meant we were behind and we had to catch up with the others.

Bester drove at the back again on their way to the other cyclists.

The sun kept shining in my eyes and at one point I drove through a dip in the road, he said.

There was a tree that hung very low and I hit my head.

Bester was evacuated from the mountain and taken to Eugene Marais hospital by Life Med ambulance services.

Besters wife, Amanda, said three of his cervical vertebrae were broken in the accident.

His spinal cord had also been hurt and some of his back vertebrae were completely crushed.

ALSO READ: UPDATE: Paralysed west teen shows great recovery signs

Doctors classified Bester as an incomplete quadriplegic, Amanda said.

He is not quite quadriplegic but very close, she said.

She described Besters recovery as a miracle.

There was really no hope and everyone said he was going to be paralysed for the rest of his life, she said.

WATCH:

Bester is currently recovering at home and receiving physiotherapy twice a week.

He uses a wheelchair and walking frame most of the time to move around.

He said he can systematically walk, but added that he was off-balance.

ALSO READ: UPDATE: 19 operations on, Moot girl (11) finally on way to recovery

During physiotherapy they mostly focus on his shoulders.

Its a very long process and can take me two more years or even longer to recover, he said.

Bester and his wife own a bicycle shop.

821. https://wtov9.com/news/local/teen-receives-good-samaritan-award-after-rescuing-friend-in-grand-view-biking-accident

Teen receives Good Samaritan Award after rescuing friend in Grand View biking accident

by Jamie Baker
Wednesday, May 29th 2019
AA
Luke McCauley receives Good Samaritan Award

MARSHALL COUNTY, WV Luke McCauley and Carl Cochran were mountain biking at Grand View Park this past April when 15-year-old Cochran got into a serious accident and McCauley quickly jumped into action.

We were just having a good time riding trails and decided to head home. Things went south from there, said McCauley.

Luke and Carl wanted to hit a ramp on the side of the road. Carl went first and disaster struck.

I hit it first, and it went down a hill. My back tire hit a stump and I flew into a tree, said Cochran.

Carl doesn't remember much, and was unconscious after hitting the tree. Luke was scared, but knew he had to do something.

I called 911 then got some neighbors that were sitting on their porch to come get him because he was going to roll down the hill, said McCauley.

Once getting to the neighbor's, Luke called his EMS father, and then had to make a scary call to Carl's family.

The first words out of his mouth were, this is not a joke. And I said, it's bad? And he said, it's bad, said Carls mother Kathryn Cochran.

Carl was life-flighted to Morgantown that April afternoon and spent 11 days in a coma, suffering from some traumatic head injuries.

Skull fracture, I broke the bones around my eye, broke my shoulder in two places, and fractured two vertebrae, described Cochran.

We were prepared for him to never walk, talk, know people; Have to learn everything all over, said Carls mom.

But within a day of waking up, Carl was on his feet walking, and Luke was visiting his friend in the hospital.

It was almost miraculous, considering what could have been.

The doctors have told us if he didn't have a helmet on, he'd have died on impact. And if he wouldn't have been with a buddy, within 2-3 hours, he'd have been dead, said Carl's mom.

Wednesday, May 29th, Luke was given the Good Samaritan Award by the City of Moundsville.

And for Carl, just knowing his friend had his back means the world.

It's great. Probably wouldn't be here if it wasn't for him, I guess, said Cochran.

Now, Carl is still going through a recovery process-- but says it's going much more quickly than expected.

822. https://missoulian.com/news/local/missoula-rural-fire-injured-mountain-biker-recovering-after-rescue/article_c2ed5059-45f2-5400-abe2-3a46755d2c81.html

Missoula Rural Fire: Injured mountain biker recovering after rescue

SEABORN LARSON seaborn.larson@missoulian.com

Missoula Rural Fire District crews retrieved a mountain biker with a "significant" leg injury sustained in the Dry Gulch area west of Missoula on Sunday evening.

MRFD Assistant Chief of Operations Paul Finlay said despite the serious leg injury and some "bike-crash road rash," the man's reported injuries were not considered life-threatening and the biker is expected to make a full recovery.

Crews were dispatched to the area near the Deep Creek Drainage around 8 p.m. on Sunday, along with Missoula Emergency Services. The incident's location precluded MRFD from taking their rescue UTV up the trail, so they instead hauled up a litter wheel, which Finlay described as basically a low-pressure motorcycle tire attached to a gurney that takes the weight off responders.

Including a quarter-mile hike up to the biker's location, beginning treatment, strapping him up and rolling him down to a ready-and-waiting ambulance took crews about an hour, Finlay said.

The man had been biking with two friends; one stayed with the injured man while the other went for help and guided responders to the area.

Finlay said the injuries could have been much more severe.

"A lot of that is attributable to having a helmet on," he said. "Helmets make a lot of difference in a situation like this, and for this gentleman that's the case."

823. https://globalnews.ca/news/5349582/mountain-biker-rescued-from-mount-seymour-after-accident/

Mountain biker rescued from Mount Seymour after accident

By John CopseyNetwork news anchor CKNW
North Shore Rescue

North Shore Rescue had to be called out to assist a mountain biker who was badly injured on Mount Seymour Monday night.

NSR says the 60-year-old man went over his handlebars at the top of the C-Buster run around 6:30 p.m.

North Shore District fire department stabilized the man, who reported having no feeling from the neck down, then called for a chopper to transport him out.

There was an E-R doctor and nurse on the long-line with him.

He was taken to Inter-River Park near Cap College, where he was transported to a ground ambulance.

By the time he was taken away, the man was starting to regain feeling to his extremities, and his condition had improved.

https://www.nsnews.com/news/mountain-biker-suffers-spinal-injury-in-seymour-fall-1.23844863

Mountain biker suffers spinal injury in Seymour fall

Jeremy Shepherd/ North Shore News

JUNE 4, 2019 03:11 PM
Emergency crews rushed to the scene when a mountain biker suffered spinal damage on Mount Seymour on Monday evening. photo supplied District of North Vancouver Fire Department

A mountain biker is in critical condition following a long-line rescue on Mount Seymour Monday evening.

The cyclist, estimated to be in his 40s or 50s, was riding solo on the double black diamond trail C-Buster when he crashed and suffered a severe spinal injury, according to District of North Vancouver assistant fire chief David Dales.

Unable to move or call for help, the North Shore resident was stuck on the trail until another group of mountain bikers saw him and called 911.

After getting the call at 6:30 p.m., District of North Vancouver firefighters hopped into a pickup truck and drove up a service road to within about 200 metres of the fallen mountain biker. Unable to drive any farther, firefighters ran onto the bike trail where they were guided to the injured man by waiting mountain bikers.

We were probably at the patients side in about 15 minutes from getting the call, Dales said.

Once the mountain biker was packaged, firefighters carried the man 150 metres up the trail where North Shore Rescues medical team was waiting.

Using a long line, NSR flew the patient to Inter River Park where he was taken by ambulance to Lions Gate Hospital.

Having a seamless working relationship with NSR is critical, according to Dales.

It wouldve literally taken hours to get him out of the trail, he said. Youve got to remember: the trail is a double black diamond mountain bike trail its not designed for hiking with a basket stretcher.

The incident is a reminder to be cognizant of your surroundings in the backcountry, Dales said.

If we know where you are, we can get to you a lot quicker.

Dales also thanked the mountain bikers who helped the injured cyclists dog, a little cocker spaniel, off the trail. Fire crews brought the dog to the mans family, Dales reported.

824. https://www.edinburghnews.scotsman.com/news/people/paralysed-ex-mountain-biker-takes-on-epic-snowdon-peak-challenge-1-4941168

Paralysed ex-mountain biker takes on epic Snowdon peak challenge

Published: 18:43Tuesday 04 June 2019

A former mountain biker who was paralysed from the neck down will climb Mount Snowdon using a special off-road chair on June 22.

Student Peter Lloyd, 22, who moved to Edinburgh to study Mechanical Engineering at Heriot-Watt, was finishing the last 100 metres of a ride when he crashed off his bike and broke his neck two years ago.

Peter Lloyd prepares for the Snowdon challenge.

He will now take on the challenging ascent, known as the Snowdon Push, to raise funds for Back Up, a national charity that supports people affected by spinal cord injury.

Peters accident in August 2017 left him paralysed from the neck down and to complete his mega-challenge he will use a chin-controlled power chair to climb to Snowdons peak, with the support of friends and family.

Theyll work together to reach the summit of Snowdon, the highest mountain in Wales, which stands at 3,560 feet.

Peter said: Theres a real appeal for me in doing things that many people dont think that someone paralysed from the neck down can do.

The power chair is operated by Peter Lloyd's chin.

Unlike others taking part, Ill be doing the Push in a powered off-road wheelchair that I control with my chin, so this will be more of a personal challenge though my team will still be essential for carrying spare batteries, helping me if I get stuck, and making the experience more fun.

Peter, who lives in Balgreen and plans to stay in Edinburgh indefinitely, hits the trails on Corstorphine Hill, Arthurs Seat, Braid Hills and in the Borders and has hit a few bumps along the way.

I dont see it as training, but fun, he said. A replacement for the mountain biking I used to do. I spend lots of time on the hills in and around Edinburgh, as well as Glentress, Innerleithen and other smaller hills in the Tweed Valley. There have been quite a few times when Ive nearly flipped it other backwards and somebody thankfully saved me in time.

Actually, the hardest bit is finding fun trails that arent too narrow or have narrow gates, etc.

Peter was hospitalised in Edinburgh for seven weeks following his accident.

The former Enduro Racer, a mountain biking race format, is originally from the West Midlands and had his first race in 2011, when he was 14. He won the national race series as a junior and continued to race until the crash which shattered a vertebra and broke his neck.

Peter spent seven weeks in intensive care in Edinburgh before being transferred to a spinal injuries specialist in Glasgow.

Despite the life-changing injury, he refuses to let it stop him pushing himself. Im just trying to get on with the rest of my life and have as much fun as I did before, he said. I really enjoy challenging myself in the buggy and things like the Snowdon Push are a great thing to aim for. Its also great to be able to give back to Back Up, which I also do as a wheelchair skills trainer for them. Im sure this is only the start.

The charity offers wheelchair skills training, an accredited mentoring service, proactive telephone support, life skills and activity courses, and support returning to work or education.

Peter Lloyd prepares for the Snowdon challenge.

The Snowdon Push involves teams of between 10 and 16 people aiming to conquer the highest point in England and Wales. One member of each team must be a wheelchair user, which means pushing, pulling, and wheeling together to reach the summit and back down again. Last year, 12 teams took on the challenge and collectively raised almost 70,000 to support Back Ups vital services.

When I was still in the spinal unit, Rich from Back Up was always there to give advice and chat about things. The follow-up emails and calls from Rich, as well as chatting in person, showed me that they really do care. I'm also volunteering as a power chair skills trainer for Back Up now, Peter said.

Back Up is a national charity that inspires people affected by spinal cord injury to get the most out of life. The charity offers wheelchair skills training, an accredited mentoring service, proactive telephone support, life skills and activity courses, and support returning to work or education.

The Snowdon Push is such a fantastic experience that really brings people together as a team for a good cause. Its very important for Back Up to have the support of people like Peter, Alexandra Provan, Back Ups Event and Challenge Fundraiser, said. Their support really is helping us reach more people affected by spinal cord injury and we cant express how thankful we are for their efforts. Together we are changing peoples lives.

825. https://gephardtdaily.com/local/woman-dies-of-injuries-in-park-city-mountain-bike-crash/

Woman dies of injuries in Park City mountain bike crash

By
Gephardt Daily Staff
-
June 10, 2019
File Photo: Gephardt Daily

PARK CITY, Utah, June 10, 2019 (Gephardt Daily) A 68-year-old woman died Monday night after she was injured in an apparent mountain biking accident in Park City, and police are working to figure out how the crash occurred.

The woman was biking around the Fox Tail Circle, Park City Police Capt. Phil Kirk told reporters at the scene. The Fox Tail Trail is near Solamere Drive.

Kirk said a man who was biking in the area came upon the severely injured woman at about 7:30 p.m. and contacted the police.

It took awhile for emergency crews to reach the victim because the area in which she was found is some distance from the trail, Kirk said.

It appears she was biking by herself, he said, and police believe there were no witnesses to the crash.

Its a pretty unusual accident, he added. Were not sure what caused the accident.

Kirk said its still very early in the investigation and officials are working to determine exactly what happened.

The womans name has not been released, pending notification of her family.

826. https://ktvq.com/news/local-news/2019/06/23/mountain-biker-fell-50-feet-off-the-rimrocks-sunday-prompting-rescue/

Mountain biker fell 50 feet off the Rimrocks Sunday prompting rescue

Q2 News
1:46 pm
June 23, 2019

UPDATE The woman broke her leg and had to be airlifted out by helicopter.

Cover photo credit Jewel Sternad

BILLINGS The Billings Fire Department is on the scene near Ironwood after a rescue call came in around 12:30 Sunday afternoon. The incident occurred near what is known as the Billings Castle, which is located at 5650 Canyon Woods Drive.

Battalion Chief Jason Lyon said crews located a female mountain biker who reportedly fell about 50 feet. Crews had some complications getting to her due to the remote nature of the incident. Three Billings fire engines, rescue, and the Yellowstone County Sheriffs Office responded.

Lyon said she is in stable condition.

We will update with further information.

827. https://www.gazettelive.co.uk/news/teesside-news/mountain-biker-quite-severe-injuries-16475705

Mountain biker with 'quite severe' injuries airlifted to hospital after heavy fall near Birk Brow

The 49-year-old woman had been riding with her husband when she had a nasty crash on moorland
By
Samuel Jones
12:21, 24 JUN 2019
NEWS
A mountain biker was rushed to hospital by air ambulance after a nasty crash on moorland near Birk Brow(Image: Cleveland Mountain Rescue Team)

A mountain biker was rushed to hospital by air ambulance after a nasty crash on moorland near Birk Brow.

The 49-year-old woman had been riding with her husband when she fell, suffering "quite severe" injures on Sunday.

Cleveland Mountain Rescue Team was sent to the scene in 4X4 vehicles - but had to trek two kilometres across farm tracks and fields to find the casualty.

They were accompanied by paramedics from the North East Ambulance Service.
Cleveland Mountain Rescue with the GNAA (Image: Cleveland Mountain Rescue Team)

The injured woman was stabilised and taken around 300 metres to the waiting Great North Air Ambulance which flew her to James Cook University Hospital in Middlesbrough.

A total of 19 team members were involved in this incident that lasted two hours.

A spokesperson for Cleveland Mountain Rescue team said: "This was a busy weekend for the mountain rescue volunteers and with two seriously injured patients to deal with in remote locations the weekend emphasized our close working relationships with the ambulance and air ambulance services."

828. https://wlos.com/news/local/hendersonville-community-rallies-for-injured-firefighter

Hendersonville community rallies for firefighter, veteran with spinal cord injury

by WLOS STAFF
Friday, June 28th 2019
6
VIEW ALL PHOTOS
Photo: City of Hendersonville

HENDERSONVILLE, N.C. (WLOS) The Hendersonville community is rallying to support a firefighter, Army veteran and father of three who suffered a spinal injury earlier this month.

On Thursday, June 13, 2019, Captain Josh Poore of the Hendersonville Fire Department was mountain biking on Bent Creek Trail in the North Mills River area when, a city representative says, he was in a serious accident. Poore suffered a spinal cord injury, after which he was unable to move his arms or legs.

Skyland Fire & Rescue responded to the scene, and Poore was transported to Mission Hospital, where he underwent a surgery that fused his spine at C3 and C4.

He was in the ICU for 10 days before being moved to a step-down trauma unit.

Photo: City of Hendersonville

A City of Hendersonville representative says Poore has regained movement in his legs but is still unable to move his arms.

On June 28, he was transported to the Shepherd Center in Atlanta, Georgia, a facility specializing in rehabilitation for patients with spinal cord and brain injuries.

Captain Josh Poore was honored as the 2018 Officer of the Year for the Hendersonville Fire Department. He has served as a Hendersonville firefighter since 2007, and was selected for the honor based on his support of the departments mission and his ability to create an environment for those he supervisors that promotes training, fitness, ownership and personal growth.

Three weeks ago, he graduated summa cum laude with a B.S. in Fire Administration.

Photo: City of Hendersonville

Poore served in the Army Reserves for eight years, which included a 15-month tour in Afghanistan during Operation Enduring Freedom. He left the service as an E-6 Staff Sergeant with his Military Occupational Specialty (MOS) as a construction engineering supervisor.

Poore married his high school sweetheart, Ashley, and they have been married for 18 years. They have three sons: River, age 10; Logan, age 8; and Brody, who is age 5.

He is a former CrossFit coach, and enjoys spending time with his kids playing soccer and basketball, riding dirt bikes and doing anything outdoors.

The city of Hendersonville's communications manager, Allison Nock, says the family knows Poore has a long road of recovery ahead of him.

Supporters are organizing fundraisers to assist with the family's medical costs, and to cover travel and housing expenses for the family as they travel back and forth to Atlanta while Poore is rehabilitating at the Shepherd Center.

Nock says the following options to donate are available:

Josh Poore Family Tragedy Fund

The public can make a donation at any State Employees Credit Union in North Carolina. Visit a SECU and let them know youd like to donate to the Josh Poore Family Tragedy Account.

Donations collected at the fire department

The Hendersonville Fire department welcomes donations at either Hendersonville Fire Department station location.

Administrative staff members are available to accept donations at Station 2 every weekday from 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. Staff availability for accepting donations is based on call volume and less predictable outside of regular business hours and at Station 1.

Fire Station 2 is located at 632 Sugarloaf Road. Fire Station 1 is at 851 N. Main Street.

GoFundMe: Support Fire Captain Josh Poore

Click here to visit the online fundraiser.

Fundraiser bracelets

The Hendersonville Professional Firefighters Association Local 2645 is selling #FULLSENDFORPOORE bracelets to raise money. Bracelets are $5, and can be purchased at either Hendersonville Fire Station.

Additional fundraisers are being planned.

To keep updated on ways you can help, follow the Support Fire Captain Josh Poore Facebook page.

829. https://www.vernonmorningstar.com/news/air-ambulance-transports-injured-biker-off-vernons-silverstar-mountain/

A male downhill biker suffered injuries on a run at SilverStar Mountain Resort Sunday, and had to be transported to hospital by air ambulance. (Black Press - file photo)

Air ambulance transports injured biker off Vernons SilverStar Mountain

Male rider, 27, hurt on trail called Walk The Line Sunday afternoon
Morning Star Staff
Jun. 30, 2019 2:10 p.m.
Local News
News

For the second straight Sunday, a male downhill biker needed air ambulance transportation after being injured on SilverStar Mountain Resorts trails.

A 27-year-old man was hurt Sunday on a run named Walk The Line early Sunday afternoon.

SilverStar Ski Patrol responded and BC Ambulance was called for transport, said the resort in a release. BCAS also dispatched an air ambulance due to the mechanism of injury.

The male was conscious and in stable condition when SilverStar patrol transferred the patient to the air ambulance.

He was transported to Parking Lot D and was flown by air ambulance to hospital.

SilverStar continues to take every precaution necessary for the safety of our staff and guests, said the resort.

On Sunday, June 23, a 22-year-old male downhill bike rider was injured on a jump near the top of the Home Run Tee. He, too, was transported to a parking lot and picked up by air ambulance to be taken to hospital.

No further information on Sundays incident will be released at this time.

830. https://patch.com/california/danville/mountain-biker-rescued-after-crash-east-contra-costa-county

Mountain Biker Rescued After Crash In East Contra Costa County

The man was flown by helicopter to John Muir Medical Center in Walnut Creek for treatment of head injuries and possible internal injuries.

By California News Wire Services, News Partner

Jul 1, 2019 12:47 pm ET

The accident was reported in Round Valley Regional Preserve in East Contra Costa County. (Jen Nunes/Patch)

DANVILLE, CA A man was hospitalized Saturday after an apparent bicycle accident on a trail in eastern Contra Costa County, firefighter paramedics said. The East Contra Costa Fire Protection District received a call about 6:49 a.m. Saturday of a bicyclist down on a trail in the Round Valley Regional Preserve, off March Creek Road south of Antioch, said Battalion Chief Jeff Burris.

The man was flown by helicopter to John Muir Medical Center in Walnut Creek for treatment of head injuries and possible internal injuries, Burris said.

It wasn't immediately known what caused the accident.

831. https://www.brusselstimes.com/belgium/59849/brussels-is-first-belgian-city-to-ban-single-use-plastic-at-public-events-bamboo-cardboard-alternatives/

Missing cyclist found dead on mountain biking trail

Tuesday, 02 July 2019
The body of a missing cyclist from Mol was found on Tuesday. Credit: Facebook/Wim Vansand

The body of a 37-year-old man from Mol was found on Tuesday.

The remains of Wim Vansand, who had been missing since Sunday afternoon, were found next to his bicycle on a mountain bike path on the Kalmthoutse Heide, Het Laatste Nieuws reported.

So far there is no evidence that another person was involved in his death.

Vansand was cycling to his parents-in-laws house around 12:30 on Sunday. His family called the police when he had not arrived by 19:00.

An autopsy will be performed.

Sam Nelson
The Brussels Times

832. https://www.pentictonwesternnews.com/news/emergency-crews-rescue-injured-mountain-biker-from-campbell-mountain/

Penticton and District Search & Rescue saved an injured mountain biker on Campbell Mountain in the evening on July 2. The bikers injuries were determined to be non-life threatening and the subject was transported via ground evacuation to the Penticton Regional Hospital. (Black Press file photo)

Emergency crews rescue injured mountain biker from Campbell Mountain

The bikers injuries were determined to be non-life threatening and he was transported to PRH
Jordyn Thomson
Jul. 3, 2019 9:25 a.m.
Local News
News

Penticton and District Search & Rescue (PENSAR) performed an evacuation off of Campbell Mountain in the evening on July 2 to rescue an injured mountain biker.

According to a release from the organization, emergency officials received a call shortly after 7 p.m. that a male in his early 20s had suffered a number of injuries while mountain biking on Campbell Mountain.

Due to the nature of the injuries that were reported and the location of the subject on the mountain, PENSAR immediately activated their helicopter evacuation unit, as well as dispatching ground units consisting of nine SAR members in three rescue trucks along with the two side by side units to Campbell Mountain, states the release. The two side by side units made their way up Campbell Mountain where they located the subject, assessed the patient and determined that they could extricate the subject via ground to an awaiting ambulance on Reservoir Road.

At this point, the helicopter unit was asked to stand down and returned to the airport while the subject was transported via ground evacuation to the Penticton Regional Hospital. The bikers injuries were determined to be non-life threatening.

833. https://www.bicycling.com/culture/a28186407/paul-basagoitia-bike/

Paul Basagoitia Said He'd Rather Be Dead Than Paralyzed. Thank God for E-Bikes.

Three years ago, Paul Basagoitia woke up to his worst nightmare. But if you saw him ride today, you might never know.

By Gloria Liu and / Visuals by Michael Darter & Ian Spanier
Jul 5, 2019

The trail is rated with a smiling green circle in an approachable blue square, just a step up from the easiest terrain for beginner mountain bikers. The dirt is rusty from a winters worth of decomposing pine needles and redwood bark. Spongy from last nights rain, it sucks the momentum from the his tires as he approaches each lippy mound. Still, when he leaves the ground you can see that the rider has style: He turns the handlebar, whips the back end of the bike in the air. He slashes the crumbling edge of a corner, spraying a roosters tail of dirt. His moves are so quick and casual as to seem almost involuntary, the twitch of muscles that carry years and years of memory.

Memory: To see him ride today, you would never know the rider has memory of what it feels like to ride his bike off a cliffs edge. He has memory of leaping off of wooden ramps as tall as buildings and watching the world revolve around him as he spins on his bicycle, of hearing crowds roar from the thrill of witnessing him stretch the perception of what is humanly possible.
Before his injury, Paul spent his time on downhill bikes. Now he loves exploring the trails around Reno and Tahoe.
Michael Darter

Just three years ago this ride was impossible. To ever walk again without crutches, improbable. At one point, to ever take a piss again without assistance from a medical device, questionable. To see him pop his front wheel up to splash over puddles, you would never know that three years ago the rider was given a 5 percent chance of ever feeling anything below his waist. Or that when he gets off his bike, he still cant walk more than 10 or 15 feet without a cane.

Seeing him on the trail, youd never know hes anything besides another good rider. And of all the death-defying tricks pro mountain biker Paul Basagoitia ever stuck in his lifetime, that may be the most impressive one yet.
Paul rides a qualifying run at the 2014 Red Bull Rampage. He would place 9th.
Red Bull Content Pool

On the morning of October 16, 2015, in the desert outside of Virgin, Utah, people woke up stressed.

It was finals day at Red Bull Rampage, the most extreme mountain biking competition on earth. For the past week, the best freeriders in the world and their dig teams had been carving and shaping the side of a red, flat-topped mountain. They had utilized its vertical faces, knife-edge furrows, and gaping canyons to design a course where they planned to showcase superhuman aerial feats: backflips and suicide no-handers, arms outstretched like wings as they freefell for seconds at a time.

Organizers had announced that finals would be moved up a day early due to an incoming storm, so almost everyone was rushing to get ready. All the riders had counted on that extra day of practice and rest.

He had one piece of unfinished business from his Rampage days. For months, he prepared in secret.

But at least one woke up cool and calm. Paul Basagoitia, then 29, had been competing for a long time, so he was accustomed to last-minute changes like this. He had been coming to Rampage since 2008, and was dominant in slopestyle events, where riders perform BMX-like tricks on mountain bikes. But recently, he had been feeling burned out from the constant pressure of competition, the need to keep pushing for bigger and wilder tricks. He had been thinking this would be his last Rampage. His plan was to win, then buy an engagement ring for his girlfriend of five years, Nichole Munk. Hed use the prize check to take her on a celebratory trip, and propose on the beach.

Paul felt confident as he walked up to the start gate and dropped in. There was just one part of the run that gave him some concerna backflip over a canyon. But he nailed it: His speed, takeoff, and landing were perfect.

Next up, a 270 off a massive hip jump. Again, he nailed it. Wow, this is going so good, he thought.

He kept riding. A casual whip over a kicker. A gap jump. He could not believe how well this was all going. He sailed off a 40-foot drop.

In the video, you can hear him say Shit in midair.

Paul had more speed than he wanted, and when he landed, the impact jolted him slightly off-course. But Paul was still upright, Paul was riding it out. Then his pedal caught the branch of a bush. It flipped him over his handlebar. He bounced off the dirt, tumbled over a small shelf, and landed on his back. It knocked the wind out of him. He was pissed. Hed had such a good run going. Definitely top-three. But it was okay: He still had his second run.
(from left to right) During his recovery, Paul converted his trophy room to a home gym. Though he can pedal, Paul still walks with a cane.
Michael Darter

Paul Basagoitias dad joked that his son could ride a bike before he could walk. It wasnt quite true, but from age 2, Paul preferred to move through his world on two wheels. He would take off and ride all over town, older sister Carol Basagoitia remembers. People knew him as the kid on the bike.

When Paul was 6 years old, his mom took him to a BMX race. He got third place. I remember my trophy, he laughs. I thought, I wanna do this every weekend and get as many trophies as I can. Then someone told his mom that his bike was too big. So she got him a new bike. Paul took second at his next race, and won every single one after that for a long time.

The kid from Minden, Nevada, liked winning. He and his mom would travel to races every weekend, and by age 10, he was ranked number one in the world for his age group. But he felt a lot of pressure. When I didnt do well, my mom would yell at me, says Paul. What are we spending all this money on if youre not doing well? Shit like that. Were talking when I was 7 years old.

He moved on to dirt jumping when he was 14, then to mountain biking. One of his favorite things about his new discipline was that his mom wasnt involved. It was fresh air, he says. Still, that fierce drive was deeply instilled.

Paul came from BMX, a more cutthroat, competitive style of riding [than freeride mountain biking], says best friend and former Rampage winner Cam Zink, who first met Paul at the local dirt jumps when the two were rising teen stars in the Reno, Nevada, area. Once, Cam recalls, Paul got access to a foam pit ahead of a contest. He was borrowing Cams bike at the time, so he brought it to the foam pit to practice new tricks. But he didnt bring Cam.

Despite these early hurdles, when Paul was 17, Cam helped him get into the inaugural Crankworx slopestyle competition in Whistler, British Columbia. Paul didnt have any sponsors yet, so he borrowed Cams bike for the contest againand won. Cam was the first person to run up and give him a huge hug. That night, the two of them stayed in a friends old RV with no lights or hot water.
Because of his limited feeling below the knee, an ankle brace protects Paul against sprains.
Michael Darter

It would be the last time Paul would have to slum it. After Crankworx, he signed a slew of sponsors, including Kona Bikes. He was still in high school and making more money than my teachers, he says. The next year, he came back to Crankworx and won again.

Paul quickly established himself as one of the best slopestyle and freeriders in the world. By age 21, he was able to buy himself property outside of Minden. On it, he built his own slopestyle course and foam pit. Sometimes he hosted invite-only contests for his buddies.

It was at the afterparty for one of these contests in 2010 that he reconnected with Nichole Munk. Paul remembered Nichole from high school, where hed always had a crush on the petite, bubbly cheerleader with the pouty lips. Nichole had hung out with jocks. Even tonight, she had come to the club with a bunch of fighter pilots.

But Paul was at the top of his game, living the dream as a pro athlete, and he was feeling confident. He walked up to Nichole at the bar and asked her to take a shot. Nichole ended up ditching the pilots. I just hung out with Paul for the rest of the night, she says.

Pauls parents divorced when he was in eighth grade, but before that, he remembered their constant fighting. I always told myself I would never be married, he says. Seeing my parents relationship, I never wanted to be that. Plus, girls hed dated in the past had always given him crap about being gone all the time.

But Nichole was different. She was fiercely independent. The daughter of a police officer, Nichole grew up in a strict but loving and tight-knit family. She spoke her mind, and she wasnt afraid to put Paul in his place. And yet she was kind, which inspired him.

Before I dated her, I was more of a cocky guy, says Paul. She definitely humbled me, for the better.

And that was even before the injury.

Nichole was one of the first people by his side.

Lying on the ground, Paul was panicking. Babe, I cant move my feet. I cant move my feet.

Medics arrived. They discussed how to get him out of there. There was talk of carting him out on a 4x4. A female medic put her foot down: This is a spinal injury, we gotta get a helicopter in here.

Watching the helicopter try to land close to him was frightening. The propellers created a blinding dust cloud that enveloped everyone. Rocks ricocheted off the blades. Whirling debris hit Paul and left cuts under his eyes.

The crash had not looked spectacular. Even the announcers did not yet know how severe Pauls injuries were. As the helicopter lifted off, one of the medics said to him, Everyones cheering for you. Give them a thumbs up. Let them know youre okay.

Paul almost did it, but then he put his thumb down. Fuck that, he thought. That would be the fakest shit that I could possibly do. For the first time in his career, he knew he was in real trouble.
When Paul got to the hospital in St. George, Utah, he was rushed into what would be a 10.5-hour surgery. Before they cut him open, the doctors stood over him and talked to him. They said something about going in, relieving pressure on the spinal cord, but Paul wasnt really listening. All he could focus on was trying to move his legs.
Michael Darter

The spinal cord is a delicate bundle of nerve fibers that transmit messages from the brain to the rest of the body and back, regulating sensory, motor, and autonomic function. Its extremely susceptible to damage and, unlike the vertebrae that surround and protect it, may not repair itselfeven bruising can cause permanent paralysis. The higher in the vertebral column the injury occurs, the more function is affected: When a spinal cord injury (SCI) happens in the neck region, it causes quadriplegia, weakness or paralysis in all four extremities. When the lower areas of the spine are injured, the result is likely paraplegia, weakness or paralysis below the waist.

When Paul woke up from his surgery, he learned that he had suffered a T12 burst fracture incomplete. When he crashed, the force had burst his T12 vertebrathe 12th and lowest vertebra in his thoracic region, in the middle of his backand the bone fragments had damaged his spinal cord. While his SCI was incomplete, meaning that some function existed below the level of his injury, when he woke up from surgery a doctor told him that he might have as little as a 5 percent chance of regaining sensation or movement below his waist. The doctor told him he would have issues with bowel and bladder function. That he might depend on a wheelchair for the rest of his life.

Paul had been the first rider to land a 720 on a mountain bike. The first to do a double backflip on natural terrain. Now, when he needed to get out of bed, a nurse had to hoist him up from under his butt, as if picking up a child. Nichole had to help him bathe. To pee, he had to insert a catheter manually, tortuously, each time.

Disbelief gave way to the understanding that it was all gonethe bikes, the competitions, the films, everything he had worked for his entire life. His life, where he woke up every morning and did whatever he felt like: built a jump, called friends to go wakeboarding. In its place, a wheelchair, the walls, the wondering: If this was his life now, was it even worth living? Hed always told Nichole hed rather be dead than paralyzed.

Paul was in the hospital for three months. Nichole took off from work and stayed with him for the first three weeks, sleeping on a little cot, then traveled back and forth from her job in Reno. A couple months in, Paul told Nichole she could leave. You didnt sign up for this, this is your out. As he describes it, she essentially gave him a verbal backhand. She was angry hed even gone there. This doesnt even faze me, she told him. Were doing this together.

Paul left the hospital in a wheelchair. The months that followed were dark, despite the support of fans, friends, and family, and sponsors like Scott that donated bikes for fundraisers to help cover his skyrocketing medical bills.

Paul was not comfortable seeing people, being seen, looking up at them from his wheelchair. He just wanted to be left alone. Nichole would come home from work and the curtains would be drawn and Paul would be sitting in the dark. You could feel the sadness, she remembers. Shed rush around, opening the curtains, letting daylight flood in. Shed say, Baby, you cant be like this.
Paul leads friends on the jackass trail outside Truckee, California.
Michael Darter

But Paul was also a guy who had gotten up again and again from gnarly crashes and concussions and cracked bike frames to accomplish feats previously considered impossible. So, even in his despair, he was determined to walk again. He read everything he could about spinal cord injuries. He attacked his recovery with the same level of intensity that hed had when he was trying to nail a new trick. The former trophy room in the front hallway of his house filled with free weights, resistance bands, a vibration trainer that hed stand on to strengthen his leg muscles.

Six hours a day, Paul worked to regain his ability to walk. He turned off his phone and trained and stared at the prize checks on the wall for motivation. He went to PT, where he scooched up and down the parallel bars and did knee squats and other bodyweight exercises. He went to acupuncture twice a week. All this was much more than what the doctors had advised him to do, which was just to try to send signals down to those toes. In fact, the more Paul tried to learn about how to recover from his injury, the more he realized that there was very little helpful information about what he should be doing, what progress he could hope for and when.

The work started paying off. Paul built enough strength to lift himself out of his wheelchair, hold the railings of his staircase, and lift a foot onto a step. About six months in, he took his first steps with a walker. His feet dragged, sometimes lurched. But he was able to walk out of his garage, onto his street, into the sunshine. Around month eight, he went from the walker to forearm crutches, then quickly progressed to two canes. This was when he felt comfortable leaving the house again, seeing people. Shortly after that, he was able to drive. That was a huge milestone.

Paul started visiting other people who had just sustained spinal cord injuries. Friends who worked at the local hospital would let him know when an SCI patient came in, or their family members would reach out to him on social media. Paul would walk in on his forearm crutches and he could see that it gave people hope. He would tell them his story, listen to theirs, and share what he had learned so far.

Paul met people who were in much worse situations than him: quadriplegics, people with complete SCIs, people who had passed the two-year markduring which the most progress is typically madeand were still in wheelchairs. Seeing their struggles brought him perspective on his own injury.

And it lit a fire in him. He got an idea.

Using his GoPro and DSLR camera, Paul had actually been filming his recovery since week one in the hospital. The project had begun out of boredom, but now he thought, what if he made a film about his experienceone that would raise awareness about spinal cord injuries? About nine months after his crash, he approached Red Bull Media House.

Paul was a private person, not the type to share much on social media or articulate deep emotion. But when Red Bull green-lighted the documentary and it was time to hand over his footage, he held nothing back. In fact, when film director Fernando Villena began reviewing it, he initially found some of it so raw that he wasnt sure what to do with it. The crash clip from Pauls GoPro on the day of Rampage shook him. Just being in that first-person view of somebody at the moment their life changes...I was like, how are we going to ever use this material? Its just too graphic, he says.

Then he got to whats now known as the infamous catheter scene, which Paul filmed at 3 a.m. just days after his injury, nude in front of the toilet.

I was like, that is never going in the movie, Fernando recalls. [It] was so traumatic to watch. It took him eight minutes.

When he got to the part that Paul filmed while getting his staples taken out from the surgery, Paul said into the camera, Hopefully I can be the guidance for someone else. And suddenly, it clicked. I realized what he wanted to do was leave a record of what someone goes through in this situation, says Fernando. So we need to show all of it.

The documentary, Any One of Us, ended up featuring not only Pauls experience, but those of 17 other people living with SCI. Paul became friends with several of these cast members, and others in the SCI community, like Eric Howk, guitarist for the band Portugal. The Man.

For most of his life, Paul had surrounded himself with professional athletes, other people who were also fixated on winning contests or races. Suddenly, he was building a new crowd and a new purpose. He used to get messages on social media from aspiring young riders, asking, How do I get sponsored? Now he was getting messages from people struggling with SCI, asking, How do I beat this thing?

At home, Nichole felt the change. Paul wasnt feeling sorry for himself anymore. He was empowered to help others. It was really beautiful to see, she says.

By this time, Paul had been pedaling a stationary bike for months. His glutes and calves still didnt work, and he still had no sensation below his knees or the ability to flex his feet or ankles. But with the strength hed built in his quads and hamstrings, he could pedal. It wasnt satisfying, though: He wanted to be outside.

One day about a year after the crash, Nichole came home from work. She found Paul in the garage, with his friend Ben, building up a carbon Scott Genius mountain bike.

Whose bike is that? Nichole asked.

Its my new one, Paul said.

Nichole paused, then just took it in stride. Okay.

The next day, Paul went for a ride.

His goal was to surprise Cam at his house, about 30 minutes away. As Paul wheeled his bike out, he leaned on it for support. He had to put the dropper seatpost all the way down and use a curb to get his leg over the top tube. He missed the pedals a couple of times.
Postride Rainiers.
Michael Darter

But then he pushed off and started pedaling: out of his driveway, through the vine-covered gates of his complex, and right down a wide, sweeping street with a bike lane. As he coasted downhill, he felt the wind. It felt like it was splashing on his face. He felt the sun on his back, on his arms. He smiled and smiled. He was speechless with joy.

Then the road flattened out. There was more traffic. Paul pedaled hard, but he couldnt get much speed going. The intersections were stressful, stopping and starting again. Cams house was at the top of a hill. Paul had no calf strength, so he couldnt stand up on the pedals. He strained up the climb, sweating. His muscles were fatiguing. At one point he thought he might roll over backward.

Cam was out in his yard, and from a distance, he saw a rider approaching, wearing a familiar T-shirt. He kept looking, thinking it might be someone he knew. When he saw that it was Paul, at first he couldnt believe it. What the shit? he said, as Paul rolled up, grinning.

It was perfect that Cam was there. In that moment Paul was as happy as that day he first won Crankworx 12 years ago, on his best friends bike. To be able to get on a bike, and pedal again, it was probably one of the highlights of my life, he says.

His dads childhood joke had finally come true: Paul still couldnt walk without a cane, but he could ride. As he started mountain biking again, he figured out how to compensate for the things his body couldnt do. Where most riders flexed their ankles to pump the bike through rollers or on jumps, Paul learned to use his upper body. Because he couldnt feel his feet, hed look down at his pedals to make sure he was still on them. And he couldnt ride anything with much elevation gain, so he mostly stuck to flat trails.

Then, in December 2017, Scott sent him an e-mountain bike.

When he first saw the e-Spark, it actually made him mad. What was this, some kind of adaptive bike? He had competed in Rampage. He didnt need a bike with a motor.

Then he rode it up the small climb to his house and realized this bike was going to change things.

His first opportunity, Paul headed straight to the world-famous Flume Trail above Lake Tahoe. He climbed the steep fire road, then flowed along the scraggy singletrack cut into the granite mountainside. He marveled at the views of the deep blue lake to his left and at the miracle of the technology underneath him. Climbing was still work, and Paul was no faster than the average amateur rider. But he felt like he had his life back.

Suddenly, so many trails were a possibility. He could ride with his friends and not worry about making them wait. Paul had already been doing small jumps and wheelies, but on the e-bike, he did his first nose bonkspringing off a small wooden ramp, landing on his front wheel, and riding it out for a secondafter his crash. He celebrated by taking Nichole out to a fancy dinner that night. I literally didnt sleep for two nights after that, he laughs.

He started riding more often with his buddies who were airline pilots. It was fun, more his speed. And even when Paul did ride with Cam and their pro friends, the dynamic was less serious, more about just getting into nature. Off the bike, Cam saw other changes in his friend, too: a new openness, a sense of contentment. Paul seemed like a happier person.

Something else happened as Paul approached the two-year mark. He had been thinking that he still had one piece of unfinished business from his Rampage days to attend to. For months, he prepared for it in secret. First, he practiced standing by a wall without his cane. When he could do that without falling or having to grab the wall, he tried taking shaky steps. Finally, when he could walk four or five steps consistently, he felt ready.

In October 2017, almost exactly two years after his injury, Paul Bas stood up from his chair at a house in Malibu, California. With the ocean in the background, and the setting sun bathing the skies pink and gold, Paul dropped his cane and took his first unassisted steps in public. He walked to Nichole, got down on one knee, and asked her to marry him.

Paul has been looking forward to this cool, cloudy April morning in 2019. Its been a long, snowy winter, and this is the first week since January that the trails have been dry enough to ride. As he and his buddies pedal up a wide fire road through towering sequoia stands in the Tahoe National Forest, the scent of pine needles and spring thaw permeates the air. The motor on Pauls bike whirs softly.

Paul just got back from Austin, Texas, where Any One of Us debuted at the SXSW Film Festival. People in the audience came up to him afterward and shared their own struggleswith SCI, with depression. The summer will be filled with travel to film festivals: Telluride, Colorado; Newport, California.

But for now, hes just excited to ride. There are still many things Paul may never do again, like wakeboard, which he loved, or snowboard, which he and Nichole used to do together. He still walks with a cane, and his back fatigues after just a few blocks. He still cant get through an airport without a wheelchair. But Paul really doesnt dwell long on what he cant do. Hes too quick to appreciate what he can do: take a shower on his own, get out of bed at all, drive. Looking back, he cant believe he used to take all those little things for granted. He tells people now, it almost takes something really bad to happen to you, to make you appreciate what you have.

Sometimes people ask him, If you ever recovered 100 percent, would you go compete again, do Rampage?

The answer is a hard no. Those days are long gone, says Paul. I dont ever care to do a backflip again. I would never put anybody close to me in that situation ever again. Im just so glad to be able to pedal on the trail with friends.

The group arrives at the top of a flow trail called the Hoot, that swoops left and right down the mountain like the lazy tail of a lasso. In a past life, Paul would have said the jumps on this trail were too small, not even fun, can't do anything on them. Today, he cant wait to drop in.

The dirt is soft and spongy from last nights rain, and squishy pools lie in wait, threatening to wash out a carelessly weighted front tire. As Paul starts down the descent, he takes it easy. His buddies pull away, leaving him and his friend Matt behind. But Paul doesnt push to catch up. Instead, he plays. The rider who once flew off cliffs and rooftops enjoys flicking his bike over four-foot tabletops and popping wheelies over puddles. He stops to eye up a little hip jump, then goes back up the trail to hit it. Matt crouches to take a video, and Paul throws a quick, cheeky whip for the camera. Its nothing like what he used to do. Its something he was never supposed to do again. As he coasts off, he bounces on the pedals, as if his body cannot contain this joy.

834. https://www.therockymountaingoat.com/2019/07/time-for-mountain-bikers-to-take-a-page-from-snowsports/

Time for mountain bikers to take a page from snowsports

July 6, 2019 Arthur Tanga Opinion

By Andru McCracken

Last week we learned that a woman broke her spine during Valemounts Annual Bikefest. She survived, but she and her family are still waiting to see the extent of the injuries at a hospital in Edmonton. The Rocky Mountain Goat wishes her a full and speedy recovery.

It was a traumatic, life changing event and naturally the woman and her family didnt want to become headlines. This makes a ton of sense to me. The womans identity should be protected.

I am a proponent, however, of talking openly about the events that lead crashes, even if its anonymously.

Its time to create a place where riders can publish an anonymized serious injury report.

Accidents happen. Theres no need to downplay them. If you think that accidents arent a part of mountain biking, youre either from some gravity-free planet or you are in denial. Dr. Annie Gareau, one of the co-authors of a 2012 study on the Epidemiology of Mountain Bike Park Injuries at the Whistler Bike Park, and an emergency room specialist at the Whistler Health Centre was quoted as saying a general rule of thumb is that one in 1,000 skiers are injured, one in 100 snowboarders, and one in 10 downhill cyclists.

That said, those of us who ride accept the risks. Hit by a tree in a windstorm? Thrown off the bike after crashing into the same tree? This isnt a ball pit at a theme park. Its a mountain. If you lost your nerve on a steep section and hit the front brakes and ended up in a patch of stinging nettle with a broken clavicle, its on you. The responsibility at Valemount Bike Park lies with the rider.

This isnt about laying blame. This is about building a culture of smart safe riding. Its about getting better and sharing what went wrong, so the next person doesnt find themselves in the exact same circumstance with the exact same consequences.

The potential value in this is echoed by the work of the local health clinic. They have shared injury patterns with trail maintainers to great effect, causing changes in trail layout and designations.

When there are really serious injuries a different kind of report needs to be made: A report from the injured. What trail was it on? What was the feature? Your skill level? The number of times youve ridden the park and that trail in particular? What led up to the crash? What would have helped?

Valemount is good at this already. Snowmobiling and backcountry skiing are high risk sports, and the risk of avalanches is notoriously easy to underestimate and hard to predict but proponents of the sport have been making mad progress. The latest move is for recreationalists to submit mountain condition reports to the Avalanche Canada website. People share how much new snow there is, signs of instability or avalanche activity. It doesnt prevent avalanche injuries or fatalities altogether, but it ups everybodys game and raises awareness.

Valemount Bike Park could be a safer place, but the onus here isnt on the trail maintainers, or the doctors at the clinic. The people with power to help are an unlikely and unlucky crew: the injured.

Its a pretty inglorious task: How I flubbed it and why. But in the future, I hope one of the first things we think of when were flying through the air all akimbo is, What I am I going to include in my report?

With any luck it will save some lucky soul no small amount of grief.

835. https://www.pentictonwesternnews.com/news/emergency-crews-rescue-second-injured-mountain-biker-from-campbell-mountain-this-week/

Emergency crews rescue a second injured mountain biker from Campbell Mountain

The 25-year-male suffered serious injuries to right leg
Robin Grant
Jul. 7, 2019 10:45 a.m.
Local News
News

Emergency crews had to rescue another injured mountain biker from Campbell Mountain in less than a week.

Penticton Search and Rescue (PENSAR) began to receive calls and texts about an injured mountain biker shortly after 4 p.m. on Saturday.

PENSAR said it responded to assist the BC Ambulance service with 11 resources, including a three-person helicopter long-line team, while the Penticton fire department also responded to provide immediate medical care.

We were lucky that an off duty fire firefighter from Penticton was on scene who was able to provide 911 dispatchers with an assessment of the subject and an accurate location of the 25-year-old male using the cycling app, Trailforks, said SAR manager Randy Brown in a release.

Thunderstorms were threatening the area and ground accessibility to the site on off-road vehicles was impossible, according to the release. PENSARs helicopter long line rescue team attended and evacuated the subject from the area to a nearby ambulance.

The 25-year-old man suffered serious injuries to his right leg.

This is the second Campbell Mountain evacuation PENSAR has performed this week. On July 2, emergency officials received a call shortly after 7 p.m. that a male in his early 20s had suffered a number of injuries while mountain biking on Campbell Mountain.

The release states that PENSAR is grateful for the support from Penticton Fire and the increased use of the Trailforks cycling App, which assists emergency personnel in evacuating the injured.

836. https://vancouverisland.ctvnews.ca/man-found-dead-on-mountain-biking-trail-near-cumberland-1.4502158

Man found dead on mountain biking trail near Cumberland

The Cumberland Trail system is shown in this undated Google Maps image.

Gord Kurbis, Journalist, CTV Vancouver Island

@CTVNewsGord

Published Wednesday, July 10, 2019 9:10AM PDT
Last Updated Wednesday, July 10, 2019 9:37AM PDT

The BC Coroner's Service is investigating the death of a man who was found along a popular mountain biking trail near Cumberland Tuesday evening.

The unresponsive man was discovered on a trail called "Blockhead" which is along the Cumberland Watershed.

The man was discovered by three other bikers who tried to revive him and called 911. Two of the trio were visitors to the area from England.

Cumberland Fire Chief Mike Williamson said the three "did a tremendous job, they did CPR for about 40 minutes until we got there."

Williamson said the trio saw the man go down a trail about five minutes earlier and then went down the same trail where they came across him.

The rocky trail was apparently wet at the time of the accident and it was raining heavily when firefighters, ambulance personnel and RCMP all attended the scene.

Cumberland firefighters attend to the area for mountain biking crashes often, according to Williamson

"We've had broken ankles, broken collar bones, a lot of crashes. I wouldn't say they were minor injuries, when you break bones it's not minor but they're not life-threatening injuries," he said.

Police said the incident is not being considered suspicious and they are in the process of notifying his next of kin.

837. https://www.stowetoday.com/stowe_reporter/news/police_blotter/injured-mountain-biker-evacuated-on-cady-hill/article_bae97e50-a3f3-11e9-a988-53b8c9d67e0a.html

Injured mountain biker evacuated on Cady Hill

Jul 11, 2019 Updated 11 hrs ago

A mountain biker, injured when he hit a tree and went over the handlebars, was rescued Saturday, July 6, by Stowe rescue crews.

The 28-year-old man, who was not identified because of medical privacy rules, was biking at Cady Hill Forest when the accident happened on the Florence trail, near the Zogs intersection, at about 10:20 a.m.

Stowe Mountain Rescue and Stowe Emergency Medical Services set up a base at the power substation on Cady Hill Road.

Stowe Mountain Rescue used two ATVs and a rescueboggan to reach the injured man, using the Cady Hill Connector and Zogs. The patient was on Florence, just 20 meters before the Zogs intersection.

The patient was evacuated by ATV without incident by about noon. From the base, Stowe Emergency Medical Services took the biker to medical treatment.

838. https://wlos.com/news/local/fundraisers-scheduled-for-hendersonville-firefighter-army-veteran-injured-last-month

Fundraisers scheduled for Hendersonville firefighter, Army veteran injured last month

by Kristy Kepley-Steward & Raphael Pires
Friday, July 12th 2019
Photo credit: Poore family via City of Hendersonville

HENDERSON COUNTY, N.C. (WLOS) A community rallies together to help support a local firefighter, Army veteran and father of three who was injured last month in a mountain biking accident.

WLOS

Anybody that knows him, loves him, said Hendersonville Fire Department Lt. Jared Morgan.

Multiple fundraisers have been organized for Hendersonville Fire Department Capt. Josh Poore.

"A lot of this money is going to go to help the family have a better way of life and not have to worry about working or the having a house to stay in, said Morgan.

On Thursday, June 13, 2019, Poore was mountain biking on Bent Creek Trail in the North Mills River area when, a city representative says, he was in a serious wreck.

Poore suffered a spinal cord injury, after which he was unable to move his arms or legs.

Skyland Fire & Rescue responded to the scene, and Poore was transported to Mission Hospital, where he underwent a surgery that fused his spine at C3 and C4. He was in the ICU for 10 days before being moved to a step-down trauma unit.

Poores wife, Ashley, has kept the department up to date on his progress. As of July 12, Poore had his feeding tube removed and is eating a regular diet, he can stand with assistance, hes able to walk on a treadmill with the assistance of a harness and physical therapists, he has more controlled movement in his right arm and hand, and he has some movement in his left arm.

Ashley Poore says his spirits are high as he works to attain his goal of a full recovery.

Several area businesses and organizations are working to help raise money for the family and the medical expenses theyre experiencing.

He needs to be able to focus on rehab and getting stronger again so he can get back to being that active member of the community that he was, said Well-Adjusted Chiropractic, Acupuncture and Massage ownerJennifer Hensley said.

Hensley is hosting the first fundraiser Saturday.

Free adjustments and acupuncture-style cupping and basically taking donations for the services, said Hensley.

People in the community are sending their love and hoping for a speedy recovery.

Josh, we love you and we love your family," said Hensley. "We are all here and were rooting for you.

We miss you and we want you here, said Morgan.

839. https://www.vicnews.com/news/cumberland-memorial-ride-set-for-deceased-island-mountain-biker/

Jerry Meyers was an active member of the United Riders of Cumberland (UROC) since 2014, volunteering his time to contribute positively to the community and trail network as a whole. Facebook photo

Cumberland memorial ride set for deceased Island mountain biker

A memorial ride is set for Tuesday evening for the mountain biker who died in the trails last week.
Erin Haluschak
Jul. 15, 2019 11:30 a.m.
News

A memorial ride is set for Tuesday evening in Cumberland for the mountain biker who died in the trails last week.

On July 9, the Cumberland Fire Department responded to a call around 6:45 p.m. for a biker who had crashed near the Blockhead trail.

Jerry Meyers was found non-responsive and his death is not being considered suspicious.

RELATED: Mountain biker found dead on Cumberland trails

The memorial ride is set for 6 p.m. July 16, and will depart from the Cumberland Recreation parking lot. The ride will head to the Blockhead trail and will climb as a group to the trailhead, have a moment for reflection and then train down to the bottom.

Everyone is welcome.

Meyers had been an active member of the United Riders of Cumberland (UROC) since 2014, volunteering his time to contribute positively to the community and trail network as a whole.

UROC is a non-profit society which promotes and supports the local mountain bike community in Cumberland and throughout the Comox Valley through trail advocacy, trail building and maintenance, volunteerism, events and fundraising.

In response to some inquiries on social media following the death of Meyers, UROC president Evan Loveless said given the proximity of both professional and volunteer emergency services in Cumberland, having first aid lockboxes or automated external defibrillators in the trails is not something the organization has discussed.

Loveless said their protocol, and what they tell trail users, is to use 9-1-1 for an emergency.

We log over 12,000 trail uses annually and the number of accidents is tiny in comparison.

For more information about the memorial ride, click here.

erin.haluschak@comoxvalleyrecord.com
Like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter

For more information about the memorial ride, click here.

840. How stupid! There's a much easier solution: don't mountain bike!

Mike

https://www.conwaydailysun.com/news/local/aiding-mountain-bike-rescue-there-s-an-app-for-that/article_28101b28-a8cd-11e9-a77a-f79fa8b5c719.html

Aiding mountain bike rescue? There's an app for that

Tom Eastman
Jul 17, 2019 Updated 2 hrs ago

CONWAY A Find My Friends phone app is credited with helping rescuers to locate an injured North Conway mountain biker on a White Mountain NEMBA trail on Cranmore Mountain late Sunday afternoon.

Kevin Arnold, 58, of Swett Street in North Conway, is listed in stable condition at Maine Medical Center in Portland, Maine. He was airlifted there from the summit of Cranmore Sunday evening by a DHART (Dartmouth-Hitchcock Advanced Response Team) helicopter from Lebanon-Hanover, according to North Conway Fire Chief Pat Preece, who oversaw the rescue, working with volunteers, North Conway Fire and Rescue, Fish and Game and Conway police.

The phone app played a key role, no question, said Preece. Without the application, we would have been hard-pressed to find him in a timely manner. So many trails come off that mountain, but through that application we were able to find him very, very quickly. He was very lucky.

Arnolds wife, Jeannie Cafarelli, who works for The Conway Daily Sun, said Wednesday that he is being treated for back injuries at the trauma center at Maine Medical.

According to Cafarelli, Arnold suffered those injuries after going over his handlebars while descending the Kandahar Trail.

Arnold, who is employed at Ceramco of Center Conway, was riding solo and wearing a helmet.

His wife said he texted her a photo after he reached the summit Sunday afternoon, noting, Im at the top; now to get down.

She lost contact after that message and became concerned when he didn't make it home by dinnertime.

Her phone app showed Arnolds location hadn't moved on the mountain. She called 911 and reported her concerns to the dispatcher.

Conway Patrol Officer Morganne Sterl responded to Cranmore, where she and Cafarelli studied the satellite image of Arnolds phone position.

Meanwhile, because they could not be certain whether the phone was with Arnold or if it might have fallen out of his pocket, Conway police dispatched personnel to his and Cafarelli's home in case he had arrived while search and rescue operations were taking place.

North Conway Fire and Rescue and Fish and Game personnel soon arrived at Cranmore. Mountain biking friends Stefan and son Reed Karnopp who had been riding in the area and Stefans wife, Teri Karnopp, also responded to a phone call from Cafarelli.

Reed and Stefan used the satellite image and photo that Arnold had taken near the summit to start their search.

Nick Preece of North Conway Fire and the Karnopps both said they knew exactly where the phone was based on that information.

Using their truck, Fish and Game drove up the mountains service road while fire department and Cranmore personnel went up in two ATVs.

The firefighters reached the location first and found Arnold. Stefan and Reed Karnopp also reached the scene on their bikes.

Preece made the decision to call DHART, telling Cafarelli that they were fortunate that the helicopter was in the vicinity, only 20 minutes' flight time away.

Arnold was carried in a litter to the Fish and Game truck and brought to the summit, where he was met by the DHART crew.

My husband and I would like to thank all the first responders and Cranmore. We are very grateful that things turned out the way it did. As for the phone app, I cant say enough about how well it served us in this situation, said Cafarelli.

Ben Wilcox, general manager and president of Cranmore Mountain, said he was pleased to know that Arnold was attended to quickly.

Our thoughts are with him, and hopefully Kevin has a good recovery, said Wilcox.

Wilcox said Cranmore has an agreement to allow the White Mountains chapter of the New England Mountain Biking Association to manage trails on Cranmore property.

841. https://www.centralwesterndaily.com.au/story/6281263/mountain-biker-in-stable-condition-after-being-airlifted-from-lake-canobolas-on-thursday-video-map/

Mountain biker airlifted from Mount Canobolas after hitting tree on trail

Max Stainkamph

Local News
AIRLIFTED: The helicopter near Mount Canobolas on Thursday. Photo: JUDE KEOGH

A mountain biker is in a stable condition after he was airlifted to Orange hospital on Thursday.

The man, aged 46, was riding along the Yabba trail at the base of Mount Canobolas after hitting a tree at high speed at about 11.30am.

The rider, from Bathurst, was riding with a small group of people.
Video: A section of the Yabba Trail, taken by Adam Lipscomb in May ...
Part of the Yabba trail

A Central West Police District spokesperson said a man had "hit a tree at speed" while riding down a trail and had chest and arm injuries as a result of the crash.

Emergency services, including police, ambulance, the State Emergency Service and the Rural Fire Service were called to a mountain bike trail at the base of the mountain just after noon, with a helicopter called a short time after.

MAP: Where area the crash and the airlift happened ...

He is still in Orange hospital in a stable condition.

Police cleared space near the Scout Hall at Lake Canobolas for the helicopter to land at about 1.30pm, with landing near the Rural Fire Service station at Lake Canobolas also considered.

842. https://citizen.co.za/news/south-africa/local-news/2157344/mountain-biker-seriously-injured-after-falling-from-trail/

Mountain biker seriously injured after falling from trail

ANA media

It is understood that the man crashed off the side of the trail after taking a jump on the downhill course.

A 38-year-old mountain biker was rescued from a trail in the Durbanville Hills in Cape Town after he was seriously injured in a fall on Saturday afternoon, paramedics said,.

It is understood that the man crashed off the side of the trail after taking a jump on the downhill course, ER24 spokesman Ross Campbell said.

ER24 paramedics arrived at the scene at 4.30pm. An off-duty medic with a 4״ on the scene, as well as a group of bystanders, helped rescue the biker from the hills.

Strapped to a spine board, he was walked and then driven down to the waiting ambulance who transported him through to Mediclinic Durbanville for further treatment, Campbell said.

843. https://www.pentictonwesternnews.com/news/injured-mountain-biker-rescued-in-kelowna/

UPDATE: Emergency crews rescue injured biker

A woman hurt her shoulder on Crawford trails
Black Press Media Staff
Jul. 23, 2019 9:40 p.m.
News

Emergency crews and Central Okanagan Search and Rescue (COSAR) safely transported an injured mountain biker to an awaiting ambulance at approximately 10:30 p.m. Tuesday night.

The woman was biking with a group on Vapour along Crawford Trails in Kelowna when she injured her shoulder.

The incident happened at around 8 p.m. when her fellow cyclers called 911.

Fire, ambulance, and COSAR came to assist in the rescue, using a gator to transport the woman to the ambulance where she was taken to the hospital.

There are no reports on the womans recovery.

844. https://www.staradvertiser.com/2019/08/14/breaking-news/man-on-mountain-bike-who-fell-from-pupukea-trail-dies/

Man dies after fall from Pupukea trail on mountain bike

By Nina Wu
Today
Updated 11:59 a.m.

A man who was critically injured Tuesday after he fell off a trail on his mountain bike at the Pupukea Forest Reserve has died.

The Honolulu Medical Examiners office identified him as Peter Bowman, 66, of Honolulu.

On Tuesday, Honolulu Fire Department spokesman Capt. Scot Seguirant said Bowman had fallen head over heels down a 4-foot drop on the trail while biking with a group of friends.

The fire department responded Tuesday afternoon with five units, including Air 1, with 16 personnel. The first unit arrived at 1:27 p.m. and hiked in, and upon arrival at 2:13 p.m., found other bikers in the group performing CPR on Bowman.

Following an airlift by Air 1, he was transported by Emergency Medical Services in critical condition to a hospital.

On his Facebook page, Bowmans profile described himself as originally from Hermosa Beach, Calif., and a former physics teacher and outreach counselor at Kalakaua Middle School.

845. https://blackburnnews.com/midwestern-ontario/midwestern-ontario-news/2019/08/14/new-information-mountain-biking-fatality-blue-mountain-resort/

New information on mountain biking fatality at Blue Mountain Resort

By John ChippaAugust 14, 2019 3:25am

The man involved in a fatal mountain biking incident last Wednesday at Blue Mountain Resort near Collingwood has been identified.

Grey County paramedics were dispatched to the top of the Orchard ski lift area on Scenic Caves Road last Wednesday afternoon for a cyclist who had suffered serious injuries as a result of a crash on a mountain biking trail.

Police said it appears 27-year-old Zachary Jacobi of Brant County left the trail and hit a tree. He was later pronounced dead in hospital.

Results of a post mortem have not been released, but the OPP say the death is not considered to be suspicious.

846. https://metro.co.uk/2018/06/08/mountain-biker-23-dies-after-crashing-into-a-tree-on-a-race-track-he-designed-7617471/?fb_comment_id=fbc_1990190914389334_1990662801008812_1990662801008812

Mountain biker, 23, dies after crashing into a tree on a race track he designed author imageBradley JollyFriday 8 Jun 2018 10:56 pm
Mountain biker Ryan Bullimore, 23, who was killed on Tuesday evening (05.06.18) when he hit a tree on a trail he helped to design and build at Tirpentwys trails near Pontypool in South Wales. Pictured is Ryan with his girlfriend Ceri Edmunds. Picture use with permission of the Bullimore family. Ryan Bullimore, pictured with girlfriend Ceri Edmunds, was killed on Tuesday evening (Picture: TOM BEDFORD) A young mountain biker died when he crashed into a tree on a race track he designed himself. Ryan Bullimore, 23, was going down a steep hillside when he lost control and fell headfirst from his bike. Paramedics were unable to save the kitchen fitter in the isolated forest near Pontypool, south Wales on Tuesday evening. His father Jason Bullimore, 53, said: I feel so sorry for the 17-year-old lad who found him. He spent 58 minutes on a 999 call until an ambulance arrived. Mountain biker Ryan Bullimore, 23, who was killed on Tuesday evening (05.06.18) when he hit a tree on a trail he helped to design and build at Tirpentwys trails near Pontypool in South Wales. Pictured is an aerial view of the trail network at the site. Picture use with permission of the Bullimore family. Ryan had hoped to run his mountain biking park, pictured in an aerial view, as a business (Picture: TOM BEDFORD) Ryan, from Pontypool, was on his last ride of the evening when he fell at high speed. He was wearing a new crash helmet, which was taken away by police for examination. His dad, who has two other children, continued: Ryan called me to say he was having another run I was getting concerned about an hour later when I hadnt heard from him. One of his friends rang me to say there had been an accident and there were three ambulances up at the bike trail. He was in a terrible mess when they got to him. He had hit a tree but we are waiting for the post mortem results, it was either a head injury or a ruptured artery. It is so hard I had seen him grow up into a wonderful human being. I was so proud of him. Ryan used pick axes and shovels to make the bike trail near his home. Officials gave the go-ahead for the Tirpentwys Mountain Bike Trail to become officially recognised. He had hoped to run the bike trail as a business early next year. Ryans family plan to scatter his ashes over the mountain biking park.

847. https://www.pinkbike.com/news/brook-macdonald-sustains-spinal-injury-in-training-crash-mont-sainte-anne-dh-world-champs-2019.html

Brook Macdonald Sustains Spinal Injury in Training Crash - Mont-Sainte-Anne DH World Champs 2019

Aug 31, 2019
by Sarah Moore

After qualifying third fastest yesterday, Brook Macdonald crashed on his first training run of the day at the 'La Tarzan' rock drop in the middle woods. He had to be evacuated off the mountain with a spinal injury.

Those on the scene said it was a really heavy crash and that Brook was in a lot of pain and couldn't feel his legs. His crash happened around 12:05, a helicopter was called at 12:43 by one of the two doctors on site, and he was evacuated almost four hours after the incident happened. By the time he was air-lifted he reportedly did have some feeling in his legs. MS Mondraker has since said that Brook has fractured two vertebrae and he will undergo surgery soon.

This evening, a UCI Safety meeting was held to debrief on the situation. The athletes and team managers in attendance expressed concern and discontent at the response time for the accident. The event organizers said that they were following UCI event protocol and that they were constrained by Quebec's response emergency system. The system sends the army in for a life-threatening situation and has to call a private helicopter company, Air Medic, in an urgent but non-life-threatening situation.

Apparently, because Dr. Genevi趥 Rochette was able to stabilize Brook on-site and monitor his vitals, Brook's situation was deemed not life-threatening, so it was Air Medic that was responsible for sending a helicopter. Event organizers believed that the response time from Air Medic would be 50 minutes, but since the pilot was on standby, it was an additional 50 minutes before the helicopter arrived. Once it arrived, it had a difficult time landing which further delayed the response time.

As a result of this event, for tomorrows race, the emergency response team is reviewing all the places that a helicopter can land, debriefing first responders on how to secure the scene for the helicopter to land, and the event organizers will be paying to have a helicopter pilot available at the heli base off-site. The response time for a non-life-threatening injury should be reduced to 50 minutes. For a life-threatening situation, it was explained that the army will be on site with their helicopter within 20 minutes.

Another change is that there have been some roots cut out just before the take-off on the feature where Brook and several others crashed. Reece Wilson crashed and concussed himself on the same feature after they reopened that part of the course.

We will update the story with more information as we get it. We wish Brook all the best for a full recovery.

https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/sport/424985/brook-macdonald-the-broken-back-comeback

Brook MacDonald: The broken back comeback

7:16 pm on 1 September 2020
Joe Porter, Sports Reporter
@RNZSport joe.porter@rnz.co.nz

A year ago to the day, Brook Macdonald broke his back.

The New Zealand downhill mountain biker suffered the worst crash of his career and lay semi-paralysed on the side of a Canadian mountain.

But testament to the strength and determination of the man they call "Bulldog", MacDonald has just left New Zealand for Austria, with plans to compete at October's World Champs.

"It has been a surreal year and my recovery has gone as well as it could. I can't wait to hook up with my team-mates and ride and race bikes again," he said.

Photo: © Fraser Britton / Crankworx 2019

MacDonald is pumped to be back, but his mood was much darker the day his career almost ended.

Feeling confident after qualifying third fastest for last year's World Champs in Mont Saint Anne, he needed just a couple of practice runs before the race.

But he never made it to the bottom of the trail, hitting an exposed root on a rock slab that sent him off line and over the handlebars.

"I landed straight on my back and bounced about a metre into a ditch. I went to roll over and and I couldn't move or feel my legs.

"I knew straight away there was something seriously wrong. I don't remember too much becase I was in so much shock but I was wanting to get off the hill as soon as possible."

Semi-paralysed and in extreme pain, race officials tried to take MacDonald off the mountain on the back of a quad bike.

He lay suffering for almost five hours before a helicopter finally arrived.

"It was probably the worst day of my life, lying there and not knowing what was going on.

"I was in a lot of pain and the medication they were given me was pretty light and wasn't really doing anything for the pain. I was in agony for quite a long time."

MacDonald fractured his T12 and L1 vertebrae.

He had surgery and spent three weeks in hospital in Quebec before being flown to Burwood Spinal Unit in Christchurch, where he had to learn to walk again.

Despite being told his riding days might never be over, MacDonald wasn't content to just get back on the pedals, he wanted to race again too.

"After my surgery when I had everything fixed and put back into place and the pressure taken off my spinal chord and the sensation in my legs started to come back, that's when I started to believe I would race again. From when I started walking again, that's when I knew I'd be sweet."

MacDonald knew he'd be back on the bike, but recovering from a serious back injury and being back racing in just a year has exceeded even his expectations.

He says he's one of the few international athletes to have benefited from the coronavirus pandemic.

"It's been a blessing in disguise for me. It's given me more time to recover and strengthen things that I was weak in and work on stuff that I needed to work on. I've been pretty lucky."

Back riding down hills as fast as ever, Bulldog says his passion for bikes grew deeper during his rehab.

"I feel like I've found a new love for riding. Having such a big accident, that could have taken it all away from me, made me realise how much I enjoy riding my bike, whether it's racing or just riding with friends."

MacDonald plans on making this year's World Champs, scheduled for Austria in October, his first race since breaking his back at the same event in 2019.

So will the Hawkes Bay hucker have any second thoughts as he points his bike down the steep chutes of the Leogang track.

"I'd rather be riding my bike and die than live in fear. You never know what could happen, could cross the street and get hit by a car and killed. After my crash it made me realise how important life is and how fast it can change. You can't just sit on the couch and watch TV all day and night, that's not living."

Riding bikes down mountains at breakneck speed might not be everyone's idea of living, but for MacDonald, nothing else comes close.

848. https://www.sfreporter.com/news/morningword/2019/09/06/kitty-cat-caught/

A mountain biker who suffered life-threatening injuries in the Valles Caldera waited 48 hours alone until rescue ($ TNM), officials at the preserve say. The biker, who lives nearby, was reported missing because neighbors and local residents noticed that his car hadn't been moved in a few days. Officials are not identifying him by name, but say that he suffered injuries to his lower extremities and is still alive.

849. https://www.stuff.co.nz/nelson-mail/mountain-biking/115032695/injured-mountainbiker-thinking-outside-square-in-new-normal-life

Injured mountainbiker 'thinking outside square' in new normal life

Stu Hunt05:30, Sep 07 2019

Braden Fastier
Finn Richardson suffered a serious spinal injury in a mountain biking accident. A year on he his back riding in a specially adapted bike.

"I wasn't jumping that high or going that fast, it was one stupid, small mistake but I think that's always how it is."

At 17 Finn Richardson was an elite level mountain biker; tall, athletic and something of a rising star in the sport.

Finn had picked up sponsorship from Hyperformance Hardware among others and was competing at a national level having raced at Crankworx. He was eyeing a place in the Enduro World Series and, ultimately, moving towards going professional.

He'd eased off racing to focus on expanding his riding and had spent a couple of months building his own jumps at the back of his parents' property.

"They were pretty new so they weren't super rideable just yet but I was pretty excited to try them out."

Finn invited a friend round to test them out and the first few runs went pretty well. He felt was holding back a bit so decided to come in with more speed.

"I pedalled too close to the take-off so I didn't set up properly. I ended up going over the bars like a sack of potatoes and landing straight on my head. My helmet came down right to my chest.
Supplied
Before his injury, Finn had a promising mountainbike career ahead of him.

"It was a pretty nasty blow."

When he rolled to a stop he immediately realised something was very wrong. He couldn't feel his legs at all.

Finn's friend raised the alarm and the Nelson Marlborough rescue helicopter was dispatched.

Finn was flown to Christchurch for surgery and woke up in ICU. The painkillers made everything fuzzy and Finn was in and out of it but says he has a crystal clear memory of what happened next.
Supplied
Finn spent several months rehabilitating at Christchurch's Burwood Hospital which specialises in spinal injuries.

"A doctor came in and said you have a spinal cord injury, you've bruised your spinal cord, we don't really know what's going to happen. Then I was told all sorts of other things, it was a very hectic time for me and my parents.

"They were having to deal with something so new but I wasn't having to deal with it just yet."

After three days Finn was moved to Burwood Hospital to begin rehabilitation and the slow process of learning how to get around again.

"One minute I was walking around and the next minute I was lying on the ground paralysed. It was pretty insane."

That was September 8 last year, "the start of a pretty crazy adventure".

Tomorrow will be the one year anniversary of the accident. Finn is back in Nelson now, he was able to return home before Christmas and life has returned to normal, or as he puts it "the new normal".
supplied
Finn Richardson's rehabilitation is going well after injuring his spine in a mountainbike accident in September last year.

Life was put on hold for the whole family as Finn's parents Glenn and Claire put work to one side and shuttled back and forth between Christchurch and Nelson.

Claire says that as a family they were blown away by the amount of support they received from the Nelson community and from the network of parents of other spinal injury teens.

Meals were prepared, baking made and funds set up. Claire has high praise for the facility at Burwood and says they were incredibly grateful for all the help they got during a testing time.

Home for the Richardsons is a warm, inviting and unpretentious mudbrick home perched high in the hills above Nelson. On a good day you can see Mt Taranaki from their lounge.

There have been a few alterations to accommodate Finn's wheelchair but Finn says the transition to living back at home has been a smooth one.

Since January Finn has been attending monthly NeuroPhysics sessions in Tauranga and he credits the innovative treatment as having played a huge part in boosting his recovery.

He describes the therapy as a brain game, getting into a relaxed state. Instead of working your muscles it's about working your nervous system, getting the brain to bypass the level of injury and activate the muscles.

And it's working. There's a flicker of movement in his legs and it has allowed Finn better control over the painful spasms which are one of the unfortunate side effects of his injury. Since he has more use of the muscles in his quads and core it means he is a lot more mobile.

They're small steps but Finn says he's learned to savour those. Instead of focussing on a long term goal, like getting out of the chair and walking around, little things like getting a flicker there or being able to move a weight around take on huge significance.

"At Burwood, a lot of people would come in with not as significant an injury, so they would end up walking and on walkers and it was quite hard looking at them. But after a while I realised I need to focus on my own journey and my own progress.

"It's helped mentally as well, it's good to feel like you're doing something recovery-wise, it's good for my mindset as well, getting me into a calm relaxed state seeing cool things happening."
Braden Fastier
Finn has not given up on adventures, with biking, packrafting and skiing on his to do list.

Claire says the specialists at Burwood were blown away by his improvements at a recent check-up.

Spinal injuries are classified on a scale devised by the American Spinal Injury Association or Asia.

Asia A is a full sever with nothing getting through. Finn was initially classed as Asia A before he was reassessed as a B, which means some sensation below the level of injury.

"When I went for my check-up they were borderline on putting me up to Asia C - which is movement and sensation below the injury which is really promising."

His increased stability has meant he was recently able to have the uncomfortable rods supporting his spine removed, an operation he'd looked forward to.

"The first time I sat up on a bench I couldn't have my hands off my knees, I was all over the place there was no connection below. Now I can raise my hands above my head and balance using my core.

"Even eating I had to hold on to the table before."

Finn is now in his last year at Nelson Boys' College. He passed University Entrance last year.

He says he was most daunted about going back to school and getting himself out there, but the college has been incredibly supportive. He uses the school's gym for training and physio and is getting used to being more independent.

"It's good hanging out with my able-bodied friends and they don't see my injury anymore. It makes me feel normal, I can just do whatever."

Last month he attended the school ball.

Finn is also driving now having recently received a hand-controlled car nicknamed "Duckie" and passed his restricted licence. In Claire's words that's a huge thing since she's no longer his honorary taxi driver.

It's also decision time. Finn is uncertain whether next year will bring study or more rehab. Outdoor education is definitely in the frame, but he says there's a huge array of options and he's just not sure which one to take.

"I lost mountainbiking that I was super mentally invested in and prepared to spend the rest of my life doing. But losing that has opened my eyes to a whole new range of possiblilites."

Claire says mountainbiking was his life. "He'd eat and breathe it".

Glenn describes him as a humble rider "who was good because he didn't think he was good".

Finn is still involved in the mountainbike community. He works part-time at Torpedo 7 and helps out at events when he can. He judged the Big Airs Whip Off at the recent Kaiteriteri Enduro.

And, thanks to an adaptive mountainbike, he's still riding.

The bike was a demo model built by a wheelchair manufacturer and the only one of its kind in the country. One metre wide, two wheels at the front, one at the back, electric, full suspension with a bucket seat so Finn can kneel in it and lean around corners.

"It likes tipping over every now and again. I'm getting better but initially it was all over the place, The first time was five times over the side."
Braden Fastier
Finn is finding things to be positive about: "You get used to enjoying the process of learning how to be independent again."

But Finn says it's fun pushing boundaries to see where it could take him. He rode it to Flora Hut in the Kahurangi National Park the other weekend.

Adaptive mountainbiking is a growing discipline and there are bikes being developed making things look a lot more promising for the sport.

Among the other possibilities Finn has discovered is packrafting.

"Packrafts work perfectly because they're really stable and really forgiving and they don't flip as much.

"With limited balance I can run rivers with my friends. It's a whole new level of freedom."

Next on his agenda is sit-skiing, he used to snowboard before the accident.

As far as wheelchair sport goes, Finn says he's OK at table tennis but lousy at tennis. But as Glenn points out he was lousy at tennis before, "we don't really do ball sports".

And when he has any spare time left there's getting the vintage Vauxhall 12 he bought when he was 15, back on the road.

Finn's creed is to live in the now - "pushing myself to do cool stuff and focus on being the best I can, have fun and enjoy the journey".

As Claire puts it "what is so lovely about Finn is that he's so positive, it could've been much harder if Finn wasn't in such an amazing headspace.

"And he has some amazing friends who cart him all round the place and are constantly thinking up things to get him involved in."

While Finn says it has been a huge thing to process mentally, he has clearly made enormous progress with that.

"It's not really that bad. You get used to enjoying the process of learning how to be independent again and finding new opportunities for new activities."

"You get used to thinking outside the square."

850. https ://www.vicnews.com/news/injured-island-mountain-biker-airlifted-from-courtenay/

The patient was flown out by Helijet shortly after 2 p.m. on Monday. Photo by Mike Chouinard

Injured Island mountain biker airlifted from Courtenay

Rider suffered broken collarbone, ribs after crash on Cumberland trails
Mike Chouinard
Aug. 6, 2019 5:20 p.m.
News

A mountain biker was airlifted out of Courtenay Airpark on the holiday Monday after being rescued by Cumberland Fire Department.

The department got the call for a rescue about 11:25 a.m. on Monday, Aug. 5. The man had been riding on the trails around Cumberland with some friends when he had an accident near the intersection of the Bucket of Blood and Bear Buns trails.

The guy had a tumble, Fire Chief Mike Williamson told Black Press on Tuesday. Our guys brought him out of the bushes.

Initially, the helicopter was going to pick up the patient in Cumberland in the afternoon, after the crew had rescued him.

They were going to set up in Cumberland Park, he said.

Instead, BC Ambulance transported the patient to the Courtenay Airpark. He was assessed and transported by Helijet shortly after 2 p.m. on Monday afternoon.

Williamson was able to get some details later, saying the man suffered a broken collarbone and broken ribs. However, there was no other information about the patient, where he was taken or his condition as of press time.

Last month, Cumberland Fire Department responded to a call on the trails and performed CPR on a mountain biker who had crashed near the Blockhead trail. He was found unresponsive and died at the scene.

851. https://the-journal.com/articles/148152

Mountain bikers crash at Phils World

Rescuers respond to three incidents this week

By Jim Mimiaga Journal Staff Writer
Wednesday, Aug. 7, 2019 4:14 PM
Updated: Wednesday, Aug. 7, 2019 6:10 PM
Follow @DS_Jimi
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Rescuers responded to three mountain bike crashes this week at the Phils World trail system east of Cortez.

On Wednesday at 12:20 p.m., a man riding with his son in the Rib Cage section crashed and was knocked unconscious temporarily.

His son dialed 911 on a cellphone, and emergency crews from Cortez Fire Protection District responded, said Chief Jay Balfour. An ambulance from Southwest Health System also responded.

The man regained consciousness and appeared to be OK, Balfour said. He was transported to Southwest Memorial Hospital for observation. Another mountain biker had stopped to help the injured man until emergency crews arrived.

While at the scene of the bike crash, an injured woman who had also crashed nearby walked up seeking assistance, Balfour said. She had an injury to her elbow and was transported to Southwest Memorial.

An intensive care nurse from San Juan Medical Center who happened to be preparing for a mountain bike ride at the trailhead offered her assistance to rescuers and she was brought to the scene to aid medical staff.

She is always ready to help out, said her riding companion.

On Monday, a teenage mountain bike rider also crashed on the Rib Cage, a fast section of trail that features rolling topography. She injured her shoulder and had to be carried down the trail on a rescue litter to a waiting ambulance and was then transported to Southwest Memorial.

Cortez Fire sent EMTs, paramedics, and firefighters to the scene using existing dirt roads within the trail system. They also deployed a rescue ATV outfitted with emergency equipment.

jmimiaga@the-journal.com

852. https://www.nj.com/essex/2019/08/nj-firefighter-who-died-in-cliff-fall-while-bike-riding-in-park-wasnt-warned-of-dangerous-terrain-widow-says-in-suit.html

N.J. firefighter killed in cliff fall while bike riding wasnt warned of parks dangers, widows suit says

Updated Aug 17, 2019; Posted Aug 16, 2019

Photo provided

Rena Rivera has filed suit seeking to hold county and local officials liable in the death of her husband, who was killed in a biking accident.

By Anthony G. Attrino | NJ Advance Media for NJ.com

A Paterson firefighter killed while riding his mountain bike in an Essex County park two years ago did not know of dangerous conditions in the area, including a steep cliff with no barriers or warning signs, his widow states in a recently filed lawsuit.

Kerry James Rivera, a 13-year member of the fire department, died June 26, 2017 after the mountain bike he was riding plunged 20 feet off a cliff in a wooded reservation near the Cedar Grove Reservoir. Rivera, 50, had taken up bike riding a couple of months earlier and was with his brother when the accident occurred about 9 a.m. that day, officials have said.

Rena Mason Rivera, his wife, is suing Cedar Grove and Montclair townships, Essex County and Mills Reservation Park, calling the cliff where her husband lost his life unsafe for recreational use.

He lost control of his bike, went off the trail and plummeted off an unguarded and unsecured cliff to his demise, the womans attorney, Gary S. Shapiro of Englishtown, wrote in the suit, filed in Essex County Superior Court.

The lawsuit claims local police, park employees and others employed by the county knew or should have known the existence of (the) unreasonably hazardous, defective condition through reasonable inspection.

Due to gross negligence, Rivera was caused to suffer great pain, suffering, physiological and neurological injuries, anguish, emotional distress and hedonic damages, the suit states. In addition, the family incurred great financial expense related to medical care and funeral bills, the suit states.

Avalon Zoppo | NJ Advance Media for NJ.com

First-responders near the Cedar Grove Reservoir on June 26, 2017, the day Kerry Rivera died in a biking accident.

The lawsuit seeks a jury trial and monetary damages to be determined in court.

In an answer filed Aug. 6, Essex County states that Rivera was partly to blame for his own death. Plaintiff assumed the risk inherent in the activity engaged in by the plaintiff, the countys lawyer, Courtney M. Gaccione, wrote in the answer.

Any injuries and/or damages allegedly sustained by plaintiff were caused by the joint and/or intentional acts of plaintiffs, co-defendants, and/or third parties over whom (Essex County) had no control, Gaccione wrote.

The county attorneys also stated Riveras death was the result of an unavoidable accident or circumstances for which the (county is) not liable.

Katya Wowk, spokeswoman for Montclair, said Friday the township does not comment on pending litigation.

Cedar Grove Township Manager Thomas Tucci did not return a call seeking comment.

Kerry and Rena Rivera, who were married for 25 years, had three children together. A GoFundMe page set up to help the family raised over $18,000.

File

Rena and Kerry Rivera

Anthony G. Attrino may be reached at tattrino@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @TonyAttrino. Find NJ.com on Facebook.

853. https://www.bbc.com/news/world-europe-isle-of-man-49634146

Isle of Man mountain biker who died in End2End race named

Image copyright IOM POLICE Image caption Nigel Park was a regular competitor in the event, his family said

A cyclist who died after crashing during a mountain bike race on the Isle of Man has been named.

Nigel Park, 71, from Glen Mona, crashed while going over an obstacle during the annual End2End Mountain Bike Challenge on Sunday, said police.

The accident happened on private land near to Ballacraine in the west of the island at about 12:30 BST.

In a statement, Mr Park's family said they were "understandably devastated by his tragic passing".

"Dad was a regular competitor and keen mountain biker.

"We take comfort in knowing he was doing something he loved alongside good friends," the statement continued.

The annual event takes competitors along a 47-mile (75km) route from the Point of Ayre at the island's most northern tip to Port Erin in the south.

Event organisers the Manx Mountain Bike Club also said it had passed on its "sincere condolences" to the rider's friends and family.

James Costley-White, editor of Mountain Biking UK magazine, said: "While mountain biking is a sport that involves some degree of risk and minor injuries are common, tragic incidents such as this are, fortunately, extremely rare.

"Our thoughts go out to Mr Park's family."

Police said the death was not being treated as suspicious and no criminal investigation was taking place.

854. https://www.nbcsandiego.com/news/local/Mission-Trails-Mountain-Biker-Crash-Paralyzed-Hospital-GoFundMe-559898801.html

San Diego Teen Paralyzed in Mountain Biking Crash Seeks Help From Specialists in Colorado

Alex Uppenkamp, 18, broke three vertebrae when he crashed on his mountain bike at Mission Trails Regional Park on Aug.
By Lauren Coronado

Published Sep 9, 2019 at 10:10 PM | Updated 4 hours ago

The teen's father told NBC 7's Lauren Coronado that daring jumps are nothing new for his son. (Published Tuesday, Sept. 10, 2019)

Teen Mountain Biker Paralyzed in Crash

A San Diego teen is facing a long road to recovery after failing an attempt at a 32-foot jump on his mountain bike in Mission Trails Regional Park.

The ICU at Sharp Memorial Hospital has been home to Alex Uppenkamp for the past 34 days. The 18-year-old was paralyzed from the shoulders down in the crash, but he and his family arent accepting that as final.

On Tuesday, he and his family are scheduled to meet with some of the best spinal cord doctors in the country at Craig Hospital in Colorado.

Alex Uppenkamps father, Mike Uppenkamp, told NBC 7 his youngest son enjoys anything and everything outdoors. Surfing, rock climbing, and mountain biking are a few of his hobbies.

He retold the story of the Aug. 5 phone call he received from his wife when his son was hurt attempting the big jump.

My wife said, Don't panic. Alex has been in a serious accident and he's in the ER, he recalled.

Daring jumps arent anything new to Alex Uppenkamp, according to his father.

He's been all over this park; 15-20 feet in the air doing jumps on his bike. That's what he does, Mike Uppenkamp said.

The jump Alex Uppenkamp was attempting to conquer that day is near the Santee boulders.

"His front tire landed right there. His bike went underneath him and his head landed right here. Then you see the bushes over here where they're matted down, that's where he landed, Mike Uppenkamp explained.

Alex Uppenkamp broke three vertebrae and was paralyzed instantly.

"My son's an amazing kid and he's pushing through something that is the most challenging thing I've ever had to go through. And he hasn't been able to process it quite yet. There's still a huge path in front of us, his father said.

Mike Uppenkamp said he and his family will live in Colorado for the next three months while Alex Uppenkamp sees specialists, but he said no matter where they are, the outdoors will always be their special place.

I hope that we can redo this in a year and have Alex ride down that mountain behind me. That would be my hope, Mike said.

Mike said he only knows of one other person who has attempted the jump Alex went off. He says that person also crashed but luckily was able to walk away.

A GoFundMe page has been set up to help fund Alexs recovery.

855. https://www.bbc.com/news/world-europe-isle-of-man-49733134

Isle of Man mountain biker died from head and neck injuries

18 September 2019
Image copyright IOM POLICE Image caption Nigel Park was a regular competitor in the event

A cyclist who crashed during a mountain bike race on the Isle of Man suffered head and neck injuries, his inquest has been told.

Nigel Park fell off his bicycle near Ballacraine during the End2End Mountain Bike Challenge on 8 September.

The painter and decorator from Glen Mona was pronounced dead at the emergency department of Noble's Hospital.

Coroner Jayne Hughes said the 71-year-old had suffered "multiple injuries".

Investigations into Mr Park's death were still ongoing, Mrs Hughes added.

Adjourning the inquest, she passed her condolences to his family, who did not attend the hearing at Douglas Courthouse.

Mr Park was a regular participant in the annual event, which takes competitors along a 47-mile (75km) route from the Point of Ayre at the island's most northern tip to Port Erin in the south.

856. https://www.stuff.co.nz/nelson-mail/news/115983098/mountainbiker-winched-out-of-nelsons-brook-valley

Mountainbiker winched out of Nelson's Brook Valley

Samantha Gee11:35, Sep 21 2019
Hamish Gee
The Nelson Marlborough Rescue Helicopter winched the biker out in difficult conditions on Friday. (File photo)

A mountainbiker was winched out the Brook Valley after being injured in a 20-metre fall.

Nelson Marlborough Rescue Helicopter pilot Tim Douglas-Clifford said a 49-year-old female from Richmond came off her mountainbike on the Te Ara Koa trail in the Brook Valley on Friday morning.

The helicopter reached her around 11.30am. Douglas-Clifford said the bush was heavy and the conditions were slippery.

She was flown to Nelson Hospital.

857. https://www.dailycamera.com/2019/09/26/mountain-biker-rescued-after-fall-in-boulder-county/

Mountain biker rescued after fall in Boulder County

By John Marinelli |
September 26, 2019 at 11:44 am

A mountain biker was transported to a nearby hospital Wednesday evening after falling on High Plains Trail.

A 50-year-old man was biking along the trail near Colo. 128 in unincorporated Boulder County south of Superior on Wednesday when he fell for an unknown reason, according to Carrie Haverfield, a spokeswoman with the Boulder County Sheriffs Office.

Haverfield said that he was found by a fellow trail user. Boulder County Communications received a call around 6 p.m. about the incident.

After rescue personnel arrived on scene, they used a one-wheeled stretcher to get the man to an ambulance.

The Lafayette Fire Department, Rocky Mountain Fire, Rocky Mountain Rescue Group and City of Boulder Parks and Open Space Rangers participated with the rescue effort.

858. https://www.salemnews.com/news/local_news/mountain-biker-seriously-hurt-in-wenham-woods/article_e61e356c-0617-5cda-ae21-cf714960e68e.html

Mountain biker seriously hurt in Wenham woods

8 hrs ago

WENHAM Police radio reported at 3:15 p.m. Tuesday that a mountain biker was down and seriously injured in the Wenham woods.

A med-flight had been dispatched to Dix Park, off Haskell Street, in Beverly Farms, and landed there at about 3:25 p.m.

No other information was given about the biker or the accident, although some radio chatter indicated it might have been a head injury.

The Salem News will provide additional information as it becomes available.

859. https://www.squamishchief.com/sports/local-sports/ski-cross-racer-dies-in-squamish-mountain-biking-accident-1.23964744

Ski-cross racer dies in Squamish mountain-biking accident

Mikayla Martin was Alpine Canada rising star

Dan Falloon / Pique Newsmagazine

October 2, 2019 01:17 PM

Updated: October 2, 2019 03:36 PM
In memoriam: Mikayla Martin
Photo: Squamish RCMP
Previous Next

Residents of Squamish and the Sea to Sky ski community are in mourning after Squamish local and Whistler Mountain Ski Club alumnus Mikayla Martin died in a mountain-biking accident on Oct. 1.

Alpine Canada and the Squamish RCMP confirmed that the 22-year-old ski-cross racer died after an accident near her home in Squamish.

In a town that celebrates mountain adventure, we are heartbroken to hear of the loss of this young life, so filled with talent and promise. On behalf of the District of Squamish, I wish to extend our sincere condolences to Mikaylas family and friends, and to all Squamish locals who will mourn for her in the wake of this tragic outcome, said Mayor, Karen Elliott in an emailed statement to The Chief.

Squamish Search and Rescue tells The Chief the accident happened in the late afternoon in a remote area on an extremely challenging mountain bike trail. RCMP said it was on the Slhanay Trail system behind Stawamus Chief Provincial Park.

Access to the accident site was challenging for rescuers due to its remoteness. Search and rescue teams were sent in by ground and air.
On Oct. 1, at 5:15 pm, Squamish RCMP say they were requested by the BC Ambulance Service to attend to the Stawamus Chief for a mountain bike medical call. Upon arrival to the staging location of the Stawamus School, police met up with Squamish Fire Rescue and Squamish Search and Rescue and learned a woman and man were mountain biking in the Slhaney Trail system behind Stawamus Chief Provincial Park when the woman was seriously injured in an incident on her bike. The woman was Mikayla Martin. The. man was not seriously injured. SAR volunteers long-lined Martin to the waiting air ambulance, but she did not survive. - Squamish RCMP

"We wish to express our most sincere condolences to Christine and James, Mikayla's parents, as well as her entire family and circle of friends," Alpine Canada president and CEO Vania Grandi said in a release. "Mikayla embodied a love of skiing and passion for ski cross that were boundless and words can't express how sorely she'll be missed."

Martin grew up racing alpine, but switched to ski-cross after the 2016-17 season. She immediately cracked the national team and won the FIS Junior World Championship in Cardrona, New Zealand the following summer.

Martin also achieved a pair of top-10 results on the FIS World Cup circuit in 2018-19, including a sixth-place finish in Innichen, Switzerland. She qualified for the FIS World Ski Championships in Utah, where she sustained a season-ending injury in the small final.

"The death of Mikayla is a huge loss for the community of Squamish and an immense loss for her family and friends and our thoughts are with them," said Squamish RCMP Sgt. Sascha Banks in a joint statement with Squamish Search and Rescue and the BC Coroners Service. "It can't be stressed more that adventuring in Squamish comes with inherent risks. We can only ask that you take that one more risk assessment, one more second to check the geographics, one more look at your equipment, and one more conversation about what the plan is. We all want people to live doing what they love."

The Squamish RCMP say officers, along with the BC Coroners Service, will continue to gather information about the accident in order to determine what happened.

860. https://www.bostonglobe.com/metro/2019/10/01/beverly-mountain-biker-suffers-life-threatening-injuries-flown-boston-hospital/3MXA3dKDxLJxDAOLUlPhWO/story.html

Beverly mountain biker suffers life-threatening injuries; flown to Boston hospital

By Cynthia Fernandez Globe Correspondent,October 1, 2019, 8:37 p.m.

A mountain biker suffered life-threatening injuries and was flown to a Boston-area hospital Tuesday afternoon, Beverly officials said.

We were about 1 mile into the trail, 1/2 a mile off the trail, said Beverly Fire Captain John Palm, describing the location of the incident.

The man was injured near Greenwood Avenue at 2:26 p.m. and flown to the hospital around 3:45 p.m., officials said.

No further information was available Tuesday night.

Cynthia Fernandez can be reached at cynthia.fernandez@globe.com.

861. https://www.tmz.com/2019/10/11/mountain-bike-pro-jordie-lunn-dead-36/

Mountain Bike Pro Jordie Lunn Dead at 36 After Crash in Mexico

10/11/2019 9:16 AM PT

Canadian mountain bike legend Jordie Lunn died after a biking accident in Mexico earlier this week ... his family announced on Friday. He was 36.

Lunn -- a BMX racer and free rider -- was trail riding in Cabo with his friends when he got into an accident and suffered a fatal head injury.

"Jordie lost his life doing exactly what he loved," Lunn's family said in a statement to Pinkbike.

Lunn was also well known for his crazy biking videos ... with some clips getting millions of views on YouTube.

"Jordie had an incredible 20+ year career as a mountain biker," his family continued. "He will always be cherished for his heart and love that he gave to his family, friends, and fans, as well as the incredible talent that he had on his bikes."

Lunn's friend, Greg Watts, was with him during the trip ... and released a statement on Friday, saying "GUTTED. We lost a human that you hope everyone could be like."

"If he doesnt make it to heaven then heaven doesnt f*cking exist. I had the pleasure of spending his last few hours alive with him along with [Berrecloth, Brayden Barrett Hay and Lone Wolf Productions] and he was truly enjoying what he loved."

"Perfect day of riding in a perfect location. Just didnt seem real and I still cant grasp it. My condolences go out to his family because I know he loved his brothers and I know he was their glue."

Darren Berrecloth was with Jordie when the accident happened ... and tells TMZ Sports "We were riding a mellow trail in Mexico and he came up short on a gap jump and hit his head."

Berrecloth added ... "Jordie to me was a part of my family as I was a part of his. He was a brother to me as we grew up in a small town with nothing other than our parents love and our determination to ride bikes, have fun and get rad.

"Jordie was one of a f*cking kind, sibling of two brothers that if you had the pleasure of knowing the trio of bandits at the household you were always on your toes as you never knew what kind of Shenanigans were about to go down."

Berrecloth sent us a photo he took of Jordie right before the accident.

"Ive loved Jordie as a brother from the moment we became riding buddies as biking will build that bond in friends. He was always a inspiration to me to be honest, his ability to see the positive in everything when I was down was uplifting."

"He had the heart of a lion and the hug of a grizzly bear," Berrecloth says.

"This loss to his family, his fans and everyone that had the beautiful opportunity to meet this amazing individual we call our brother, will be felt for years to come as 'legends never die' and Jordie f*cking Lunn in my heart will never ever be forgotten!!"

https://vancouverisland.ctvnews.ca/family-of-vancouver-island-mountain-biker-killed-in-crash-launches-fundraiser-1.4643523

Family of Vancouver Island mountain biker killed in crash launches fundraiser

World-renowned Parksville biker dies in accident
World-renown Parksville mountain Biker, Jordie Lunn, 36, has died in a biking accident in Mexico.

News staff, CTV Vancouver Island
Published Thursday, October 17, 2019 2:59PM PDT
Last Updated Thursday, October 17, 2019 5:48PM PDT

VICTORIA -- A fundraising campaign has been launched in memory of a popular Vancouver Island mountain biker killed last week in a trail-riding accident in Mexico.

Jordie Lunn, 36, of Parksville, was riding with friends in Cabo San Lucas on Oct. 9 when he suffered a fatal head injury.

"Jordie was transported to a local hospital and passed away in the arms of his childhood friend," according to friends and family members who created the online fundraiser.

Lunn's riding earned him sponsorships from major brands like Rocky Mountain Bikes, SRAM, RockShox, Truvativ and RockStar Energy. (Submitted photo)

"Although his time in hospital care was brief, the family is expecting medical bills totaling over $90,000," they wrote.

"This total does not include the required preparation of Jordie to return him back home or funeral costs. Jordie had insurance coverage, however it will not come close to the expected totals his family is going to have to cover."

According to his family, Lunn had personal injury insurance and life insurance, though large expenses were incurred because his fatal accident happened outside of Canada.

He does have an insurance policy specific to riding, brother Jarrett Lunn told CTV News from his home in Vancouver.

But because it is such an extreme sport, the policies are not the same as your day-to-day nine-to-five worker. They help, but its not all-encompassing coverage.

The crowdfunding campaign aims to raise $100,000, with $90,000 going towards medical bills and any excess funds going towards causes Lunn was passionate about.

"These will include, but may not be limited to: helping children with cycling and coaching opportunities, biking facilities to ride, helping to establish a baseline concussion testing for athletes worldwide, supporting brain health and injury research in mountain biking, funding research to better understand the health of athletes' brains post-concussion, and how we can help avoid further losses," according to the campaign.

By 3 p.m. Thursday, the campaign had raised nearly $13,000.

Lunn's riding earned him sponsorships from major brands like Rocky Mountain Bikes, SRAM, RockShox, Truvativ and RockStar Energy.

He is survived by his parents Bonnie and Brian Lunn, his brothers Craig and Jarrett Lunn, and his girlfriend Caitlin Larsen.

One week after his brothers death, Jarrett says family is leaning on one another.

Its been a tough week, but family comes together at difficult times and were working through things one step at a time.

862. https://www.westhawaiitoday.com/2019/10/11/hawaii-news/army-rescues-european-mountain-biker-from-maunakea-slopes/

Army rescues European mountain biker from Maunakea slopes

By Chelsea Jensen West Hawaii Today cjensen@westhawaiitoday.com | Friday, October 11, 2019, 8:22 a.m.

KAILUA-KONA Light snow was falling high on the slopes of Maunakea Thursday evening when a U.S. Army helicopter spotted an injured mountain biker as daylight faded.

It was shortly before 6 p.m. when the HH Dash 60 medevac Blackhawk helicopter crew located the 53-year-old European man using visual recognition and Forward Looking Infrared Radar capabilities near 11,800 feet in elevation.

The mountain biker apparently became lost while traversing a trail off a hunter access road, and succumbed to the cold, dense fog and strong winds, according to the U.S. Army and Hawaii Fire Department, which worked together to rescue the foreign national.

The Hawaii Fire Department received a call from the man at 12:17 p.m. Thursday reporting that hed become lost while mountain biking on the northeastern slopes of the islands tallest mountain.

The man, whod biked all the way from Holualoa, told dispatchers hed been traversing Maunakea via a dirt hunter access road at approximately 8,000 feet elevation when he took a side trail. Temperatures were reported to be in the 30s throughout the day, the fire department and Army both said.

The man eventually succumbed to the cold, rain, dense fog and strong winds. A ping of his cellphone triangulated him around the 11,800-foot elevation, said Mike Donnelly, spokesman for the U.S. Army Garrison-Pohakuloa.

Because of the elevation, neither of Hawaii Countys two helicopters could undertake the rescue. The U.S. Army was called in to assist with medevac as part of the pairs mutual aid agreement.

The launch of the Blackhawk was quickly approved by Lt. Col. JR Borce, commander of PTA. Three two-man ground rescue teams were also deployed from the installation.

Using grid coordinates, the ground and air teams together located the injured mountain biker. The helicopters Forward Looking Infrared Radar was particularly useful as it allowed the crew to spot the man because his body temperature set him apart from the background, Donnelly said.

The man was then extricated via helicopter and taken directly to North Hawaii Community Hospital in Waimea. The Hawaii Fire Department indicated he suffered minor injuries.

This is another great effort by Hawaii County and PTA First Responders, said Borce. We are thankful we got the call early enough to find this gentleman before dark set in.

Lynn Scully, spokeswoman for NHCH, said the man was seen in the emergency room and discharged. He was not admitted.

863. https://www.eastoregonian.com/news/local/mountain-biker-rescued-from-umatilla-national-forest/article_65a49860-f13e-11e9-a2a5-772a2ef7cd54.html

Mountain biker rescued from Umatilla National Forest

East Oregonian
23 hrs ago

MILTON-FREEWATER Umatilla County Search and Rescue responded to an injured mountain biker stranded on Bear Creek Trail in the Umatilla National Forest Wednesday night.

Search and Rescue received a call regarding the 25-year-old man, from Touchet, Washington, at 7:18 p.m. During a mountain biking trip with a friend, his bike pedal clipped a rock. He catapulted over the bike, injuring his head and chest.

The man whose name was not released by the Umatilla County Sheriffs Office was unable to hike out unassisted, according to a press release.

Around 12:45 a.m. Thursday morning, he was located and wheeled out of the forest by 4:50 a.m. He declined ambulance service, leaving the area by private vehicle.

Because of the remote location, Search and Rescue used InReach Satellite to communicate via text. The sheriffs office reported there were several hazards on the trail, including rain that created hazardous footing and deep drop-offs along the trail.

Nine people from Search and Rescue, two people from Walla Walla Search and Rescue, and two emergency responders from Milton-Freewater provided aid during the incident.

864. https://www.pinkbike.com/news/video-any-one-of-us-documentary-official-trailer.html

Video: "I'm Better Off Failing As Opposed to Never Trying" - Any One of Us Documentary Official Trailer

Oct 21, 2019
by Ed Spratt

Any One of Us is a documentary chronicling pro mountain biker Paul Basagoitias life-changing journey to recovery after suffering a spinal cord injury.

Produced by Red Bull Films, the film offers a revealing look at the agonies of an unpredictable journey and an uncertain future after Basagoitia's tragic accident during the 2015 Red Bull Rampage. Viewers will also hear from a group of SCI survivors who shine a light on the struggles Basagoitia and all SCI patients battle every day, and the hope that inspires them to carry on.

Paul Basagoitia was born and raised in Minden, Nevada and developed a knack for riding bikes at an early age. He rode them without training wheels at the age of 2 and won BMX competitions by the time he turned seven.

Basagoitias talent was fully realized when he won the Crankworx mountain bike competition in Whistler, BC in 2004, where he pulled off a perfect backflip on a massive step up. He repeated this slopestyle win at Crankworx a year later, cementing his place at the top. Basagoitia went on to become the first person to complete a 720 on a mountain bike and landed the first double backflip on a natural terrain at the 2012 Red Bull Rampage event in Utah.

On October 16, 2015, Basagoitia returned to the Red Bull Rampage, where his future became unclear. One slight mistake during his run sent him tumbling down the face of a rock, resulting in a burst-fracture of his 12th vertebrae and a partially severed spinal cord.

While recovering from his paralysis, Basagoitia recorded personal videos that documents the struggles and triumphs he faced as he made his way from the hospital to rehab, and eventually back home.

865. https://globalnews.ca/news/6074744/helicopter-winch-team-rescues-injured-mountain-biker-from-smith-creek-area/

Helicopter winch team rescues injured mountain biker from Smith Creek area

By Doyle Potenteau Global News
Posted October 23, 2019 7:42 pm
A helicopter winch team took off from West Kelowna earlier today to rescue an injured mountain biker in the Smith Creek area. The man was rescued and was flown to Kelowna General Hospital.

A helicopter winch team rescued an injured mountain biker in the hills above West Kelowna, Vernon Search and Rescue said Wednesday.

According to a search and rescue spokesperson, the rescue occurred in the Smith Creek trail network around noon.
The man was said to be unconscious when the helicopter arrived, with crews winching down to rescue him.

The man was directly flown to Kelowna General Hospital.

Central Okanagan Search and Rescue (COSAR) said the man missed a jump and sustained severe head trauma.

COSAR said they received a request from B.C. Ambulance and West Kelowna Fire Rescue to assist in the evacuation. And since air support was needed, Vernon Search and Rescues helicopter winch team was called in.

In related news, the helicopter used in the rescue is on standby at Wildcat Helicopters in West Kelowna, where it is ready to respond to search and rescue and emergency medical calls.

In addition to B.C. Ambulances contracted helicopters, the Bell 412EP operated by B.C. Air Rescue is the only aircraft authorized to land at KGHs rooftop helipad.

866. https://thebarbellspin.com/featured/james-newbury-injured-in-bike-accident/

James Newbury Injured in Bike Accident

By
Brian Pyfferoen
-
October 27, 2019

James Newburys 2020 CrossFit Open has come to a close. Over the weekend, Newbury crashed his bike, causing him to break his T-Spine 2 and 3 processes and his 7th and 8th rib.

Newbury shared the news on Instagram where he said he was riding his bike around a curve down a hill when his front tire slipped on some loose rocks causing him to flip over the handlebars. He crashed into a tree headfirst followed by hitting his back on a branch.

The injury, while serious, is not the end of his 2020 CrossFit Games season. According to Newbury, the doctor told him that if you are going to break your back youve done it the best way possible for a speedy recovery.

So while Newbury wont be able to qualify as the National Champion of Australia or via the Top 20, Newbury will attempt to rehab from this injury and earn an invite via one of the 28 Sanctionals this season.

Last year, Newbury earned his invite to the CrossFit Games by winning the Australian CrossFit Championship. He would go on to have his best finish at the Games where he finished 5th overall and would earn the Most Improved award.

867. How many people have to die, before mountain bikers (and land managers and government) wake up?

Mike

https://www.piquenewsmagazine.com/whistler/colorado-man-dies-in-biking-accident-on-whistler-trail/Content?oid=14585406

Colorado man dies on Whistler mountain biking trail

Fifty-four-year-old suffered cardiac arrest on Comfortably Numb trail

By Brandon Barrett
A 54-year-old Colorado man died Sunday following an accident on the Comfortably Numb trail near Wedgemount, pictured.

A Colorado man died on a popular mountain bike trail near Wedgemount on Sunday, Oct. 27, police have confirmed.

At about 3:30 p.m., Whistler RCMP, alongside Whistler Search and Rescue (WSAR) and Emergency Health Services, responded to a call of a male suffering cardiac arrest on the Comfortably Numb trail, near the Wedgemount Forest Service Road.

Despite receiving medical assistance from witnesses and first responders at the scene, the 54-year-old Colorado man did not survive.

It's unclear whether the heart attack was triggered by an injury the man sustained while on the trail or not.

"I can't really say whether the two are connected. I wasn't on the scene, but it was called in as a cardiac arrest," noted WSAR manager Brad Sills.

Comfortably Numb is a black-diamond rated trail that is described by Trailforks.com as a challenging cross-country ride that is "Brutally relentless and incredibly technical."

This marks the third bike-related death in the Sea to Sky this month. On Oct. 1, 22-year-old Canadian ski-cross team member and Whistler Mountain Ski Club alumnus Mikayla Martin died following an accident on a Squamish trail. On Oct. 9, a Burnaby man died after falling on the A-line trail in the Whistler Mountain Bike Park.

The death of champion freerider, Vancouver Island resident Jordie Lunn, who suffered a fatal head injury Oct. 9 while riding cross-country trails in Mexico, also sent shockwaves through the B.C. mountain-biking community.

Sills said mountain biking has made up a larger part of WSAR's callouts in recent years as the sport continues to grow in popularity.

"Mountain biking, for the first decade and a half of its existence, we rarely got called to anything, and in the past three years, it certainly is an increasing cause of our callouts, so something is happening when you look at the growth of the sport over that same period of time," he said.
Mountain biking was responsible for nine search-and-rescue callouts in the period covering March 1, 2018, to March 1, 2019, according to WSAR's most recent manager's report. That puts it third on the list, after hiking (16 callouts), and out-of-bounds skiers (11).

It also marked the first time that summer calls outpaced the winter for WSAR.

868. https://bc.ctvnews.ca/injured-mountain-biker-rescued-from-eagle-mountain-1.4669236

Injured mountain biker rescued from Eagle Mountain

A mountain biker was rescued from Eagle Mountain on Sunday, Nov. 3, 2019.

Kendra Mangione, CTVNewsVancouver.ca producer

@kendramangione

Published Monday, November 4, 2019 9:13AM PST

VANCOUVER - A mountain biker was rescued this weekend after getting injured on a trail near Coquitlam, B.C.

Members of Coquitlam Search and Rescue planned to use a helicopter to reach the biker stuck on Eagle Mountain Sunday, but the darkness meant they couldn't get to him by air.

Instead, an advance team went ahead to wait with him, and another group of rescuers hiked in with a stretcher to carry him out.

Several other local search and rescue teams were also called in to help.

The cyclist was taken to hospital.

869. https://www.stuff.co.nz/the-press/news/117191491/christchurch-mountain-biker-in-critical-condition-after-victoria-park-incident

Christchurch mountain biker in critical condition after Victoria Park incident

Cate Broughton21:18, Nov 05 2019
A person has sustained critical injuries after a mountain bike accident in Christchurch. (File photo)

A person has been taken to Christchurch Hospital by helicopter with critical injuries after a mountainbike accident.

St John said were called to Victoria Park, in Cashmere, about 7.10pm on Tuesday.

A fire crew from Governors Bay responded to a call for assistance and helped lift the rescue basket to Summit Rd.

The person was taken to Christchurch Hospital by helicopter.

870. https://www.grough.co.uk/magazine/2019/11/16/injured-mountain-biker-uses-inner-tube-as-sling-after-lakeland-fell-crash

Injured mountain biker uses inner tube as sling after Lakeland fell crash

John McHale, Reporter
Saturday 16 November 2019 05:36 PM GMT
The rescue scene on the fell side. Photo: Keswick MRT

A mountain biker used an inner tube to improvise a sling after he injured himself in a crash on a Lake District fell.

The 31-year-old knocked himself out and suffered a suspected broken collar bone in the incident on Skiddaw on Saturday.

Keswick Mountain Rescue Team was called out about 1.15pm.

A team spokesperson said the rider was descending from Skiddaw summit towards Carl Side when he came off his bike.

The team dispatched a Land Rover which made its way up to the col behind Dodd with the expectation that it would be a slog up to the summit and a stretcher carry down, the spokesperson said.

However, after using an inner tube as an improvised sling to protect the injury, the casualty felt well enough to start walking down with his friends.
The rider's damaged helmet. Photo: Keswick MRT

The group were met at White Stones where one of the team paramedics carried out a thorough assessment of the patient before continuing the walk down to the Land Rover, a short distance away.

He was then driven to Keswick, where his friends took him to hospital for further checks.

The rescue team said his helmet undoubtedly saved the man from serious injury in the crash.

The incident lasted 1 hours and involved 15 volunteers from Keswick MRT.

871. https://www.thewestmorlandgazette.co.uk/news/18042955.mountain-biker-crashes-descent-skiddaw/

Mountain biker crashes on descent of Skiddaw

RESCUE teams went to the aid of a mountain biker after he crashed while descending Skiddaw.

A 31-year-old male crashed while coming down from the summit of Skiddaw towards Carl Side.

As well as hitting his head, the biker lost consciousness and appeared to have broken his collar bone.

Keswick Mountain Rescue team was call at about 1.14pm yesterday and sent a Land Rover, which made its way up the col behind Dodd.

A spokesman for Keswick Mountain Rescue said: "After using an inner tube as an improvised sling to protect the injury, the casualty felt well enough to start walking down. The group wasmet at White Stones where one of the team paramedics carried out a thorough assessment."

He was taken to hospital.

872. https://www.cowichanvalleycitizen.com/news/youth-airlifted-off-mount-tzouhalem-after-mountain-biking-accident/

An air ambulance arrives to pick up a patient injured while mountain biking on Mount Tzouhalem in April of this year. (Colton Davis photo)

Youth airlifted off Mount Tzouhalem after mountain biking accident

Sarah Simpson
Nov. 19, 2019 5:00 p.m.

A boy was airlifted to hospital Saturday afternoon following an accident on the trails at Mount Tzouhalem.

A 12-year-old went over the handlebars and landed on his head, explained North Cowichan fire department spokesperson Martin Drakely.

Members from the Maple Bay hall were paged out to help around 2:30 p.m.

We assisted EHS with packaging and extrication from the trail, Drakeley said.

RCMP and ambulance were called and the BC Ambulance Service then called to bring in an air ambulance.

We then had to secure a landing zone at Maple Bay School field, Drakeley said, adding that firefighters assisted paramedics until the helicopter left with the patient.

A spokesperson from BC Emergency Health Services had not been able to track down information related to the case before the Citizens press deadline. The condition of the boy is not known at this time.

Drakeley said the accident occurred on a section of non-sanctioned, un-maintained trails on adjacent property and was not part of our recreational trail infrastructure.

The incident marks the second this year of a youth injured while biking on the popular mountaining biking mountain.

Back in early April, a 14-year-old Quamichan School student had been riding with the Cowichan Secondary Mountain Bike Club and went over the handlebars of their bike too.

That teen has since recovered.

This latest incident is not believed to be part of any school-related activity, according to School District 79 spokesperson Mike Russell.

sarah.simpson@cowichanvalleycitizen.com

873. https://www.duluthnewstribune.com/lifestyle/health/4788697-Three-months-after-a-mountain-biking-accident-Duluths-Brok-Hansmeyer-gives-thanks-for-first-steps

Three months after a mountain biking accident, Duluth's Brok Hansmeyer gives thanks for first steps

I came up on a spot, and I had that oh-no moment, Theres about a 15-second gap in my memory of what happened, but it was a drop-off. And I went over the handlebars and landed directly on my head. Brok Hansmeyer
Written By: John Lundy | Nov 27th 2019 - 5pm.
Brok Hansmeyer (center), practices walking while partially supported with a harness, and the assistance of physical therapist Meghan Rozwod (left) and exercise techs Joe Lopez, and Andrew Bates (behind), on the TheraStride at Craig Hospital on Monday morning in Englewood, Colo. The therapy is used to excite Brok's nervous system for walking. Brok broke his neck and injured his spinal cord in a serious mountain biking accident in Duluth on Aug. 10. (Photo courtesy of Amanda Hansmeyer)

Amanda Hansmeyer was putting her children to bed at her parents home in Dallas, Texas, on the evening of Aug. 10 when her phone rang, indicating the call was from 911.

She might not have answered it, Amanda said this week, except that she knew her husband, Brok Hansmeyer, was mountain biking back home in Duluth.

It was the call no one wants to get about his or her spouse.

Brok had been in an accident, the dispatcher told her. Help was on its way.

She asked about his condition.

They wouldnt really tell me, recalled Amanda, a former News Tribune photographer. They told me he was conscious.

She asked if she needed to get on a plane and come home.

The dispatcher said If I were you, I would.

At that moment, Brok was lying on his back on Flyover Country, which is a loop thats part of the Mission Creek Trails in far western Duluth. He had tried to take off his helmet but couldnt manipulate the buckle.

He had no feeling in his legs.

I just basically hit my legs, my thighs, and it was like hitting a 100-pound bag of cement, Brok recalled this week. There was nothing there.

The 38-year-old real estate agent already had had a close call that day. In the morning, he had taken Amanda, 40, and their boys Roman, 4, and Noble, 1, to the Minneapolis airport so they could catch the flight to Dallas. Brok had an out-of-town conference scheduled the following week, and Amanda was using it as an opportunity for her parents to see their grandchildren.

On the drive home, Brok came upon an accident on Interstate 35E. Brok made a split-second decision, swerving to just miss becoming part of the crash.

Much later, he took advantage of a free evening to go mountain biking. It had been his main form of recreation for the past four years or so, he said. He took the Mission Creek Trails, which he had been on before. But to extend the ride and see terrain he hadnt seen before, he added Flyover Country, which he hadnt previously ridden.

I came up on a spot, and I had that oh-no moment, Brok related. Theres about a 15-second gap in my memory of what happened, but it was a drop-off. And I went over the handlebars and landed directly on my head.

Brok was unconscious for about 15 seconds, he thinks. When he came to, he saw his hands and fingers moving above his head, as if looking for the handlebars.

I couldnt have landed more perfectly, Brok said. I (ended up) on my back, and my backpack was shifting to my left. So after a little while, I shifted my shoulders a little bit, (and) was able to get my phone out of the backpack and then called 911.

Shortly after emergency vehicles arrived at the trailhead, another biker planning a Saturday evening ride showed up. Upon learning the situation, Troy Taubman offered to ride ahead, find out exactly where Brok was and stay with him.

Medical staff at Essentia Health transfer Brok Hansmeyer back to his bed nine days after his accident. Staff performed a colonoscopy after he began having digestion issues. He had been out of ICU, but was moved back into ICU that night. (Photo courtesy of Amanda Hansmeyer)

Brok had been told to stay on the line with the dispatcher, but when Taubman arrived he was able to call Amanda on Taubmans phone and give her a better idea of the extent of his injuries.

Amanda, accompanied by her mother and her children, would take the first available flight to Duluth.

Meanwhile, yet another biker arrived, encountered the emergency vehicles and asked if help was needed.

Waylon Munch is the steward of the Mission Creek Trail for COGGS Cyclists of Gitchee Gumee Shores. That means he coordinates volunteer work on the trail, and he had been there with a crew earlier in the day, he said in an interview this week.

Its an area he knows well, said Munch, 30, spending several hours a week working on it and/or riding it in the summer.

The trails out there in Mission Creek are by far the most remote trails that we have in Duluth, he said. The terrain is really steep. There's a lot of deep valleys and dense woods.

Munch had returned to pick up some equipment, he said, but he also had his mountain bike with him so he could get a ride in while he was there.

When he learned the GPS coordinates of where Brok had fallen, Munch knew how best to get to him. An old roadbed, not shown on any maps, would lead to the spot.

He guided the rescue crews up Minnesota Highway 210 to the entry point for that road. The EMTs, on a tracked utility vehicle, followed Munch on his bike about a half-mile to the accident site.

That old logging road, Im not joking, it literally dead ends right where Brok had his crash, Munch said.

Brok only had to be carried about 20 feet to the utility vehicle, he added.

By the time the group arrived, an EMT who had hiked in also was with Brok, Munch said. But getting a crew in and Brok out via the hilly, twisting bike trail would have been a much more difficult rescue.

Brok isnt certain of the timetable, but thinks it was 45 minutes to an hour before the EMTs were able to reach him. The trip over the handlebars occurred about 6:30 p.m. on that summer evening. By the time the ambulance got him to Essentia Health-St. Marys Medical Center, he said, it was getting dark.

He underwent surgery that night and again on Sunday night for the separate vertebrae that had broken C1 and C7. If C1 had pushed against his spinal cord, he was told, he wouldnt have been able to reach or operate his cellphone on the trail.

Theres a good chance I would have died on the trail, Brok said. Because you have a hard time breathing. And I was on a very remote trail. I dont know if I would have seen anyone until the next day.

On Tuesday morning, Brok experienced what he calls his third scary moment, starting with the near car accident and then the bike accident itself. With his father in the room, he was in a seated position when his blood pressure dropped precipitously.

Then all of a sudden, it flatlined for about 30 to 40 seconds when I stopped breathing and my heart stopped, he said. So they came in the room and they chest-compressed me. They didnt have to use the paddles, but they were getting those out.

The immediate emergencies past, the Hansmeyers started to consider the next phase of treatment. A friend and a family member recommended Craig Hospital. The not-for-profit hospital in the Denver area specializes in treating people with spinal cord and brain injuries. The average patient is a 40-year-old male, they learned.

Craig Hospital sent a representative to Duluth to offer a presentation. Brok invited a couple of friends from the medical field to sit in on it. He made up his mind well before the presentation was over.

If you come out to Craig, the No. 1 thing that everybody always says is, Man, this is such a positive place, Brok related. And it is a very positive place.

Brok Hansmeyer takes a final lap around the chairs in the lobby before finishing up his physical therapy session as physical therapist Allie Hamilton spots him, at Craig Hospital in Englewood, Colo. on Nov. 25. Hansmeyer's son, Noble Hansmeyer, 1, entertains himself with his car on Brok's wheelchair, during the session. (Photo courtesy of Amanda Hansmeyer)

When the Hansmeyer family arrived in Denver on Aug. 27, Brok was in bed, tethered to PICC lines. He advanced to a power wheelchair, and then to a manual wheelchair. A milestone occurred on Sept. 12, when there was some movement in his right knee and big toe.

That was the first super-exciting sign that there was some connection between the brain and the legs, he said.

In Denver, though, he had his fourth scary moment, when he choked on some food. The work on his vertebrae left his esophagus out of place, he said, and made swallowing unnatural.

Again, he survived.

About three weeks ago, another milestone occurred. The medical professionals had been noncommittal about Broks prognosis, not wanting to give false hope, he said. But on that day, a veteran doctor looked at some video of the movement in Broks legs.

And he just was silent, Brok related. And then he just looks at me and he goes, Youll get back on your feet. That was a huge boost of confidence.

Indeed, Brok has begun making his first tentative steps. On Saturday, he walked 137 feet with the aid of a walker, with minimal help.

Allie Hamilton, a Craig Hospital physical therapist who has worked with Brok since he became an outpatient on Nov. 6, was noncommittal about Brok's future but positive about his progress during a phone interview on Wednesday.

"Brok's case has been one that has been fun to be a part of," Hamilton said. "Brok has been doing really well and has been able to see a lot of progress."

While Brok continues as an outpatient, the Hansmeyer family has been living in an apartment on the Craig Hospital campus. They were there on Monday morning, during a short interval ahead of his next appointment, when Brok and Amanda were asked over the phone what they were thankful for on this Thanksgiving.

Broks answer included long pauses, as he seemed to be struggling with his emotions.

Ive come a long way from lying on my back wondering if Im going to die and now Im walking with the walker a little bit, he said.

Brok Hansmeyer, gives sons, Noble (left), 1, and Roman, 3, a ride down the hallway on his electric wheelchair at Craig Hospital on Sept. 7. Brok was admitted to Craig on Aug. 27th, and stayed in the hospital until Nov. 6th. (Photo courtesy of Amanda Hansmeyer)

Hes thankful, he said, for the care at Craig Hospital and the deep friendships he has made with men going through the same thing hes experiencing. Hes thankful to God, he said, who has given him hope, peace and a lot of patience, through the journey.

Hes thankful for the army of support that quickly came to the familys aid, Brok said. A Facebook post on the Monday after the accident resulted in 500-plus shares, 1,300 comments and 1,300 like hearts. Theyve received hundreds of cards. Friends and family have changed plans to be with them, first in Duluth and then in Denver.

It feels like everyone Ive ever known in my whole life knows about this, cares about us, loves us, is praying for us, he said.

Amanda echoed what her husband said about the love and support theyve received. But something came first on her thanksgiving list.

Im just so thankful to have my husband, she said. We didnt really understand till we got here the full extent of how serious this really could have been for him if the bones had just broken a different way.

In fact, Brok said, his neurosurgeon told him he had been within millimeters of becoming a full quadriplegic.

Medically speaking, Brok is a quadriplegic, Amanda said, but he has enough arm and hand movement that people arent necessarily aware of that. And there are ways to compensate. They purchased a $5 gizmo that enables Brok to open pop bottles, for instance.

The family plans to return to Duluth around Dec. 11, but not for long. They intend to spend the winter with Amandas parents in Dallas, in a climate more conducive to Broks continued rehabilitation.

When they return to Duluth in May, they expect to be a family of five, not four.

Their third child, a girl, is due in March.

The Hansmeyer family, Amanda (left), Noble, 1, Roman, 4, and Brok, pose on the grounds at Craig Hospital in Englewood, Colo. in October. The family has been living in Colo. since late August, when they relocated for Brok to received treatment at Craig Hospital, which specialized in spinal chord and brain injuries. (Photo courtesy of Jenna Connell)

874. My crash made it onto TV! https://www.reddit.com/r/MTB/comments/e4jwiz/my_crash_made_it_onto_tv_999_rescue_squad_s3_e5/?%24deep_link=true&correlation_id=71756eb7-65e9-43c1-9a5f-9522072fddd0&ref=email_digest&ref_campaign=email_digest&ref_source=email&utm_content=post_title&utm_medium=digest&utm_name=top_posts&utm_source=email&utm_term=day&%243p=e_as&%24original_url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.reddit.com%2Fr%2FMTB%2Fcomments%2Fe4jwiz%2Fmy_crash_made_it_onto_tv_999_rescue_squad_s3_e5%2F%3F%24deep_link%3Dtrue%26correlation_id%3D71756eb7-65e9-43c1-9a5f-9522072fddd0%26ref%3Demail_digest%26ref_campaign%3Demail_digest%26ref_source%3Demail%26utm_content%3Dpost_title%26utm_medium%3Ddigest%26utm_name%3Dtop_posts%26utm_source%3Demail%26utm_term%3Dday&_branch_match_id=711263111482694858

875. https://kutv.com/news/local/medical-helicopter-extracts-mountain-biker-with-a-head-injury-in-st-george-canyon

Medical helicopter extracts mountain biker with a head injury in St. George canyon

by Mark Klekas
Saturday, November 30th 2019
Medical helicopter extracts mountain biker with a head injury in St. George canyon . (File photo: KUTV)

A mountain biker was found unconscious but breathing after crashing on Saturday evening in Paradise Canyon in St. George.

Friends and family of the mountain biker were with him when he crashed, according to St. George Fire Department. Medical teams had to hike about a mile into the canyon to reach him. On arrival, medical teams dispatched a medical helicopter to extract the mountain biker because there was a possibility the head injury could be dangerous. Additionally, the harsh, cold conditions of the canyon forced medical teams to act quickly in this decision, according to St. George Fire Department.

The mountain biker was flown to Dixie Regional where officials said he is now stable and awake. Further information about his condition was not disclosed at this time. Officials have not said why or how the man crashed

876. https://www.timescolonist.com/news/local/mountain-biker-injured-on-hartland-trails-1.24025228

Mountain biker injured on Hartland trails

Jeff Bell / Times Colonist

December 2, 2019 01:01 PM
Saanich fire crews responded to Hartland bike park with B.C. Ambulance paramedics for a rider with traumatic injuries on Saturday, Nov. 30, 2019.
Photograph By Dan Wood, Saanich Fire Department

A mountain biker suffered head injuries Saturday on the Mount Work-Hartland mountain biking trails.

Saanich firefighters and paramedics arrived at the scene on one of the areas more technical trails about 1:15 p.m.

Assistant Deputy Fire Chief Brock Henson said full spinal precautions were taken to lower the patient to another trail. He was then put on a utility-terrain vehicle for transport to an ambulance in the parking lot.

No information on his condition was available.

877. https://www.bclocalnews.com/news/2019-comox-valley-year-in-review-july/

Mountain biker dies

A mountain biker died on the Cumberland trails after he crashed near the Blockhead trail. A couple of bikers who came across the man, estimated at 55-60 years old, performed CPR. The man had been riding solo.

878. https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-wales-51088800

Rope rescue for biker injured at Clocaenog Forest

13 January 2020

Rescuers used ropes to lower a mountain biker to safety after he suffered multiple injuries while riding on a steep forest slope.

North East Wales Search and Rescue was called to Clocaenog Forest in Denbighshire on Sunday at 15:45 GMT.

They lowered him about 100m (328ft) on a stretcher before using a 4x4 vehicle to ferry him to an awaiting ambulance.

The rescue was in an "awkward, very muddy and slippery location," according to a NEWSAR spokesperson.

About 20 people were involved in the three-and-a-half hour rescue, along with the injured biker's friends.

A Welsh Ambulance Service spokesperson said the casualty was taken to Ysbyty Glan Clwyd in Bodelwyddan before being transferred to the Royal Stoke Hospital.

879. https://buckrail.com/redemption-and-recovery-in-new-zealand/

Redemption and recovery in New Zealand

Buckrail @ Shannon 13 hours ago Jackson Hole, Wyoming

Photo: Katie Lo

JACKSON, Wyo. In an instant, Christian Christy Littles life and career were almost over.

The professional mountain biker and physical therapist was cycling through New Zealand in March 2016. She was on a mountainside. Then, suddenly, she was falling down the mountain. She broke her back and injured her spinal cord. Still, she managed to climb back up to the trail with limited use of her legs so that a helicopter could evacuate her.

Three and a half years later, Little is back in New Zealand to film a documentary called A Ride With Purpose. It is a tale of redemption, inspiration, and living life to the fullest.

I know I survived to light a fire in others bellies to live out their adventurous dreams, Little says.

Her recovery has been a long and hard journey, but Little says through it, she has found purpose. For three months, she was confined to a bed in New Zealand and could barely move her legs. As soon as she was able, she returned home to the United States to continue her healing.

Then, her best friends mom was diagnosed with cancer. It was the catalyst Little need to get out of bed and channel her healing outward.

I felt really called to support here, Little says. I went there as soon as I could get out of bed.

She got out of bed, and got right back on her bike. Little and her friend rode through the Alps in Europe in honor of her friends mother.
Little was back on her bike as soon as she could be. Photo: Katie Lo

In the three and a half years since her accident, Little has founded a company, Leap to Fly, that leads biking retreats to beautiful places like New Zealand and the Alps so she can share the healing power of movement and adventure. Surviving such a serious crash made her realize that she had a purpose on this earth, even if she didnt know what it was yet.

Little is a woman of faith. She says when she was falling, she felt Gods power in all things around lay me down gently. It was such a miracle.

I knew I was meant to live, Little says. I just didnt know why.

Little arrived in New Zealand again January 3. Over the next few months, she and a film crew she knows through bike racing will travel the country by bike, showcasing its beauty and documenting what it looks like to heal and find purpose in life.

My biggest focal point is sharing adventure, she says.

Its a grassroots effort. Little is fronting all her own travel costs and wants to make sure the videographers get paid for their work. Shes created a GoFundMe to help get the project off the ground, and anyone who donates over $100 will be rewarded with pure Vermont maple syrup from Teton Maple Exchange. Donors who give $200 or more will receive a local, custom-made trucker hat or beanie. Watershed Jackson, an organization supporting athletes who have suffered traumatic brain or spinal chord injuries, has agreed to match the first $1,000 donated.

When its done, Little will bring the film to Jackson for its big premiere. She hopes to have it finished in time for biking season in North America, but shes not going to rush it.

My focus is on telling the right story, she says.

880. https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/man-airlifted-hospital-after-falling-17594893

Man airlifted to hospital after falling while mountain biking

Rescue teams were called to Machynlleth help get the rider to safety
By
Sarah Hodgson

17:40, 19 JAN 2020

News
A mountain biker was flown to hospital after falling at Dyfi Bike Park near Machynlleth (Image: Aberdyfi Mountain Rescue Team)
A man has been flown to hospital after falling from his bike.

Paramedics and Aberdyfi Search and Rescue Team were called to help the injured rider at Dyfi Bike Park, near Machynlleth , at 2.30pm today (January 19).

The 42-year-old had been riding his mountain bike when he took a fall on a hill and he hurt his lower back, hips and right leg.
A mountain biker was flown to hospital after falling at Dyfi Bike Park near Machynlleth (Image: Aberdyfi Mountain Rescue Team)

The air ambulance was called to the incident, along with an emergency road ambulance.

Mountain rescuers were called in to help stretcher the man off the hill to the awaiting helicopter.

881. https://www.westsiderag.com/2019/08/29/e-bike-rider-dies-after-colliding-with-man-in-central-park

A 43-year-old man who crashed into a 77-year-old pedestrian in Central
Park on Monday afternoon has died from his injuries, according to
police.

The 43-year-old, Manhattan resident Charles Cheeseboro, “was operating
a pedal initiated, battery powered, hand throttle controlled E-Bike
northbound on East Drive when he collided with the 77-year-old male
pedestrian, who was crossing westbound in the crosswalk at 74th
Street,” police said in a statement. The crash occurred around 3 p.m.
and police found Cheeseboro unconscious on the ground with head
injuries.

The pedestrian suffered minor injuries and was taken to the hospital
in stable condition, police said. The crash remains under
investigation.

882. https://www.brisbanetimes.com.au/national/queensland/still-with-ya-champ-mountain-bike-rider-survives-brain-injury-20200129-p53vso.html

'Still with ya champ': Mountain bike rider survives brain injury

By Jocelyn Garcia

January 29, 2020 8.30pm

Urs Birrer has stopped tempting fate after hitting powerlines in his home country of Switzerland while hang-gliding and now surviving a mountain bike fall in Queensland that left him with a brain injury.

Mr Birrer, who has lived in Brisbane for more than a decade, has a track record of close calls but his last ride on a dirt track in the Daisy Hill Conservation Park at Shailer Park has made him hang his bike up for good.

Urs Birrer meeting the paramedics who saved him after he suffered a critical head injury when he came off his mountain bike on a dirt track in Daisy Hill.Credit:Jocelyn Garcia

"I have a wife and a daughter and I want to be there for them and taking mountain biking could always be a risk and I think there's more to life than mountain biking," he said.

It is not known how long he had been lying on the ground until he was found unconscious by a father and son who were cycling past on March 10, 2019.

One of the cyclists who called triple zero after finding Mr Birrer said he was "struggling to breathe" and his hand was "twitching".

"He's in a pretty bad way though...his neck's twisted in a kind of awkward position as well," the cyclist said.

When a groan was heard from Mr Birrer, the other man could be heard telling him that paramedics were on their way.

"You all right there buddy? We're still with ya, still with ya champ," he said.

Mr Birrer was treated for multiple injuries, including a fractured collarbone and ribs and was taken to hospital in a critical condition.

Paramedics Jamie Lamont said they needed seven officers and the two bystanders, who made the triple zero, to help move him from the forest to the car park where the high-acuity response unit was waiting.

Jenny with her husband Urs Birrer at the Beenleigh Ambulance Station after meeting with paramedics who saved his life in March 2019.Credit:Jocelyn Garcia

"They stabilised Urs much more and had him prepared for hospital admission and quick surgery and I think that's what saved Urs' life that day."

Mr Birrer was in the Princess Alexandra Hospital for four months and was in a wheelchair until May last year.

Almost one year on, Mr Birrer, who was still recovering and had no memory of the incident, met the paramedics who saved him on Wednesday.

"I feel emotional and very overwhelmed," he said.

"[I wanted] to say thank you because, without all their help, I wouldn't be where I am now."

Urs Birrer was in hospital for months after falling from his mountain bike at Shailer Park.

Wife Jenny Birrer recalled the day of the incident when she knew something had gone wrong after he didn't return from his ride that was supposed to be three hours long.

"I checked my Find My Friends app and saw he was at the hospital and I called straight away to see if they had a mountain-bike rider there," she said.

Ms Birrer said it was a shocking time for her and her teenage daughter.

"It was hard for both of us because we had lost our son to leukaemia so we've already had a hospital experience that wasn't very pleasant so even being in there was a bit hard," she said.

"He was in a coma for 12 days and once he woke up, he had post-traumatic amnesia for over seven days.

"We were relieved when he woke up and asked, 'do I need a new bike?'"

Ms Birrer said this was not her husband's first brush with death.

"He used to go hang-gliding in Switzerland and he came down onto some powerlines one time and somehow managed to survive that accident," she said.

"I think he's realised that he can't keep doing this sort of stuff anymore because his luck's running out."

883. https://www.edinburghlive.co.uk/news/edinburgh-news/edinburgh-student-paralysed-neck-down-17648917

Edinburgh student paralysed from the neck down aims to climb Ben Nevis in a wheelchair

The 23-year-old suffered a devastating injury while mountain biking. Now he wants to show he can still conquer huge challenges.
By
Neil PooranDigital Journalist
06:00, 31 JAN 2020
Updated12:05, 31 JAN 2020
News
Peter's custom-made power chair has rugged suspension

Peter Lloyd's life changed forever while he was out doing the sport he loved in August 2017.

Racing down a mountain bike trail in Innerleithen he had what would usually be a "little crash", but he landed straight on the top of his head.

Now 23, Peter told us he couldn't "move, breathe or shout" after hearing a sharp crack. This was his C3 vertebrae shattering.

He adored his sport so much that his first thought was "oh no I can't mountain bike any more" when he discovered the full extent of his injuries.

The Heriot-Watt University student lost the use of his limbs from the neck down and now uses a wheelchair controlled by his chin to get around.
He spent around a year in various hospitals after being evacuated from Innerleithen by helicopter

Peter's fierce determination and positive attitude means he can still study, volunteer and experience the outdoors. Now he wants to reach the summit of the UK's highest peak.

Next year he is planning on climbing Ben Nevis in a 17,000 powered wheelchair to raise money for a spinal injury charity.

This will require sharp concentration to guide his custom-made electric chair up the mountain, and a team of people to bring up extra battery packs and make sure he reaches the top safely.

Previously he has taken on Mount Snowdon to raise money for Back Up.
This photo of Peter was taken three days before his accident (Image: Dialled In)

He said: "I'm looking forward to Ben Nevis but it will be harder. It's obviously a higher mountain and we'll be starting close to sea level.

"Driving the chair is quite sensitive so it's really mentally draining. You need concentration and focus to steer.

"I was a bit of a mess after Snowdon."

Following his accident, he spent around a year in hospital and was keen to hit the mountain bike trails as soon as he got out.

His Instagram account is full of videos of Peter riding around the hills of Edinburgh and he has travelled as far as Italy in search of the most challenging trails.

Peter, who is originally from Dudley in the West Midlands, says Edinburgh could do a lot more to help people who use wheelchairs.

He said: "Edinburgh is really tricky, especially because of the cobbled streets. Going over them in a wheelchair is like being punched in the face constantly.

"Accessibility for a lot of restaurants and shops is poor, it's worse than average."
Getting around Edinburgh can be tricky

Peter now volunteers to help others with spinal injuries learn how to use power chairs. He's determined to stay active and continue going out with friends.

One of the hardest aspects of his life is the way people interact with him in his wheelchair. Many assume he has learning difficulties and adopt a condescending attitude.

Returning to university was initially hard, he said: "It was weird to go from blending in to being the guy in the power chair. Especially as I drive around using a joystick ball, people ask 'what's that?'

"That was hard but you get over that."

He said: "I was going to see Hozier at Usher Hall with my sister. The woman at the door who was giving out wristbands asked if I could put it on myself.

"Then she told my sister 'he's doing really well isn't he?'

"It was a minute before we realised what had happened."

Peter will be launching his Ben Nevis crowdfunder soon. Check back on Edinburgh Live for updates on how he's getting on.

884. I thought that mountain biking is supposed to make you healthier!

Mike

https://www.statesmanjournal.com/story/news/local/silverton/2020/02/11/jason-franz-silverton-oregon-bike-shop-legacy-fall-line-sports/2848956001/

A daughter, a protege and a bike shop: How a Silverton man's community became his legacy

Christena Brooks, Special to the Statesman Journal Published 6:00 a.m. PT Feb. 11, 2020

Bike shop owner Jason Franz died suddenly at age 45. Now his daughter and a protege keep his dream alive in Silverton. Wochit

SILVERTON Its hard to say what part of the late Jason Franzs shop first catches the eye. Rows of skateboards, hanging wheels-out in a graffiti-style gallery? Bike tires suspended just above a workbench full of tools? Perhaps the race trophies peeking out from dusty corners?

Memories are everywhere, left by a guy who spent his life helping people find adventure of one kind or another.

Jasons untimely death at age 45, from a heart attack while mountain biking, shocked his friends and family, and it put the shops future in jeopardy. However, his community, his young daughter, and one of the boys he mentored have devoted themselves to keeping his business rolling along.
Buy Photo

Jaiven Franz, 18, poses for a portrait at Fall Line Sports in Silverton on January 30, 2020. (Photo: MADELEINE COOK / STATESMAN JOURNAL)

Eighteen-year-old Jaiven Franzs memories of her father are especially strong around his tool wall and his snack drawer. From the time she was 2, when he opened Fall Line Sports in Silverton, she watched him sell and repair skateboards, bikes and snowboards, as well as ride whenever he could.

He had this excitement and willingness to do anything, and he was nice to everyone, she said.

Into his familiar place behind in the glass counter has stepped a young man who practically grew up at Fall Line. A dozen years ago, Justin Benguerel was introduced to BMX by Jason, got sponsored by Jason, learned to repair bikes from Jason and worked part-time for Jason.

He was a huge, huge mentor in my life, Benguerel said. I cant imagine what my life wouldve been like without him.

Now 22, Benguerel is a certified bike repair technician who left a fulltime job at Santiam Bicycle in Salem to help pick up the pieces at Fall Line and, hopefully, buy the business from Jaiven in spring.

Sharing the adventure buzz

An experience junkie with racing prowess, Jason didnt stop at personal achievement. No, he wanted everyone to feel the adventure buzz, and worked tirelessly to expand local offerings for bikers and boarders. He left Silvertons landscape and its people changed.

This man fixed our tires, rims, spokes, chains, seats, handlebars, pedals, trucks, boards, bindings, well, everything bike, skate, and snow related, said fellow business owner Dan Schacher. He rallied behind us in all of our adventures.

Jason started the dirt BMX track at Rogers Wayside Park, helped develop Silvertons skate park, helped start and build the free mountain bike trails at Shellburg Falls and encouraged local kids and youth to use the jumps in front of his shop on Lewis Street.

Jason didnt look at what some would call broken youth and call them broken youth, Schacher said. He called those youth friends. He loved this town, and he loved the people of this town.

Now, after his death, the town has loved him back, first with a GoFundMe campaign and then, last month, with nine hours of concerts by eight local bands at Macs Place, the Gallon House Pub, Silverton Wine Bar and Bistro, Silver Falls Brewery Ale House, and the Palace Theatre.

When the donations, silent auction proceeds and 50/50 raffles were totaled, Silverton had given nearly $15,000 for Jaiven to keep her dads shop doors open, said Jasons girlfriend of nine years, Lisa Sinclair.

It was like a party for an entire day, Sinclair said. It was so emotional. At first, we didnt even realize it was raising money everyones been so beautiful.

Jason's answer: What time?

Jaiven Franz thumbs through a photo album, stopping on a picture of her father, at Fall Line Sports in Silverton on January 30, 2020. (Photo: MADELEINE COOK / STATESMAN JOURNAL)

The idea behind the Epic Fundraiser belonged to Glen Damewood, owner of Macs Place and the Wooden Nickel, but a much larger group of Jasons admirers created the evening of nonstop music, reminiscing and fundraising, Damewood said.

Ive donated to a million fundraisers, but this was different, he said. Jason was a championship human being. He was as good as you get. He mentored so many people by example and straight-up loved those kids who came to his shop.

He was the kind of guy people never wanted to bid goodbye. They kept him late at parties and chatted him up when they saw him in town. He made time to listen, even if it meant losing money during his workday or losing sleep at home, Sinclair said. He was known for being game for any adventure.

Atop his personal Facebook page are the words, Thats a horrible idea. What time?

Jaiven said she never tired of adventuring with her dad. He closed his shop on Sundays and Mondays, and they spent her growing-up years driving all over the Northwest to mountain-bike, snowboard and dirt bike. While other teenage girls mightve longed for time with friends, she looked forward to their outings.

I guess Im just family oriented, is her simple explanation.

From rider to shop owner

Born in 1974 in Escondido, Calif., Jason grew up with millions of other kids watching professional skater Tony Hawk. When his family moved to Washington, he started BMX racing, He won the first race he entered, the Peninsula Indoor, in Port Orchard, at age 14.

He had a dream as a little boy that he would become pro at anything, said ex-wife Joy Hoge. In high school, he ran with the rough crowd, but he was always the good kid, the go-between.

As he grew into adulthood, he picked up Motocross racing, mountain biking and snowboarding. He married just out of high school and got a job working for K2, which made skis, boards and inline skates.
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Sometimes he would work the night shift, then wed ride the ferry to the mountain and ride (snowboard) all day, and then hed go back and work the night shift again, recalled Hoge, who was married to Jason for 15 years. The couple moved south in the mid-1990s, had their daughter, Jaiven, and, and then, after working in construction and motorcycle repair, he opened Fall Line in 2003.

Fall Line specializes in bike, skate and snowboard sales and repairs. The store made money, but never enough to pay for fulltime help or allow Jason to think past month-to-month operations, Sinclair said.

People came to depend on him, from the lady whod pull up curbside and gratefully wait for him to air up her wheelchair tires, to the kids who asked for help learning new skills or just wanted to hang out. He wasnt ever too old or too busy to ride with them, sometimes even driving groups of them to skate parks out of town.

He loved teaching kids to race, Hoge added. Its almost like he lived vicariously through them. He never made it pro some people might be bitter about that but he turned that around and invested in people. I loved that about him.

A student becomes an employee

From the moment he opened the doors at Fall Line, Jason advocated for the construction of a skate park in Silverton. It took 10 years of planning, coaxing and fundraising, as well as a $230,000 grant from the State of Oregon and a $5,000 Tony Hawk grant, to make it happen.

In October 2013, Jason cut the ribbon at the skate park with Judy Schmidt, the city councilor who had advocated with him and then preceded him in death by five years. The park bears her name, and this year a fundraiser honoring her, called Judy's Party, earned $2,500 for a memorial for Jason there too, said Stacy Palmer, of Silverton Chamber of Commerce.

Over the years, on Thanksgiving and Christmas, Jason, his girlfriend, and his daughter would bring cocoa and doughnuts to the skate park and ride with the kids who came.

His family still laughs about the time he raced 11-year-old Benguerel on the last day of his weeklong YMCA BMX camp, tried to take the younger boy on a corner, crashed, and broke his collarbone. He was 34.

I think its the only bone Jason ever broke, Sinclair said.

Along with other riders, Benguerel was sponsored by Fall Line, a move he now sees through adult eyes as mostly about trying to get us kids psyched about riding, and developed a love for mountain and road-biking, too. After his sophomore year in high school, he and a friend took an 11-day, 500-mile bike tour of Oregon.

Benguerel worked summers at the shop, earned his technicians certification in Portland, traveled and worked in Australia and landed his job in Salem more than two years ago. Buying Fall Line seemed impossible and unnecessary until the events on Oct. 6 unfolded.

Tragedy on the trail

It was a Sunday. Fall Line was closed. At Jasons and Lisa Sinclairs home, a pair of 200-cc Yamaha dual sport bikes waited on a ride Sinclair had planned for the next day. Motorbikes were an alternative to bike racing, which Jasons heart couldnt take anymore. Doctors had repaired a blocked artery two years earlier and warned him to avoid highly strenuous activity.

For a guy whod just won an All-Northwest title in downhill-mountain biking, that was tough. He could still ride, but he missed racing, Sinclair said.

That day, he opted to go mountain biking locally with a friend. Silver Falls State Parks Trailhead 214 seemed a safe outing, but while riding the bike parks gentle rolling curves and hills, he had a heart attack. Even with the help of nitroglycerin and medics, he didnt survive.

Jasons family was shocked. So were his friends and customers. The next day, a candlelight vigil materialized in Fall Lines parking lot.

Sinclair was there with Jaiven, who told the crowd, I hope everyone has a dad as good as mine. To be honest he was pretty great, and Im glad all you guys got to share him with me, and Im glad I got to share him with all of you.

Jason Franz's legacy

Even before the shop was supposed to open the next day, Jaiven and Sinclair knew they had a big task ahead of them. Fall Line hadnt paid its rent for the month, and neither of them had clearance to use Jasons bank accounts. They didnt have his passwords, they couldnt open the till, they couldnt repair bikes, and they couldnt nor can they still find a will anywhere.

Vendors from all over started calling us and crying when they heard the news, Sinclair said. This shop was his life. We couldnt shut the doors.
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Justin Benguerel, 22, and Javien Franz, 18, service bikes and skis at Fall Line Sports in Silverton on January 30, 2020. (Photo: MADELEINE COOK / STATESMAN JOURNAL)

Together, the pair started piecing together the business day-to-day operations. They gratefully said yes to the community fundraisers that gave them operating cash and allowed Jaiven to face 2020 in the black. Sinclair returned to her work as a CNA. At Christmas, the final piece fell into place; Benguerel came on full-time.

Fall Line is back in business five days a week, Wednesday through Sunday now, with Benguerel working full-time and Jaiven coming in daily.

Personally, Jaiven, like her dad, has a performance-related dream all her own. Outside of the shop, she wants to build on her high school equestrian experience by competing in adult dressage and land an audition with Cavalia, a Cirque-de-Soleil-like traveling horse show based in Canada.

For now, though, the works in Silverton, where her father left such a big legacy that it sometimes feels like hes still here. You can still catch folks reflexively looking for Jason in Fall Lines parking lot or among crowds like the one that packed a recent city council meeting to propose upgrades to the skate park.

For 16 years, Jason was theirs, he belonged to the community, Sinclair said. We just want to carry on the tradition.

885. How many more mountain bikers have to die, before mountain bikers get wise and quit?????

Mike

https://bangordailynews.com/2020/02/19/news/midcoast/fat-tire-biker-found-dead-in-maine-state-park/

Fat-tire biker found dead in Maine state park

Dreamstime | TNS
The Associated Press February 19, 2020 1:50 pm

Police in Maine said a 57-year-old cyclist died after losing control of his bicycle in Bradbury Mountain State Park in Pownal.

Hikers found the body of Topsham resident Rodney Reed on the side of a trail after he crashed on Monday, police said. Police said Reed was riding a wide-tired bicycle on the mountain when he lost control of it. Cyclists use the bikes, called fat tire bikes, in snow and tough terrain.

Attempts to revive Reed were not successful. Police said he was wearing a helmet at the time of the crash. The state medical examiners office said he died from an injury to the neck or spinal cord.

https://www.centralmaine.com/2020/02/18/topsham-man-dies-in-bicycling-accident-in-pownal/

Topsham man dies in bicycling accident in Pownal on Monday

Rodney Reed, 57, of Topsham was killed when he lost control of his bicycle on a trail at Bradbury Mountain State Park in Pownal Monday.
By Darcie MooreTimes Record

POWNAL A Topsham man died after losing control of his bicycle at Bradbury Mountain State Park on Monday.

Hikers found 57-year-old Rodney Reed along the side of a trail at about 1 p.m., according to the Cumberland County Sheriffs Office.

Captain Donald Foss said Reed was riding a fat bike a bicycle equipped with wide tires to navigate in snow or difficult terrain when he lost control and crashed.

Foss said the state medical examiners office determined he died from a neck or spinal cord injury.

Foss said Reed was unconscious and unresponsive when hikers found him laying in the snow. They performed CPR but couldnt revive him. Given his injuries, Foss said Reed likely died instantly.

Foss said Reed was wearing a helmet at the time of the accident.

It seems like he was doing everything right and just tragic circumstances surrounded that, Foss said. No one ever expects riding a bike on a snowmobile trail would result in a serious accident or even a death. I feel terrible for his family.

Rod was a valued member of the Merrymeeting Wheelers Bicycle Club, said Ken Saindon, a board member of the club. Obviously we send heartfelt prayers and condolences to Rods family and friends. As much as this loss hurts our club we simply cannot forget or imagine how much his loved ones are hurting.

Rick Smith of Bowdoin said both he knew Reed through the Merrymeeting Wheelers Bicycle Club. He saw Reed riding on trails on Saturday behind the Bay Park subdivision in Topsham where he lives.

He was enjoying the trails, Smith said. I was sad to hear what happened to him on Monday.

Reed, who worked at Bath Iron Works, loved the outdoors, according to Smith.

Ive known him for three of four years. He rides in the summer as well, a really nice guy, Smith said Tuesday evening. I feel terrible for his wife Cathi.

Smith said the trails at Bradbury Mountain are groomed twice a day and there have been many postings on bicycle forums about how good the trail conditions are at the park. Smith said Reeds death left him rattled and stirred emotions after his own daughter was in a serious bicycle crash six years ago.

You ride at your own risk, he said. You know you can crash and generally expect to get a bump and bruise and get back up but dont expect to not come home.

Smith posted on the bicycle clubs Facebook page after learning the news of Reeds death.

Life is precious, he wrote.

Located on Route 9 in Pownal just west of Freeport, the 800-acre Bradbury Mountain State Park is open all year from 9 a.m. to sunset daily unless otherwise posted at the gate. According to the parks website, it is known for challenging trails and locally sponsored mountain biking and running events.

886. https://gephardtdaily.com/local/injured-mountain-biker-rescued-by-first-responders-from-mapleton-transported-to-primary-childrens-hospital/

Injured mountain biker rescued by first responders from Mapleton, transported to Primary Childrens Hospital

By
Gephardt Daily Staff
-
March 24, 2020
Image: Mapleton Fire & Rescue

MAPLETON, Utah, March 24, 2020 (Gephardt Daily) Mapleton Fire & Rescue and other nearby agencies responded to the scene Monday night when a report came in about a severely injured mountain biker in the area of Whiting Campground.

Mapleton Fire and Police used our public safety side by side to rapidly access the patient who was on a trail approximately a third of a mile west of the campground, a social media post from Mapleton Fire & Rescue says.

Mapleton Fire Paramedics worked to stabilize and transport the patient to an awaiting Life Flight helicopter.

The patient was flown to Primary Childrens Hospital for treatment, the post says. No information about the the patient of that persons condition was released.

Special thanks to the Utah County Sheriff and Intermountain Life Flight crews for their awesome teamwork tonight,! the Mapleton Fire & Rescue post says.

887. https://www.tvnz.co.nz/one-news/new-zealand/person-hospitalised-after-falling-off-mountain-bike-in-wellington

Person hospitalised after falling off mountain bike in Wellington

10:11pm Source: 1 NEWS

A person has been seriously injured after falling off a mountain bike in Wellington today.
A person riding a mountain bike on a trail (file). Source: istock.com

Wellington Free Ambulance was called to Hawkins Hill at around 12.15pm, a spokesperson told 1 NEWS.

A rescue helicopter was also called in and the victim was taken to Wellington Hospital in a serious condition.

Wellington City Council's website describes Hawkins Hill as having "some of the most scenic 'mountain-biking trails' in the city, providing "challenging access to exposed ridgelines, bush-clad gullies and the rugged coast".

While people are encouraged to exercise during the Level 4 lockdown, people are asked to avoid high-risk activities.

"We are asking people to stay local, apply common sense and not do anything that could risk exposure to injury or require search and rescue services," Police Commissioner Andrew Coster said in a statement yesterday.

Water-based activities, such as swimming, surfing and kayaking, are also banned.

888. https://www.westernadvocate.com.au/story/6711993/boy-suffers-facial-injuries-after-mountain-biking-accident-at-orange/

Second accident at Lake Canobolas Mountain Bike Park in six months

Danielle Cetinski

Local News

A 14-YEAR-old boy has been airlifted to Orange Health Service with injuries to his nose and mouth after a mountain biking incident at Lake Canobolas.

NSW Ambulance and SES volunteers responded to the incident at the Lake Canobolas Mountain Bike Park just after 11.30am on Sunday.

The SES was first to arrive at 12pm as crews had been working on fallen trees in the area.

Volunteers stabilised the boy while they waited for paramedics to arrive.

The Toll Ambulance rescue helicopter also responded and transported the boy to hospital.

A NSW Ambulance spokeswoman said the boy suffered bleeding to the nose and mouth.

Emergency services were on scene until after 1pm.

889. This is exactly what people aren't supposed to do: take resources away from the health system that are needed to fight COVID-19!

Mike

https://losangeles.cbslocal.com/2020/04/11/injured-mountain-biker-rescued-in-remote-area/

Injured Mountain Biker Rescued In Remote Area

April 11, 2020 at 6:10 pm
Filed Under:San Gabriel Mountains, Tujunga

LOS ANGELES (CBSLA) A mountain biker was rescued Saturday afternoon after getting injured on the Haines Canyon Mountainway in the San Gabriel Mountains, authorities said.

The incident was reported at around 4:04 p.m. in a remote section of the trail.

The mans identity was not disclosed, but Los Angeles Fire Department officials said he suffered facial trauma.

He was rescued by helicopter and given in-flight care while being flown to a local trauma center.

No further details were provided.

890. https://www.deseret.com/utah/2020/4/14/21221426/body-of-mountain-biker-found-at-bottom-of-cliff-off-popular-utah-trail-gooseberry-mesa

Body of mountain biker found at bottom of cliff off popular Utah trail

By Pat Reavy@DNewsCrimeTeam Apr 14, 2020, 5:00pm MDT

A mountain biker who apparently fell to his death was found at the bottom of a steep cliff off Gooseberry Mesa in southern Utah. Washington County Search and Rescue

HURRICANE, Washington County A mountain biker was found dead after apparently falling from a popular trail in southern Utah.

A group of mountain bikers on Gooseberry Mesa came across a bike on Gooseberry Point. While looking around for the bikes owner, they spotted what appeared to be a body at the bottom of a cliff below the bike, according to a statement from the Washington County sheriffs search and rescue team.

The sheriffs high angle team, along with the Hildale search and rescue team, performed a highly technical rescue to load the body into a basket and lift it out of the area.

The identity of the mountain biker was not immediately released.

891. https://www.nsnews.com/news/dnv-firefighters-rescue-injured-mountain-biker-1.24117787

DNV firefighters rescue injured mountain biker

Jane Seyd / North Shore News

April 14, 2020 02:04 PM
DNV firefighters came to the rescue of an injured mountain biker on Mount Seymour Tuesday morning. file photo North Shore News

District of North Vancouver firefighters were called out Tuesday morning to a trail rescue of a 37-year-old mountain biker who went over his handlebars and landed on his face on Mount Seymours Pangor Trail.

Two brothers in their 30s were out mountain biking on the trail when one man either failed to navigate a turn or went over a jump and landed on his head.
article continues below

His helmet was smashed up, said Assistant Fire Chief Jeremy Duncan of District of North Vancouver Fire and Rescue Services. He had pain in his neck and back.

Firefighters put the injured mountain biker into a full-body immobilizing vacuum splint and seven of them carried him out to Mt. Seymour Road, where he was transferred to an ambulance and taken to Lions Gate Hospital for X-rays.

His face was pretty banged up, said Duncan.

Duncan said firefighters used gloves and other protective equipment and kept a safe distance during the rescue as much as possible while carrying a stretcher.

While provincial parks including Mount Seymour are closed, some of the other trails that link up to these trails are open, said Duncan.

Duncan said the men reported having ridden the trail several times previously.

892. https://www.thetelegraphandargus.co.uk/news/18378075.ilkley-moor-injured-mountain-biker-sees-four-team-rescue/

Ilkley Moor injured mountain biker sees four team rescue

By Brad Deas BradDeas_TandA Reporter

Four emergency teams were needed to rescue an injured mountain biker.

FOUR emergency teams were needed to rescue a young injured mountain biker from a local moor at the end of the Easter bank holiday.

The biker was up on Ilkley Moor last night when he was injured.

Mountain Rescue, the ambulance service and Yorkshire Ambulance Service's Hazardous Area Response Team (HART) rushed to the scene to help the youngster.

Officers from West Yorkshire Police's Ilkley Neighbourhood Policing Team (NPT) also assisted with the rescue.

There were at least 10 people involved in the operation.

A spokesperson for Ilkley NPT said: "Ilkley officers assisted with the rescue of a mountain biker last night injured up on the moors.

"Thanks go out to Mountain Rescue, Ambulance Service and YAS HART team.

"Wishing the young lad a speedy recovery."

893. This is exactly why people were told not to mountain bike during the pandemic! But I guess mountain bikers don't listen to anyone.

Mike

https://www.deseret.com/utah/2020/4/21/21230646/mountain-bike-accident-suncrest-draper-trail-crash-head-injuries-biking-recreation

Woman suffers serious head injuries in Draper mountain bike crash

By Kim Boj󲱵ez @kimbojorque Apr 21, 2020, 9:28pm MDT

DRAPER A woman in her mid-20s suffered serious head injuries after crashing her mountain bike in Draper Tuesday evening.

Emergency crews responded to the call and initially called a helicopter to get the mountain biker off the trail, near Suncrest, a popular hiking and mountain biking destination, said Draper Fire Chief Clint Smith.

However, with the help of bystanders, firefighters were able to get to the woman and took her to a hospital in Lehi where she was later transferred by helicopter to a trauma center.

Officials werent sure if the woman was wearing a helmet.

894. https://off.road.cc/content/news/tetraplegic-mountain-biker-peter-lloyd-sets-challenge-to-climb-seven-hills-in-edinburgh

Tetraplegic mountain biker, Peter Lloyd, sets challenge to climb seven hills in Edinburgh

Peter Lloyd is fundraising for charity that helps him stay mobile
Rachael Gurney
Apr 29 2020
News
More News
#gofundpete - Crowdfunding to help Peter Lloyd in his recovery and rehabilitation
Help paralysed racer and skills coach in his rehab
Bikepacking with the kids just got easy on the Go East Lothian Trail in Scotland
Bikepacking with the kids just got easy

Tetraplegic mountain bike racer Peter Lloyd has set a massive challenge to climb all seven hills in Edinburgh to raise money for one of the charities that helps keep him mobile, Back Up. As charities struggle during the pandemic, Pete finds a way to give back to the people that help him.

We first told you about Pete back in 2018, a well-known enduro racer mountain biker and well-respected skills guide who was left paralysed from the neck down after falling from his bike. Since then we've been following Pete's journey, inspired by his sheer determination to acclimatise to his different way of life and still set himself epic challenges both physical and mental. Pete has a chin controlled off-road buggy which he uses in his daily life, uses to coaches others in wheelchair skills, as well as in his epic challenges such as submitting Snowdon last year! That buggy, by the way is one awesome piece of kit, a true mountain bike geek, Pete has fitted it out with four EXT Storia coil shocks!

It's with this buggy that Pete will be climbing the seven hills of Edinburgh in a bid to raise money for Back Up, a charity that supports Pete and others like him with spinal cord injuries. Pete says "I will be using my lockdown exercise tokens to climb the seven hills of Edinburgh in one ride from home in my chin controlled off-road wheelchair. These are Corstorphine Hill, Castle Rock, Calton Hill, Arthurs Seat, Blackford Hill, Braid Hills and Craighlockhart Hill. The ride will be approximately 20 miles. This would not be possible at any other time because of how busy Edinburgh City Centre is, which is why I am doing it now. I won't be taking any risks and will follow social distancing guidelines. I am waiting for a day of good weather to complete the challenge"

It's no secret that charities such as Back Up are struggling during the Coronavirus pandemic, with events cancelled, income reduced but outgoings still high. As part of the fundraising, Pete has a Justgiving page here.
Justgiving link - Peter's Seven Hills of Edinburgh

If you want to keep an eye on Pete's progress, follow him here on Facebook and here on Instagram.

895. https://www.ktvb.com/article/news/local/boise-nurse-practitioner-saves-boyfriends-life-after-medical-emergency/277-2a95a1dd-ef59-4798-a7fe-06094b987fc1

Boise nurse practitioner saves boyfriend's life during a medical emergency

She performed CPR on her boyfriend, who is battling cancer, on a remote hiking trail until a group of people walked by and helped.
Author: Shirah Matsuzawa
Published: 8:29 PM MDT May 10, 2020

BOISE, Idaho A Boise man is out of the hospital and back home after his heart stopped beating and he stopped breathing, all while he and his girlfriend were mountain biking in a remote area east of Boise.

Quick thinking and actions taken by his girlfriend most likely saved his life.

Cassi Shelly and her boyfriend, Scott Gray, were trying to mountain bike near Rocky Canyon Road, which is about 45 minutes east of Boise, last month. Because of the coronavirus, they decided to go to a more remote area to keep their social distance from others.

Gray is battling colon cancer so they were trying to be extra cautious when out adventuring, but when they got on the trail, things took a turn for the worse.

He just kind of stopped and tipped over his bicycle, Shelly said. At that point, I asked if he was okay, I thought he was just joking but he was unresponsive at that point. He wasnt breathing, his heart wasnt beating. So, I immediately began doing CPR on him.

Shelly is a nurse practitioner and immediately jumped into action. While she was trying to keep Gray alive, she was hoping someone would walk by and find them.

That was the most terrifying experience, but mostly I just went into fight or flight mode, Shelly said.

Ten minutes later, someone did.

A kind man named Tyler came and helped me do CPR, she said.

She added that Tyler's wife drove down the canyon to get cell service and call for help. While others also helped her do CPR for nearly an hour and a half until paramedics arrived and flew Gray to the hospital.

I was completely shocked, Gray said. I mean Ive been mountain biking since I was a little boy in those hills and Ive never had anything like that happen to me.

Doctors told the couple that an irregular heartbeat probably caused by one of Grays chemo medications likely lead to this happening.

I appreciate every moment of my life right now, Gray said.

The couple is now thankful and moving forward.

Im just grateful that there's people in the community that are helpful when they see people in trouble on the trails and Im glad to have a girlfriend thats trained as a nurse and knew what to do, Gray said. Im happy to be alive and be there for my family and friends.

A GoFundMe page has been set up for Gray, which you can donate to here.

896. https://www.nzherald.co.nz/sport/news/article.cfm?c_id=4&objectid=12332080

Rugby league: Former Kiwis captain Tony Coll dies while out mountain biking

15 May, 2020 7:30am
Tony Coll suffered a heart attack while mountain biking. Photo / Twitter
NZ Herald

Former Kiwis captain and West Coast legend Tony Coll has died.

Coll played 30 tests for the Kiwis between 1972 and 1982, captaining the side at the 1977 Rugby League World Cup.

Considered one of the last homegrown West Coast Kiwis internationals, Coll was inducted as a New Zealand Rugby Legend in 2007.

Former Grey District mayor and close friend, Tony Kokshoorn said they were biking the Wilderness Trail near Karoro on Thursday morning when Coll suffered a heart attack.

"I was about 10 feet ahead of him and I heard him yell out Koko, which is my nickname. I knew something was wrong straight away," Kokshoorn said.

"He just slumped over and his bike diverted off the track. We worked on him, but it just wasn't to be.

"I'm shocked I've lost my best friend."

Early last year, Kokshoorn saved Coll's life by performing CPR after he suffered a heart attack while standing on Kokshoorn's doorstep.

"He put us on alert after the first [heart attack] but he had started to prove us all wrong. He was so tough and so fit.

"He went out a fighter."

West Coast- Tamsman MP Damien O'Connor posted a tribute to Coll on Twitter on Thursday evening.

"Today the West Coast lost a hero, community leader and wonderful bloke. RIP Tony Coll," O'Connor wrote.

897. https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/hyderabad/american-out-mountain-biking-trips-dies/articleshow/75795766.cms

American out mountain biking, trips & dies

Srinath Vudali | TNN | May 18, 2020, 04:41 IST
Hyderabad: An American passionate about mountain biking died in Gandipet area after he lost control on a hillock on Sunday afternoon.
Narsingi police said that Paul Robert alias Little John, 42, was staying in Hyderabad for the last one-and-half-years with his wife, who is an employee in an IT company in the city.
On Sunday morning, Paul left his residence at Gachibowli and cycled his way to the Gandipet reservoir area. Since Robert was inaccessible on his phone, his worried wife reached out to Gachibowli police late evening.
Cops eventually pinpointed the tower location to Gandipet. Pauls friend, who generally accompanies him on cycling trips, did not accompany him on Sunday. But after hearing about the accident, he took cops to the hilly terrain near the lake where they generally go for mountain biking.
After reaching the spot, Paul was found dead with a cracked helmet bleeding injuries.
He was wearing a helmet which had cracked and he died following the impact. Such was the fall, said a senior Cyberabad police official.
It looks like he lost control and fell down and sustained injuries on his head. Post-mortem is yet to be done, he added.
Police suspect that he might have had a 10 meters fall, resulting in his death.
Paul, a mechanical engineer by profession, has two children. A case was registered under section 174 (suspicious death) of CrPC

898. From: George Wuerthner <gwuerthner@gmail.com>
Mon, May 25 at 8:14 PM

Grizzly bear attacks man mountain biking in Big Sky

By: MTN News
Posted at 8:00 PM, May 25, 2020

and last updated 7:40 PM, May 25, 2020

A man is in critical but stable condition Monday night after being attacked by a grizzly bear in Big Sky.

It was a surprise encounter with the bear, according to Morgan Jacobsen, Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks Information and Education Program Manager, Region Three.

Jacobsen said shortly after 1 p.m. Monday the man was mountain biking, came around a curve on a trail above Ousel Falls on private property, and was attacked.

He was able to make it out to the road and make contact with other people.

The man suffered injuries to his face and back and was airlifted to Billings.He was by himself biking.

Wardens and bear specialists were on the scene and say it does not appear to be a predatory attack, with no indication the bear was chasing the man.

The trail has been closed.

Jacobsen encourages people to be very aware and prepared for encounters with a bear, now that they're fully out of hibernation.

He says carry bear spray and know how to use it, travel in groups, and be aware of your surroundings.

At this point, there is no indication that FWP plans to find or euthanize the bear.

899. https://www.nelsonstar.com/news/west-kootenay-sar-crews-rescue-injured-mountain-biker-near-rossland/

West Kootenay SAR crews helped to rescue a man on Saturday afternoon injured in a mountain biking accident. Photo: Rossland Search and Rescue

West Kootenay SAR crews rescue injured mountain biker near Rossland

Crews were called in to help after the biker seriously injured himself at around noon Saturday
Connor Trembley
May. 25, 2020 3:00 p.m.

Rossland Search and Rescue (RSR) crews helped rescue an injured mountain biker on a local trail called SMD on Saturday.

The incident happened when the mountain biker seriously injured himself while biking in a group on the trail around noon.

Shortly after, RSR seach and rescue manager Andrew Duncan said his crew received a call from the provinces emergency co-ordination centre to help rescue the biker. The biker also requested a helicopter to help evacuate him off the trail.

Luckily, Duncan said a search crew member was biking in the area and stumbled upon the group to help with the rescue operation.

During the rescue, a helicopter owned by High Terrain Helicopters was dispatched from Nelson to retrieve the man from the trail.

As it drew closer, a technician attached to a rope underneath the helicopter helped to secure the injured biker and transport him to safety.

As the helicopter transported the biker to the Paterson border crossing, Duncan said a BC Ambulance driver waited, loaded and transported the biker to Kootenay Boundary Regional Hospital in Trail.

Duncan said the rescue mission was flawless.

In general, the operation went exceedingly well, said Duncan.

For an operation that would typically take 30 or more people and four to five hours, this took about eight search and rescue members and was done in just under two hours.

Nelson Search and Rescue crews, two BC Ambulance members and an RCMP member also assisted with the operation.

While the biker is banged up, Duncan said medical professionals are hopeful that hell make a full recovery.

Duncan said he has a few tips for recreationists who find themselves injured on a trail, particularly as his group tends to get more search and rescue calls in the summer.

As volunteers, if were able to get mobilized from our hall, get out in the field and access the patient in under two hours, thats a very rapid response time for us.

You need to have enough supplies and safety gear to keep you dry, to splint, or to do minor first aid until we get on scene. It really does take time.

900. https://ktvz.com/news/deschutes-county/2020/06/06/mtn-biker-injured-in-crash-rescued-on-trail-west-of-bend/

Deschutes County
By KTVZ news sources
Published June 6, 2020 2:21 am

Mtn. biker injured in crash, rescued on trail west of Bend

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) A Bend man injured in a mountain bike crash on a trail west of town Friday evening was rescued by Deschutes County Sheriffs Office Search and Rescue volunteers, officials said.

County 911 dispatchers received a call around 7:20 p.m. regarding the injured 23-year-old mountain biker on the Lower Whoops Trail, about a mile south of Skyliners Road, according to Deputy Joshua Westfall, assistant search and rescue coordinator.

The mountain biker, later identified as Andrew Davis, 23, reportedly had sustained potentially serious injuries, Westfall said.

A total of 16 SAR volunteers responded to assist, while a deputy remained in quarters to coordinate the rescue.

SAR medical team members arrived at Daviss location around 8 p.m. and began providing treatment, Westfall said.

After he was stabilized, SAR members used a wheeled litter to bring Davis to a SAR vehicle, which brought him to Skyliners Road, where Bend Fire and Rescue medics were waiting. The Bend Fire ambulance took Davis to St. Charles Bend for further treatment.

901. https://globalnews.ca/news/7036872/okanagan-man-dies-mountain-biking-penticton/

Okanagan man dies while mountain biking in Penticton

By Shelby Thom Global News
Posted June 7, 2020 1:37 pm
Updated June 7, 2020 6:22 pm
A man died while mountain biking on the Three Blind Mice trails in Penticton on Saturday. . Bike Penticton\Facebook

A Kelowna, B.C., man died while mountain biking in Penticton over the weekend, according to police.

Cpl. Chris Manseau tells Global News that first responders rushed to the scene at the Three Blind Mice trail network around 11:00 a.m. on Saturday.

Search and rescue personnel and police officers located a deceased man on the trail, he said.

Police say the mountain biker may have fallen off a bike jump, but his exact cause of death will be determined by the BC Coroners Service.

His death is not considered suspicious.

Canadian indie pop singer Leah West has identified the man as her husband, Mark West, on social media.

West was the founder and managing broker at Epic Real Estate, a residential and commercial real estate marketing and sales company.
Mark West has been identified by his wife as the man who died while mountain biking in Penticton on Saturday. Epic Real Estate

I am beyond devastated. My husband and best friend of 18 years and the father of my son is dead, West wrote on Facebook.

A police officer came to my door last night to tell me he had passed away while mountain biking in Penticton. I still dont have cause of death, but they think it may have been a heart attack. I havent been able to see him yet. Im weeping nonstop, she said in the post issued on Sunday morning.

The Three Blind Mice area, overlooking Okanagan Lake to the west, is a popular destination for mountain bikers.

The trails offer downhill runs that flow through the forest, with more than 80 trails in the network, according to Bike Penticton.

902. https://www.coloradoan.com/story/news/2020/06/12/colorado-mountain-biker-seriously-injured-crash-horsetooth/3174275001/

Mountain biker seriously injured at Horsetooth Mountain Open Space

Miles Blumhardt, Fort Collins Coloradoan Published 10:54 a.m. MT June 12, 2020 | Updated 1:09 p.m. MT June 12, 2020
SKIP

The rescue occurred in a stretch of the river near downtown Fort Collins in 50-degree water running at 1,280 cubic feet per second. Fort Collins Coloradoan

A mountain biker was seriously injured Thursday, requiring air transport out of Horsetooth Mountain Open Space.

The male cyclist was riding the South Ridge Trail at the popular open space when he sustained injuries to his head and face, according to Poudre Fire Authority, which received the call around 2 p.m.

PFA, Larimer County rangers and UCHealth responders assisted in moving the cyclist from the trail to the Lifeline helicopter, which took him to a hospital.

The trail is commonly used by mountain bikers who wish to ride to the base of Horsetooth Rock.

Two weeks ago, PFA was called to the 2,800-acre open space to help a hiker who had been injured.

Reporter Miles Blumhardt looks for stories that impact your life. Be it news, outdoors, sports you name it, he wants to report it. Have a story idea? Contact him at milesblumhardt@coloradoan.com or on Twitter @MilesBlumhardt.

903. https://patch.com/california/banning-beaumont/missing-mountain-biker-found-dead-hemet

Missing Mountain Biker Found Dead In Hemet

The body of Brian Darrell Grangaard, 45, was discovered Thursday. He had been missing for nearly three weeks.

By Toni McAllister, Patch Staff

Jun 12, 2020 3:29 pm PT

The CHP was called to investigate after it was determined Grangaard was a crash victim. (Renee Schiavone/Patch)

HEMET, CA A mountain bike rider from Hemet who went missing last month was found dead Thursday, an apparent crash victim.

The body of Brian Darrell Grangaard, 45, was discovered 4:31 p.m. down a cliff off Vista Del Valle in Hemet, according to California Highway Patrol Officer Matt Napier.

Grangaard was last seen riding in the area.

The Riverside County Sheriff's Department relayed to the CHP that the agency had been asked to assist with Grangaard's search after a missing person report was filed May 25 with the Hemet Police Department, Napier said.

The cyclist's body and bike were found in heavy brush by a Riverside County sheriff's deputy during Thursday's search.

Once deputies determined that Grangaard was a crash victim, the California Highway Patrol was called in.

According to Napier, the CHP's preliminary investigation showed Grangaard was traveling at a high rate of speed and lost control of his bike on a sweeping Vista Del Valle curve and crashed down the cliffside.

A young woman who said she is Grangaard's daughter established a GoFundMe missing person's page for her father.

"My dad, Brian Grangaard, has been missing since 5/25/20. He told my grandma he would be home for dinner that night after riding Simpson Park bike trail. He never came home. His phone was on the first three days and now it's completely shut off," the post reads.

Drugs and/or alcohol did not appear to have contributed to the crash, Napier said.

904. https://www.theprogress.com/news/young-boy-airlifted-out-of-abbotsford-following-bike-crash-in-sumas-mountain-woods/

The young boy on a stretcher surrounded by emergency health workers prior to being airlifted to hospital. The crash happened just after 3 p.m., June 11 on Sumas Mountain. Shane MacKichan photo.

Young boy airlifted out of Abbotsford following bike crash in Sumas Mountain woods

Boy appears to have suffered serious injuries, intubated by paramedics prior to airlift
Patrick Penner
Jun. 12, 2020 8:21 a.m.

[Update: The boy had struck a tree while riding his bicycle, according to BC Emergency Health Services. They said they cant provide further information on his condition due to privacy concerns, but he was in serious condition when he was transported to hospital.]

A young boy was airlifted out of Abbotsford yesterday afternoon following a serious bike crash in the woods on Sumas Mountain.

The crash happened just before 3 p.m., June 11, in a wooded area near Applewood Drive and Westview Boulevard.

The boy appeared to have suffered serious injuries as he looked unconscious and was intubated by paramedics, according to a freelance videographer who attended the scene of the airlift.

A woman, who appeared to be the boys mother, accompanied him on the airlift.

905. https://www.thefreepress.ca/news/search-and-rescue-responds-to-injured-mountain-biker/

Fernie Search and Rescue received a call for an injured mountain biker on the Swine Flu trail in Fernie on June 15, 2020. Photo Submitted

Search and Rescue responds to injured mountain biker

A female rider sustained injuries after hitting a tree on the Swine Flu trail in Fernie

Paige Mueller
Jun. 16, 2020 2:30 a.m.

On the evening of June 15, Fernie Search and Rescue (SAR) assisted the British Columbia Ambulance Service with aiding an injured mountain biker on the Swine Flu trail in Fernie.

According to SAR, the rider hit a tree and suffered injuries to her pelvis, back and head. Four SAR techs were able to access the injured woman using a combination of ATVs and hiking in. Eight more techs joined and were able to transport the subject down the trail and to the BC Ambulance Service.

In a post on their Facebook page, SAR noted that we are grateful to the two bikers who came across her and called 911 and kept her company until help arrived.

The SAR team also reminded everyone that due to the COVID-19 pandemic, response times are longer than usual so now is a good time to take extra caution when exploring and enjoying the outdoors.

906. https://www.therockymountaingoat.com/2020/06/a-spinal-injury-wont-keep-her-down-a-year-later-injured-biker-plots-her-return/

A spinal injury wont keep her down: a year later, injured biker plots her return

June 16, 2020 The Goat Health, News and Views

By Andru McCracken

Trying out her new computer set up for work.

They said it couldnt happen but Chantelle Grafton is back at work, taking her dog for walks daily, breathing on her own, and planning exactly how she will re-enter the flow state that mountain bikers crave and thrive on.

Chantelle suffered a life altering crash on June 15, 2019 at the Valemount Bikefest.

After her accident neurosurgeons told her that if she was able to survive the accident, she wouldnt want to.

Im sitting on my balcony. Working all day. There is nobody with me. None of that was supposed to be possible. Everyone told me it would never be possible, she said.

She feels lucky, though she admits that feeling waivers at times.

An identity
Mountain biking, a sport her husband introduced her to six years ago, continues to be a massive and central part of their lives and identity.

We love everything about biking and the biking community. Were trying to figure out what new hobbies we can have together Finding new ways to be outside and explore, she said. Biking isnt off the table.

The White Whale
Moby Dick, an expert trail at the Valemount Bike Park where she crashed her bike and changed her life, is still her favourite trail.
Chantelle dreams of returning to the trail on an accessible bike.

Its quite a gem, she said.

In fact Chantelle had already ridden the Skyberm, the feature where she injured her neck, twice that day. Earlier she had landed front tire heavy, but tried it again.

It is still my favourite trail, she said.

The Skyberm is a raised wooden feature that banks around a slight corner and features a small drop, between three and four feet. But like any feature, landing badly can cause great harm.

Whos to blame
Some people would be looking for someone to blame, Chantelle seems to take the opposite view. She credits proactive changes made to the bike festival that year with saving her life, including having room for ambulances to get to the park by keeping the roadway clear, and having medics on stand by.

Any other year, people wouldnt have been able to get up there, she said.

Forest and flood
Since April 1st shes been back at her job for the Ministry of Forests. She said that her colleagues have gone above and beyond helping her get back to work.

I used to complain that my job didnt have enough field work, she said, she has since revised her opinion. Im happy to be back working. It gives purpose to your day and helps the time go by.

Chantelle is a Senior Regional Specialist in Water and Dyke Safety and coordinates flood responses for Northern BC.

Power forward
Now Chantelle drives a power chair using her head.
Grafton and her husband Warren do their very best to get stuck along the Fraser River.

I have proximity sensors in the headrest so I can pretty much go anywhere, she said. Im not much slower than anybody else and I can go everywhere. What this would have been 20 years ago it gives me a lot of hope for the next 20 years, she said.

Still loving Valemount?
I asked Chantelle if shed come back to Valemount.

Absolutely, its not a question, she said. We had a big plan with most of Yellowhead Campground booked.

She said she and her friends had envisioned a mini beerfest of their own, but COVID-19 cancelled that plan.

Flow state
In positive psychology, a flow state [aka being in the zone] is the mental state in which a person performing an activity is fully immersed in a feeling of energized focus, full involvement, and enjoyment in the process of the activity. Mountain bikers crave it. Chantelle craves it. Shes now looking into a three wheeled powered mountain bike for paraplegics.

Im super excited it is still in the works, she said.

More and more bike areas are building adaptive trails built for the three wheeled machines.

The Kootenays have built adaptive trails it gives me a lot of hope. I have a lot of hope that one day I can get out with my friends and still ride bikes, said Chantelle.

Chantelle thanked a number of people that reached out to her after the accident, hospital employees, paramedics, info centre employees and the fundraisers.

It was really nice for a community I wasnt from, she said.

We cant wait to come back.

907. https://kval.com/news/local/dead-portland-mans-mountain-bike-located-damage-suggests-he-may-have-suffered-a-crash

Dead Portland man's mountain bike located; damage suggests he may have suffered a crash

by News Staff
Wednesday, June 17th 2020
On Wednesday, 21 members of the Deschutes County Sheriffs Office Search and Rescue Unit and 2 deputies returned to the scene and conducted a grid search for evidence. "No additional evidence was located during this search," the sheriff's office said. (DCSO)

BEND, Ore. - The sheriff's office searched for evidence near where a Portland mountain biker was found dead last weekend.

ATV riders found John Eric Sims, 36, of Portland dead Sunday.

The investigation found Sims traveled to Central Oregon to ride his mountain bike near the Pine Mountain Observatory.

His bicycle was not with his body, the sheriff's office said.

A citizen contacted the sheriff's office Tuesday and reported finding a bicycle in the area.

"Detectives responded to an area to the east of the Millican OHV play area, where the bike was located near trail #20. The bike was located less than one mile west of where Sims body was recovered. The bike had sustained some damage, which may have been the result of a crash," the sheriff's office said.

On Wednesday, 21 members of the Deschutes County Sheriffs Office Search and Rescue Unit and 2 deputies returned to the scene and conducted a grid search for evidence.

"No additional evidence was located during this search," the sheriff's office said.

908. https://www.stuff.co.nz/sport/other-sports/122076126/i-remember-thinking-i-might-die-downhill-mountainbiker-bryn-dickerson-on-his-horror-crash

'I remember thinking 'I might die':' downhill mountainbiker Bryn Dickerson on his horror crash

Bill Hickman05:00, Jul 11 2020
Wellington NZ
As well as a great spot to see the city from, Mt Victoria is also a terrific place to mountain bike.

Do you wanna see the jumps?

Its 4pm and the sun is slipping behind the hill Dickersons family property backs onto near the Pauatahanui inlet in Porirua. Behind the house are a couple of small paddocks, a handful of sheep and two ducks that seem to have the run of the place.

Zig-zagging down the slope beyond them is a collection of turns and small jumps that the international mountain bike downhill competitor has built to make his training a little more entertaining, but its three large piles of dirt over the fence that have his attention.

A landing pad about three metres high rolls into a sharp corner that terminates at its peak to kick the rider across a gap spanning the access road onto a smaller landing. The lead in is a steeper section of the hill that features a pair of rickety looking wooden drops. The second one guides the riders line over a fence and a pile of broken old ramps.

Its difficult to see how hes going to clear that first fence before he even gets to the first kicker ramp. Dickerson has a thousand-yard stare going now. He can see the line; he can see the shallow parabola needed to clear the gap.
Cameron MacKenzie/Stuff-co-nz
Wellington rider Bryn Dickerson at race pace in the 2020 New Zealand downhill national championships.

I guess youll have to be doing about 35kph when you leave that lip. But yeah, it should be good, he grins..

At 28 and 1.78m tall Dickerson is on the cusp between a medium and large sized mountain bike. In contrast to the waifs of the cross-country set his build is broader, more powerful and that grin accompanies almost every aspect of his conversation.

Dickerson describes downhill as the Formula One of biking. The Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI) is the governing body of its pinnacle championship.

Dickerson rides in the Elite mens class competing amongst the top names in the sport. His best result in a UCI World Cup was a 20th in Val di Sole in 2017 but his national and international career boasts 21 podiums and 51 top 20 finishes since 2010.

Professional riders travel to events in team buses with their coaches, mechanics and support crew in tow. A privateer, Dickerson has to independently pull together sponsorship for bikes, parts and transport to follow the 10-race schedule across Europe, the UK and finally the USA.
Tim Clayton/Not-For-Syndication
Bryn Dickerson in action on The Remarkables in 2012.

He is always pushing for that top 10 result that could help him onto a team and make purely riding the prime concern of his season.

In 2019, Dickerson endured eight months of surgeries and rehab after separate crashes damaged each of his ankles. The late arrival of his new bike further compromised his preparation for the season.

It was asking for trouble. We got the bike built the night before I left. I did four runs and got on the plane to Europe the next day.

After three events Dickerson travelled to Sestola in Italy to ride as a sweeper, clearing the way for racers practising on the national championship track. It was an opportunity to acclimatise to the new bike without the pressure of competing.

And thats when disaster struck.
Dave Widmann/Stuff-co-nz
Downhill mountain biker Bryn Dickerson awaits evacuation in Italy.

I came off this drop fully sideways. I landed and bounced over the top of the bike and off the next drop. I remember thinking I might die and then feeling like Id been hit by a bus.

When I woke up, I couldnt breathe. I wasnt winded, I was actually suffocating because Id broken nine ribs and punctured a lung.

He had also broken his wrist into six pieces and broken his back in three.

Four-and-a-half weeks in hospital followed. It was the second trip overseas by his mum Lynette Williams to pick up the pieces after another big hit.

Williams and Wilfred Dickerson enjoy recounting stories of their sons discovery of bikes. From his first races at six years-old, he was always going fast and always wanted to win.

Hes not a reckless person. Hes actually quite methodical, says Dickerson. Now!

Williams interjects, he was pretty out there when he was young. Theres probably a bunch of stuff we dont know about.

To support his racing, he has built a mountain bike skills coaching business Fluid Lines. As a teacher, Dickersons advice is more constructive than someone simply displaying that they can ride. He can express how he rides and his sessions have repeat customers.

When hes not teaching, hes formulating a suspension setup guide for bike stores, filming promotional clips, working on a new glove design or constructing a proposal to Wellington City Council to streamline the funding of trail construction.

So many irons in the fire can be at odds with the priorities of his coach, Adrian Armstrong.

I think it wouldve been great for him not to take on so much and to be more single-minded. Some doors may have opened more easily for him, Armstrong says.
Bill Hickman/Stuff-co-nz
Wellington downhill mountain biker Bryn Dickerson taking a break from shaping his backyard jumps in Pauatahanui.

Armstrong hopes that a UCI World Cup top 10 result will lead to a spot on a professional team and a chance to really prove his pace, but until then Dickerson has to keep busy.

When you get to the top 20 everybody has that drive to succeed. I think its really important to develop using that focus and motivation outside of the racing environment.

With Covid-19 forcing the cancellation of the UCI 2020 World Cup series, Dickerson could finally have the time to pull all the elements together for another big push to bring his talents into the limelight.

Asked if he ever gets a break from the riding, work and constant activity Dickerson highlights only a small window in his busy schedule.

I love driving home after a good day, thinking about what Ive done and what Ive got to do. Heading away from the bustle of Wellington, tunes are on, lifes good.

909. https://www.cranbrooktownsman.com/news/rcmp-confirm-fatality-in-bootleg-mountain-biking-accident/

RCMP confirm fatality in Bootleg Mountain biking accident

Carolyn Grant
Jul. 13, 2020 12:30 p.m.

Kimberley RCMP have confirmed there was a fatality in a mountain biking accident on Bootleg Mountain on Sunday, July 12, 2020.

Cpl. Kate Bamber of the Kimberley RCMP says that the initial call went to the BC Ambulance Service.

When they attended it was clear there was a need for Search and Rescue, Bamber said. When Kimberley Search and Rescue attended, they called the RCMP as the individual was deceased.

Bamber says the Kimberley RCMP and the coroner attended the scene.

It was a terribly, tragic mountain biking accident, Bamber said. The people were visiting our community.

Bootleg Mountain is located in the St. Mary Valley near Kimberley.

910. https://cfjctoday.com/2020/07/19/mountain-biker-injured-in-batchelor-hills-area/

By Dylana Kneeshaw

Mountain biker injured in Batchelor Hills area

Jul 19, 2020

KAMLOOPS Emergency crews were called to the Batchelor Hills trail area this morning (July 19), for an injured mountain biker.

Kamloops Fire Rescue Platoon Captain Darryl Cooper says just after 10 a.m, crews were called to the Sidewinder loop trail in the Batchelor area for a report of a mountain biker down.

We were warned on route that there was CPR in progress. Crews were in liaison with BC Ambulance, arrived on scene, and thats all we know at this time.

There was another man biking with the patient who was on scene when emergency crews arrived, and Cooper says to his knowledge, only one of the two bikers was injured.

The status of this individual or the extent of their injuries has not been confirmed at this time.

CFJC Today has reached out to Kamloops RCMP, and BC Emergency Health Services for more information, and will update this story when that becomes available.

911. https://denver.cbslocal.com/2020/07/29/nederland-mountain-biker-serious-injuries-crash-boulder-county/

Mountain Biker Suffers Serious Injuries In Crash Near Nederland

July 29, 2020 at 8:55 am
Filed Under:Boulder County News, Colorado News, Nederland News

NEDERLAND, Colo. (CBS4) A helicopter rescue crew rescued a teenage mountain biker after a bad accident on Tuesday afternoon. The 15-year-old from Boulder was riding just a couple miles west of Nederland when the accident happened.

(credit: Boulder County)

Rescue crews say he had serious injuries.

A helicoper crew was able to get to the teen and airlift him to a hospital. The rescue took about three hours.

There was no word on Wednesday morning of his condition.

912. https://www.timescall.com/2020/07/29/14-year-old-boy-injured-while-mountain-biking-nelson-loop-trail/

14-year-old boy injured while mountain biking Nelson Loop Trail

By Brooklyn Dance | bdance@prairiemountainmedia.com |
PUBLISHED: July 29, 2020 at 8:15 p.m. | UPDATED: July 29, 2020 at 8:15 p.m.

A 14-year-old boy was injured Wednesday while mountain biking on the Nelson Loop Trail.

The boy fell off his mountain bike about 4 p.m. in the 3100 block of South St. Vrain Road, according to a news release from the Boulder County Sheriffs Office. He sustained minor injuries.

Lyons Fire Department helped the boy down the trail in a side-by-side UTV and an ambulance then took him to a hospital.

Boulder County Sheriffs Office, American Medical Response and Boulder County Open Space Rangers assisted Lyons Fire Department in the rescue.

913. https://www.deseret.com/utah/2020/7/31/21349122/mountain-biker-dies-after-crashing-on-solo-ride-near-reservoir

Mountain biker dies after crashing on solo ride near reservoir

By Amy Donaldson @adonsports Jul 31, 2020, 11:16am MDT
Adobe Stock

SPANISH FORK A 52-year-old man was killed in a mountain biking accident on Hidden Oaks Mountain Bike Trail near Spanish Fork Reservoir.

Spanish Fork police were called to the trail after a passersby called to report there was a bike off the trail and a man a short distance away around 6:30 p.m. Thursday, according to a press release. When police arrived, they determined the man had died from his injuries.

It appears from the initial investigation that the male subject crashed on his mountain bike and died from injuries sustained in the accident, police said. The male was wearing a helmet at the time of the accident. The accident was not witnessed and the exact time of the accident is unknown.

Investigators learned the man, who was identified by police Friday afternoon as David Acosta, left to ride on the trail alone around 2 p.m. Thursday.

914. https://www.ksl.com/article/50001211/police-identify-mountain-biker-who-died-in-spanish-fork-crash

Police identify mountain biker who died in Spanish Fork crash

By Lauren Bennett, KSL.com | Updated - Jul. 31, 2020 at 2:04 p.m. | Posted - Jul. 30, 2020 at 10:00 p.m.

SPANISH FORK A man died on Thursday in a mountain biking accident east of the Spanish Fork Reservoir, police said.

Authorities responded to the scene about 6:30 p.m. and found a mountain bike on the side of the trail and the body of a 52-year-old man close to the bike.

Police said it appeared the man crashed on the bike and died from injuries suffered in the wreck. No one witnessed the incident, therefore further details about the crash, including the exact time, werent immediately available.

The man was identified Friday as David Acosta, of Spanish Fork, according to police. He had left about 2 p.m. Thursday to go mountain biking alone. Acosta was wearing a helmet, police said.

There was no new information about the crash available Friday, but the crash appeared to be a tragic accident, police said.

Contributing: Jacob Klopfenstein, KSL.com

915. https://www.northumberlandgazette.co.uk/news/mountain-rescue-teams-help-injured-mountain-biker-after-fall-northumberland-national-park-2931258

Mountain Rescue teams help injured mountain biker after fall in Northumberland National Park

A mountain biker was taken to hospital with potentially serious injuries after a rescue mission which took almost five hours.

By Fiona Thompson
Monday, 3rd August 2020, 6:42 pm

Volunteers from Northumberland National Park and North of Tyne Mountain Rescue Teams helped the man on Saturday, August 1, from Usway Burn, a remote part of Northumberland National Park between Shillmoor and Linbriggs and close to the River Coquet.

They say the mountain biker sustained potentially serious injuries" after falling down a rocky slope, with his companions.

Northumbria Police were called via 999, who in turn contacted mountain rescue.
Volunteers from Northumberland National Park and North of Tyne Mountain Rescue Teams went to the man's aid.

A small team soon arrived and one of the team medics assessed and treated the casualtys injuries.

Other team members then hiked to the incident, carrying the team stretcher and additional equipment.

Ensuring they were all wearing PPE, the casualty was placed in a vacuum mattress and moved onto the stretcher.
Members of Northumberland National Park and North of Tyne Mountain Rescue Teams had to carry equipment with them to help the mountain biker.

The volunteers then carried and pulled the casualty back down the valley to an access track to a waiting North East Ambulance Service vehicle, with the incident lasting four hours and 45 minutes.

It comes as the organisation expects to see the number of incidents rise, with more people spend time holidaying in the UK due to the coronavirus travelling restrictions.

Northumberland National Park Team leader Iain Nixon added: What really helped in this incident was the ability to locate the casualty quickly and were grateful to the mountain bikers friends for being able to tell us where they were.
A Google map showing the location of Usway Burn.

"Whilst weve not seen the huge surge in incidents that others mountain rescue teams have had, we are acutely aware that with more people taking their holidays in the UK, that its only a matter of time until we see the number of call-outs creeping up.

"With that in mind, we would ask the public to always plan their adventures carefully; to stay within their limits, check the weather forecast, learn how to map read and to always have enough charge on your mobile phone for that all important 999 call, if you need it.

The team has said many of its sources of income have dried up due to the pandemic, with any donations to be made through their Facebook pages or websites www.nnpmrt.org and www.notmrt.org.uk.

916. "Experienced" aging mountain biker, of course...

https ://bc.ctvnews.ca/chilliwack-mountain-biker-hopes-to-ride-again-after-being-paralyzed-in-tragic-accident-1.5054489

Chilliwack mountain biker hopes to ride again after being paralyzed in tragic accident

Michele Brunoro Anchor / Multi-skilled Journalist, CTV News Vancouver

@ctv_michele Contact
Published Thursday, August 6, 2020 5:08PM PDT Last Updated Thursday, August 6, 2020 7:10PM PDT
Community rallies around injured rider
Community members are rallying around a Chilliwack family after an avid mountain biker suffered a life-changing injury.

VANCOUVER -- A Chilliwack mountain biker paralyzed from the chest down in a tragic accident in June is still in hospital.

But Doug Henderson's family says despite the obstacles he faces, he is determined to ride again.

One day he knows hell be back in a bike. Even if its something he can operate with his arms or its electric, his wife Tammy Henderson told CTV News.

The family shared video of Doug in hospital doing physiotherapy and working hard to get stronger.

Dad doesnt give up. Its his new challenge, 110 per cent, his son Chris Henderson explained.

Tammy said her 59-year-old husband developed a passion for riding a number of years ago.

He lived mountain biking, riding in general," she said.

Shed finally bought her own mountain bike so she could join him. They went out for a ride June 23 in the Chilliwack Community Forest. He opted to do one final trail while she waited in the parking lot.

But on the way down, he hit a steep, muddy section, flew over the handlebars and ended up in a ravine.

He was found by a group of boys.

They heard him calling and one of the children climbed down to him, removed debris out of his mouth, the others came to get me, Tammy explained. The accident left him with a broken neck.

All I know is that hell never walk again and we have a long road ahead of us, his emotional wife said in an interview.

I got a call from my mom. She sounded extremely panicked, distraught and I knew right away without even saying anything that something had happened with my dad, Chris said.

I knew it was bad but I was not prepared for the severity of the situation, he added.

The community has been rallying around the family, offering emotional and financial support. A GoFundMe page has raised more than $23,000.

The family will have to sell their townhome and buy a place that is wheelchair accessible. They will also face additional expenses related to his ongoing care.

Tammy says the family is overwhelmed with the kindness of the community, including Vedder Mountain Bike Co.

We just thank them so much, so much from the bottom of our heart, said Tammy.

She is also grateful for the help of Chilliwack Search and Rescue on the day of the accident.

The family is looking forward to when Doug will be able to come home, but that isnt expected to happen for many months.

917. It would make a lot more sense just to ban mountain biking!

Mike

https://kbjr6.com/2020/08/10/duluth-fire-dept-app-helps-save-man-alone-paralyzed-on-rural-duluth-biking-trail/

Duluth Fire Dept. app helps save man alone, paralyzed on rural bike trail

August 10, 2020 5:34 pm Jessie Slater News, Top Stories, Twin Ports

DULUTH, MN-- On August 10, 2019, Brok Hansmeyer's life was forever changed.

What started as an afternoon of fun on the trail, quickly turned ugly. But if not for cutting edge technology, there's a chance it would've been deadly.

After dropping his pregnant wife Amanda and two young boys off at the airport, and a full day of work, Brok Hansmeyer was ready for some downtime.

He explained, "I was going to do something fun."

The Duluth Realtor was off the clock and planned to hit the trails. He was hoping to have what he called a "bachelor night". "I was going to go for a long bike ride, come home, eat some pizza and some chips, have a beer."

No stranger to mountain biking, Brok decided to take a ride on an unfamiliar trail within the Mission Creek Trail System.

"I was biking pretty fast. There was kind of this moment where I came off this drop," recalls Brok. "Things took a turn pretty quickly there."

No more than 15-minutes into his ride, Brok crashed his bike and found himself in a nightmare situation. "I slapped my legs, it was like hitting a 50-pound bag of cement."

Landing directly on his head, and smashing his helmet, the impact of the crash left his lower body paralyzed. He said, "There was just nothing there. There was no feeling."

Reaching for his cell phone, struggling to call for help, Brok was thinking the worst. "I'm alone here on a trail where it's remote, I can't move my body. Am I going to die here? How are they going to come find me?"

A passerby stumbled upon the crash and took Brok's phone to call 911. He had to walk down the trail several yards to reach a signal. Finally, the call went through and it wasn't long until help was on the way.

Waylon Munch, a member of Duluth COGGS works on maintaining the Mission Creek Trail System, arrived at the scene shortly after.

"I started getting passed by a bunch of emergency vehicles. I just asked if they needed help locating anyone on the trails. I mentioned that I knew the trail system pretty well," said Munch.

When he spoke with emergency responders, they showed him their iPad with coordinates to Brok. He was located on a black diamond trail, called Flyover Country. The coordinates showing up on the iPad through an app.

"A system was introduced to us called Avenza," said Chief Deputy Scott Kleive with the Duluth Fire Department.

With over 300-miles of trails in a 26-mile long city, there's an ever-growing need for updated data and maps.

Matt Andrews, The City of Duluth Trails Coordinator said, "With so many miles of trail, you can really see how's there a need for this Avenza system."

The system was introduced to the Department in 2016 through a collaborative problem-solving effort with Emergency Management Representatives, The Minnesota DNR, and Duluth Police Department.

So how does Avenza work?

Maps of the trails are built by The City of Duluth GIS department and imported into the system. When someone calls 911 they are able to pinpoint their location. The Duluth Fire Department then puts the coordinates into Avenza and can use a comprehensive map to show the best way to respond.

"We are able to with that build and control what we want to see on a map. Whether it's a snowmobile trail, a bike trail, or a ski trail," said Chief Deputy Kleive.

Avenza is able to shorten response times to emergencies, allowing people to get critical care, quickly.

"Before we had Avenza we had all the maps we would have had a very difficult time finding a patient out in the wilderness," said Capt. Josh Wightman with the Duluth Fire Department.

Avenza allows a response so accurate, it helped saved Brok's life.

Brok said, "I would have died on the trail."

Months into his recovery Brok's journey progressed. As he began to gain movement he just wanted a few simple things

"I wanted to dance with my wife, I can do that now. I can stand, I just wanted to stand. I wanted to wrestle with my boys," said Brok with tears in his eyes.

A year later, Brok is walking again, getting back to selling homes in Duluth, and working on getting his driver's license.

He never imagined so many people would come together to help his family in a time of need. He said, "We've just had so much support, so much love. And people have cared so much about our family."

First responders still remembering that day on the trails and how an app saved critical time when time was key.

Munch from COGGS said, "You hope you never have to use it but it's really nice to know you can rely on it when it's needed."

Brok and his family are thankful every day for those first responders and remember how precious each day is.

Brok said, "Our life very much drastically changed from, going to a fun bike ride in the woods, working that day to you know, am I going to die? I'm very grateful that the City of Duluth had that GPS system."

Brok expressed that someday he hopes to go back with his to the spot where he crashed. He feels it will help him grieve the body function he has lost.

As for the Duluth Fire Department, they said Avenza is still a new tool so they are working on getting numbers down as to how many calls a year they respond to, however, the app continues to be a success.

They did mentioned they've used it dozens of times since 2016.

918. 47 should be old enough to know better....

Mike

https://jacksonholeradio.com/2020/08/mountain-bike-rescue-in-victor/

Mountain Bike Rescue in Victor

by Jackson Hole Radio News

The Teton County Idaho Sheriffs office Dispatch received a call for assistance Sunday from an injured 47-year-old male mountain biker on upper Lady Slipper in Victor Idaho. Teton County Search and Rescue personnel as well as Teton County Fire and Rescue were dispatched to the scene of the accident at 11:30 am. A ground team from Search and Rescue hiked Lady slipper and was on scene with the injured party by 12:15. Search and Rescue personnel also transported two fire department medics to the scene via ATV. The injured party, who was not immediately identified, was assessed, stabilized, packaged and transported to the trail head where he was transferred to a waiting ambulance and taken to Teton Valley Health for medical treatment of possible multiple fractures.

919. https://www.ksby.com/news/local-news/mountain-biker-rescued-by-helicopter-after-breaking-leg-in-los-padres-national-forest

Mountain biker rescued by helicopter after breaking leg in Los Padres National Forest

Photo by: Santa Barbara County Fire
By: KSBY Staff
Posted at 7:09 PM, Aug 16, 2020
and last updated 7:10 PM, Aug 16, 2020

Santa Barbara County Fire Department rescued a biker who suffered a broken leg in the Los Padres National Forest.

According to fire officials, a fire engine, battalion chief and helicopter respond to reports of an injured mountain biker off of Snyder Trail near Paradise Rd. around 4:15 p.m. Sunday.

A helicopter with hoisting capabilities responded due to the remote location the biker was in, authorities said.

According to Santa Barbara County Fire, the mountain biker was a 35 minute hike from top or bottom of the mountain, so emergency crews made the decision to hoist the patient into the helicopter.

The biker suffered major injuries to the lower body.

Hoist rescue. SBC along with USFS LP assisted a 40 YO biker with a broken leg off of Snyder Trail off paradise Rd. SBCASU lowered SBC FFPM to assess treat and package patient for transport to Cottage. #paradiseInc. Call Newsline pic.twitter.com/eGpP2M7c1i

Daniel Bertucelli (@SBCFireInfo) August 17, 2020

The patient was then airlifted to Santa Barbara Cottage Hospital for further treatment.

920. https://www.kbzk.com/news/local-news/pair-of-mountain-bike-crashes-keep-search-and-rescue-busy-on-saturday

Pair of mountain bike crashes keep search and rescue busy on Saturday

By: MTN News
Posted at 12:07 PM, Aug 17, 2020
and last updated 11:07 AM, Aug 17, 2020

BOZEMAN A pair of mountain biker crashes brought out Gallatin County Search and Rescue on Saturday.

At 3:15 pm, Gallatin County 911 received a call of an unconscious mountain biker on the Mystic Lake trail. Members from Gallatin County Sheriffs Search and Rescue, AMR, and Fort Ellis Fire Department responded to the scene. They reached the man, who had been riding down the trail with a friend when he lost control and crashed, quickly and safely transported him down the trail. The rider was wearing a helmet, but when he regained consciousness he was unaware of his surroundings and struggled to answer questions. Over time he regained his bearings and began responding appropriately. He was transported by his family to the hospital with minor injuries.

At 4:44 pm Gallatin County 911 received a report that a man was injured while mountain biking on the Mountain to the Meadow trail in Big Sky. The 36-year-old man had injured his shoulder and neck while several miles back on technical trails. Rescuers from Gallatin County Sheriffs Search and Rescue at Big Sky and Big Sky Fire Department located the man and were able to transport him to a waiting ambulance. The man was evaluated and transported to the hospital.

Photo courtesy of Gallatin County Sheriff's Office

921. If expert mountain bikers aren't safe, what does that say about everyone else?

Mike

https://www.bbc.com/news/world-europe-isle-of-man-53860697

Isle of Man mountain biker died in 'freak' fall over ramp

21 August 2020
copyright IOM POLICE Image caption Nigel Park had taken part in the event at least 10 times, the court was told

A mountain biker died after going "over the handlebars" of his bicycle while negotiating a ramp during a race on the Isle of Man, an inquest has heard.

Nigel Park, from Glen Mona, fell off his bike in a field near Ballacraine during the End2End Mountain Bike Challenge in September 2019.

The 71-year-old suffered "catastrophic" injuries when he landed on his head.

Mr Park was a "capable and experienced" rider who knew the course well, the hearing was told.

But the court heard he "took off" while going over a ramp created by a gap cut in a hedge between two fields.

A fellow competitor who witnessed the crash described it as a "freak accident" on a "fast" part of the course, which was popular with riders.

A report by the island's health and safety inspectorate found there was nothing in the set-up or management of the event that contributed to the death.
Image copyright Google Image caption The accident happened in a field near to Ballacraine

However, while the correct warning signage around the ramp was in place the only marshal on duty in the area was inexperienced, the court heard.

Coroner Jayne Hughes said although that "did not affect the outcome" of the accident, additional changes should be made.

She recommended new marshals should receive "training, proper instruction and suitable supervision".

Marshals who witness serious incidents in future should be invited to a debrief meeting, she added.

Ruling the death was an accident, Mrs Hughes passed on her condolences to Mr Park's daughters, who attended the hearing at Douglas Courthouse.

In a statement, they described him as "a legend in his own lifetime", who had developed a "passion" for mountain biking.

The painter and decorator was a regular participant in the annual event, which takes competitors along a 47-mile (75km) route from the Point of Ayre at the island's most northern tip to Port Erin in the south.

922. https://www.idahostatesman.com/news/local/article245213925.html

51-year-old man dead after he was found unresponsive on mountain bike trail

By Nicole Blanchard
August 24, 2020 04:17 PM

The Ada County Coroners Office on Monday identified a 51-year-old Eagle man who died after he was found unresponsive at a local bike park.

John Marc Hegewald was found down and unresponsive Sunday on a mountain bike trail at Eagle Bike Park, the coroners office said in a news release. Hegewald was taken to Saint Alphonsus Regional Medical Center, where he was pronounced dead at 5:43 p.m.

Officials said they do not suspect any foul play and believe Hegewalds death was accidental. Toxicology results could take several weeks to return.

923. https://www.wiscnews.com/bdc/news/local/education/dodgeland-fundraiser-planned-for-student-injured-in-biking-accident/article_82c95dc5-d084-5159-8204-472c05f8ef10.html

Dodgeland fundraiser planned for student injured in biking accident

Tpederson

The AVA STRONG logo on purple gear is being sold to benefit a Dodgeland student severely injured in a mountain biking crash.
SHALLON PAAR, Contributed

JUNEAU A fundraiser at Dodgeland school encourages students and families to purchase clothing to benefit the family of a child who was injured in a biking accident over the summer.

The AVA STRONG t-shirt/sweatshirt fundraiser at https://davem23.sg-host.com/index.php/store will benefit Ava Finger, a freshman at Dodgeland High School who broke her back while vacationing with her family in Wyoming on Aug. 20.

The AVA STRONG t-shirt/sweatshirt fundraiser is something I put together with Marbin LLC to help raise money for the family for anything they may need it for such as travel expenses, house modification, or medical bills, Shallon Paar said. We were able to get the clothing down to cost so most of the money from each item sold is going back to the family. Purple was the color decided because that way if kids from school would order they would be able to wear them on Friday for purple pride day at school and support Ava.

Finger crashed while mountain biking and went over a banked turn. She sustained fracture of the thoracic vertebrae, T7 to T9, and had surgery to stabilize the fracture and have rods and screws placed.

She was transferred Monday to Shirley Ryan Rehabilitation Center in Chicago for extensive rehab, Paar said.

Paar is the mother of Harmony Henschel who goes to school with Ava.

They played volleyball together, Paar said. Plus, she is a member of the Dodgeland Youth Wrestling Club with my boys. We have a small club, so we get to know each others families well and become one ourselves.

The online store will be open until Sept 8. The pick-up for the shirts will be in the Dodgeland Elementary parking lot on Sept. 30 from 5:30 to 7 p.m. Paar said the parking lot will allow social distancing and the orders will be presorted so items can be picked up quickly.

924. https://www.e-know.ca/regions/elk-valley/fernie/biker-with-suspected-spinal-injuries-rescued-near-fernie/

Biker with suspected spinal injuries rescued near Fernie
Posted: September 12, 2020

Fernie Search and Rescue (SAR) was called out this morning to respond to an injured mountain biker.

The biker, a 44-year-old local woman, was injured on a structure on the Snakebite Trail, with suspected spinal injuries.

Three Fernie SAR CDFL Techs responded with Ascent Helicopters.

The biker was long-lined (pictured above) to BC Ambulance Service and transferred to Cranbrooks East Kootenay Regional Hospital.

925. https://www.stuff.co.nz/national/health/122760044/life-after-a-traumatic-brain-injury-learning-to-eat-walk-and-talk-again

Life after a traumatic brain injury: Learning to eat, walk and talk again

Cecile Meier18:29, Sep 20 2020
Dale Henley broke his back and had a traumatic brain injury in a mountain biking accident last year. He stayed two months in a rehab facility run by Laura Fergusson trust in Christchurch and credits the place for a full recovery.

Dale Henley cannot remember flying over his handlebars and landing on his head.

The days before the mountain biking accident are blacked out. Henley woke in hospital after four nights in a coma and learned to walk, talk and eat again. Eight weeks were wiped from his memory.

But after so far making a strong recovery, he has learned that the clinic which helped rehabilitate him is closing down.

Henleys fiancee and best friend wrote details of his recovery in a journal for him. This is how the Christchurch mechanic and father pieced together what he has been through.

Henley broke five vertebrae and suffered a traumatic brain injury (TBI) on a Christchurch Port Hills track 10 months ago. He has been told people usually need about 18 months before returning to work, driving and talking normally again after such an injury, but he is already doing this and more.

While he has given up bike racing for good, he has been on his pushbike and motorbike again.

Henley was 50 metres into the public track when he fell on the first jump. He was riding with his fiancees son Isaiah Piper, 16 at the time, who had just completed a first aid course.
ALDEN WILLIAMS/Stuff
18092020 photo Alden Williams Christchurch man Dale Henley broke his back and suffered a traumatic brain injury in a mountain biking accident last year.

Piper called 111, put an unconscious Henley in the recovery position, and kept him breathing.

A Christchurch Hospital anaesthetist happened to be riding on the Victoria Park track that day. She helped paramedics insert an IV line in Henleys foot after several failed attempts, then firefighters carried him out of the bush to a waiting rescue helicopter.
Doctors told Henley the helmet he was wearing at the time of the accident saved his life.

When he arrived at the hospital, Henley scored 6 on the Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS), a scoring system used to gauge the severity of an acute brain injury. Zero means dead, and 16 means no injury. A score under 8 means a severe TBI, which can result in long-term physical, cognitive and emotional damage.

Doctors told his fiancee he might not survive and might not remember her.

Henley did remember everyone around him, but could not talk, walk or eat.

I was like a baby. I had to learn how to do everything again.

He spent another week in the neuroscience ward before transferring to a rehabilitation unit for two months.

The five-bed facility, run by The Laura Fergusson Trust, will close in November due to a funding change from ACC and a drop in demand. When Henley read about the closure, he felt compelled to share his story.
ALDEN WILLIAMS/Stuff
Dale Henley broke his back and suffered a traumatic brain injury in a mountain biking accident last year.

About 15 staff will likely lose their jobs and patients from Canterbury, the West Coast, Nelson and Marlborough will have to travel to Dunedin, Wellington or Auckland for rehabilitation.

Henley credits the unit and its team of physiotherapists, speech therapists, psychologists, nurses and doctors with his recovery.

They taught me how to be human again. Hands down if it wasnt for [the] Laura Fergusson [Trust], I wouldnt be back at work today.

They had so much respect for me as a person. They pushed me and made me feel like I had something to live for.
Registered nurse Pauline Dawson outside the Laura Fergusson Trust, Canterburys only traumatic brain injury rehabilitation service which is due to close with the loss of about 15 staff.

His dad, a gardener, was so grateful to the trust he has offered to work on its garden for free.

When Henley was down, staff took him for a walk around the park or sat down with him to talk. After he left the unit, his physiotherapist helped him get back on his bike at Bottle Lake park and his speech therapist went to his workplace, a motorbike garage, to work out a plan to get him back to work.

Having his fiancee, friends and family by his side during his rehabilitation made a huge difference, he said. He could not have had the same level of support had he travelled to another city for treatment.

His fiancee sat with him for hours, reminding him of the details of his life and reassuring him. He was able to see his 9-year-old son regularly. Losing the Christchurch rehabilitation unit would be a massive loss and he worried other patients would not have the same chance at recovery, he said.

Henley returned to work about two months ago on reduced hours and has started biking again, but will be staying on the ground.

He still needs lots of rest and sleep, occasionally forgets what he is talking about mid-sentence and cannot multi-task, but is putting all of his energy into his family.

Before, I put my family first but it was all about racing. All my money went into it. [The accident] has changed my perspective on life. I am building a house now, doing what adults do.

An ACC spokeswoman said it was common for people to travel for specialist services, such as to brain injury, spinal cord and burns units.

ACC was revising how it funded the traumatic brain injury services, which were highly specialised and cost a lot to run, she said. It was not seeking another provider for the Canterbury contract.

Last year ACC received more than 7300 claims for mountain bike-related injuries, nearly 1500 of which were from Canterbury the worst region in the country.
Dale Henley with the bike he was riding and helmet he was wearing when he had his accident 10 months ago.

926. https://www.lep.co.uk/news/mountain-biker-suffers-horror-injury-gisburn-forest-air-ambulance-and-rescue-teams-mobilised-2977768

Mountain biker suffers horror injury in Gisburn Forest, air ambulance and rescue teams mobilised

A mountain biker had to be rescued by rescue teams after crashing on the trails in Gisburn Forest yesterday (Saturday, September 19).

By Matthew Calderbank
Sunday, 20th September 2020, 4:24 pm
Updated Sunday, 20th September 2020, 4:28 pm
The man was rescued by Bowland Pennine Mountain Rescue Team after he fell into a deep ditch next to the forest's mountain bike trails at 1.30pm yesterday (Saturday, September 19). Pic: Bowland Pennine Mountain Rescue Team

The man was rescued by Bowland Pennine Mountain Rescue Team after he fell into a deep ditch next to the forest's mountain bike trails at 1.30pm.

In the team's 61st call out of the year, a total of 12 volunteers were mobilised and rushed to his aid, where they discovered that his injured ankle was facing the wrong way.

The air ambulance was called into action whilst the mountain rescue teams made their way through the depths of the forest to locate the injured cyclist.

The man was given gas and oxygen to help relieve some of his pain whilst the team secured his ankle with a splint, before he was handed into the care of the ambulance service and rushed to Airedale Hospital in West Yorkshire.

A spokesman for BPMRT said: "We received a call from the North West Ambulance Service about a male mountain biker who had fallen on the trails at Gisburn Forest.

"When we arrived on scene we quickly attended the mountain biker who had quite clearly damaged his ankle (it was facing the wrong way!).

"The North West Air Ambulance arrived and together we treated the casualty and after splinting his ankle he was evacuated to a land ambulance and transported to Airedale Hospital.

"A very big thank you to our Team members and to the North West Air Ambulance on another weekend call out.

"Our best wishes go to the casualty and hopefully he will make a speedy and full recovery."

927. https://www.nytimes.com/2020/09/24/business/accessible-van-adventures.html

A Quadriplegic, a Specialty Van and a Lifetime of Adventures

A biking accident left Kirk Williams paralyzed, but he has traveled widely and inspired others to follow in his tire tracks.
Kirk Williams in Baja, Mexico. When I take the lift out of the van, he said, everyone seems to stop what theyre doing to watch me. Credit...Kirk Williams

By Mercedes Lilienthal

Sept. 24, 2020, 5:00 a.m. ET

Kirk Williams loved racing mountain bikes and enjoyed playing on anything that had a motor, he said.

Katie Renker, a photographer and musician, chained herself to big pink boats in climate protests and sang songs with refugee choirs.

Mr. Williams graduated in 2009 with a degree in sociology from the University of Colorado in Boulder, although after spending a semester abroad in Ghana, Africa, I knew my career path was headed towards travel, photography and storytelling, he said.

Four months later, he crashed on a routine mountain bike ride and broke his neck leaving him a quadriplegic, with no movement below his upper chest and limited sensation in his arms and hands.

Just over 14 months ago, Ms. Renkers life also derailed. She beautifully exploded my C7 vertebra by diving into a lake at midnight that turned out to be quite shallow during a Tinder date gone wrong, she said. It left her paralyzed from the collarbone down.

Mr. Williams never lost his adventurous spirit, and with a specially outfitted van, he has traveled widely and inspired people like Ms. Renker, with whom he has communicated via Instagram. He made a trek to Alaska in 2015 and has just returned from a trip to Argentina in his 2017 Ford Transit van.

The medium roof is a great height, he said, adding that it was barely short enough to fit inside a high cube container for international shipping.

Loren Worthington, vice president for marketing and communication for Ability360, a nonprofit group in Arizona that supports people with disabilities, has picked Mr. Williamss brain about what has worked and what hasnt in his accessible van. Mr. Worthington, who was injured playing baseball 36 years ago, also pilots a four-wheel-drive accessible van.

Mr. Williamss willingness to share private details about living on the road with a disability sets him apart, Mr. Worthington said.

Other people with disabilities often dont even think its possible to travel until they meet someone like Kirk, whos an open book, he added.

The details are complex, but the cost is whats daunting. The biggest hurdle in accessible vehicles, Mr. Williams said, is often the enormous expense that goes into modifying them to work for you. Building accessible vans with mobility equipment can start at $30,000. But programs or grants can help offset costs.
Image
Mr. Williams using hand controls to navigate the streets of Buenos Aires.Credit...Clayton Williams

For his retrofitting project, Mr. Williams qualified for a Colorado Division of Vocational Rehabilitation program.

Not all states have as well-funded programs, and not all people qualify for them, he said. The process is slow, tedious and took me nearly a year and a half to complete. Although he received aid for 75 percent of the project, he bought the van himself.

That was when he got in touch with Leland Gilmore, a fellow cyclist, at Benchmark Vehicles in Portland, Ore. The business now specializes in high-end vans but was originally a cabinet and furniture company.

Mr. Gilmore was just getting going in the van game, Mr. Williams said. They immediately hit it off, he said.

Mr. Gilmore added, Once I got on board with the story and his mission, I was really motivated to do it.

Before starting, Mr. Williams simulated layouts using coffee tables and painters tape. He measured how high he could transfer into bed, what angles he needed, how tall his knees were and how high counters were.

While the alterations to help Mr. Williams drive the van and get his wheelchair in and out were completed by a licensed mobility specialist, the interior was completed by Benchmark Vehicles. Consequently, Mr. Williamss van is more comfortable for him than hotel rooms certified as compliant with the Americans With Disabilities Act.

This apartment on wheels uses only electric amenities. It would be difficult for me to fill up a propane tank, and I dont like to be around open flames, Mr. Williams said. I dont have temperature sensation in about 80 percent of my body, he added, and fire in a wooden van scares me. Mr. Williams no longer sweats or shivers, so I need to make sure I can stay warm and cool accordingly, as well.
Image
Mr. Williams at the sink in his van. The amenities have helped him maintain his independence.Credit...Clayton Williams

He is proud of the vans ample counter space and storage areas. Its really difficult for me to lean over and do anything without any core muscle functions, he said. Pullout counters and drawers with adaptive cooking knives and can openers make things easier. Wide aisles for his wheelchair mean greater maneuverability. Incorporating proper heights and clearances was critical.

The van has an induction stovetop, a 12-volt refrigerator, a sink, a heater, insulation, operable windows, a bed and other amenities.

After his accident, Mr. Williams learned to live independently. This led me to starting my own drone photography business, providing photos and videos for everything from construction projects to movies, he said. He added that he was one of the only quadriplegic drone pilots certified by the Federal Aviation Administration.

He has piloted the van over 45,000 miles so far, traveling from Key West to Seattle to Cabo San Lucas, Mexico, and down to Ushuaia, Argentina, from Santiago, Chile.

All those miles take a toll. Ive had issues with my lift, the power door and the power seat base, Mr. Williams said. Everything except for the hand controls. Accessibility equipment isnt made for harsh environments, and not every mechanics shop can fix the gear, either.
Image
In El Chalt鮬 Argentina, part of Los Glaciares National Park.Credit...Clayton Williams

After all of his experiences, Mr. Williams is eager to give back, and he has teamed with the nonprofit Walkabout Foundation, which provides wheelchairs in developing countries and teaches about adapting vehicles for accessibility. For just over $300, Walkabout can deliver a wheelchair anywhere in the world. Mr. Williamss goal is to raise $15,000 to ship an entire container of wheelchairs to Latin America.

He also gives talks at hospitals as a peer mentor, teaching patients about adaptive overlanding or van life.

Kirk is a yaysayer, not a naysayer, said Topher Downham, an outreach coordinator at the City of Boulder Open Space and Mountain Parks. Mr. Downham is a quadriplegic, too, and he and Mr. Williams have become good friends.

They have traveled together on multiple adventures, like scuba diving in Cozumel and four-wheel mountain biking on the steep trails around Boulder. There are a lot of good people around the world thatll help you in a pinch, Mr. Downham said.

Mr. Williams realized that people with and without physical obstacles were curious about adapting vehicles. His goal is to build a website with information about his van as well as networking opportunities.

His wheelchair breaks down prejudices, he said. People generally are excited and willing to help me any way they can, he said. When I take the lift out of the van, everyone seems to stop what theyre doing to watch me. Hes used to that, knowing that people are excited to see whats possible with a disability.

The coronavirus had kept Mr. Williams stuck in Buenos Aires for four months. But he was fortunate to have his brother, Clayton, with him. They recently returned to the United States to continue helping others.
Image
People generally are excited and willing to help me any way they can, said Mr. Williams, with his dog, Bella.Credit...Clayton Williams

His Instagram acquaintance, Ms. Renker, plans to move to Edinburgh to start her degree in transformative teaching and learning. After talking to Mr. Williams, shes inspired. Her dream is to build an accessible sailboat and sail back to her childhood home in Sri Lanka.

I wanted to change the world. And I will, she said.

Things arent always easy, Ms. Renker acknowledged, but having people like Mr. Williams to help guide her helps.

Adventure and freedom and independence were everything to me, she said, with him in mind. So, keep living like you do, so I know I can too.

928. https://www.shropshirestar.com/news/health/2020/09/23/fundraising-appeal-as-hospital-treats-man-severely-injured-in-mountain-biking-accident/

Fundraising appeal as hospital treats man severely injured in mountain biking accident

By David Banner | Oswestry | Health | Published: Sep 23, 2020

A fundraising drive has been launched to help support a young man, who suffered life-changing injuries in a downhill mountain bike accident.

Jake Halling

On Sunday July 12, 21-year-old Jake Halling met with a group of his friends as he did most weekends to enjoy one of their favourite outdoor activities downhill mountain biking.

However the day had devastating consequence as despite Jake successfully clearing and landing a large and fast downhill jump something he had done countless times before the front suspension forks on his bike snapped.

It left Jake taking the full force and speed of the impact and as a result, suffering a complete spinal cord injury, leaving him without use and feeling of his body from the chest down.

Jake, who is currently a patient on Gladstone Ward within the Midland Centre for Spinal Injuries (MCSI) at The Robert Jones and Agnes Hunt Orthopaedic Hospital (RJAH), also suffered from multiple facial injuries and a broken neck.

Now as he comes to terms with his injuries, his family have set up a fundraising appeal to help them with his future needs, including making the family home accessible, by building an annexe.

So far, the appeal has raised more than 46,000 as well as a number of businesses and individuals coming forward with offers of their time and skills to plan, estimate the cost, build, fit out and finish the build to support Jakes needs.

Jake, from Collington, near Bromyard, says he and his family have been absolutely blown away by the generosity and support shown by family and friends, especially Bromyard Cricket Club and the local community for recent fundraising events.

He said: We cant begin to thank everyone enough for the kindness theyve shown me and my family during this time. Weve even had complete strangers get in touch, donate or offer any help they can, its been absolutely phenomenal.

Ive always been someone whos been happy to quietly go about my life under the radar but I realise that my family and I cant do this by ourselves.

A self-employed builder, Jake has always lived an extremely active lifestyle, as well as biking, he also enjoys fishing and kayaking in his free time.

My injuries have been a lot to come to terms with, Im trying to remain positive but some days are hard. Im so used to being busy and active, so its a big adjustment, he said.

Its frustrating because Ive had bigger crashes than this before, in the past Ive fallen, Ive cleared bigger jumps, Ive even been wrapped around trees, Ive had some close shaves, so for me its dealing with the fact that it was down to the bike and that was out of my own control. It really goes to show that you never know whats around the corner.

My focus now is to keep as positive as I can and continue to stay strong and make progress. The team on MCSI have been absolutely incredible, I know Im in the very best hands right now.

Jake has been at RJAH for just over nine weeks now and is making solid progress, having started daily Physiotherapy sessions, which have seen him start to sit up.

Rebecca Ward, MCSI Ward Manager, has praised Jake for his resilience and determined attitude.

She said: Jake is a truly amazing young man, hes very headstrong and extremely driven. Were all incredibly proud of the progress hes made so far.

I have seen many patients like Jake that go on and live life to the extreme and the fullest, and with Jakes passion and determination, I know he will achieve the very best.

Its still early days but in the coming months, as Jake gets closer to returning home, our fantastic Resettlement team will have a huge part to play in this. Supporting Jake and his family, the team will plan his discharge from the hospital, as well identify his care and equipment requirements, as well as liaising with health and social services.

They will play a vital role in determining what Jake will need long-term.

Anyone who wishes to domnate to Jakes fundraising appeal, can do so via the JustGiving link here: https://www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/gemma-halling-smith?fbclid=IwAR3pVz917E1MGODh3I3azCe8nAQeROevnIRWw1JpRxfyA4kbBuHgru5yl0c

929. https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/news/article.cfm?c_id=1&objectid=12368344

Mountain biker dies on downhill track near Nelson

27 Sep, 2020 7:24pm
A mountainbiker has died on a track near Nelson similar to this one photographed near Queenstown. Photo / File
NZ Herald

A Nelson mountain biker has died after crashing on a downhill trail near Nelson.

A spokeswoman said police attended a sudden death on the K k Mountain Bike Track in the Hira Forest near Maitai east of Nelson on Saturday afternoon.

"A person had crashed, however it is unclear whether the death was directly related to the crash or whether the rider had a medical event," she said.

The Nelson Mountain Bike Club has announced on Facebook that the trail is now tapu and local iwi Ng ti Koata have placed a r hui [ban] on the track.

Following the tragic death of a NMTBC member on K k DH yesterday, the trail is now tapu and Ng ti Koata have placed a...

Posted by Nelson Mountain Bike Club on Saturday, 26 September 2020

"The trail will remain closed until Tuesday. Out of respect we ask that no one rides or walks the trail," it said.

"Our deepest sympathies go out to the family, muri aroha."

Club members have posted condolences on the Facebook page.

"Oh my. That's awful news. Deepest sympathy," one said.

Another said: "That's so tragic , sending condolences and love to all affected."

The death comes only a day after a person was airlifted to hospital after an accident at the Christchurch Adventure Park, which features mountain bike trails, zip-lining, and hiking.

930. https://www.vcstar.com/story/news/2020/09/27/ventura-man-makes-big-splash-after-near-death-experience-anacapa-channel-islands-harbor/3498337001/

'I'm just so thankful to be alive': Ventura man makes splash after nearly dying in cras

Shivani Patel
Ventura County Star

Calm waters greeted Rich Haggerty, Enrique Lopez and Doug Macaulay on Wednesday morning, a sign of luck for their plan to paddle board from Anacapa Island back to Channel Islands Harbor Marina.

For Haggerty, a 54-year-old Ventura resident, the 14 miles of stand-up paddle boarding was a particularly emotional journey. A life-threatening mountain biking accident last year left him and his doctors questioning whether or not he would be able to walk let alone get back into the water.

I needed six miracles that day, and I got all six, he said, reflecting on the June 2019 accident.

Haggerty was biking down the peak of Topatopa Mountains on a fire road with a friend when his bike hit a hole covered by overgrown weeds. He was launched off the bike, damaging his neck and upper back.

The two were miraculously able to get cell service, according to Haggerty, and were able to call for help.

Ventura County Sheriffs Department Search and Rescue airlifted Haggerty to Ventura County Medical Center, where the doctors performed emergency surgery to move a dislodged vertebrae off of his spinal cord.

During the procedure, they realized it was worse than their initial thought: Two vertebrae in his neck were completely broken, and all the ligaments in his neck and upper back were ruptured.

Its a miracle Im alive, Haggerty said. His neck is now supported by two rods and 16 screws, as described in Experience Rich, a podcast series he recorded after the experience.

Prior to the injury, the Ventura resident lived an active lifestyle. He surfed, biked, skied and competed in Ironman triathlons.

Now Im hearing the doctors say we need to see if you can stand and take a few steps, Haggerty recalled on the podcast. For me, the shock and trauma was real.

He started 14 months of physical therapy, which he described as a grueling experience.

I had no idea what was in front of me, he said.

About four months after the surgery, he still couldnt move his neck left or right, but he began walking long distances with the help of a walker.

By October 2019, Haggerty walked the Ventura Half Marathon as part of his got to do something mentality.

Megan Bishop, who helped Haggerty through the Studio City rehabilitation center Core Conditioning, called his recovery amazing. The only issue he has now is with neck extension.

"Im just the guidance. He had to put in the work," she said.

In May, he went swimming in a pool his first time actively in water since the accident. Although the experience was traumatic, he continued to push himself.

Later that month, he began paddle boarding.

"I used to tell the paddle boarders they suck," Haggerty, who previously preferred surfing, joked. Post-accident, paddle boarding was safer for him to do.

One day about three months ago, Haggerty and Lopez paddle boarded to a buoy from C Street at the Ventura Harbor. They looked to the right and saw Anacapa in the distance.

Haggerty explained he was alive and so was his spirit. With a newly-purchased long-distance paddle board, he thought, "Why not?"

From there, the two began training as a crew with a couple of others. Haggerty explained that a good group dynamic agreeing to safety protocols like wearing emergency whistles and staying within sight of each other, for example was important.

Two of their crew had prior commitments, so Macaulay was brought on as a last minute addition.

Then, it was a matter of finding the right date and time to go out. Lopez said the water was turbulent every time they trained, so that's what the crew expected on Wednesday.

"(We) became junior weathermen, looking at the winds and everything like that," said Haggerty. "Derek, the captain of the Sunfish, he's been amazing, lining up the window for us and giving us some flexibility."

Day of, Haggerty said the ocean was calm.

The three core paddle boarders, plus a few others on the boat, left the Channel Islands marina by 5 a.m. Haggerty, Lopez and Macaulay got on their boards once the boat neared the Anacapa Arch Rock.

After some careful maneuvering around the rock formation, the three were on open water.

Three-and-a-half hours later, while the boat with the rest of the crew docked at the marina, the three paddled over to Silver Strand Beach to touch the land.

"Paddling across, it was just a lot of ... clear my head time," said Haggerty. "And then when we got near the entrance to the harbor, that's when just the whole thing hit me."

"It's actually kind of hard to say right now, but I paddled over to Enrique and I had tears. I just thanked him for getting me out doing this ... I'm just so thankful to be alive," he said.

Shivani Patel covers education for The Star as a Report for America corps member. Reach her at shivani.patel@vcstar.com or 805-603-6573. She is also on Twitter at @shivaaanip.

931. https://sunpeaksnews.com/mat-the-alien-suffers-serious-mountain-biking-accident

Mat the Alien suffers serious mountain biking accident

Whistler DJ has been a fixture of B.C.s electronic music scene for over 20 years
Joel Barde, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter | October 5, 2020

A fixture of B.C.s electronic music scene has suffered a serious mountain biking accident.

Mat Andrewor, as most know him, Mat the Aliensuffered a terrible mountain bike crash on October 2 and was immediately airlifted to Vancouver General Hospital for an emergency surgery on his vertebrae and spinal cord, according to a GoFundMe campaign set up to support him.

While its still very early on and new information continues to come in daily, we know that Mat is currently paralyzed from the chest down, reads the post. This road to recovery will be a long and emotional battle for Mat. While we all know he is not one to shy away from a challenge, this is going to be the biggest fight of his life.

The post also says that Andrews brain appears to be undamaged, and that his loved ones expect him to have lots to say when his breathing tube is removed.
Mat Andrew (Mat the Alien) has been playing sets in B.C. for over 20 years. Photo courtesy of GoFundMe.

Andrew has been a fixture of Whistlers club scene for over 20 years, having moved to the community in 1995. He also played in Sun Peaks during Snowbombing Canada in 2017 and was scheduled to play at Masas in February of 2020.

I snowboarded every day in the winter and mountain biked every day in the summer, said Andrew in an 2013 interview.

In addition, Andrew has toured B.C. extensively, playing marquee festivals, including Shambhala and Bass Coast numerous times.

Andrew played a particularly memorable set at the 2018 Bass Coast alongside The Librarian (Andrea Graham), the co-founder and music director of the festival, which is held yearly in Merritt, BC.

Mat had always lifted me up, inspired me, and been supportive in life and in music, wrote Graham in a Facebook post.

He is incredibly caring and giving. Its time to rally and support him throughout this difficult journey.
So far, the GoFundMe has raised over $27,000, with a goal of $200,000. To donate, click here.

933. https://www.stuff.co.nz/national/123007207/west-coast-man-killed-in-mountain-biking-crash-on-denniston-plateau

West Coast man killed in mountain biking crash on Denniston Plateau

Joanne Carroll14:55, Oct 07 2020

Ian Gregory Storer died in a mountain biking crash on the West Coast on Sunday.

A West Coaster who died while mountain biking was a well-respected pig breeder and a dedicated volunteer in his community.

Westport man Ian Gregory Storer, 63, died in a mountain bike crash on the Denniston Plateau, east of Westport, on Sunday afternoon.

Kevin Storer said his brother had a zest for life and a fun-loving attitude.

He was generous with his time and advice.

In the short time he lived in Westport he got involved in a lot of clubs and voluntary work.

Ian Storer and his wife, Lynne, moved to Westport to retire and enjoy the outdoors after a lifetime of pig farming in Kaiapoi, north of Christchurch.
John Bisset/Stuff
An aerial view of the old Denniston mine site on the West Coast.

His brother said he was a well-respected pig breeder and was proactively involved in the pork industry and with regulatory work.

Storer went to Rangiora High School and always loved sport, particularly rugby and water and snow sports.

Kevin Storer said his brother was a stalwart of the Broken River Ski Club. He joined in the early 1990s and earned life membership in 2015.

He served as the clubs vice president and president and contributed columns to its newsletter, titled From the Pig Pen.
Ian Storer loved sport, particularly mountain biking, rugby, and water and snow sports.

Ian Storer was mountain biking with three others on the Denniston plateau when he took a tumble and hit his head on the track.

He had been biking for some years and thoroughly enjoyed the adventure the Denniston Plateau offered, Kevin Storer said.

[He] did numerous tracks around the Buller like The Old Ghost Road and the Heaphy.

Storer thanked emergency services personnel who tried to help his brother.

A St John spokesman said an ambulance attended the crash scene.

A police spokeswoman said police had been notified of the incident.

934. https://www.bicycling.com/racing/a34347757/kate-courtney-crashes-at-mountain-bike-world-championships-2020/

Kate Courtney Crashes Hard at UCI Mountain Bike World Championships

The former world champion withdrew from the race after experiencing concussion symptoms.
By Jessica Coulon
Oct 12, 2020
Bartek Wolinski/Red Bull Content Pool

Kate Courtney crashed at the 2020 UCI Mountain Bike World Championships, and after resuming her race, she withdrew because of concussion symptoms.
The course was wet and muddy for much of the championships, creating challenging conditions for the riders.

Pro mountain biker Kate Courtney, 24, crashed during the womens elite cross country race on Saturday at the UCI Mountain Bike World Championships in Leogang, Austria, forcing her to withdraw.

The course conditions were wet and muddy for most of the seven-day competition, which proved challenging at times for many of the riders.

Courtney had a strong start to the race and was riding within the top ten, but she experienced a mechanical problem during the first full race lap prior to crashing, according to USA Cycling. The mechanical cost her roughly a minute of time and set her back to 19th place.

Regardless of the mechanical, Courtney said she ultimately decided to pull out of the race after realizing she may have suffered a concussion during the crash that happened after.

That was a tough one. Crashed in a high-speed, non-technical section of the course and hit the deck hard, Courtney wrote in an Instagram post yesterday. Tried to continue but once the adrenaline wore off, signs of a concussion set in.

TIP: Symptoms of a concussion can include a headache, brain fog, nausea, unsteadiness, drowsiness, irritability, slower reaction times, severe mood swings, and loss of consciousness.

Concussions are common injuries for amateur and professional cyclists alike. Even mild concussions should be taken seriously and evaluated by a specialist as soon as possible. Research has shown that the earlier you treat a concussion, the better the outcome and the sooner you can recover.

Only the third DNF of my racing career but an easy decision to protect my brain, Courtney said.

Courtney was the elite womens world champion in cross country mountain biking in 2018 and the 2019 World Cup champion. Leading up to Worlds this year, Courtney has also been training for the Tokyo Olympics; she was a quick pick for the U.S. Olympic team and the first mountain biker to secure a spot.

American Erin Huck secured the fastest time for the U.S. team in the womens elite cross country race, finishing in 16th place.

In the end, riders in the Under-23 category had some of the best results for the U.S. team at the world championships: Christopher Blevins won a silver medal in the U23 mens race and Haley Batten placed fourth in the U23 womens race. American Ella Erickson also placed fifth on Sunday in the junior womens downhill race.

935. https://gazette.com/news/colorado-springs-man-53-dies-in-mountain-bike-crash-in-palmer-park/article_1fa02838-10b5-11eb-98aa-2f1bc05e3ebc.html

Colorado Springs man, 53, dies in mountain bike crash in Palmer Park

By O'Dell Isaac odell.isaac@gazette.com
Oct 17, 2020 Updated 3 hrs ago

Photo Credit: MattGush (iStock).
MattGush

A 53-year-old Colorado Springs man died of injuries he suffered in a crash and fall while mountain biking Saturday in Palmer Park, police said.

The victim's name has not been released.

The man was riding with a group when he lost control of his bike and fell near the Lazy Land mountain biking trail, police said. The man died at the scene.

936. https://www.independentnews.com/news/teen-injured-mountain-biking-at-del-valle/article_b4840022-134f-11eb-95d1-c3a822e8f393.html

Teen Injured Mountain Biking at Del Valle

Oct 20, 2020 Updated Oct 20, 2020

A 14-year-old boy bicycling with his father in a remote area of Del Valle Regional Park southeast of Livermore was airlifted to UCSF Benihoff Childrens Hospital in Oakland Sunday morning after crashing and being knocked unconscious.

Authorities said the boys injuries were not considered life threatening, but no medical update was available early this week. The name of the victim was not released because of his age.

The Alameda County Fire Department, one of four emergency agencies that responded to calls for help, reported the rider was wearing a helmet, which prevented him from sustaining more serious injuries.

Capt. Lance Brede, with the East Bay Regional Park District police, said the father and son, from San Jose, were mountain biking on an unauthorized bootleg trail. The son lost control going downhill as they neared the Eagle Crest Trail, one of several designated bike trails in the park.

Rescue crews from the Alameda County, East Bay Regional Park District, and Livermore-Pleasanton fire departments needed four-wheel drive vehicles to reach the injured youth, who was in and out of consciousness according to a medical incident report. Brede said the teen was airlifted to the hospital by a California Highway Patrol helicopter that happened to be on routine patrol nearby and was monitoring the emergency radio traffic.

Brede stressed that unauthorized trails pose greater risks to bikers because they are not maintained by the park district.

937. https://www.mercurynews.com/2020/11/03/missing-mountain-biker-found-dead-off-sierra-trail/

Missing mountain biker found dead off Sierra trail

By Bay Area News Group |
PUBLISHED: November 3, 2020 at 2:20 p.m. | UPDATED: November 3, 2020 at 2:51 p.m.

A mountain biker who had been missing overnight was found dead of injuries he suffered falling down a hillside, the Sierra County Sheriffs Office said.

Alejandro Lugo, a Florida resident, had been sought since about 3:45 p.m. Sunday, when the sheriffs office received a report that he had gone off the Butcher Ranch Trail east of Downieville.

Searchers from the Sierra and Nevada county sheriffs offices and the Downieville and Sierra City fire departments were aided by a California Highway Patrol helicopter. A four-mile hike on the Third Divide and Butcher Ranch trails brought the rescue team to the accident site, near the confluence of Pauley and Butcher Ranch creeks.

Lugo was located around 3 a.m. but because of the steep terrain he could not be reached, and the effort was suspended for the night.

Around 6:30 a.m. Monday, a Blackhawk rescue helicopter from the naval air station in Fallon, Nevada, was brought in, as was a ropes team from the Placer County Sheriffs Office.

At 9:30 a.m., rescuers were able to hoist Lugo to the helicopter. He was found to have died of his injuries.

The Sierra near Downieville and Sierra City is a popular destination for mountain bikers. Butcher Ranch is one of the regions best-known biking trails, a fast and rocky single-track descent requiring substantial technical skill.

938. https://www.dorsetecho.co.uk/news/18855677.man-injured-mountain-bike-accident-puddletown-forest/

Man injured in mountain bike accident in Puddletown Forest

By Martin Lea @DorsetEchoMart

The two incidents involved many personnel and people are being warned before venturing out for activities during the lockdown

A MAN suffered a serious injury in a cycling accident an incident which rescuers said involved 'a lot of manpower when emergency services are already stretched'.

The accident happened not long after emergency services were called to Lulworth on Saturday afternoon to rescue a man who got stuck climbing a cliff.

The two incidents involved many personnel and people are being warned before venturing out for activities during the lockdown.

A spokesman for Wyke Regis Coastguard Rescue Team said: "We were tasked at 3.40pm on the request of Dorset Police to provide our stretcher for an injured mountain biker in Puddletown Forest. He sustained a suspected (cervical) spine injury after a fall. We arrived on scene on the closed nearside lane of the Puddletown Bypass to be stood down as the casualty had be carried to the ambulance."

The spokesman added: "This incident happened along with another multi-agency incident at the same time involving our colleagues from Lulworth Coastguard Rescue Team, Kimmeridge Coastguard, DWFireRescue and eventually the Coastguard helicopter. These two avoidable incidents (we are in lockdown) took a huge amount of manpower and resources when emergency services are already stretched.

"Our advice to everyone is 'do as you ought, not what you want' Thank you."

939. https://www.kob.com/albuquerque-news/lsquoim-going-to-live-my-life-to-the-fullestrsquo-amputee-sets-out-to-help-others-like-him/5918965/

I'm going to live my life to the fullest: Amputee sets out to help others like him

Ryan Laughlin
Created: November 08, 2020 10:24 PM

ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. A New Mexico man who has been through the wringer is helping others while also working on his own path to recovery.

At the beginning of the year, Kyle Stepp set out to do two things.

"This year, I set two goals for myself. I said, I want to summit Wheeler Peak, you know our highest peak in New Mexico, and want to absolutely crush my first 100 mile bike race, Stepp said.

Stepp, a self-described outdoorsman, was mountain biking at Angel Fire Oct. 17 when the incident took place.

"I was coming down the mountain and I unfortunately lost control, he said.

The accident was so severe that Stepp had to undergo amputation on his leg.

"I remember hitting the ground and had this sense of adrenaline. Where life was telling me, like Kyle, you're the only person that knows what to do, he said.

Stepp said he knew this day might come. At age 14, he was diagnosed with a rare form of bone cancer called osteosarcoma, which had already progressed stage four. Back then he was presented with two choices: amputate his leg, or put in an internal prosthetic. The prosthetic would save his leg, but would be left vulnerable to injury if he stayed active.

"I'm going to live my life to the fullest, Stepp said.

This isnt the first time Stepp has made that decision.

"It was, it was so hard. I kept asking myself why why me? Why do I get to make it, and they don't?" he said.

Out of the nine childhood friends that Stepp met during his years of cancer treatment at the hospital, he was the only one who survived.

"I committed my life to them. I committed my life to other kids that would have to endure and battle cancer, because no child should ever have to fight alone, he said.

Stepp works for the Childrens Miracle Network, a group that raises money to help kids fighting cancer. Now, as he relearns how to do everything on one leg, hes again preparing to help others go through what hes going through.

"We're launching a fund at UNM Hospitals, and we're raising money to help other kids, teens and young adults that experience an illness, or an injury of loss of limblet's get you back to your favorite sport, he said.

For Stepp, its an obligation to help others on the road to recovery.

"We have a responsibility to help others after you survive something, to help others have an easier fight than you did, he said.

"Because when you go through hardship, it can sometimes be a gift. Because it gives you a different perspective on life that you would not have had otherwise, he added.

940. https://coastcommunitynews.com.au/central-coast/news/2020/11/serious-mountain-biking-accident/

Serious mountain biking accident

TOPICS:Accident mountain biking Westpac Rescue Helicopter
The Westpac Rescue Helicopter

November 12, 2020

A 17-year-old boy is recovering after a serious mountain biking accident.

Just before 1pm on Sunday, November 8, the Westpac Rescue Helicopter was tasked to Ourimbah Mountain Bike Park following reports that a teenager had come off his bike and sustained serious leg injuries on a remote trail.

Emergency services attended the location and commenced treatment, before carrying the patient out via stretcher to the awaiting Helicopter Critical Care Medical Team, who further stabilised him before flying him to John Hunter Hospital for additional treatment.

941. "looking forward to getting back to racing bikes in 2021"

Mountain bikers are nuts.

Mike

https://www.cyclingnews.com/news/backstedt-back-on-the-bike-after-months-in-leg-cast-and-orthopaedic-boot/

Backstedt back on the bike after months in leg cast and orthopaedic boot

By Kirsten Frattini 17 hours ago

Spiral fracture on the mend as British talent looks ahead to 2021 season with Trek-Segafredo
Elynor Backstedt (Image credit: Getty Images)

Elynor Backstedt (Trek-Segafredo) has resumed light training after sending five months in a full leg cast followed by an orthopaedic boot to correct a spiral fracture sustained in a crash while mountain biking in May.

In an interview with Cyclingnews, the 18-year-old said she still has some pain when rotating her foot to clip in and out of her pedals, and walks with a slight limp, but that she is otherwise healing well and looking forward to getting back to racing bikes in 2021.

"It was a big, big, big break and it took a long time to even get the cast off," Backstedt said. "I was in the cast up to mid-thigh from May through July, and then I got a boot to wear through September. They needed to stabilise everything enough until they thought it would be OK to bend my leg.

"It took a long time to heal. It was a spiral fracture of the tibia, and I have done this before on the same leg, so there is a little bit of a weakness there. The only way I can describe it is that it goes all the way around the bone, rather than a clean snap, that runs from above my ankle up to the middle of my shin."

Elynor Backstedt: I'm still in a lot of pain and discomfort

Elynor Backstedt fractures tibia

Elynor Backstedt blog: I've been stockpiling Netflix films, not toilet rolls

Trek-Segafredo confirmed in May that Backstedt, the youngest rider on the Women's WorldTeam, had fractured her tibia in a mountain biking crash.

Backstedt's father, Magnus, said he was with her when she crashed while they were mountain biking in local forests close to their family home in South Wales. She was descending a steep off-road section at around 10km/h when her front wheel lost traction and slipped away, causing her to fall.

Backstedt was transported to the nearby Royal Glamorgan Hospital where X-rays confirmed that she had a spiral fracture of the tibia. After consultation with her doctors and family, they decided not to operate on the fractured leg, but rather undergo treatment through a cast and leg boot.

"There was talk of pinning it but because of the type of break, they would have had to run a pole down my shin, starting at the knee and then through the heel. I would then need to have it removed, which could cause knee problems. Because of my age, they were hoping it would just heal back to normal. Having an operation might have been quicker, but maybe worse in the long-run. There were lots of talks and we decided against the surgery," Backstedt said.

"I am now out of the boot and I am able to ride a little bit. I'm about 98 per cent recovered. I still have a limp when I walk, clipping in and out of the pedals is painful, and there are a few things that are not back to normal. Pain-wise, I would say that I'm almost back to normal, but not able to train anywhere near as much as I could. That's OK because you've got to start somewhere.

"It will be slow and we want to make sure everything is as strong as possible. I'm young so we don't need to rush things and have further problems in the future. It's all about building strength back each day and slowly building back to full fitness."

Backstedt was in her first year of a two-year contract with Trek-Segafredo and she said her team has been very supportive during her recovery process.

"They've been absolutely amazing, and they've been there for me for anything that I've needed. Someone has always been on the other end of the phone if I had any worries, team doctors have looked at X-rays and given second opinions, and our director Ina [Teutenberg] has visited me because I live near the service course.

"It's frustrating that I didnt get to race this year but I'm only 18 and I have a long career ahead of me," she said.

Paris-Roubaix: The cobbles are lethal

Backstedt aims to be back to racing as soon as possible, while being sensible about her recovery plan. She believes it can be demoralising to return to racing too soon after an injury without the proper time spent on training and preparing for the demands of racing at the WorldTour level.

"I trust the team and my coaches and my physios, and we are working very hard to get back to where I was before the accident," she said.

She is hoping to be back to racing in time for the spring Classics, and particularly the first-ever women's Paris-Roubaix next April, but understands that is only five months away.

"I think having that race is a massive step forward for women's cycling. It's been a race that I've wanted to happen for so long, and I've always hoped that I could one day ride that race," Backstedt said.

"It's a step forward in equality in our sport. It will become the biggest one-day race of the year, and I'm sure I will be able to race it at some point. I would like to race it next year, but it's only months away."

The inaugural women's Paris-Roubaix was a surprise addition to the revised Women's WorldTour calendar this October, but was postponed due to COVID-19. The race is now set to take place for the first time in April.

ASO announced the route details in September, with a start in Denain, south of Roubaix. The peloton was to race 116 kilometres before finishing on the famous Roubaix Velodrome. There were going to be 17 sectors of cobbled roads with the pav鼯i> beginning after just 20km of racing.

Two sectors were rated at the maximum difficulty level: Mons-en-P鶨le and the Carrefour de l'Arbre, while cobbles were to take up 29.5km of the race route.

"I did the mini Paris-Roubaix when I was 15 and it didn't have that many sectors," Backstedt said. "I've also ridden a few sections with my dad in the past not racing, but out on training rides. The cobbles are pretty savage and you wouldn't find them in any other part of the world. I can tell you that they are lethal. If it rains, they are so slippery and covered in mud, but it's a special thing to ride on them."

Backstedt's parents were both professional cyclists. Her father, Magnus Backstedt, won Paris-Roubaix in 2004 and her mother, Megan Hughes, was the 1998 British road race champion.

"My parents are both so excited that a women's Paris-Roubaix is actually happening," she said.

"My dad didn't have any words he was just so happy. He was quite emotional that my sister [Zo렂ackstedt] and I can one day race in the race that he loves so much. Maybe one day he will be either commentating on us riding it or watching us riding it. He was so happy that it's happening."

942. https://gazette.com/news/friends-and-family-remember-theodore-wilson-after-mountain-biking-accident/article_dd12ae86-28fc-11eb-8467-67defabd74c4.html

Friends and family remember Theodore Wilson after mountain biking accident

JESSICA SNOUWAERT jessica.snouwaert@gazette.com
Nov 17, 2020 Updated 53 min ago

A Colorado Springs man who died of injuries from a mountain-bike crash in Palmer Park last month was an Air Force Academy graduate and retired lieutenant colonel who was training to compete in local trail races.

A longtime road cyclist, Theodore Wilson, 52, was still honing his skills as a mountain biker. But what he lacked in experience, he made up for with his hunger for new challenges, according to a longtime friend.

"You could tell at a very young age that he was very determined and motivated and whatever he set his mind to do, he did," said Steve Williams, who grew up with Wilson.
719-476-1623

@JessySnouwaert

Jessica Snouwaert

Jessica is a reporter at The Gazette. Tips to jessica.snouwaert@gazette.com

943. https://www.southwalesargus.co.uk/news/18884527.ryan-bullimore-died-coming-off-bike-mountain-trail/

Ryan Bullimore died after coming off his bike on mountain trail

By Ian Craig @ArgusICraig

A YOUNG mountain biker was killed in a freak accident at a steep track he had designed himself, an inquest heard today.

Outdoors lover Ryan Bullimore, from Griffithstown, hit his head on a tree at the bike park he dreamed of making into a mini Whistler for top riders.

His helmet was shattered in the blow at the trail Mr Bullimore, 23, had lovingly made at a nature reserve near his home.

The hearing was told Britain's best riders had used the track where Mr Bullimore spent hours carving trails in the woods with friends and his father Jason, 55.

But tragedy struck when Jason Bullimore arrived at the hillside one evening - to find his son being carried down on a stretcher by paramedics and friends.

The dad-of-three said: I called out What have you done now? as he has been in several mountain bike accidents over the years.

I was not aware how serious it was and I was met with silence.

Mr Bullimore said he could see an ECG machine showing his son had no heartbeat.

He said: I called out to him: Dont leave me.

The heartbroken dad said: I could see an ECG machine and I couldnt see a direct fibrillation but I couldnt see a flatline either, it was like a little squiggle at the bottom of the screen.

At that time we were about seven minutes away from the ambulance and I already knew Ryans chances of surviving were zero - the damage to his brain was too great.

Apprentice plumber Ryan Bullimore was taken from the Tirpentwys trails near Pontypool to Newport's Royal Gwent Hospital where he was pronounced dead on June 5, 2018.

Jason Bullimore said his son, along with girlfriend Ceri Edmunds, would spend as much time outdoors as possible climbing, exploring and riding bikes outside as well as making trails for others to use.

The track Ryan Bullimore designed. Picture: Wales News Service

He said: The bike park became talked about across the UK and many of the top UK mountain bikers came to practice on Ryans track.

He loved nature and the views of what he created.

Mr Bullimore said there was also an area of safer trails for younger riders to use and improve their bike riding skills.

Ryan Bullimore, of Griffithstown, had been in contact with forestry officials over plans to improve the area further.

Collision investigator PC David Thomas went to the woodland to inspect the scene and said Mr Bullimore had collided with a large tree in the middle of a compacted mound of dirt known as a berm.

PC Thomas said Mr Bullimores friend heard a big bang before finding him unconscious with blood coming from his head and face and dialled 999.

PC Thomas said the helmet Mr Bullimore was wearing was taken away for examination, but no safety faults were found.

The Newport hearing was told paramedics took almost an hour to reach him after the initial 999 call and had to walk up the forest hill on foot as it couldnt be accessed by ambulance.

Paramedics took more than an hour to reach the site after his friends 999 call was not listed as a top priority until he stopped breathing.

Ambulance staff then had to make their way up the forest trail by leaving their vehicles in a car park and climbing half a mile up a steep trail to find him.

The track Ryan Bullimore designed. Picture: Wales News Service

They then had to make the tricky descent down to the ambulances in the dark while Mr Bullimore suffered a cardiac arrest.

The inquest heard Mr Bullimore's helmet was shattered in the high-speed crash.

Darren Panniers, of the Welsh Ambulance Service, said: The front part of the helmet was completely destroyed and there was extensive damage to the helmet.

The court heard Mr Bullimore was a regular cannabis smoker and toxicology reports found he had taken the drug in the hours before the fatal crash.

Pathologist Majid Rashid said the effects of the drug could have caused slower reaction times, reduced coordination and drowsiness.

He gave the cause of death as cerebral contusion with subarachnoid haemorrhage and blunt force trauma contributed by cannabinoid intake.

But coroner Sarah LeFevre said there was little evidence that Mr Bullimore had been under the influence of drugs at the time of the crash, as hed previously made his way safely down the trail and disregarded cannabis as a contributory factor.

Assistant Gwent Coroner Ms LeFevre said: Ryan had a passion for climbing and downhill mountain biking, a passion shared with his older brother and father.

He put time and energy developing these woods and thanks to his efforts it became a UK recognised bike trail area.

Giving a verdict of accidental death, she said Mr Bullimore died while riding down a bike trail he collided with a tree and sustained serious head injuries.

944. https://www.iol.co.za/ios/news/mtb-veteran-raises-awareness-for-accident-survivor--d905ab89-f141-4e57-9918-33aa4d70689d

Timothy Camp, 18, will take part in his first Sani2C mountain bike race next week with his father, Martin. His two brothers, Nicholas and Matthew, will also ride the race.

MTB veteran raises awareness for accident survivor

By Tanya Waterworth Nov 28, 2020

Durban - This year's KAP Sani2C MTB race from Underberg to Scottburgh will be a family affair for the Camp family from Hillcrest - with Martin Camp, 55, and his three sons, Nicholas, Matthew and Timothy, all taking part in the 265km ride.

A major event on the South African MTB calendar, the KAP Sani2C will now take place from December 2 to 5, after being postponed in May because of Covid-19.

For Martin, who was paralysed but recovered, after breaking his neck and back during a ride five years ago in the Valley of 1000 Hills, it will also be a special race because he and his boys will be raising awareness for fellow MTB cyclist from Durban, Jason Hall, who was also paralysed in an MTB accident a couple of years ago.

"I was lucky in that I was never moved after my fall and I was medivaced out. I had broken my neck and back and was paralysed from the waist down. After a massive operation, I got feeling back in my legs a few weeks later.

Jason Hall is a colleague and a friend and I can understand what it's like to lose your movement," said Martin this week.

Martin, who has KZN colours for downhill racing and will be participating in the race for a fifth time, added his sons "had been born on wheels".

Timothy, who will join his dad and brothers for the first time as they set off from Underberg next week, has KZN colours for downhill racing. So too does Nicholas, 23, who also represented South Africa at the last world cup downhill event in Pietermaritzburg and will take part in the KAP Sani2C for the third time, while it will be 20-year-old Matthew's second outing.

"I've always put the boys on two wheels, it's always been good fun and they have loved it.

"I believe good sportsmen become good in business. We are quite a competitive family and it's a tremendous way of living. With mountain biking you get out to be among the forests and rivers, but you also get that adrenalin.

"You often only get to do the Sani2C later in life, but we will all be doing it together.

"I've always let my boys race in the big stuff, which can be dangerous, but the closer you get to the edge, the better you have to perform," said Martin, adding that having worked across the globe, the KAP Sani2C is a unique event in MTB, with spectacular scenery.
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"There are no other staged events anywhere else in the world like this race and everyone in mountain biking knows you have to do the Sani2C at least once in your lifetime," he said.

Speaking on behalf of Jason Hall, Andrea van Munster said: "Jason would like to thank the Camp family for raising awareness and support during this years race, as well as to all his friends and family for the continued help, support and generosity since the accident."

The race is the largest 3-day staged race in the country and one of the oldest, having started in 2005 as a fundraiser for a local farm school.

As it's popularity grew, extra versions of the race were introduced which follow the same route but start on different days. This year it will be limited to two versions with limited numbers of participants because of the pandemic: the Race (December 3-5) and the Adventure (December 2-4)

Founder, Ixopo dairy farmer, Glen Haw, said: "Covid-19 is still very much with us and to this end we will take extra measures to ensure strict hygiene protocols are in place and that social distancing is encouraged.

One of the big motivators for ensuring that a 2020 edition takes place is that the communities along our route are a core part of the event, and 23 schools are supported through the provision of services at the event.

These communities have come to depend on this income and by holding it, we will continue this support. We also wanted to provide a Sani2C for our loyal supporters who want to get out and ride bikes after a very tough year," said Haw.

Over our 16-year history we have developed strong relationships, and many riders come back year after year. Parents passing down the experience has become a special part of the race last year we had three generations with Arthur Duncan, aged 84, his son-in-law and two grandsons doing Sani2C together.," he said.

945. https://cyprus-mail.com/2020/12/03/mountain-biker-hospitalised-after-fall/

December 4, 2020
Mountain biker hospitalised after fall
Cyprus
By Annette Chrysostomou

A cyclist who was seriously injured when he fell from his bike on Wednesday is being treated in the neurosurgery ward of Nicosia hospital.

Police were notified about an injured person on the dirt road from the Asprogia Kanaviou dam to Stavros tis Psokas in the afternoon.

Traffic police officers soon found the individual, a 55-year-old man and resident of a village in the Paphos district.

The man and another person were reportedly mountain biking in the area early in the afternoon when, at a left turn, the cyclist lost control of his bike and fell, injuring his head.

An ambulance initially transported him to Paphos hospital, but he had to be transferred to Nicosia hospital cyclist due to the severity of his injuries.

At the time of the accident, the 55-year-old was wearing a protective helmet.

946. https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-england-leeds-55276139

Jaime Lunn: Paralysed mountain biker fundraising to adapt homePublished

1 day ago

image copyrightJaime Lunn
image captionJaime Lunn came off his bike on Ilkley Moor, sustaining life-changing spinal injuries

A man who was left paralysed after a mountain biking crash is raising money to modify his home, after struggling to access charity grants.

Jaime Lunn, 46, from Addingham, West Yorkshire, came off his bike on Ilkley Moor on 25 April, sustaining spinal injuries which left him tetraplegic.

He said access to rehabilitation has been limited due to Covid-19, and there was a long wait for council support.

Mr Lunn wants to raise 75,000 to make vital changes to his family home.

He has raised more than 30,000 already, with donations to a crowdfunding account set up by a friend.

Since returning home he has spent most of his time in one room, making it difficult to be with his partner Caroline McCullough and two children, Florence, nine, and Seth, seven.
image copyrightJaime Lunn
image captionMr Lunn spent seven months in hospital before being able to return home

The family hope to adapt their home, widening doorways, lowering worktops in the kitchen and making an accessible bathroom.

Mr Lunn said: "When I spoke to the adaptations team in Bradford Council they advised me I would wait at least six months before someone would even assess what my needs were, meaning that I would be inevitably housebound."

On the day of the accident, Mr Lunn, who works as a manager for Apple, came off his bike near White Wells and was found by a passing walker.

He was then stretchered off the moor and taken to Leeds General Infirmary, where doctors told him he had a C5-C6 spinal injury.
image copyrightCaroline McCullough
image captionCaroline, Jaime, Florence and Seth live in Addingham, West Yorkshire

Ms McCullough said: "He went into intensive care, and they were keen to say to us both that he wasn't going to walk again. It was brutal.

"They had to get him through the surgery and rebuild his face and then he was in a neck brace, he had to be fed.

"I wasn't allowed to visit him, and it was months before he saw the children and our dog when he was well enough to be brought outside by a therapist."

She said they now pay for Mr Lunn to see a physiotherapist who specialises in spinal injuries privately, and need to raise money so they can afford to make basic changes in their home.

The family have been helped by Ilkley Round Table, who adapted their front path for wheelchair access, but say more needs to be done.

"It's a very tough time but he is really determined," Ms McCullough said.

Bradford Council has been approached for comment.

947. https://www.vcstar.com/story/news/local/communities/county/2020/12/19/mountain-biker-dies-after-crash-point-mugu-state-park/3975802001/

Mountain biker dies after crash in Point Mugu State Park

Gretchen Wenner
Ventura County Star

A mountain biker died after crashing on a trail in Point Mugu State Park on Saturday morning, authorities said.

The accident was reported around 9:20 a.m. on a rugged trail above Pacific Coast Highway in the Santa Monica Mountains.

Shortly after 9:30 a.m., the Ventura County Sheriff's air unit was called to assist with the downed cyclist, said sheriff's Capt. Dean Worthy.

The crash took place on the Guadalasca Trail, he said, which cuts through steep, technical terrain near the Backbone Trail. The cyclist, a man in his 60s, had reportedly been riding with friends when he crashed his bike and lost consciousness, Worthy said. The cyclist's city of residence was not immediately known Saturday.

The man's friends called for emergency medical assistance and performed CPR until the sheriff's helicopter arrived with paramedics and a flight nurse. The crew continued life-saving measures but the cyclist did not survive and was pronounced dead at the scene, Worthy said.

The man was riding a regular pedal-powered mountain bike with full suspension, Worthy said, not a so-called "e-bike" electric bike.

A sheriff's investigator and coroner's investigator were flown in by helicopter due to the rugged terrain, he said. The body was flown to a safe location where a vehicle could be brought in for transport.

Although the sheriff's office is investigating the death, there is no evidence "whatsoever" of any criminal activity, Worthy said.

"It's clear this incident is simply a tragic accident," he said.

Gretchen Wenner covers breaking news for the Ventura County Star. Reach her at gretchen.wenner@vcstar.com or 805-437-0270.

948. https://www.canyon-news.com/bicyclist-rescued-in-santa-monica-mountains/139018

Bicyclist Rescued In Santa Monica Mountains
By Danielle
Dec 21, 2020

SANTA MONICAOn Saturday, December 19, at approximately 9:30 a.m. the Los Angeles Fire Department responded to an injured adult male mountain biker who crashed in the Santa Monica Mountains near Sullivan Fire Road. The bicyclist was found in a remote terrain where he sustained neck and head trauma from his fall.

According to Brian Humphrey of the Los Angeles Fire Department, The LAFD rescue helicopter was able to land near the victim, and a hovering cable hoist will not be required. The injured mountain bicyclist remains in critical condition, now aboard the helicopter en route to a trauma center.

No other details have been released regarding the incident.

949. https://www.thecourier.co.uk/fp/news/local/angus-mearns/1838353/more-than-we-could-have-hoped-for-brave-angus-mountain-biker-recovering-from-crash-to-celebrate-boxing-day-birthday-at-home/

More than we could have hoped for: Brave Angus mountain biker recovering from crash to celebrate Boxing Day birthday at home

by Graham Brown
December 24 2020, 7.57am
Supplied by Karen Ritchie
Wil Ritchie and his father, David on the brief home visit which paved the way for the festive break.
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A teenage Angus mountain biker is to celebrate his Boxing Day 15th birthday at home as he continues the determined recovery from a brush with death in a quarry crash.

Wil Ritchies fightback has convinced Ninewells Hospital medics to allow the brave youngster a four-day festive break at home on the outskirts of Forfar.

His parents said the joy of being able to spend Christmas with their son in their own house is more than they could have dreamed of.
Supplied by Karen Ritchie
Wil Ritchie heading home from Ninewells.

Forfar Academy youngster Wil was biking with pals at Forfars Balmashanner Hill in July when he suffered a serious fall.

The sports-mad teenager was wearing a helmet but suffered a severe deep brain injury as a result of the crash impact.

Fightback has inspired medical staff at Ninewells

Wil was rushed to Ninewells following the rescue operation but the severity of the crash left him clinging to life in a coma for three weeks.

Since then he has inspired his parents, Karen and David, as well as medical staff with his determination to recover.

Wil has been learning to walk again and was able to take the steps up to his own front door on a trial home visit which paved the way for the festive homecoming.
Supplied by Karen Ritchie
Wil and mum, Karen.

Mum Karen said: Four days at home over Christmas is amazing.

He has made such good progress and we always hoped he might be able to spend some time at home.

But we had to be careful not to build up hopes for something that might not happen.

For Wil to be with us at home to celebrate his 15th birthday is all we wanted, and more than we could have hoped for.

We will get him home on Christmas Eve and it is such a lovely thing for us to have the time as a family together.
Supplied by Karen Ritchie
Wil continues to impress Ninewells staff with is determined fightback.

For Wil to be able to sleep in his own bed and wake up in it to celebrate his 15th birthday is another positive milestone he has managed to reach.

She added: He continues to show the maturity which has brought him this far but there is still so much to do.

His speech is getting better and although there is still a lot to do, we are seeing improvements every week.

Crowdfunder passes 6,500 mark

Wil also continues to be an inspiration to those whose dedicated care has been praised by the Ritchies.

They tell us they come in to work and Wil just lifts their spirits, which is lovely to hear, said Karen.

A crowdfunder set up by the Strathmore Rugby Club which Wil has played for since the age of six has now topped the 6,500 mark.

Steve Oakley of the Inchmacoble clubs Grumpy Gryphons set up the 10k effort as club members prepare to cycle the North Coast 500 next summer.

Ninewells staff praise teenagers determination, willpower and positivity.

Sam Russell, senior charge nurse in ward 29 at Tayside Childrens Hospital, said: On behalf of all the team in ward 29 I would like to wish Wil a Happy Christmas and a very happy birthday when it comes on Boxing Day.

Wil has been with us for many months and he has really impressed the nurses, doctors, and therapists who have cared for him with his determination, willpower and positivity.

We are all just so delighted that Wil has, through his sheer grit and hard work, managed to achieve his goal of celebrating his 15th birthday at home with his family.

950. https://www.azcentral.com/story/news/local/phoenix/2020/12/25/bicyclist-airlifted-out-south-mountain-park-after-accident/4045654001/

Woman rescued by helicopter after injury on South Mountain trail

Erin Stone
Arizona Republic

Phoenix fire crews rescued a 67-year-old woman who was knocked unconscious while mountain biking in South Mountain Park early afternoon on Friday.

The woman was biking with family on the Desert Classic Trail, said Captain Todd Keller, public information officer with the Phoenix Fire Department. While descending the mountain about one mile from the trailhead, she fell from her bike and suffered a head injury. She was unconscious for an unknown amount of time, Keller said.

Family members called for help and rescue crews evacuated the woman by helicopter. She was conscious and speaking with medical personnel while en route to a local hospital.

Erin Stone covers the environment for The Arizona Republic and azcentral.com. Send her story tips and ideas at erin.stone@arizonarepublic.com and follow her on Twitter @Erstone7.

951. https://www.nzherald.co.nz/rotorua-daily-post/news/new-years-day-tragedy-body-found-on-rotorua-mountain-bike-trail/53WTUKATL5IXEHTNSP3SU33QVI/

New Year's Day tragedy: Body found on Rotorua mountain bike trail

31 Dec, 2020 05:34 PM

A man was found dead in the Redwood Forest this morning. Photo / File
Rotorua Daily Post

A body was found on a Rotorua mountain bike trail this morning.

A police media spokeswoman said police were notified of a mountain biking accident, on the Eagle vs Shark trail, by a member of the public about 8am.

A man had been found dead, she said.

There were no suspicious circumstances and the death would be referred to the coroner.

952. https://www.ladysmithchronicle.com/news/mountain-biker-seriously-injured-in-fall-on-nanaimos-doumont-hill/

A mountain biker suffered serious injuries in a fall Sunday and had to be airlifted to hospital. (News Bulletin file photo)

Mountain biker seriously injured in fall on Nanaimos Doumont Hill

Patient airlifted to hospital after incident Sunday afternoon

Greg Sakaki
Jan. 11, 2021 3:40 p.m.
News

A mountain biker was injured in a fall high in the hills in Nanaimo and had to be airlifted to hospital.

Emergency services were called to Weigles Road a little after 1:30 p.m. Sunday to a mountain biking accident in the trails at the top of Doumont Hill.

Alex Mattes, unit chief for B.C. Emergency Health Services Station 20, said the mountain biker sustained serious injuries in the fall.

Nanaimo Fire Rescue assistant chief Troy Libbus said firefighters assisted BCEHS with transporting the patient, hiking about two kilometres into the bush.

Fire crews also helped set up a helicopter landing zone further down the hill on Doumont Road.

Mattes said the new air ambulance stationed at Parksville greatly reduced the response time and significantly increased us getting the patient to proper care quicker.

BCEHS couldnt provide further details about the patient or the patients condition.

953. https://www.nanaimobulletin.com/news/mountain-biker-seriously-injured-in-fall-on-nanaimos-doumont-hill/

A mountain biker suffered serious injuries in a fall Sunday and had to be airlifted to hospital. (News Bulletin file photo)

Mountain biker seriously injured in fall on Nanaimos Doumont Hill

Patient airlifted to hospital after incident Sunday afternoon

Greg Sakaki
Jan. 11, 2021 2:42 p.m.

954. https://www.redlandscommunitynews.com/news/public_safety/sheriff-s-helicopter-hoists-unconscious-mountain-biker-to-safety/article_bf4b93b2-54f4-11eb-b130-cf1347cd0d48.html

Sheriffs helicopter hoists unconscious mountain biker to safety
San Bernardino County Sheriff's Department
Jan 12, 2021

Sheriffs Helicopter Air Rescue 308 lifted an unconscious mountain bike rider to safety from the Loma Linda Hills Sunday morning.

At 10 a.m. Jan. 10, the San Bernardino County Fire Department received a report of the injury to Ronnie Santos, a 57-year-old Highland resident. Due to the terrain and medical condition of the victim, the crew performed a hoist rescue.

Sheriffs Air Medics P. Peng and G. Yee were hoisted down to the victim. He was placed in a rescue basket and hoisted back up to the aircraft. He was then transported to Loma Linda University Medical Center with non-life-threatening injuries.

955. https://www.nsnews.com/in-the-community/west-vancouver-emergency-crews-respond-to-mountain-biking-accident-3268287

West Vancouver emergency crews respond to mountain biking accident

16-year-old transported to Lions Gate Hospital with non-life-threatening injuries
about 7 hours ago By: Ben Bengtson
West Vancouver firefighters along with BC Ambulance paramedics on scene at the first lookout on Cypress Bowl Road following reports of an injured mountain biker Saturday. @WestVanFireDept via Twitter
Emergency crews were on scene around the first lookout along Cypress Bowl Road after responding to a call involving an injured mountain biker midday today (Jan. 16).

West Vancouver Fire and Rescue Services dispatched two engines and a rescue vehicle at approximately 12:30 p.m. Saturday after getting a call that a 16-year-old male had injured himself while biking on the Meat Sweats trail on Cypress Mountain, a 1.3-kilometre unofficial trail that descends more than 350 metres.

The trail is described as a very difficult Black Diamond run, according to Trailforks.com.

The youths friend called emergency services after the victim took a nasty fall while biking and appeared to badly injure his ankle and was unable to get off the trail without assistance.

Fire and rescue services sent six crew members up the trail.

They packaged up the injured teen and brought him off the trail to awaiting BC Ambulance personnel, who then transported him to Lions Gate Hospital.

The patient was conscious and breathing and talking, said Garrith Michael, assistant fire chief.

956. https://www.marinij.com/2021/01/18/novato-mountain-biker-rescued-by-helicopter/

Novato mountain biker rescued by helicopter

A mountain biker who crashed on a remote trail in Novato over the weekend was rescued by helicopter and transported to the hospital, authorities said. (facebook.com/CHPGoldenGateAirOps)
By Adrian Rodriguez | arodriguez@marinij.com | Marin Independent Journal
PUBLISHED: January 18, 2021 at 10:42 a.m. | UPDATED: January 18, 2021 at 10:54 a.m.

A mountain biker who crashed on a remote trail in Novato over the weekend was rescued by helicopter and transported to the hospital, authorities said.

Medical crews responded to the incident reported at about 4 p.m. Saturday in the Loma Verde Preserve near the Big Rock Fire Road, just north of Lucas Valley, said California Highway Patrol Officer Shaun Bouyea, a flight officer with the agencies air operations unit.

The cyclist was seriously injured in the solo wreck. Authorities arrived and packaged the cyclist on a gurney that was hoisted 75 feet in the air by the helicopter.

He was transported to a Novato fire paramedics who transported him to MarinHealth Medical Center in Greenbrae, Bouyea said.

957. https://coastcommunitynews.com.au/central-coast/news/2021/01/another-mountain-biking-accident-at-ourimbah/

Another mountain biking accident at Ourimbah

TOPICS:Accident mountain biking Ourimbah
The Westpac Rescue Helicopter

January 27, 2021

An 11-year-old has suffered head injuries after a mountain biking accident at Ourimbah.

Emergency services including the Westpac Rescue Helicopter were called to Ourimbah Mountain Bike Park just after 10am on Saturday, January 23, following reports that a child had fallen from their bike and sustained head injuries.

He was treated at the scene by local NSW Ambulance paramedics and the Helicopters Critical Care Medical Team before being flown to John Hunter Hospital in a stable condition.

958. https://www.examinerlive.co.uk/news/local-news/doncaster-biker-left-severe-brain-19789051

Doncaster biker left with severe brain injury after 30ft fall at quarry

A Go Fund Me page has been launched to help fund his specialist care
By
Robert Sutcliffe

05:00, 8 FEB 2021

Ben Middleton and his girlfriend Nicole (Image: Karen Middleton)

A loving mum has told of her heartbreak after her daredevil son suffered a brain injury when he fell 30ft while out on his new mountain bike.

Ben Middleton from Doncaster had only bought it three hours before the incident which occurred on the afternoon of May 21 last year while he was out at a quarry with two friends in Conisbrough.

The accident was unwitnessed and his mum Karen Middleton said it was likely to have occurred because he was "unfamiliar" with the quarry.

He was airlifted to South Yorkshire's major trauma unit, the Northern General Hospital in Sheffield, where he was placed into a medically induced coma and has not yet returned home.

As a result of the accident he suffered a life-changing, traumatic brain injury and has faced major obstacles throughout his recovery.

This includes life-saving brain surgery, a tracheostomy and sepsis.

Although he has made good progress he is still dependent on 24-hour care which is being provided at a neuro-rehabilitation facility in Balby.

A Gofundme appeal has seen his father Stephen, older brother Josh, and friends raise more than 30,000 to improve his care.

His page says: "Throughout his journey, Ben has proven to be an absolute fighter. However, his fight is still far from over.

"Due to the nature of Bens injury he requires a highly specialised level of rehabilitation in order to reach his optimum recovery.
Ben Middleton and his girlfriend Nicole (Image: Karen Middleton)

"One of Bens biggest challenges is that he has not been given the opportunity to receive the intense, specialist neuro-rehabilitation he so desperately deserves.

"Unfortunately, this is because our local facility is not equipped with the resources to provide this.

"This has meant that every day has become a constant battle just to ensure Ben receives even a basic level of rehabilitative intervention.

"With limited resources to enhance Bens recovery where he currently is, we have been left with no choice but to consider funding private care and or bring Ben home to look after him ourselves. Both of these options are extremely costly.

"As if the trauma of Ben's accident was not enough, we have also been left devastated by the stringent visiting restrictions that have been imposed as a result of the current pandemic.

"It has meant that Bens immediate family have been unable to participate in this crucial phase of his recovery for many months now.

"This has been especially heartbreaking as, from day one it has been stressed to us, by medical professionals, the positive impact that family involvement can have on a patient's recovery.

"We would like nothing more than to help Ben get back to the man he once was, the son we adore, the brother we miss and the partner we love.

"We would be eternally grateful for any contribution, no matter how big or small, made towards Bens recovery and hope that one day Ben will be able to thank you all himself."

Karen, a community nurse, said she found out about the accident when paramedics rang to say he was en route to the major trauma unit at the Northern General Hospital in Sheffield.

It is thought he was unconscious from the moment of impact.

959. https://www.southwalesargus.co.uk/news/19076439.mountain-biker-broken-leg-lost-walkers-rescued-mountain-rescue-team/

Mountain biker with broken leg and lost walkers rescued by mountain rescue team

By Dan Barnes cobaines Multimedia Reporter

Picture: Central Beacons Mountain Rescue Team

THE Central Beacons Mountain Rescue team were kept busy at the weekend - coming to the aid of a stricken mountain biker and a pair of walkers lost in woodland.

Shortly after 2pm on Saturday, the team we were called out by South Wales Police to assist the Welsh Ambulance Service with the rescue of an injured mountain biker.

The casualty was located on the mountain above Trehafod, Rhondda.

Upon arriving the mountain rescue team found the gentleman had been treated for a broken leg by a paramedic and had been transported off the mountain by a local resident via quad bike.

"We assisted with his transfer onto the ambulance and then returned to our base and homes," said a spokesperson.

"We wish the gentleman a full recovery together with our thanks to the gentlemans companions and local residents for their help."

960. https://www.southwalesargus.co.uk/news/19108770.mountain-biker-rescued-caerphilly-woodland/

Mountain biker rescued from Caerphilly woodland

By Dan Barnes cobaines Multimedia Reporter

Mountain biker rescued from Caerphilly woodland Picture: Central Beacons Mountain Rescue Team

A STRICKEN mountain biker was rescued from woodland near Caerphilly after injuring her shoulder.

On Sunday, Central Beacons Mountain Rescue were called to assist a woman who had sustained a dislocated shoulder/suspected fractured shoulder whilst out mountain biking in the Coed Parc-y-Fan forestry near Caerphilly.

A rapid response paramedic was already on scene and had administered the appropriate medical care.

"However, the casualty was in an awkward position on a steep, slippery, muddy woodland hillside and needed our expertise to ensure she was safely evacuated back to the car park," said a spokesperson.

The woman was loaded into a casualty bag for warmth and onto the mountain rescue stretcher for transporting off the hillside.

She was transferred into the care of the ambulance crew and onwards to hospital for a full checkup. "We wish her a speedy recovery," said the mountain rescue team on social media.

"We would also like to thank her friends and some fellow bikers who assisted both the paramedic and ourselves by guiding us to the casualtys location."

961. https://www.ksro.com/2021/02/22/sonoma-county-sheriffs-henry-1-rescues-injured-mountain-biker/

Sonoma County Sheriffs Henry-1 Rescues Injured Mountain Biker

February 22, 2021

The Sonoma County Sheriffs helicopter assisted in aiding an injured mountain biker at Annadel State Park. An ambulance, a Santa Rosa fire engine, and Henry-1 responded to the call Sunday afternoon where a female cyclist sustained significant injuries around the area of Canyon and Marsh Trails. No other emergency vehicles could get to her location, so a long line rescue was coordinated through Henry-1. After a short flight, the woman was safely delivered to an ambulance at the parks boundary. The victim is expected to make a full recovery.

962. https://www.salemnews.com/news/mountain-biker-fatally-injured-in-willowdale-state-forest/article_b19350ec-79f8-11eb-a017-77f033c094c8.html

Mountain biker fatally injured in Willowdale State Forest

By Staff Reports
8 hrs ago

IPSWICH A mountain biker was fatally hurt Sunday in Willowdale State Forest.

According to an Ipswich police spokesperson, the victim, a 46-year-old Wellesley man, was biking with a friend and was wearing proper equipment at the time of the accident.

The cause of death is not known as of Sunday afternoon and is under investigation.

According to scanner reports, Ipswich fire received a report of a person injured in the middle of the woods just before noon on Sunday.

Officials gathered at the Linebrook Road entrance to the woods. Crews on a "Gator," a small, off-road vehicle, were able to make contact with the biker roughly 15 to 20 minutes after the original report.

Firefighters had called for a state police helicopter to help search the woods from above, but ended up canceling the request.

It wasn't immediately clear where in the woods the biker was. The person who had reported the injury didn't know what trail they were on, and could only say they were in the middle of Willowdale State Forest.

Fire crews also asked for Ipswich police to respond with their off-road vehicle to help extricate the biker.

A request for a medical helicopter was later canceled.

Willowdale State Forest is managed by the state Department of Conservation and Recreation and contains 40 miles of trails.

In addition to Ipswich police and fire, state and environmental police also assisted at the scene.

963. https://www.cwherald.com/news/emergency-services-called-after-mountain-biker-falls-in-wood/

Emergency services called after mountain biker falls in wood

by CWH
7 March 2021
in News, Featured

Penrith Mountain Rescue Team

Emergency services were called to help a mountain biker who had fallen near Armathwaite.

Penrith Mountain Rescue Team was called at around 2.55pm to Coombs Wood to assist in the operation by Cumbria police.

The 32-year-old biker had a suspected spinal injury.

964. https://www.three.fm/news/isle-of-man-news/mountain-biker-rescued-after-cliff-fall/

Mountain biker rescued after cliff fall

Sunday, March 7th, 2021 10:17pm

By Rob Pritchard

@rpritchard9

Coastguards carried out a rescue earlier today after a mountain biker fell down a cliff in the south of the Island.

Teams attended the scene at 3.15pm today after a young male had gone over the cliff face at Bradda.

Three technicians and a paramedic were able to reach the casualty and begin treating injuries before the individual was recovered up the cliff to the waiting rescue helicopter which then transferred the male to Nobles Hospital.

Coastguards add this was an extremely challenging rescue and are wishing the casualty a speedy recovery.

965. https://patch.com/california/pacificpalisades/teenage-mountain-biker-airlifted-out-mandeville-canyon

Teenage Mountain Biker Airlifted Out Of Mandeville Canyon

LAFD said the 15-year-old boy injured himself while mountain biking along Mandeville Canyon Fire Road.

Kenan Draughorne, Patch Staff

Posted Mon, Mar22, 2021 at 6:37 pm PT

The teen's condition wasn't immediately available. (Nicole Charky/Patch)

PACIFIC PALISADES, CA A 15-year-old boy had to be airlifted out of Mandeville Canyon after he was injured while mountain biking Friday night. The call for help came in just after 6 p.m. along the Mandeville Canyon Fire Road.

Firefighter-paramedics were lowered from a helicopter to treat the teenager on the ground, before taking him up and flying him to a nearby hospital. The teen's condition wasn't immediately known.

No other details were available.

966. https://www.thestar.co.uk/health/air-ambulance-called-out-for-injured-cyclist-in-sheffield-woods-3181280

Air ambulance called out for injured cyclist in Sheffield woods

A cyclist who suffered multiple injuries in a fall in Grenoside woods was rushed to hospital this week.

By Lloyd Bent
Sunday, 28th March 2021, 11:04 am

On Wednesday morning (March 24) Woodhead Mountain Rescue Team received a call from Yorkshire Ambulance Service to help with the callout for the injured cyclist.

The mountain biker had taken a nasty fall suffering head & collarbone injuries, and it was suspected that she had a broken femur.

Paramedics on scene administered strong pain relief and mountain rescuers prepared to carry her by stretcher to a place where she could be picked up by the Yorkshire Air Ambulance.
Rescuers attending the incident in Grenoside Woods.

However the woman was soon in a stable condition, and was able to be taken to hospital in a land ambulance instead.

A spokesperson for Woddhead Mountain Rescue Team said: Overall a difficult situation and good multi organisational teamwork was required.

The team would also like to thank the unnamed witness who assisted by showing team members the way.

967. https://www.nbnnews.com.au/2021/03/27/injured-mountain-bike-rider-rescued-from-glenrock/

INJURED MOUNTAIN BIKE RIDER RESCUED FROM GLENROCK

By
Georgia Vaughan
-
March 27, 2021

An injured mountain biker has been rescued after spending more than 12 hours trapped in Lake Macquaries Glenrock State Conservation Area overnight.

The 30-year-old fell of his bike at Flagys Creek near Glenrock Lagoon on Friday afternoon, injuring his spine.

Another mountain biker heard the injured mans calls for help this morning, before alerting emergency services.

The Westpac Rescue Helicopter was tasked with the mission to retrieve him from the thick bush, just before 9 oclock this morning.

The passer-by then helped the helicopter find the patient, waving the chopper down from an isolated ridding track.

Paramedics were winched down and treated the 30-year-old for hypothermia and possible spinal injuries.

He was taken to John Hunter Hospital for further treatment, and is now in a stable condition.

968. https://www.stgeorgeutah.com/news/archive/2021/04/03/jmr-rescuers-carry-injured-teenage-mountain-biker-nearly-3-miles-in-cedar-city-hills/#.YGlRnT9lDIU

Rescuers carry injured teenage mountain biker nearly 3 miles in Cedar City hills

Written by Jeff Richards
April 3, 2021
Iron County Search and Rescue personnel and other responders transport an injured mountain biker in the hills south of Cedar City, Utah, April 2, 2021 | Photo courtesy of Iron County Sheriff's Office, St. George News / Cedar City News

CEDAR CITY Search and rescue personnel carried an injured teenager nearly three miles Friday evening after deputies say the girl crashed on her mountain bike in the hills south of Cedar City.
Map with red pin showing the approximate location where a teenage mountain bike rider crashed on a trail south of Cedar City, Utah, April 2, 2021 | Image courtesy of Google Maps, St. George News / Cedar City News

Iron County Sheriffs Sgt. Jeff Humphries said the initial call reporting an injured biker on the trail came in just after 5 p.m.

Three Iron County Sheriffs deputies responded, two of whom hiked in from the Green Hollow trailhead and one from Southern View trailhead, Humphries said. He added that the deputies were joined by three EMTs and approximately 10 members of Iron County Search and Rescue.

After treating and stabilizing the patient at the scene, rescuers carried her in a Stokes basket approximately 2.85 miles to the nearest trailhead, Humphries said.

Although the girl had reportedly lost consciousness at the time of the crash, she was responsive and talking by the time responders arrived at the scene.

An Intermountain Life Flight helicopter was put on standby but ended up not being needed. The girl ended up being taken to Cedar City Hospital via Gold Cross Ambulance for treatment of injuries that were not believed to be life-threatening.

Humphries said the incident wrapped up between 9:30 and 10 p.m. Friday.

Click on photo to enlarge it, then use your left-right arrow keys to cycle through the gallery.

Iron County Search and Rescue personnel and other responders transport an injured mountain biker in the hills south of Cedar City, Utah, April 2, 2021 | Photo courtesy of Iron County Sheriff's Office, St. George News / Cedar City News

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Jeff Richards, a native of Salt Lake City with family roots in Panguitch, lived in Moab for 20 years before joining St. George News in 2017. Jeff is a longtime journalist and secondary school teacher. He and his wife Penny are the parents of five daughters. They also have two young grandsons. Jeff and his family enjoy swimming, camping, sightseeing, reading, and taking pictures.
Email: jrichards@stgnews.com
Twitter: @stgnews @moabjeff @stgnewssports

969. https://vancouverisland.ctvnews.ca/injured-mountain-biker-rescued-by-atv-near-hartland-landfill-1.5375652

Injured mountain biker rescued by ATV near Hartland Landfill

Scott Cunningham Journalist, CTV Vancouver Island

@CTVNewsScott Contact
Published Monday, April 5, 2021 5:51PM PDT Last Updated Tuesday, April 6, 2021 8:12AM PDT

First responders were called to the scene around 4:15 p.m. Monday: (File Photo)

VICTORIA -- A mountain biker is believed to have suffered a serious injury on a newly manicured mountain bike trail near the Hartland Landfill Monday.

Saanich Fire and Rescue says it received a call around 4:15 p.m. for a mountain biker in distress.

Quickly, a crew of firefighters and ambulance staff launched a rescue.

Protective gear for mountain biking

Extreme sports provide an outlet for thrill seekers all over the world. Theyre fast and exciting, keeping participants on their toes. But with that thrill comes an inherent danger. Accidents in sports such as horse riding and skiing can cause injuries to the spine that range from mild, temporary irritation to life-threatening consequences.

Mountain biking is no exception. Frequent mountain bike riders can experience injuries and complications from routinely jarring the spine on rough terrain.

Spine protectors help protect your back while riding and reduce the severity of an injury, even from serious falls.

What is a spine protector?

Spine protectors, also known as back protectors, are equipment worn around the torso to protect the spine during activities that risk damage or injury to the back.

Examples of activities that use spine protectors include skiing, snowboarding, skateboarding, motorcycling and mountain biking.
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Back protectors can protect either an isolated section of the spine or the entire back, including the:

Upper back (thoracic vertebrae)
Lower back (lumbar vertebrae)
Neck (cervical vertebrae)
Tailbone (the coccyx)

Mountain bikers typically wear spine protectors in addition to other protective equipment such as a helmet, mountain bike gloves, knee pads and shin guards.

Mountain bikers wear back protectors to defend against scrapes and bruises from rocky ground and tree branches. But the most crucial role of a spine protector is to reduce the severity of a spinal injury due to a fall or collision while biking.

Why should you wear a spine protector for mountain biking?

Severe trauma from a mountain biking accident can damage the vertebrae themselves and the spinal cord underneath.
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In one study published by the National Institutes of Health, over 40% of patients with a back injury during mountain biking had incurred damage to the spinal cord and 67% required surgical treatment.

Spine protectors are not magical shields that can prevent injury. But they can be the difference between suffering a mild or devastating injury in a mountain biking accident.

Types of spine protector

Spine protectors work by incorporating a rigid structure and foam materials to absorb and distribute shock from the impact of a fall or collision. There are two main types of back protectors.

Hard protector

Hardshell protectors, such as Alpinestars' Bionic Action Chest Protector, are so-called because they use hard plastics like polypropylene to protect the spine.
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Panels of hard plastic act as the outer shell while a soft foam sits between the shell and your back. The panels are usually spaced apart slightly and attached to allow a degree of flexibility and breathability.

Soft protector

Softshell protectors typically use foam-based materials such as Ethylene-vinyl acetate or Visco-Elastic Polymer Dough.

Aside from high-tech foam materials such as EVA or VPD, some manufacturers have started incorporating kevlar into their soft shell protectors for increased protection without adding too much weight.

Which type of back protector is best for mountain biking?

Many mountain bikers go for a soft shell when it comes to choosing between soft shell and hard shell protectors. Theyre more flexible, lightweight and comfortable during riding. However, bikers who engage in more dangerous mountain biking such as downhill, freeriding or dirt jumping might like to choose a hard shell for added protection.
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Aside from choosing between soft and hard shell, spine protectors come in lots of different shapes and sizes with multiple features to consider, including:

Removable sections for different areas of the back
Removable foam for washing the protector
Extra pockets and pouches
Backpacks with spine protector included
Airbags that deploy in a collision
Made to fit over jerseys or under jackets

How to use a mountain biking spine protector

Select the correct type of spine protector for you

Take some time to consider what you need from a protector and prioritize the features accordingly. For example, if you need a high degree of flexibility, a softshell protector will mold to your body as it heats up during your ride, making it more comfortable.

On the other hand, if injury protection is top of mind for you, a hard shell spine protector may be the way to go.

Wear a base layer under your back protector

Most back protectors should be worn as close to the skin to align with and protect the spine properly. Softshells, in particular, are usually slim enough to fit under a jacket during cold weather.
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However, the materials can rub and irritate the skin, so its best to wear a thin base layer such as a rash vest underneath your spine protector.

Adjust the straps for your dimensions

Ensure the straps of the spine protector are adjusted so that the protector is aligned correctly. The better the protector fits, the better it can do its job of absorbing shock in the right places during a fall.

Secure the spine protector properly

Once the alignment is correct, tighten all straps and buckles of the spine protector. The back protector should fit snugly on your torso without making it difficult to breathe or move.

Best spine protectors for mountain biking

Best spine protector vest

POC Spine VPD 2.0: available at Amazon
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This full vest provides excellent protection for both the lower and upper back. While its slightly heavy to wear, it fits snugly while offering flexibility to the rider.

Best hard shell spine protector

PELLOR Armor Vest: available at Amazon

You can make multiple adjustments to this hardshell protector to ensure it fits the contours of your spine and body as closely as possible. Its breathable, suitable for all-weather riding and provides a surprising comfort level for a hard protector.

Best soft shell spine protector

Dakine Dk Impact Spine Protector: available at Amazon

This model is perfect for anyone looking for a lightweight, soft shell protector that is easy to transport with the rest of your gear. The foam is high quality and long-lasting and protects the central area of the back while riding.

Lauren Farrell is a writer for BestReviews. BestReviews is a product review company with a singular mission: to help simplify your purchasing decisions and save you time and money.

996. What a "healthful sport"! ;)

Mike

https://www.grandforksherald.com/news/accidents/7098194-Grand-Forks-teen-begins-long-rehab-after-biking-accident-results-in-spinal-injury

Grand Forks teen begins long rehab after biking accident results in spinal injury

Caleb Block, 15, was riding a mountain bike in Detroit Lakes with friends when he lost control and suffered the injury.
Written By: Tom Miller | 7:00 am, Jul. 3, 2021
Tanner Olderbak, Cooper Bakke and Thomas Peterson (left to right) stand with friend Caleb Block. Submitted photo.

The family of Grand Forks teen Caleb Block is thankful for every little improvement the last couple of weeks.

Still, a long rehabilitation awaits the 15-year-old avid BMX racer and bantam hockey player who suffered a spinal injury while riding a mountain bike on Detroit Mountain in Detroit Lakes, Minn.

In the late afternoon of June 19, Block -- while wearing a helmet -- thought he spotted a trouble spot up ahead at the base of a jump. So in avoiding the jump, he lost control and suffered a C4 spinal injury.

Spinal injuries are classified in three categories -- cervical (top of the spine), thoracic (middle) and lumbar (lower spine). A C1 injury would be at the top of the spine.

After the injury, Block was life-flighted to Sanford in Fargo where he underwent surgery. After the surgery, Block had no movement on his right side and his left side was very weak and limited.

"He's gradually improving each day," said Cory Block, Caleb's dad. "He has some movement. From what it was, that's fairly impressive. He has limited movement in his right leg but can move his right leg and toes. He can move his right arm in pretty limited fashion. His right hand he can just barely get a twinge of movement."

Caleb, who has raced BMX since he was 7, has been at Sanford in Fargo since the accident. He's scheduled to fly to Colorado and spend at least a couple of months at Craig Hospital, which specializes in spinal cord injuries.

"Every day a little, tiny thing is better," Cory said. "At first, his left hand couldn't make a fist and now he can close that hand."

Caleb's long-term outlook is tricky. Some medical professionals are very cautious to promise too much while others share stories of great recovery.

During his stay in Fargo, Caleb received a visit from former UND football captain Hunter Pinke, who severed his spine in a skiing accident in late 2019.

Pinke helped steer the Blocks to rehab at Craig Hospital, where Pinke also did his rehab.

Pinke's injury was considered a complete spinal injury, while Block's is incomplete.

"Every spinal injury is unique," Cory said. "Having seen the very slow, tiny incremental improvements are encouraging. Doctors say it's a long deal and we can't expect change overnight."

Cory said the accident created a few scary days right away.

"Once we knew the breathing and eating was safe, those were reassuring things," Cory said. "If it doesn't get better, we've made peace with that. We know it's bound to be somewhat better and while we hope for the best, we've really taken a day-by-day approach. We don't try to think too far ahead."

Cory said his son, who also likes golf and snowboarding, has handled everything like "a champ."

"Initially, like the rest of us, he was very scared," Cory said. "He just wanted to get home and know if he could walk again. In the last five or six days, it has been remarkable how he's turned around his attitude and been positive and thankful it wasn't worse than it was. His friends have come down to visit a few times, and he's able to talk and laugh and crack jokes."

Cory said Pinke's visit was "amazing."

"Hunter was a ray of light and inspiration for all of us," Cory said. "I think that level of support and support from the community as a whole has been appreciated. We talked about rehab and (Pinke) was honest about the work it'll be but also the good things that'll come of it. He explained it changes your course in life but doesn't end it. There are positive things that can come out of situations. He helped paint a brighter picture. That really meant something to (Caleb)."

Pinke posted about the visit on his Facebook page.

"Had the privilege of meeting Caleb Block and his family," Pinke wrote. "What an incredible kid! I went there with the hope of inspiring, and left the one inspired."

A GoFundMe has been created for the Block family, while an account has also been set up at First State Bank in Grand Forks.
Former UND football captain Hunter Pinke, left, poses with Grand Forks teen Caleb Block, who suffered a spinal injury while biking in Detroit Lakes last month. Submitted photo.

997. https://www.grough.co.uk/magazine/2021/07/03/mountain-biker-airlifted-to-hospital-after-crash-on-lake-district-fell#

Mountain biker airlifted to hospital after crash on Lake District fell

Bob Smith, Editor
Saturday 03 July 2021 06:39 PM GMT
The rescue scene near the head of the Wythburn Valley. Photo: Keswick MRT

A mountain biker was airlifted from a Lake District fell after crashing and injuring himself.

The 50-year-old suffered suspected concussion in the incident on the upper reaches of the Wythburn Valley on Friday.

Keswick Mountain Rescue Team was alerted after the riders friend, who was with him, called for help.

A team spokesperson said members parked at Steel End while the North West Air Ambulance flew to the scene from Blackpool.

The team ascended to the casualty who had by that time been assessed by the helimed crew, the spokesperson said. The casualty was able to walk unaided to the landing area and was transported by helicopter to Whitehaven hospital.

The team recovered the casualtys mountain bike and returned to base.

The incident lasted almost 4 hours and involved 14 Keswick MRT volunteers. Several team members also stood by at their base in case a long stretcher carry was necessary.

998. https://www.lancs.live/news/lancashire-news/man-seriously-injured-after-falling-20966622

Man 'seriously injured' after falling on 'very steep' hill in Rivington

Rescue teams were called after a mountain biker fell on a sharp incline in Rivington Terraced Gardens
By
Rachel HowarthSenior reporter
Updated11:59, 4 JUL 2021
News
Bolton Mountain Rescue Teams were called to the scene

A man is in hospital in a 'serious but stable' condition following a moutain biking accident in Rivington.

Just after 11am yesterday (July 3), Bolton Mountain Rescue Team were called to reports of an injured mountain biker at Rivington Terraced Gardens.

On arrival they found that a man, 37, had had an accident whilst riding through the woods after fallen while navigating a 'very steep' obstacle.

After assessing the man and getting him to an easily accessible location, the crews handed him over to the paramedics who took him to Salford Royal for treatment.

A statement from Bolton Mountain Rescue said: "At 11:02 yesterday morning we were contacted by North West Ambulance Service NHS Trust who were requesting our assistance at an incident in Rivington Terraced Gardens.

"A 37 year old male had had a mountain biking accident whilst riding through the woods. He had fallen whilst riding down a very steep obstacle, and landed hard.

"Team members were quickly on scene, and assessed the casualty, administered pain relief medication and immobilised him.

"As evacuation was about to begin we were joined by an NWAS ambulance crew. The casualty was carried on one of our stretchers from a difficult to access location, about 200m to the waiting ambulance,

"The casualty was then assessed further and ultimately taken by NWAS to Salford Royal Hospital where his injuries are described as serious, but stable."

999. https://gephardtdaily.com/local/mountain-biker-transported-by-air-to-ogden-hospital-after-accident-near-snowbasin/

Mountain biker transported by air to Ogden hospital after accident near Snowbasin

By
Gephardt Daily Staff
-
July 10, 2021
File Photo: Gephardt Daily/Patrick Benedict

WEBER COUNTY, Utah, July 10, 2021 (Gephardt Daily) A woman in her 60s was transported to an area hospital Saturday after she reportedly fell from a mountain bike near the Snowbasin Resort trailhead.

We got called to Snowbasin, and when we got there, ski patrol was on their way to get her with a side-by-side, Captain Oliver Cummings, Weber Fire District, told Gephardt Daily.

We met with ski patrol and a helicopter at the bottom, and the woman was in stable condition.

Cummings said the exact circumstances of the fall and seriousness of the injuries are unclear, but the patient was transported by medical helicopter to McKay-Dee Hospital in Ogden.

Her injuries were probably not life-threatening, but they were serious enough to warrant flying her, he said.

1000. https://keyt.com/news/ventura-county/2021/07/11/injured-cyclist-rescued-from-ventura-biking-trail/

Ventura County
By Travis Schlepp
Published July 11, 2021 5:15 pm

Injured cyclist rescued from Ventura biking trail

MGN

VENTURA, Calif. - A mountain biker who was injured in a crash was rescued by Ventura County first responders Sunday morning.

The cyclist, identified only as a 58-year-old man, suffered an arm injury in a crash at the Harmon Canyon Preserve in Ventura County.

At around 11:15 a.m., the Ventura Fire Department responded along with paramedics to the injured cyclist. Air support from the Ventura County Fire Department airlifted the man and transferred him to a ground ambulance.

The man was taken to the hospital for additional treatment. He is expected to make a full recovery, a spokesman for Ventura City Fire said.

1001. https://ktvz.com/news/2021/07/16/seriously-injured-mountain-biker-rescued-on-swampy-lakes-trail/

By KTVZ news sources
today at 2:27 PM
Published July 16, 2021 9:10 AM

Critically injured mountain biker rescued on Swampy Lakes Trail

Deschutes County Sheriff's Office Deschutes County Sheriff's Search and Rescue volunteers bring injured mtn. biker to waiting Life Flight helicopter Thursday evening

(Update: Injured mountain biker in critical condition)

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) Deschutes County Sheriffs Search and Rescue came to the aid Thursday evening of a mountain biker who was critically injured on the Swampy Lakes Trail southwest of Bend, officials said.

County 911 dispatchers received a call around 5 p.m. reporting the injured mountain biker, a 55-year-old Bend man, about two miles from the Swampy Lakes Sno-Park, said Deputy Kyle Joye, assistant Search and Rescue coordinator.

Ten SAR volunteers and a deputy responded, Joye said. Another volunteer was in the area and headed o the scene on his own mountain bike, arriving within a half-hour of the call, and provided medical aid while waiting for the others to arrive.

After an initial evaluation, an air ambulance was called in and a LifeFlight helicopter responded. Over the next hour, the other SAR volunteers arrived on foot and by ATV and LifeFlight landed a short distance away.

Around 7:25 p.m., the injured man was brought to the waiting helicopter and flown to St. Charles Bend with life-threatening injuries, Joye said. The volunteers then escorted the mans family down the trail and back to the sno-park, where other family members were waiting.

The mountain biker was listed in critical condition Friday afternoon, a hospital representative said.

1002. https://www.thescarboroughnews.co.uk/news/scarborough-and-ryedale-mountain-rescue-team-rescues-mountain-biker-with-head-and-neck-injuries-in-dalby-forest-3313168

Scarborough and Ryedale Mountain Rescue Team rescues mountain biker with head and neck injuries in Dalby Forest

Scarborough and Ryedale Mountain Rescue Team rescued a man who was injured after falling from his bike in Dalby Forest.

By Corinne Macdonald
Monday, 19th July 2021, 10:11 am
Updated 16 hours ago
The casualty was taken to a waiting ambulance. (Scarborough and Ryedale Mountain Rescue Team)

The team were called by the Yorkshire Ambulance Service to reports of a male mountain biker who had sustained head and neck injuries after falling from his bike in the jump park at Dixons Hollow.

The incident occured yesterday, Sunday July 18 at 3.46pm.

Reports also suggested a reduced level of consciousness immediately after the fall.
The casualty was taken to a waiting ambulance. (Scarborough and Ryedale Mountain Rescue Team)

After initial treatment at the site of the accident and due to the mechanism of injury he was placed in a full body vacuum mattress before being carried, by the team, to the waiting ambulance.

The incident was the team's 59th of the year.

1003. https://manchesterinklink.com/bicyclist-injured-and-alone-in-the-woods-for-over-an-hour-rescued-by-the-kindness-of-strangers/

Bicyclist injured and alone in the woods for over an hour rescued after chance encounter

"He was very fortunate that another mountain biker came up on him."

Wednesday, July 28, 2021By Ryan Lessard

Air Medical Transport from Boston Medflight landed at Windham High School during a rescue of an injured bicyclist on July 27, 2021. Photo/Windham Fire Department.

WINDHAM, NH A 39-year-old man was riding his mountain bike in the trails by Clyde Pond in Windham Tuesday morning when an accident left him with a serious head injury. The man couldnt get up and laid in the woods for approximately 90 minutes before help arrived.

Windham Fire Chief Tom McPherson said a good Samaritan found the man on the trail about 90 minutes later and called 911.

He was very fortunate that another mountain biker came upon him. He was able to summon help and stay with him until emergency workers arrived, McPherson said.

At approximately 9:22 a.m., Windham Fire and Police responded to the scene, with McPherson the first to arrive. The injured man was located about to mile into the woods from the parking lot entrance.

A woman running the trail also lent a hand she had just passed by the injured man and the other bicyclist when she came upon the firefighters and guided the firefighters through the woods to his location, according to McPherson.

As she came down the trailhead, she was kind enough to escort rescuers back up the trail to the location of the incident. She did this twice in order to direct additional rescuers to the location, McPherson said.

The injured man told rescuers he was riding his bike through the trail when his front tire hit rough terrain, bringing the bike to a sudden stop. The rider flew over the handlebars and landed on his head. He was wearing a helmet.
First responders carry an injured bicyclist from Clyde Pond where he was found by a woman who was out for a run. Photo/Windham Fire Department

The man reported being unable to feel his lower extremities and felt tingling in his upper extremities. Based on this, the fire department requested Air Medical Transport from Boston Medflight, which later arrived at the Windham High School football field.

Due to the choice of landing zone, the high school was placed in secure campus mode while medical personnel worked to secure the patient.

It took an estimated 40 minutes from the time first responders arrived at the patients location in the woods to the time it took to carry him by rescue basket to the parking lot.

The patient was carefully packaged and brought out of the trail to an awaiting ambulance, McPherson said.

An ambulance transported him to the helicopter and Boston Medflight flew him to Lahey Hospital in Burlington, Massachusetts.

Mutual aid was requested and Salem Fire sent an engine to the scene for additional manpower. Londonderry Fire helped with station coverage and a Pelham Fire engine was sent to the high school to help secure the landing zone.

1004. https://mynewsla.com/life/2021/07/31/mountain-biker-suffers-traumatic-injuries-in-mandeville-canyon/

Mountain Biker Suffers Traumatic Injuries in Mandeville Canyon

Posted by Contributing Editor on July 31, 2021 in Life

A 37-year-old man riding a mountain bike suffered traumatic injuries during a crash Saturday in a remote area in Mandeville Canyon.

Firefighters and paramedics were dispatched at 8:27 a.m. to the 2600 block of North Westridge Road, the Los Angeles Fire Department reported.

A hoist operation retrieved the bicyclist and he was airlifted to an area trauma center.

1005. https://buckrail.com/teton-pass-bike-trail-site-of-two-weekend-injuries/

Jackson Wyoming News

Breaking Local News & Community updates for Jackson, Wy & Teton County.

info@buckrail.com (307) 222-8609
PO Box 10831, Jackson WY 83002

Jackson Hole News

Teton Pass bike trail site of two weekend injuries

Buckrail @ Shannon 4 hours ago

Teton County Search and Rescue ambulance. Photo: Nick Sulzer // Buckrail

JACKSON, Wyo. A popular and aggressive downhill mountain bike trail was the site of two separate injuries over the weekend.

Teton County Search and Rescue (TCSAR) volunteers responded to two calls on Fuzzy Bunny. The first came in at 2 p.m. Saturday about a mountain biker who had sustained potentially serious injuries after crashing on the trail. According to a post on TCSARs Facebook, the biker was eventually able to walk to the trailhead to meet responding volunteers for an initial assessment before being passed off for more advanced medical care.

A second came in on Sunday about another mountain biker injured on the same trail. Volunteers were able to take a RZR side-by-side while others walked to the scene. The biker was assessed and packaged on scene before being transported to higher medical care.

Fuzzy Bunny is considered very difficult and includes several man-made features like jumps and gaps.

1006. https://www.walesonline.co.uk/news/wales-news/injured-man-carried-3km-down-21208514

Injured man carried 3km down a mountain on a stretcher

The rescuers later assisted on another rescue where a woman was airlifted off a mountain
By
Lydia StephensSenior reporter

20:14, 2 AUG 2021

(Image: Longtown Mountain Rescue Team)

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An injured man was carried three kilometres down a mountain on a stretcher by a team of rescuers following a fall.

The mountain biker had suffered a leg injury on Bal Bach on the afternoon of July 30.

Gwent Police alerted the rescuers to the man who treated him at the scene before carrying him the long distance down the mountain to wait for an ambulance. Just days later the same team assisted a helicopter rescue off the side of the same mountain.

Longtowm Mountain Rescue Team said the rescue was one of three over a busy weekend, with one resulting in a false alarm.

Longtown MRT team leader, Neil Rothwell-Hughes said: In all these cases the people involved did exactly the right thing, they called the emergency services and it meant we could be deployed to help them very quickly.

Its been a busy year for the team and Id like to pay tribute to our team members for being there 24/7 and their continuing professionalism during all our call outs.

Id also like to wish the people involved in both incidents a speedy recovery.

1007. https://www.gofundme.com/f/support-annijkes-recovery-and-medical-expenses?utm_source=facebook&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=p_cp+share-sheet

Support Annijke's recovery and medical expenses

$90,654 raised of $150,000 goal

1.2K shares
1.5K followers

See all See top donations
Team fundraiser
Renee Hutchens and Claire Smallwood are organizing this fundraiser on behalf of Annijke Wade.

On July 17, 2021, Annijke Wade was in Angel Fire, New Mexico doing what she loves the most in the world: mountain bikingwhen her life changed forever. Although Annijke is an expert rider and was on a trail she had ridden more than sixty times, she lost control of the bike and remembers waking up with no feeling below her chest. She had broken her T6-T7 vertebrae, almost completely severing her spinal cord. She also sustained an orbital fracture, nose fracture, and broken fingers. Annijke is an incredibly resilient, brave, and positive person, but she needs our help to make it through this challenge. We are raising money to help with the medical costs associated with this tragic and painful injury.

Immediately following the injury, Annijke was taken into care by the Angel Fire Bike Patrol and transferred to the Taos Hospital, then ultimately flown to the University of New Mexico hospital in Albuquerque where she underwent surgery to fuse her T3-T9 vertebra. Getting through the initial experience at the ICU is one thing, but there is a long road of recovery ahead for Annijke. Most immediately, we need to raise the funds to transport Annijke to the Craig Hospital in Denver, a world class institute focusing on helping people with spinal cord injuries. We need to raise $100,000 to help Annijke on her road to recovery, including transporting her to the Craig Hospital where she can get the care and support she needs.

Annijke is a passionate leader in the bike community, known for her infectious enthusiasm for mountain biking and for building community. She only started mountain biking a few years ago, but in that short time she has made an immense impact not only in the realm of womens biking, but specifically in the work of equitable inclusion. She recently organized the first bike event specifically for Black, Indigenous, and People of Color at Angel Fire. Annijke had recently received her PMBIA Level 1 certification as a mountain bike instructor, and also interested in gaining certification to become an adaptive coach as well. Annijke strives to make biking a more inclusive space for belonging for everyone. While we know Annijke will continue to be an inspiration for all of us, we are coming together during this tough time to help with the exorbitant financial costs associated with a Spinal Cord Injury (SCI).

photo credit: Jerry Bruce

There are many hidden costs associated with an SCI. We are specifically raising money to help her family with the transition from the ICU to a specialist treatment center and then for the additional expenses that are anticipated with an SCI.

The average cost of a first year of a paraplegic injury is over $500,000, with an additional $67,000 of additional yearly expenses every year. From minor and major home modifications to modified vehicles and rehabilitation (physical and occupational), as well as medication, and psychological supportthe expenses are astronomical. And that does not include lost wages and regular day-to-day living expenses for her and her immediate family during this difficult time.

We need to raise $100,000 to help Annijke on her road to recovery to support her time at the Craig Hospital in Denver.
Donate Share

1008. https://manchesterinklink.com/windham-man-paralyzed-in-mountain-bike-accident-receives-outpouring-of-support/

Windham man paralyzed in mountain bike accident receives outpouring of support

Thursday, August 5, 2021By Ryan Lessard

Jim Harvey has a long road of recovery ahead, but he has the strength of his community behind him. Courtesy Photo

WINDHAM, NH An online fundraiser to help the family of a Windham man who suffered a serious spinal cord injury while biking the Clyde Pond trails in Windham last week has raised over $205,000 so far.

The 39-year-old man is identified as Jim Harvey in the GoFundMe description, a husband, father of two, hockey and lacrosse coach and a systems engineer at L3 Harris in Londonderry.

In a statement shared with Manchester Ink Link via an intermediary, Harveys wife, Alicia Harvey, said her family is eternally grateful for the incredible support theyve received from the community.

People are helping in so many waysdonations, time, skill sets, being there for our childrenand simply being by our side. You never imagine something like this happening to your family and words cannot express how amazing everyone has been, she said.

Harvey is an experienced mountain biker and would ride the same Clyde Pond trails before work a few days each week, according to the fundraiser description.

He sustained a severe spinal cord injury to the C6-C7 cervical vertebrae, which resulted in full paralysis from the chest down.

Harvey is in a surgical ICU and has already received multiple treatments and surgeries to stabilize his condition.

He has some arm and wrist movement, but we are being told not to expect use of hands or anything below his upper chest. We are waiting for the swelling to go down to see where he lands and are hoping for a miracle, the fundraiser says.

Its expected Harvey will reside in a rehabilitation center for an estimated three months after hes discharged from the hospital, in order to regain as much function and independence as possible.

The first year of treatment is expected to cost close to $770,000 and about $113,000 for each subsequent year, according to the Christopher and Dana Reeve Foundation. The family also plans to make modifications to their Windham home to make it wheelchair accessible.

The GoFundMe raised $205,000 in just the first three days, with over 1,000 donors and 2,500 shares.

Harvey is described as an avid outdoorsman and athlete, with a passion for mountain biking, wake surfing, water skiing, boating, downhill skiing and snowboarding, hockey, camping, hiking, fishing, golfing and scuba diving.

Due to Alicias long hours as a retail pharmacist, Harvey was the primary caregiver at home. He also volunteered on multiple community boards.

Jim is a one-of-a-kind person always with a smile on his face, a positive attitude, quick wit, and willing to lend a helping hand to anyone who needs it, the fundraiser says. Even after this severe life-changing injury, he has continued smiling from his hospital bed, and in true Jim fashion, is looking for the positives within a truly horrific situation. Jims thankful to still be with us.

Immediately after the accident, Harvey was alone in the woods for an estimated 90 minutes before another mountain biker discovered him and called 911. Rescue personnel from the Windham Fire Department hiked about half a mile into the woods to find him, with the help of another bystander, and carried him to an ambulance.

He was airlifted from the Windham High School football field to Lahey Hospital in Burlington, Mass., by Boston Medflight.
About the author Latest posts

Ryan Lessard

ryanmlessard@gmail.com

Ryan Lessard is a freelance reporter.

1009. https://www.leaderlive.co.uk/news/19495725.newsar-called-help-injured-biker-eglwyseg-mountain/

6th August
NEWSAR called to help injured biker at Eglwyseg Mountain

By Aaliyah Rugg @Aaliyahrugg1 Reporter

A RESCUE team was called in to help an injured mountain biker who was winched by a helicopter.

North East Wales Search And Rescue (NEWSAR) confirmed they were called on Thursday evening to Eglwyseg Mountain.

The injured mountain biker was treated by team members and winched by HM Coastguard helicopter, then transferred to hospital.

A video of the winch was shared on social media.

A spokesman said: "Using HILine from the ground to stabilise the stretcher during the lift. Prevents uncontrolled spinning in the downdraft.

"If you watch carefully you see it drop as the winchman reaches the aircraft."

1010. https://www.pqbnews.com/news/arrowsmith-search-and-rescue-crews-act-quickly-to-find-injured-mountain-biker/

An injured biker is secured to a stretcher on the back of a utility task vehicle after being rescued by Arrowsmith Search and Rescue from the HammerFest mountain biking trails near the Englishman River Falls Provincial Park on Sunday, Aug. 1, 2021. (Submitted photo)

Arrowsmith Search and Rescue crews act quickly to find injured mountain biker

Rescue took place along HammerFest mountain biking trails

Mandy Moraes
Aug. 7, 2021 4:30 p.m.

Thanks to the swift response of Arrowsmith Search and Rescue (ASAR), an injured biker along the HammerFest mountain biking trails was in the back of an ambulance within an hour and 10 minutes from when a call was received.

On Sunday, Aug. 1, at 11:13 a.m., ASAR was dispatched to the chain of interconnected biking trails near the Englishman River Falls Provincial Park, to recover the injured woman who had been biking with her friends.

Nick Rivers, search and rescue manager, said they were unsure of how she came off her bike, but the incident led to a lower leg injury.

It wasnt an obvious break but it could have been a break, or a fracture, or a severe sprain.

He said she was found along the powerline access road near where it intersected with other mountain bike trails.

As per procedure, ASAR determined her exact location by pinging her cellphone and utilizing its GPS tracking. Rivers noted several people along the trail also pointed them to her.

She was unable to walk, so we got in there with our off-road UTV (utility task vehicle), put her into a stretcher, put the stretcher into the UTV and drove her up to the roadside where the ambulance was waiting.

Once in the ambulance, she was taken to the Oceanside Health Centre in Parksville for treatment.

In total, 10 ASAR members were called out three advanced medical personnel, three team leaders and four team members.

We like to send as many people as we can because you never know what to expect, said Rivers.

mandy.moraes@pqbnews.com

1011. https://www.edinburghnews.scotsman.com/news/people/edinburgh-cathedral-boss-killed-in-freak-mountain-biking-accident-3338262

Edinburgh cathedral boss killed in 'freak' mountain biking accident

Church members have paid tribute to the manager of their cathedral complex who sadly died in a freak mountain biking accident.

By James Trimble
Sunday, 8th August 2021, 11:21 am

Andy Hilton, who managed St Marys Catholic Cathedral complex in York Place, Edinburgh for the last three years, reportedly suffered fatal head injuries as a result of a collision while he was mountain biking on Wednesday, August 4.

In a St Marys newsletter issued at the weekend, it was stated: With deep sadness I have to communicate to you our Cathedral Complex Manager, Andy Hilton, died suddenly on Wednesday having been involved in a freak mountain biking accident.

"We do not know many details except that he was involved in a head on collision, suffered massive injuries to his head and died instantly. Andy had been working here at the Cathedral for almost three years and had become one of the family.

by Taboola

St Mary's Catholic Cathedral complex manager Andy Hilton sadly died in a cycling accident

He was not a Catholic but he seemed to enjoy working here with us and he achieved an enormous amount for the Cathedral in his time here. I know that you will keep them very much in your prayers.

"I respected him and enjoyed working with him. We will all miss him. May he rest in peace.

Mr Hilton, who is survived by a daughter, was said to be a deeply good and decent man who was scrupulously honest and genuinely kind.

Back in February Mr Hilton was busy dealing with a major mechanical breakdown in the cathedral involving the motors of the winching system to lower the chandeliers.

He appealed for people to support the expensive repair with donations and had been looking into alternative mechanical systems.

1012. https://www.bouldercounty.org/news/mountain-biker-rescued-from-betasso-preserve/

Mountain biker rescued from Betasso Preserve

Boulder County, Colo. - On Sunday, August 8, 2021 at approximately 11:45 a.m., the Boulder County Communications was notified of a mountain biker who had become injured in the area of the Betasso Preserve, just west of Boulder.

The 49-year-old female, was mountain biking the Canyon Loop Trail when she crashed, going over her handlebars and landing on her chin. As a result of the injury, she was unable to walk out to the trailhead.

Firefighters from Sugarloaf Fire Protection District and rescuers from Rocky Mountain Rescue Group were able to access the injured party and provide medical care. The injured party was packaged in a beanbag splint and loaded into a litter for transport. A wheeled litter evacuation was utilized to transport the injured party from the location of the accident to the trailhead, where she was evaluated by paramedics from American Medical Response. The injured party was transported by ambulance to a local hospital for further medical evaluation.

Agencies assisting with this rescue effort included: Boulder County Sheriffs Office, Sugarloaf Fire Protection District, American Medical Response, Rocky Mountain Rescue Group, and Boulder County Parks and Open Space.

The associated Boulder County Sheriff's Office case number is: #21 3739.

1013. https://www.manchestereveningnews.co.uk/news/greater-manchester-news/mountain-bike-injuries-bury-park-21270253

Injured biker on ground for five hours before late-night rescue from park

The mountain biker was left with a number of broken bones

By
Helena Vesty Bolton and Bury Reporter

09:17, 10 AUG 2021

The biker needed pain relief before being moved (Image: Manchester Evening News.)

A mountain biker was on the ground for five hours with horrible injuries before emergency services were able to extract him from a country park.

The 21-year-old was cycling along a mountain bike trail in Philips Park, Prestwich, when he got into difficulty and fell - suffering a broken left clavicle and broken right femur.

The young man fell at around 8pm on Monday evening (August 9), and emergency services were called to the scene at around 9pm.

It was then another four hours before firefighters, along with North West Ambulance Service (NWAS) paramedics, were able to get him to a place of safety because of the challenging terrain, according to the fire station watch manager.

Whitefield Fire Station watch manager Williams said: "We attended a 21-year-old male who came off a mountain bike.

"He was left with significant injuries, we stabilised him until ambulance crews arrived, who removed him in a 4x4.
Philips Park, Whitefield (Image: MEN)

"We were at the scene until around 1am. He was on the ground for around four hours before we extricated him to a place of safety. The rescue took several hours due to the difficult location and injuries, as we had to transport him across the bike trails.

"He also had to be stabilised and receive pain relief before being moved."

After being rescued by paramedics from the NWAS Hazardous Area Response Team, the man was taken to Salford Royal Hospital.

1014. https://www.odt.co.nz/regions/west-coast/canadian-mountainbikers-death-accidental-coroner

Tuesday, 10 August 2021

Canadian mountainbiker's death accidental: coroner

Regions
West Coast

A Canadian tourist died after he was thrown from his mountainbike while riding downhill on the Haast Pass, a coroner has found.

James (Jim) Redmond Whittle (63) landed on his head and broke his neck on November 21 in 2017, Robin Kay said. His report into the single bicycle accident on State Highway 6 was released on July 26 this year.

Mr Whittle was the programme coordinator of the Paramedic Program at Algonquin College in Ottawa, where he had taught for 34 years.

His interests included climbing, hiking and kayaking.

Mr Whittle was touring New Zealand with Flying Kiwi Adventure Tours.

Jims death was the result of an accident, that sadly had a tragic and fatal result, Mr Kay said.

The coroner did not think there were any comments or recommendations that could usefully be made, nor would it serve public interest to have Mr Whittles death looked at by some other investigative body.

On November 21, the guided tour group of 20 was heading from the Blue Pools at Makarora towards Haast on the West Coast.

Mr Whittle was in a group of five more confident riders who decided to descend from the the Haast Pass to Thunder Creek. They were wearing helmets and high visibility vests.

As they approached the Gates of Haast bridge, Mr Whittle was leading and pulling away before being thrown from his bike.

After the accident, Mr Whittle was unresponsive and fellow cyclist Stephen Moseley rode on to Thunder Falls to alert tour leader Thomas Judd.

Mr Judd took another tour group member, a Welsh emergency doctor Melissa Benn, to the scene.

Dr Benn and two other cyclists attempted resuscitation for up to 40 minutes before an ambulance arrived with a defibrillator. Resuscitation attempts continued until it was agreed this was futile.

A Police Serious Crash Investigation Unit report estimated that Mr Whittles speed was between 33kmh and 44kmh.

The police report concluded Mr Whittles wheels moved onto gravel and he was too close to a rock wall to be able to steer away from it.

The bike went into a drainage channel, the left handlebar was caught by vegetation on the rock face, and Mr Whittle was thrown over the handlebars, the police report said.

Mr Kay said it was possible Mr Whittle could have been distracted by the striking scenery.

He accepted pathologist Dr Martin Sages opinion that Mr Whittles death was caused by a mid-cervical spinal traumatic fracture with spinal cord crush.

The crash was not caused by alcohol or drugs or any medical condition, nor by the condition of his mountain bike or any environmental factors.

No other party caused or contributed to the crash, he said.

Mr Kay prohibited the publication of photographs of Mr Whittle.

- By Marjorie Cook

1015. Such a "healthful" sport!

Mike

https://www.chroniclelive.co.uk/news/north-east-news/durham-biker-death-hamsterley-forest-21316481

Mountain biker dies on trail at Hamsterley Forest in County Durham after coming off his bike

Durham Constabulary and the North East Ambulance Service have confirmed that a 48-year-old man from Hartlepool has died

By
James Robinson

13:55, 15 AUG 2021
Updated14:05, 15 AUG 2021

Hamsterley Forest in County Durham (Image: Newcastle Chronicle)

Get the latest County Durham news and updates delivered straight to your inbox - sign up for free email updates
We use your sign-up to provide content in ways you've consented to and to improve our understanding of you. This may include adverts from us and 3rd parties based on our understanding. You can unsubscribe at any time.More info

A man has died while riding his mountain bike on a popular forest trail in County Durham.

Emergency services were called to Hamsterley Forest near Bishop Auckland at 10.30am on Saturday morning.

Despite the best efforts of the man's friends and paramedics, the 48-year-old from Hartlepool was pronounced dead at the scene.

Read more:Police and mountain rescue team save walkers lost in Peterlee nature reserve

A spokesman for Durham Constabulary said: We had a call from the ambulance stating that a male had come off his mountain bike in the forest.

He was not breathing and his friends had started CPR.

There was a little bit of delay for the ambulance to get there due to the terrain and where it was.

It was at the top end so they did not have full access to it but they did manage to get up there with a defibrillator and the paramedics took over CPR.

It looks like he was with his friends at the time, so there was someone there with him.

It is awful.

1016. https://www.kktv.com/2021/08/15/firefighters-rescuing-cyclist-who-fell-down-slope-cheyenne-canon/

Firefighters rescue mountain biker after long fall in Cheyenne Canon

By Lindsey Grewe
Published: Aug. 15, 2021 at 9:22 AM PDT|Updated: 15 hours ago

COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. (KKTV) - A mountain biker has been airlifted out of Cheyenne Canon after suffering a roughly 100-foot fall during a ride Sunday morning.

The rider fell down a steep slope below the collapsed tunnel (tunnel no. 3) on Gold Camp Road, landing at the base of a recreational climbing area.

He ... essentially zigged where he should have zagged and took a wrong turn and went for an unfortunate ride, said C.J. Sidebottom with the Colorado Springs Fire Department.

Cell service tends to be spotty if available at all in the area where the rider fell, but some nearby were able to get reception and call 911.

Sidebottom said the riders friends and other bystanders helped firefighters reach him.

There was people below helping guide us in, people above helping guide us in. So really the whole community came together, search and rescue, us, by standards, all helped to get us to the patient as fast as we could.

After hiking some of the way, firefighters and an El Paso County search and rescue crew used a ropes system to get the rider off the cliffside.

It was really to provide the safest way for the rescuers and patient to be extricated from that situation.

Firefighters say the man was seriously injured but is expected to recover.

Crews want to remind people to have a plan when heading out on the trails, because you never know what might happen.

The best piece of advice is just to certainly know the route youre going, any pre-planning you can do is great. Go with someone whos already been there, if you are able to, but I dont think any of us in our high angle rescue program in any way want to limit peoples ability to go recreate. We all want to search for adventure, and thats part of the reason why we live here. So be prepared, be safe, try to have a plan as best as you can, but were here for when it doesnt go well, says Sidebottom.

1017. https://www.khq.com/regional/mountain-biker-injured-on-leverich-canyon-trail/article_eae71a54-e131-54b2-8635-53d817626a79.html

Mountain biker injured on Leverich Canyon Trail

Meridith Depping KFBB Digital Producer
Aug 15, 2021 Updated Aug 15, 2021
BOZEMAN, Mont. - Search and rescue teams helped an injured mountain biker off a trail and to the trailhead Friday.

A report was made of an injured mountain biker on Leverich Canyon Trail on Friday, Aug. 13.

Gallatin County Sheriff Search and Rescue say they responded to the trailhead along with Hyalite Fire Department and American Medical Response.

The patient was met with search and rescue members about one and a half miles up the trail and was found to have suffered an upper leg injury and was in substantial pain.

On scene, the patient received initial medical care and pain management before the team used a one-wheel litter to transport the patient to the trailhead.

At the trailhead, American Medical Response transported the patient to Bozeman Deaconess Hospital.

Sheriff Dan Springer is reminding recreationists that even the most experienced have mishaps, and always take a partner, plenty of water, sunscreen, a first aid kit and be prepared for any weather changes.

1018. https://www.longmontleader.com/news-releases/mountain-biker-injured-on-coal-seam-trail-4228927

Mountain biker injured on Coal Seam Trail

Mountain View Fire Protection District transported the injured mountain biker to a local hospital via ambulance
a day ago By: Community Submission
Image by Fabricio Macedo FGMsp from Pixabay

NEWS RELEASE
BOULDER COUNTY SHERIFF'S OFFICE
*************************
On Monday, August 16, 2021 at approximately 7:50 p.m., the Boulder County Communications Center was notified of an injured mountain biker on the Coal Seam Trail.

A fifty-six year-old male from Boulder, Colorado sustained a non-life-threatening hip injury while mountain biking on the Coal Seam Trail. Rocky Mountain Rescue Group provided a wheeled-litter evacuation to the Marshall Mesa Trailhead. Mountain View Fire Protection District transported the injured mountain biker to a local hospital via ambulance. The rescue lasted approximately one hour.

Agencies assisting with this rescue included: Rocky Mountain Rescue Group, Boulder County Parks and Open Space, Mountain View Fire Protection District.

1019. It's okay, because he died while doing what he loved ... right?

Mike

https://www.singletracks.com/mtb-news/mountain-biker-dies-at-2021-leadville-100/

Mountain Biker Dies at 2021 Leadville 100

By Matt Miller August 17, 2021
Photo: Life Time / Leadville 100

A mountain biker has passed away after a crash in the Leadville 100 on Saturday, according to the Colorado Sun. Details have not been officially released, but Lake County Sheriffs Office told the Sun that information may be available on Wednesday.

The entire Leadville family is deeply saddened by the passing of an athlete, Jordan Titus, a representative of Life Time Fitness, told the Colorado Sun in an email. This athlete embodied the spirit of Leadville and our thoughts and sympathies are with their loved ones at this difficult time.

This would mark the second death at the iconic race event. Scott Ellis passed away from a heart attack in 2015.

We reached out to Life Time for more information. Their response included the same quote provided to the Colorado Sun, and that at the request of the family, they arent providing additional information at this time.

The Sun reports that at Sundays awards ceremony, competitors shared a moment of silence for the athlete.

Matt Miller
Matt is a staff writer and features editor at Singletracks and lives in the Front Range of Colorado. He served in the Marines and has a journalism degree from MSU-Denver. Want to talk MTB news? Send him a message: matt@singletracks.com

1020. Oh, great - a chance to get even more injured!

Mike

https://gearjunkie.com/biking/mtb-legend-paul-basagoitia-the-bass-way-video

After Spinal Cord Injury, MTB Legend Returns Aboard Ripping Modified E-Bike

August 18, 2021 | By Mary Murphy

Ride every day, The Bass Way, with Paul Basagoitia in this short series.

Six years ago, Paul Basagoitia was a household name in freeride mountain biking. He rode in Crankworx, Red Bull Rampage really anywhere with extreme trails.

In 2015, a T12 spinal cord injury halted his career. Basagoitias story was documented in HBOs Any One of Us film, what Ride Concepts called an unprecedented glimpse into the world of spinal cord injuries. But, that isnt the only story Basagoitia has to tell.

Any perspective in my life, the bike has always been there to save me, he said. Now, improvements in his physical abilities and the rise of e-bike technology mean that Basagoitia has found a new way to ride.
Adaptive and e-bike mountain bike riders descending a trail.

The Bass Way chronicles the next segment in Pauls journey, capturing the new-found joy that e-bikes and a second chance have provided, wrote Ride Concepts. Ride Every Way will be a multipart series.

1021. https://www.nzherald.co.nz/rotorua-daily-post/news/covid-19-coronavirus-delta-outbreak-30-mountain-bikers-injured-during-lockdown-threat-to-close-forest/EIWPMMF7AODUIZFRBJ4JISP6SA/

24 Aug, 2021 10:00 AM
Maryann Avery is angry at the number of mountain bikers using the trails during lockdown
By: Kelly Makiha

Multimedia journalist
kelly.makiha@nzme.co.nz

Thirty mountain bikers have needed hospital treatment in Rotorua in six days of lockdown, prompting a warning the forest could close if people don't follow the rules.

Deputy mayor and mountain bike enthusiast Dave Donaldson

1022. https://www.odt.co.nz/regions/queenstown/mountain-biker-airlifted-hospital-head-injury

Friday, 27 August 2021

Mountain biker airlifted to hospital with head injury

By Guy Williams
2718 1

A mountain biker has been flown to Dunedin Hospital in a moderate condition after an accident in the Queenstown suburb of Fernhill this afternoon.

St John spokeswoman Dani Tucker said an ambulance and the Queenstown rescue helicopter responded to the accident about 12.50pm.

Queenstown Mountain Bike Club president Pete McInally said he understood a young woman sustained a head injury while riding on the McNearly Gnarly trail in the Fernhill Bike Park.

It was a grade-three (intermediate) trail, which made it no different to many parts of the Queenstown Trail network, Mr McInally said.

Unlike the club's jump parks in Fernhill and Gorge Rd, which were closed, it was a safe trail for people living nearby to be exercising on during the lockdown.

It was the first serious accident on the trail he was aware of in the three years since it was built, he said.

1023. Mountain biking has been an outlaw/scofflaw sport from the start, and has never changed! Note that the crash happened "at a mountain bike park".

Mike

https://www.stuff.co.nz/national/126215290/police-extremely-disappointed-after-discovering-more-than-50-mountain-bikers-following-crash-at-bike-park

Police 'extremely disappointed' after discovering more than 50 mountain bikers following crash at bike park

Sophie Cornish15:23, Aug 28 2021

Police have arrested people at anti-lockdown protests around the country.

Police Commissioner Andrew Coster said police were disappointed after discovering more than 50 mountain bikers at a bike park.

They attended a crash, which resulted in a two-hour recovery operation and one person being airlifted to hospital.

Police were called to the crash at a mountain bike park in Fernhill on Friday and upon arrival estimated there were 50 or more mountain bikers on the track.
ALDEN WILLIAMS/Stuff
Police were called to the crash at a mountain bike park in Fernhill on Friday and upon arrival estimated there were 50 or more mountain bikers on the track.

In a statement, Police Commissioner Andrew Coster said police were extremely disappointed and wanted to remind people that under alert level 4 any recreational activity that could lead to a rescue or emergency response is not permitted.

READ MORE:
* Covid-19: Police issue 328 infringement notices for failing to stay home
* Coronavirus: Mountain-biker winched off Wellington hill amid lockdown

Due to where the crash happened, it took two hours, a 4WD and several police and ambulance staff to remove the injured woman from the track. She was then airlifted to Dunedin Hospital.

Police will be speaking to the biker at a later date and enforcement action for breaching restrictions will be considered. The other mountain bikers on the track were educated on alert level four rules, Coster said.
ALDEN WILLIAMS/Stuff
Police Commissioner Andrew Coster said police were extremely disappointed and wanted to remind people that under alert level 4 any recreational activity that could lead to a rescue or emergency response is not permitted.

It comes after seven men from six different bubbles were charged after allegedly jet boating during the Covid-19 lockdown near W naka.

They were spotted on the Makarora River by a police officer patrolling the area.

The men, aged between 22 and 30, are expected to appear in Queenstown District Court on September 13, each on a charge each of failing to comply with a Covid-19 order.

Since alert level 4 came into place, 93 people have been charged with 99 offences nationwide, as at 5pm on Friday.

In the same time period, 256 formal warnings were issued.

Since August 19, police have issued 1594 infringements nationwide.

1024. Not mountain biking is an even better way to save your life! DUH!

Mike

https://www.facebook.com/groups/2209539488/?multi_permalinks=10159513715464489&notif_id=1629729135167243&notif_t=group_highlights&ref=notif

Friends of IMBA

Mike Frost

PSA, wear your helmet. Mine 100% saved my life in this crash. Got bucked and overshot a 20' gap and paid a heavy price. Tore 7 ligaments in my spine, tore both shoulders and had a concussion so bad I was seeing double for almost a month. Took me off the bike for 3 months completely and I didn't ride another trail for 5 months. Been a year and a half since the crash and I'm still only 90% recovered, but hey at least I made Pinkbike's Friday Fails #104 (Link to that and the full video in the comments) If you like the riding give me a sub on the Tube!

1025. https://www.cravenherald.co.uk/news/19553837.mountain-biker-injured-gisburn-forests-leap-faith/

Mountain biker injured at Gisburn Forest's 'Leap of Faith'

By Viv Mason

The injured biker being attended to at the popular mountain bike train in Gisburn Forest

A MOUNTAIN biker received serious injuries after falling from his bike at the 'Leap of Faith' area of Gisburn Forest bike trail recently

The biker sustained head, shoulder, back and facial injuries in the fall and had to be air lifted to hospital.

He was attended to by Bowland Pennine Mountain Rescue Team

They received the callout at 1.20pm on Sunday, August 22 and it was the team which requested the air ambulance help.

The air ambulance crew was first on scene and started the initial first aid. Once stabilised and his pain reduced he was moved onto a vacuum mattress - a full body splint - and then placed on a bell stretcher. He was then transported through the forest to the air ambulance in the team's Land Rover before being flown to Blackburn Hospital.

It was the rescue team's 45th callout this year. The end time was 6pm.

1026. https://www.capenews.net/falmouth/news/biker-injured-on-falmouth-mountain-bike-trails/article_796fbf7d-4adc-525b-96c8-d73b5bf14523.html

Biker Injured On Falmouth Mountain Bike Trails

By KATIE GOERS
Sep 4, 2021

A biker was injured on the mountain bike trails in Falmouth on Saturday morning, September 4.

Paramedics were dispatched to the trails near Route 151 just before 9 AM when the accident was reported. Responders used cellphone pings as well as latitude and longitude points to find the injured bicyclist.

A medical helicopter was preemptively called to tend to the injured person. When first responders made contact with the person, it was determined that the medical helicopter would not be necessary.

Further information, including the condition of the patient, was not immediately available.

1027. https://www.cambrian-news.co.uk/article.cfm?id=137229&headline=Mountain%20biker%20releases%20%E2%80%98horrific%E2%80%99%20crash%20footage&sectionIs=news&searchyear=2021

Mountain biker releases horrific crash footage

Saturday, 4 September 2021 - Local People

by Alexandra Bᮦi - Reporter
@AlexandraBanfi
alexandra@cambrian-news.co.uk
Gee said it was important for him to release the video, with crash footage, to show the reality behind extreme sports. Photo: Dan Griffiths

A world-class mountain biker, based near Machynlleth, has released brutal footage of his crash while filming the third ride in a series of Big Mountain projects.

On 18 June, while filming The Knife Edge, near Dinas Mawddwy, Gee Atherton suffered a horrific crash that led to a two-week stay in hospital, with a broken femur, broken ribs, fractured eye socket, broken nose, broken radius and ulnar, as well as a concussion.

The Knife Edge is the third challenge in a series of big mountain projects Gee has taken on, the first being The Ridgeline and the second The Slateline.

Gee said: These Big Mountain projects are really important to me; they take a lot of physical and mental effort and they carry a lot of risk.

Its easy for people to forget that when there are incredible athletes pumping out perfect edits week after week, not just in mountain biking, its the same in all extreme sports.

Looking back over the previous edits in this series Im talking about how afraid I feel. Thats not a performance, its very, very real.

Its important to me to show the reality behind this kind of project; when I talk abut waking up in the night its the possibility of this level of injury thats haunting me.

Gee and his siblings, Dan and Rachel Atherton, are all world-leading mountain biking professionals. Gee alone is a multiple national and World Cup champion and 2008 and 2014 Downhill World Champion.

While Gee lives in Llanrhaedr ym Mochnant, he trains at the Dyfi Bike Park, a bike park opened by Dan in 2019 in the Dyfi Forest.

The three siblings launched their bike brand, Atherton Bikes, on 25 January 2019, with the business headquarters and manufacturing facility at the Dyfi Eco Park, in Machynlleth.

On the Big Mountain project, Gee said: All of the challenges in the series have come about in their own unique ways, they emerge differently.

This one started with me driving past the location again and again thinking no, its not on. But its an important part of who I am to feel that doubt but do it anyway. If I stopped every project when I first got scared there would be nothing.

Every ridge has its own particular appeal and its own difficulties. You discover its particular personality and its problems, you get your head around it and figure out how to overcome them.

This location was defined by how exposed it was. We learnt from the first hike up that we needed to check every step. We were constantly looking behind us.

I knew the risks and fully accepted the level of injuries that were likely if it did go wrong. I had figured out every detail and I knew 100 per cent that I could do it.

People think that Im wild but I couldnt have survived this long without being super calculated. Theres a process; walk, scout, build, review, adapt, ride.

Even now, six weeks on I can close my eyes and picture every rock on that ridge.

To watch the video, go to The Athertons channel on YouTube.

Gee said, in an Instagram post at the time of the crash: Completely buried myself this week with an absolute pearler of a crash! With a broken femur, broken ribs, fractured eye socket, broken nose, broken radius and ulnar, and concussion it was a big one.

Love to everyone who spent so long on the mountain getting me lifted off, traumatic time for all!

1028. https://www.zerohanger.com/mountain-biking-stephenson-avoids-surgeons-knife-afl-90063/

Mountain biking Stephenson avoids surgeons knife

The 22-year-old has left hospital with a broken hip and a bruised ego.

Ed Carmine
WRITER
September 6, 2021
MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA - NOVEMBER 16: Jaidyn Stephenson poses for a photo during a North Melbourne Kangaroos AFL media opportunity at Arden Street Ground on November 16, 2020 in Melbourne, Australia. (Photo by Darrian Traynor/Getty Images)

North Melbourne youngster Jaidyn Stephenson's broken hip will not require surgery, however, the 22-year-old is expected to remain sidelined for a substantial period.

The first-year Kangaroo sustained his injury after falling from a mountain bike whilst attempting to land a stunt within the last fortnight.

It has since been reported that Stephenson had been drinking prior to the crash.

Although left shaking his head at the former Magpies' choice of extra-curricular activities, North Melbourne CEO Ben Amarfio claimed that the 2018 Rising Star had avoided a date with the surgeon's scalpel.

We are disappointed because it was a real lack of judgement that landed him (Stephenson) in this spot, but the good news is its a small fracture that doesnt need an operation, so hes dodged a worse outcome there, he told The Herald Sun.
MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA - MARCH 06: Jaidyn Stephenson of the Kangaroos warms up during the AFL Community Series match between the Hawthorn Hawks and the North Melbourne Kangaroos at Arden Street Ground on March 06, 2021 in Melbourne, Australia. (Photo by Quinn Rooney/Getty Images)

Journalist Jon Ralph reported on Monday that had Stephenson required surgical amendments, there was a real fear from those at Arden Street that it would have had long-term affects on his career.

Despite expectations that he will make a full recovery, Stephenson is expected to miss the start of North's pre-season campaign.

The Eastern Ranges product finished his debut season in blue and white stripes with a mean of 19 disposals and a goal a game from his 19-appearances.

Stephenson also finished with a place on the bench in the league's '22under22' team.

1029. https://patch.com/california/sanclemente/mountain-biker-rescued-san-clemente-ravine-saturday

Mountain Biker Rescued From San Clemente Ravine Saturday

Technical Rescue Team Firefighters responded to the incident and were able to airlift the man to safety.

Miranda Ceja, Patch Staff

Posted Tue, Sep7, 2021 at 9:47 am PT
A man identified as a mountain biker fell into a ravine in San Clemente Saturday. (Courtesy of Orange County Fire Authority )

SAN CLEMENTE, CA A mountain biker was rescued in San Clemente late Saturday morning after falling into a ravine, Orange County Fire Authority reported.

The man was rescued by OCFA's technical rescue team firefighters via helicopter in what was a "technically challenging" rescue, OCFA reported. The incident occurred shortly after 10 a.m. Saturday.

At just after 10 this morning our technical rescue team firefighters and helicopter had to perform a technically challenging rescue of a man who fell down a ravine in @CitySanClemente. Ultimately, we were able to hoist the patient and transport in our helicopter. pic.twitter.com/ECbxVribXH

OCFA PIO (@OCFireAuthority) September 5, 2021

The mountain biker was airlifted to Mission Hospital, OCFA Fire Capt. Public Information Officer Sean Doran said. It is unknown whether or not the man was injured from the fall.

1030. https://www.cftktv.com/injured-mountain-biker-rescued-from-terrace-mountain-1.5580189

Injured mountain biker rescued from Terrace Mountain

John Crawford
Published Friday, September 10, 2021 8:13AM PDT

Long line rescue training CFTK File Image

TERRACE, B.C. -- A mountain-biker is in hospital after taking a bad spill on Terrace Mountain Thursday afternoon.

Terrace Search and Rescue spokesperson Dave Jephson says his team was contacted by the Terrace Fire Department shortly before 2pm yesterday, after the person got in trouble along the back end of one of the trails.

"Access to the area was going to be difficult -- Search and Rescue initiated their HETS (Human External Transport System) program, which is a long-line rescue line under the helicopter -- everybody with support from the Terrace Fire Department, the Thornhill Fire Department, BC Ambulance, we were able to get to the scene using our helicopter company, Yellowhead," he explained.

Jephson says with help from a ground crew, they were able to get the injured person onto a spinal board and air-lifted out of the area.

He says luckily the person was carrying a cellphone.

"The party involved was able to text out to Emergency Services right away and there was no time missing -- they contacted and asked for help, they called BC Ambulance, they got hold of Search-and-Rescue and it just shows everybody working together and all the agencies coming together."

That person is still in hospital with several injuries -- no name has been released.

1031. https://www.denbighshirefreepress.co.uk/news/19575825.newsar-called-llangollen-llandegla-forest-incidents/

NEWSAR called out to Llangollen and Llandegla Forest incidents

By Gary Porter @GaryPorter_84 Reporter

NEWSAR members attending incidents in Llangollen (left) and at Llandegla Forest (right). PIC: NEWSAR

A RESCUE team was called out to two separate incidents today (September 12) after a teenager suffered a shoulder injury in a mountain bike crash and a walker hurt her ankle.

North East Wales Search and Rescue (NEWSAR) attended Llandegla Forest this morning after the male mountain biker was discovered by a team member out on a walk.

A spokesperson said: "One of our members was out for a walk in Llandegla Forest this morning when he found a teenage mountain biker with a very painful shoulder injury after a mountain bike crash.

"He called the incident into North Wales Police who then called the team out.

"Team members provided pain relief and then stretchered the casualty to our vehicle where he was brought back to the road, so he could be driven to hospital by a family member. Get well soon."

1032. http://www.uniindia.com/~/one-dead-in-se-france-helicopter-crash/World/news/2503874.html

Helicopter crashed while trying to rescue an injured mountain biker (France).

1033. https://www.google.com/url?rct=j&sa=t&url=https://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/news/scottish-news/mountain-biker-airlifted-hospital-serious-25016540&ct=ga&cd=CAEYASoUMTExODMwMTIwMDgyMjQ4MDYwOTkyGjg1NTcyM2ZlZDcxMTQwN2E6Y29tOmVuOlVT&usg=AFQjCNGdocNsmJ1ybOrdGY59pTDO4M2c2w

Mountain biker airlifted to hospital with 'serious injuries' after fall in Scottish Borders

The alarm was raised at around 4.30pm on Friday, September 17, near Innerleithen.
By
Claire Galloway
16:55, 18 SEP 2021
Rescue teams were called in (Image: Tweed Valley Mountain Rescue)

A mountain biker was rushed to hospital by helicopter after sustaining potentially serious injuries in a fall in the Borders.

The alarm was raised at around 4.30pm on Friday, September 17, near Innerleithen.

Cops called in the assistance of mountain rescue teams to evacuate the injured biker from the remote location.

It's understood the casualty, who was found on an off-road track, had potentially serious chest injuries.

A coastguard helicopter was drafted in to rush the biker to hospital amid a 'busy start to the weekend' for rescuers.

In a post on Facebook, Tweed Mountain Valley Rescue said: "Busy start to the weekend when at 16:35 we were called by Police Scotland to assist in the evacuation of an injured Mountain Biker near Innerleithen.

"The casualty had potentially serious chest injuries following a fall from their mountain bike and although our team vehicles reached the incident site, the bumpy off-road drive back to tarmac would have risked making the injuries worse or at the very least been incredibly uncomfortable for the casualty.

https://planetradio.co.uk/borders/local/news/mountain-biker-airlifted-innerleithen/

Dramatic scenes captured on camera during busy weekend for emergency services

(c) Facebook/Tweed Valley Mountain Rescue Team
Author: Ally McGilvrayPublished 10 hours ago
Last updated 10 hours ago

It's been a busy start to the weekend for emergency services in the Borders and north Northumberland.

Last night (Friday), a mountain biker was airlifted to hospital after a fall near Innerleithen.

Tweed Valley Mountain Rescue Team were among the first on scene after the alarm was raised around 4.35pm.

But the challenging terrain meant air support was needed to evacuate the casualty safely.

A spokesperson for the rescue team explained: "The casualty had potentially serious chest injuries and, although our team vehicles reached the incident site, the bumpy off-road drive back to tarmac would have risked making the injuries worse; or at the very least been incredibly uncomfortable for the casualty.

"That left two options of either a three kilometre stretcher carry taking two hours, or a 15 minute helicopter to transfer to hospital.

"Initially there was no helicopter resource available due to other taskings and bad weather elsewhere in Scotland, but (a Coastguard helicopter) became available and travelled to this incident just as we were starting to evacuate on foot."

Meanwhile, shortly after 2pm this afternoon (Saturday), Seahouses Inshore Lifeboat was called out to help two people trapped in a car on the Holy Island Causeway, after attempting to cross at high tide.

A spokesperson said: "The Inshore Lifeboat was launched and made best speed towards Holy Island. While under way, HM Coastguard Holy Island had managed to reach the vehicle and bring the two occupants to safety on Holy Island. The Lifeboat was stood down and returned to station."

1034. https://minnesota.cbslocal.com/2021/09/22/mountain-bike-crash-survival/

I Just Want To Meet The Guy: Mountain Bikers Life Saved By Off-Duty Doctor On Minnesota Trail

By Susan-Elizabeth LittlefieldSeptember 22, 2021 at 6:44 pm
Filed Under:Crosby News, Eagan News, Hayward News, Local TV, Susan-Elizabeth Littlefield, Wisconsin News

MINNEAPOLIS (WCCO) A mountain biker from Eagan is thankful to be alive after a serious accident on a northern Minnesota trail.

It happened at Cuyuna Lakes Mountain Bike Trails near Crosby in Crow Wing County more than a week ago. WCCO spoke with the victim, who is a father, husband and corrections officer named Todd.

Todd (credit: CBS)

I remember landing on like my stomach, and my chest took the brunt of the impact. I managed to kind of scoot myself up on this embankment on the left-hand side, and thats where I sat, Todd said. I was starting to see white spots. Im like, OK, this isnt cool this isnt normal.

Its a crash Todd recounts from his HCMC trauma bed. His survival was due to the actions of a nearby biker named Dr. Jesse Coenen.

All of us involved that day will involved that day will surely never forget what happened, Coenen said.

(credit: CBS)

Coenen is used to trauma, but not in this context. The Hayward, Wisconsin emergency physician happened to be biking with friends when he came upon the scene. He said Todds death was imminent, and they were a mile into the woods. Thats when he decided to do something he had never done before. He borrowed a pair of medics gloves and used a scalpel to cut a hole in Todds throat an on-the-spot tracheotomy.

Its not something that you want to have to do, but we found ourselves in the situation where theres not another option, he said. I mustve been pausing before I doing it, and one of the paramedics looked at me and said, We need an airway, meaning this has to be done, and thats when I proceeded.

And Todd proceeded to breathe, making it back to camp and to be flown to HCMC. He has a traumatic brain injury, but he has his life.

It does really sink in, Todd said. I got a wife, I got a daughter whos 16 years old, shes a sophomore in high school.

Dr. Jesse Coenen (credit: CBS)

Todd has a message for Dr. Coenen.

I just want to thank him for everything, Todd said. I just want to meet the guy.

Tune in to WCCO 4 News At 10 this Wednesday for the emotional reunion.

Susan-Elizabeth Littlefield

Susan-Elizabeth Littlefield never imagined she'd be in the Twin Cities, but this is exactly where she says she wants to be. She says in her travels as...More from Susan-Elizabeth Littlefield

1035. https://www.newarkadvocate.com/story/life/2021/10/07/newark-pastor-huffman-returns-pulpit-after-near-fatal-bike-crash/6026119001/

I shouldn't be alive: Newark pastor returns to pulpit after near-fatal mountain bike crash

Abbey Roy
Newark Advocate

When Sarah Huffman got the call Your husbands in the hospital, he fell off his bike she stopped by her downtown Newark mortgage loan office to tie up a few loose ends. She prepared an out-of-office message, notarized a document and made sure everything was in order.

This was not the first time.

Her husband, Corbin, the lead pastor at LifeChange Church in Newark, had previously broken bones and even punctured a lung while mountain biking. His accident was unexpected, but not shocking. Sarah took the rest of the day off and mentally budgeted for several hours spent in Licking Memorial Hospital while her husbands injuries were assessed and treated.

Meanwhile, Corbin was making the best of things. No one told him, when he failed to land a jump on his mountain bike at Newarks Horns Hill Park, that in addition to a broken wrist and mangled face, his skull had internally separated from his spine.

More:Century-old photo of Trinity AME Church members sparks interest, questions

It was not immediately apparent, when he stood after his accident and walked to the truck, that muscle and skin were the only things holding his head in place.

He didnt know that he shouldnt be alive, much less walking.

Most people, when that happens, a doctor later told him, go straight to the morgue.

A lifelong adventurer

A lifelong adventurer, Huffman was introduced to mountain biking by a friend about five years ago. He fell in love with the sport and frequently rode in the area.

On the morning of July 27 when he and his friend, Darryl Beckett, went to ride at Horns Hill, Corbin donned all his protective gear, including the helmet that would save his life.

Sarah recalled kissing him goodbye and noticing how excited he looked to be going out for a ride like a little boy getting ready to go ride his bike through the neighborhood, she said.

Hes 39. So it's not like he's a little kid. It's not like we're 20 anymore, she said. But he just had such a joy about going out on a sunny Tuesday to ride his bike with his friend. And I could tell he was excited to go ride through the woods.

The morning felt normal. Sarah headed to work to be present for the closing of a home, which happened to be with a couple from their church; the Huffmans children, Berkley, then 9, and Griffin, 8, were with a sitter.

Huffman was up for adventure. Hed been wanting to hit a specific jump in the trail and was feeling good about his chances.

The ride with Beckett started out smoothly. Huffman remembers thinking maybe hed gained too much speed leading up to the fateful jump, but he was committed. The 10-foot drop hit hard and fast.

He briefly lost consciousness following the impact maybe 15 seconds at the most, just a quick kind of knockout, he said but Beckett was immediately by his side, wrapping his shirt around his friends face to try to stop the bleeding.

And then they walked away.

I saw Darryl and said, Hey man, lets get out of here, Huffman said. He was like, No, stay down! and I was like, No, lets get out of here.

And so, with nothing but skin and muscle keeping his head attached to his body, Huffman walked to their waiting truck with intentions of recovering at home.

More:Faith Works: Disney World and the Church

As they started the drive, Huffman glanced at his wrist and realized it was probably broken. This, not his bloody face, was the factor that convinced him they should take a detour.

I look down...and I'm like, Well, my wrist is broken anyway, Huffman said. Yeah, let's go to the hospital.

Once they were checked in and assigned a room, he continued to be lighthearted, remarking that if facial reconstruction were an option, he wouldnt mind looking more like Matthew McConaughey.

Eventually Sarah joined them, followed by a doctor who had examined Corbins X-rays.

That was when reality set in.

They got my scans back, and then it got real serious because they're like, Don't move. They locked me down and said, Don't move whatsoever. The helicopters going to be here in 10 minutes and you're going to go to (Riverside), Corbin said.

Beckett told Sarah he watched the color drain from her face.

At that point, I knew this is longer than just, We're going to be at the hospital for six hours to get patched up, Sarah said. I was like, OK, here we go.

A family friend who worked at the hospital later told Sarah she watched Corbin being wheeled to the medical helicopter and shed never seen the process go so slowly.

They werent willing to risk even hitting a pebble, she said.

Keeping it together

Sarah told herself shed have to keep it together for the kids.

Driving home from the hospital, prepared to pack her bags, she rehearsed what she might say.

I was just taking a deep breath, like, OK, keep your cool. You can't lose it. You can't cry until after you've seen the kids, because they'll be able to tell that youve been crying, she said.

Sarah had opted out of flying with her husband to Riverside, knowing she had to make sure their children were taken care of. She chose not to inform them of the accident in great detail, but let them know theyd be staying with family for a few days while Corbin recovered.

We were kind of telling them stuff in doses, Sarah said.

That evening at Riverside, the sizeable gashes on the right side of her husbands face were stitched closed; in the morning, a doctor performed a four-hour surgery to reattach his skull to his spine.

Part of a horse cadaver was used to replace the crushed portion of his skull, and screws were inserted into his upper vertebrae to attach them to his skull. After that, the area was covered in bone putty to help promote fusion.

Then, the healing process began.

It wasnt without hurdles: The post-surgical swelling in his neck made it impossible for Corbin to swallow, leading to the eventual insertion of a feeding tube. A blood clot formed in one of his arms where an IV had been. All told, his hospital stay lasted 15 days and even after he was released, it was two weeks before he was able to swallow.

But he continued to recover, even as the doctors around him marveled at the miracle of his survival.

They said that most people don't even get to the hospital. So they were amazed I was even at the hospital...the hospital workers, nurses, doctors were all like, I can't believe you've walked out. There's no explanation for that whatsoever.

Huffmans explanation?

My explanation is that its God. It's a miracle thats the only way, he said. It was all God, all the way through. He was there the whole time.

A community rallies

From the afternoon of Huffmans accident as the events of the day unfolded, Beckett began rallying support on social media, appealing to friends, family and the community to pray for his pastor and friend.

In a Facebook photo album understatedly titled Horns Hill-1, Corbin- 0, Sarah relayed to the world the latest updates on her husbands condition.

She continued to do so as he went through the recovery process, bringing up specific prayer requests punctuated with a healthy dose of coping humor.

During their stay, the couple were able to share the story of Corbins recovery with people from multiple hospital units, and even though they were in for longer than theyd have liked, they appreciated each opportunity for interaction.

The experience also gave them a chance to see how their church and The Church big C, Sarah said stepped in when one of its own was suffering.

This didn't just affect our little LifeChange church that we run, she said. This affected our whole body of believers in Licking County and beyond.

The family received an outpouring of financial support, gift cards and offers to preach in Corbins stead.

It was really cool to see everybody step up and help. Because when everybody plays one little part, it takes the load off of everybody else, Sarah said.

Returning to the pulpit

At 10 a.m. on Sunday, Oct. 10, Corbin will return to the pulpit to celebrate his churchs 7th birthday and to preach about what he learned from his near-death experience.

Hes titled the sermon The Comeback, and the church whose building is located on Marion Road in Newark has rented out Weathervane Playhouse for the occasion, hoping to make it a community event.

Huffman plans to talk about the body of Christ the Church and how its parts work together to accomplish their purpose.

And about how miracles do happen.

Hopefully (people) can walk away knowing that God is real, that God is powerful, and that God still loves everyone and cares for us in an incredible way, Huffman said. I shouldn't be alive, let alone walking or talking thats the mercy and grace of God.

Corbin is still to wear a neck brace until mid-December while his bones fuse together, but already he has made great strides literally. He is able to walk and hike regularly and has regained some rotation in his neck. The feeding tube has been removed, and he is slowly returning to life as normal.

Except for mountain biking, which is on hold indefinitely.

I made the promise to my wife that if I ride again, all wheels will remain on the ground. No more jumps, no more drop-offs, no more anything like that, he said.

1036. https://thewest.com.au/news/disaster-and-emergency/man-airlifted-to-royal-perth-hospital-in-rescue-helicopter-after-mountain-biking-accident-in-perth-hills-ng-b882034402z

Man airlifted to Royal Perth Hospital in rescue helicopter after mountain biking accident in Perth hills

The West Australian
Sun, 10 October 2021 12:59AM
Emily Moulton
The RAC Rescue helicopter was dispatched and transported the injured man to Royal Perth Hospital. Credit: Michael Wilson/WA News

A man believed to be in his 30s is in a critical condition in hospital following a mountain bike incident in the Perth hills.

It is believed the man was out riding on Mundaring Weir Road in Hacketts Gully this afternoon when he was seriously hurt.

The RAC Rescue helicopter was dispatched and transported the injured man to Royal Perth Hospital, landing at RPH at 2pm this afternoon.

A spokeswoman told The West Australian he arrived in a critical condition.

1037. https://www.countytimes.co.uk/news/19659848.mountain-biker-airlifted-hospital-fall-near-machynlleth/

Mountain biker airlifted to hospital after fall at Dyfi Bike Park

By Mike Sheridan @MikeSheridanCT Reporter

The biker was transferred to hospital via helicopter (Pic: Aberydyfi Search and Rescue)

A stricken mountain biker was airlifted to hospital following a serious incident at a bike park near Machynlleth.

Late in the afternoon on Sunday, October 17, call handlers at Aberdyfi Search and Rescue were called out to a mountain biker who had suffered spinal injuries at Dyfi Bike Park near Pantperthog.

The biker had alerted emergency services himself, but was unable to provide his location, rescuers say.

"Team call-handlers received a request to assist the Welsh Ambulance Service with a seriously injured mountain biker at Dyfi Bike Park near Machynlleth," said a spokesperson for Aberdyfi Search and Rescue Team.

"The male rider, in his 30s, had fallen off his bike and despite sustaining suspected spinal injuries, had managed to alert emergency services about his situation, but not his location.

"Team volunteers coordinated with Dyfi Bike Park staff and quickly located the casualty."

The rider was taken down the hill to a nearby site where an ambulance was waiting to transfer him to hospital by Coastguard rescue services.

"Due to the nature of the injuries sustained, and the difficult terrain on which the accident occurred, a request was made for assistance from Coastguard Rescue Helicopter," they added.

"The casualty was assessed and treated by the ambulance crew and winchman-paramedic. Conditions were such that it was not possible to winch directly from the incident site, so the Team made the difficult stretcher transfer down from steep ground to the waiting ambulance. The casualty was then driven to the helicopter, which had landed near Machynlleth.

"Team members assisted with the transfer from the ambulance to Rescue 936 before the casualty was airlifted to Liverpool for further assessment and treatment."

1038. https://kjzz.com/news/grand-county-officials-respond-to-two-simultaneous-search-and-rescue-incidents

Grand County officials respond to two simultaneous search and rescue incidents

By Victoria Hill, KUTV Saturday, October 23rd 2021
Grand County Sheriff's Search and Rescue said they were busy on Oct 21, 2021 as they responded to two separate incidents at the same time. (Photo: Grand County EMS via Grand County Sheriff's Search and Rescue)

MOAB, Utah (KUTV) Grand County Sheriff's Search and Rescue teams said they were busy Thursday as they responded to two separate incidents at the same time.

They said the first callout was for an injured mountain biker and the second was for a hiker who had fallen 30 feet.

Grand County officials said these incidents brought their total number of rescues in 2021 to 116, including the 15 in October so far.

ALSO: Officials report record number of search and rescues in Zion National Park this year

Injured mountain biker

The biker incident occurred on the Porcupine Rim Trail near Moab. Officials said it was in a remote location about nine miles into the trail.

An Ohio woman was reportedly injured while attempting an obstacle called The Diving Board, a rock that bikers have been known to ride down.

Grand County search and rescue teams said they have been called to that same location "numerous times."

They said emergency medical personnel hiked about four miles from Highway 128 to access the subject as quickly as possible. Specially-outfitted UTVs assisted with transporting the patient and crews, they added.

The operation was finished at 10 p.m. and took nearly seven hours, officials said.

1039. https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-england-derbyshire-59034601

Mountain biker dies after Peak District cardiac arrest

Image source, Edale Mountain Rescue
Image caption, Several emergency services were called to help the biker

A mountain biker has died after suffering a cardiac arrest while in the Peak District.

The Edale Mountain Rescue team were called out to help at Stanage Pole near the Sheffield and Derbyshire border on Sunday.

They said a passing off-duty doctor and nurse had started CPR on the patient while they waited for emergency services.

Yorkshire Air Ambulance and South Yorkshire Police also attended.

"Despite the efforts of all on scene, the patient could not be resuscitated," said the mountain rescue team in a statement.

"Thank you to the off duty doctor and nurse for all their help.

"Our thoughts go out to their family and friends at this terribly sad time

1040. https://www.abc.net.au/news/2021-10-30/st-helens-mountain-bike-rider-dies-after-crash/100582578

St Helens mountain bike rider dies after crash on popular Tasmanian trail

Posted 5h ago5 hours ago, updated 2h ago2 hours ago
St Helens and nearby Derby are well known for their mountain biking trails. File photo.(ABC News: April McLennan)
Help keep family & friends informed by sharing this article

A mountain biker has died after coming off his bike during a ride in Tasmania's north-east.

Around 4:15pm on Friday, an ambulance was called to the St Helens mountain bike trail head on Flagstaff Road after reports a 67-year-old man had suffered a serious crash during a technical descent.

Despite the efforts of members of the public and paramedics, the man died from his injuries.

Police said the man, from the state's north-west, was an experienced rider and was wearing safety gear at the time.

They have urged all those who head out on mountain bike trails during the warmer months to be careful, wear safety equipment and ride to their abilities.

Break O'Day Mayor Mick Tucker paid his condolences to the family of the man.

"It's an absolute tragedy and our deepest sympathies go to the families and friends and the people who have been there while this occurred," he said.

"And I just thank the emergency personnel who've just done whatever they can in these circumstances."

Mr Tucker said the cause of the crash would be investigated.

St Helens is a holiday hotspot for mountain bikers and was last year named Tassie's Top Tourism Town by the Tourism Industry Council Tasmania.

The town recently opened about 110 kilometres of mountain bike trails to complement those at nearby Derby, which is internationally recognised as a mountain biking destination.

1041. https://www.scoop.co.nz/stories/AK2111/S00371/winch-rescue-for-injured-mountain-biker-greenlea-rescue-helicopter.htm

Winch Rescue For Injured Mountain Biker - Greenlea Rescue Helicopter

Monday, 15 November 2021, 3:04 pm
Press Release: Greenlea Rescue Helicopter

At midday on Sunday, November 14, the Greenlea Rescue Helicopter was tasked to the Wairakei Forest Mountain Bike Park for a mountain biker who had fallen, seriously injuring himself.

Due to the area and his injuries, the male in his 50s required to be winched from his location and was flown to Rotorua Hospital for further treatment.

1042. https://www.star-telegram.com/news/local/fort-worth/article256084582.html

GoFundMe set up to raise money for mountain biker who died in Fort Worth accident By James Hartley Updated November 24, 2021 4:23 PM A fundraiser to help Ray Rezas family pay for funeral expenses raised more than $3,500 in less than four hours. Courtesy: GoFundMe A GoFundMe for a bicyclist who died after an accident Sunday at Gateway Park in Fort Worth raised more than $3,500 in just over three hours Tuesday evening, and had raised more than $7,000 as of Wednesday. Ray Reza, 41, died in the intensive care unit at JPS Hospital in Fort Worth, according to the Tarrant County Medical Examiners Office website, which listed his cause of death as blunt force injuries from a bicycle accident. Police said the accident involved a bike and a wooden bridge, but did not release any further details as to what happened. A spokesman from MedStar said Reza was in critical condition when paramedics arrived and was taken to an area hospital. Adrian Cordova, who created the GoFundMe for Rezas family, said in the fundraisers description he was friends with him. Cordova described Reza as an avid mountain biker who enjoyed other outdoor activities like kayaking, camping and boating. He was a hard-working person who cared deeply for his family, friends and colleagues, Cordova said. Cordova said Reza is survived by his wife, three daughters and son. Anybody interested in donating to assist the family with funeral can go to www.gofundme.com/f/help-the-reza-family-with-funeral-expenses.
Read more at: https://www.star-telegram.com/news/local/fort-worth/article256084582.html#storylink=cpy

1043. https://patch.com/california/lakeelsinore-wildomar/mountain-biker-injured-lake-elsinore

Mountain Biker Injured In Lake Elsinore

A mountain biker suffered an off-roading accident Friday afternoon and was rushed to a nearby hospital for treatment.

Paige Austin , Patch Staff

Posted Fri, Nov26, 2021 at 9:06 pm PT
A mountain biker was injured in the area of Dexter Avenue and Central Avenue Friday afternoon. (Shutterstock)

LAKE ELSINORE, CA Firefighters treated an injured mountain biker in Lake Elsinore Friday afternoon.

The biker was hospitalized with moderate injuries following an off-roading accident, according to the Riverside County Fire Department. Authorities did not release information about what led up to the accident Friday.

The incident occurred at 4:20 p.m. in the area of Dexter Avenue and Central Avenue.

Authorities were investigating the cause of the accident.

1044. https://patch.com/california/northridge/firefighters-rescue-teenage-mountain-biker-chatsworth

Firefighters Rescue Teenage Mountain Biker In Chatsworth

Firefighters rescued a teenage mountain biker via helicopter Friday evening.

Emily Rahhal , Patch Staff

Posted Fri, Nov26, 2021 at 5:26 pm PT
The Los Angeles Fire Department rescued a teenage boy from a mountain in Chatsworth Friday. (Emily Rahhal/Patch)

CHATSWORTH, CA The Los Angeles Fire Department sent out a rescue helicopter for a teenage boy injured while mountain biking in Chatsworth, the department said.

A teenage boy fractured his arm while mountain biking around 8700 North Valley Circle Boulevard on a remote trail in the Simi Hills, the department said. The incident was reported at 4:47 p.m.

1045. https://www.wdbj7.com/2021/12/05/mountain-biker-rescued-after-crash-injuring-leg-carvins-cove/

Mountain biker rescued after crash, injuring leg at Carvins Cove

Botetourt County Department of Fire & EMS(Botetourt County Department of Fire & EMS)
By Eddie Callahan
Published: Dec. 4, 2021 at 5:26 PM PST

(WDBJ) - The Botetourt County Department of Fire & EMS, along with the help of other departments, rescued a mountain biker Saturday who crashed and injured a leg along the Lakeside Trail at Carvins Cove.

Crews responded around 12:30 p.m. for a report of a crash and used boats to cross the cove for faster access to the patient. They then hiked through the woods and used a stokes basket and wheel to bring the hiker to safety.

The person was taken to the hospital within three hours after the crash.

1046. https://www.columbiavalleypioneer.com/local-mountain-biker-making-dramatic-recovery/

Local mountain biker making dramatic recovery

Posted by Steve Hubrecht | Dec 6, 2021 | Uncategorized | 0
Kelly standing beside his bed post-surgery, waiting for discharge.

Radium resident who broke neck in horrific crash now on track to heal 100 per cent

By Steve Hubrecht

steve@columbiavalleypioneer

It was early morning, before breakfast. Spring sunlight filtered through the towering cedars. A perfect day, and Radium Hot Springs resident Kelly Kokolski was making the most of it, spinning along an easy, open mountain biking trail at a cracking good clip.

Kelly had gotten up early, as he always does, slammed back a cup of coffee and slipped quietly out of his familys campsite in Kokanee Creek Provincial Park, on the shore of the West Arm of Kootenay Lake. The family Kelly, his wife Abby, and their six-year-old son Jasper had come from Radium to Kokanee Creek for a mini family vacation. It was mid-May; before the long weekend. Abby and Jasper were still waking up, so Kelly decided to take advantage of the post-dawn, pre-breakfast stillness and go for a ride. He put on the new helmet he had bought at a Nelson bike shop just the day before, hopped on his bike and pedalled to the iconic North Shore trails network, not far up the mountainside from the campground.

Squeezing the most out of every hour, every moment of the day, is something Kelly does out of habit. Its just who he is. This May morning ride was a perfect example of the benefits of an up-and-at-em enthusiastic-for-life personality, and Kelly was enjoying it. At this point, hed been riding the trail network with a good friend for several days and knew it well. He wanted a break from the gnarly technical black (advanced) trails he and his friend had ridden most of the week and chose instead a gentle blue (intermediate) trail. The trail called Goosebumps flowed well, and there was a fresh breeze on Kellys face. He came to a stretch that was wide, flat and straight, so he let his bike cruise with plenty of speed.

I was ripping fast, like I normally do, Kelly told the Pioneer. At 41 kilometres per hour, in fact, according to his odometer.

Suddenly out of nowhere, something maybe a root, maybe a rock, maybe a twig on the ground, who knows? caught Kellys wheel and set him sailing off his bike, careening headfirst into a cedar tree lying cut down on the side of the trial.

The impact knocked Kelly unconscious. I was out maybe a few seconds. When I came to, I was lying on my side. My left arm was completely numb, he said. Kelly is well versed in first aid, as a certified Wilderness First Responder. He knew immediately that his situation was serious. Very serious.

Kelly took a deep breath, exhaled, and doing his best to keep his neck as still as possible (super still. Super, super still) he slowly rolled over onto this back. Using his first aid training, he assessed each part of his body as he lay there.

I knew almost immediately that my neck was broken. I had nerve pain shooting down my arm. My brand-new helmet looked like a sledgehammer went right through it. In fact, Im certain that helmet saved my life, said Kelly. He ran a finger down his spine to check for damage there. Nothing major. He took stock of his pelvis, pressing down on it with his right hand. It seemed intact, meaning he wasnt at risk of internal hemorrhaging. But his sternum screamed with pain (excruciating), and he was having a hard time breathing.

Battle to get out

Kelly often carries an InReach emergency satellite device, but didnt have it that morning. Using his right hand, the one without shooting pain, he reached into his backpack and pulled out his cell phone. The battery was dead.

He guessed it was about 8 a.m. No InReach, a dead phone, a broken neck and the breathing, said Kelly. It was very early, on a weekday, at a time of year when few people are using the trails. And there are a lot of bears in the area. Normally I would wait for somebody to find me. But I knew I could be waiting a very long time, maybe too long. I didnt have many options: I had to get out.

Kelly did his best to self-immobilize his neck and back, then (gently, so gently) rolled over onto his hands and knees. It was a battle, admits Kelly, owing to the searing pain. From his hands and knees, he carefully rose to his feet.

He realized walking normally was impossible, given the physical state he was in. So Kelly lifted up his bike, and using it as a crutch to support his weight, began to make his way agonizingly slowly down the trail. It was tiny step, tiny step, tiny step. Really slowly, he said.

After what felt like forever, Kelly came out the bottom of the trail to Highway 3A. The initial physical shock was starting to wear off and now the pain was something else. Unbelievable. He thought about hitchhiking, but doubted any driver would stop in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic to pick up a stranger. And even if they did, Kelly figured trying to get into most types of vehicles could easily further damage his broken neck.

The campground was only a kilometre along the highway, and mostly downhill. So he lowered his bike saddle, threw one leg over the bike, let this left arm droop down, and gingerly coasted back to Kokanee Creek, rolling right into his familys campsite.

Abby and Jasper were finishing off breakfast, and seeing Kelly roll in, they knew right away that something was terribly wrong. I said Hi hon, I think I broke my neck, recalled Kelly. I wanted to lie down, but knew that if I did, I wouldnt get up again. I didnt even want to wait the time it would take an ambulance to come out. Abby quickly cleared out our truck, so I could lie in it, my backpack and helmet still on, and we drove straight to the Nelson hospital.

Beyond lucky

Within five minutes of entering the hospital, Kelly got a CT scan. The results were sent to a neurosurgeon. The medical staff didnt tell me the results right away. But I could tell from the way they were acting that it was not good, said Kelly. Eventually the neurosurgeon told me I was lucky. Extremely lucky. Beyond lucky. That most people who crashed like I did would probably be dead. And if not dead, then likely with total paralysis or other permanent neurological damage. The fact that I was alive and moving was a miracle.

Kelly had suffered a number of injuries: multiple fractures in C7, including a left pars interarticularis fracture, breaks on the facet joints at C7, and to the pedicle on the right side of C6. I also had whats called anterolisthesis, which means that my vertebrae had shifted, and were pinching my spinal cord, he said.

He was put in an ambulance and whisked off on a five-hour drive to the neurological department at the Kelowna hospital. Three days later, Kelly underwent a three-hour surgery to remove the disc between C6 and C7 and replace the disc with a polyetheretherketone spacer (PEEK) filled with demineralized bone matrix. The fractures were stabilized with an anterior titanium fixation plate and four screws. This brought my cervical spine back into natural alignment and stabilized my facet joints, he explained.

The next morning, Kelly woke and stood up out of bed. Later that day, he was able to walk to the X-ray room. Less than 24 hours after the surgery, Kelly was discharged and walked out the front door of the hospital. Kellys parents live nearby in Vernon and he, Abby and Jasper stayed with them for a few weeks.

Long road to recovery

Kelly approached his recovery through this past summer and fall with the same zest that he approaches much in life. This included: osteopathy, physiotherapy, massage therapy and a healthy diet. Growing (and consuming) kale and spinach and other vitamin-rich leafy greens in the familys plot in the Radium community garden. Eating more eggs than normal for extra protein. And as much exercise as he was allowed. Only two days after his surgery he went for a 10-kilometre walk. He had to wear a neck collar for 13 weeks, but did as much walking and hiking as possible in it.

Not long after the collar came off, in August, he, Abby and Jasper went camping again. It was three days of family fun, mostly hanging out in hammocks. But Kelly had finally gotten the go-ahead to bike again, so he went for a ride on the Lazy Lizard trail, a gentle green (beginner) trail that winds, just as Goosebumps does, among soaring cedars.

To be rolling on a bike again, slipping softy between cedars it was a joyous occasion. Lying there in the hospital bed, before the surgery in Kelowna, I wasnt sure I would ever get to ride a bike with my son again. I didnt know what the future was going to be like. And that didnt sit well with me. So to be able to get back on my bike later the same season that was amazing, he said.

Kelly is back biking, hiking and otherwise active, but he is being prudent and cautious, dialing back the risk factor. For two years, while that bone material grows in, I really have to avoid any other kind of catastrophic impact scenarios, be that from falling while biking fast or getting into a car crash. That would really be bad. So Im mountain biking, but Im not ripping black diamonds. Im driving, but Im very careful.

Being cautious, though, doesnt mean being a couch potato, and what Kelly can do safely, hes doing with his usual degree of energy and zest. Earlier this fall, when he had recovered enough to be able to run comfortably, he managed to trail run the 55-kilometre Rockwall route in Kootenay National Park. The Rockwall normally takes backpackers three or four days to complete: Kelly ran it in eight hours. The run was particularly poignant for him: It was at that moment that I felt, yes, Im back to my old self, he said. And, I have to admit, the Rockwall holds a special place in my heart. It was the very first long trail run I ever did, when I started trail running, and Ive run it every year for the past five years. Its become a tradition. With the injury, obviously I thought the tradition would be cancelled this year. But I squeezed it in, and that was really meaningful.

A few weeks ago, in early November, Kelly had another appointment with his neurosurgeon and was told he was on track for a 100 per cent recovery. They said Ill be able to put this behind me. The X-rays looked perfect, the facet joints in the back with multiple fractures have fused, and now its just waiting for the vertebrae in the neck to fuse, he said. It was a major celebration for us.

That night in Thailand

The time spent recovering has given Kelly a chance to pause, and reflect. If you go through an injury like this, you feel lucky. Lucky to be alive. Lucky to be moving. You have a new appreciation for everything, he told the Pioneer, adding that the bike accident was, in fact, his second close call in life.

The first such close call came in Thailand, on Boxing Day 2004. Kelly and Abby (then his girlfriend) were backpacking through Southeast Asia, and had just landed on the famous vacation island of Phuket. They arrived by ferry in the morning, dropped their luggage in their hotel, which was set on a hill above the iconic west-facing Kata and Kata Noi beaches, then turned to go back to the shore, eager to sign up for a snorkelling tour. Walking downhill we heard a massive rumble. We thought it must be a car accident, so we looked down the road. But, suddenly, there was no road. Just water. Powerful, churning water coming in rapidly.

It was the devastating 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami, one of the deadliest natural disasters on record, although Abby and Kelly didnt know that at the time. All they knew was something horrific was unfolding. They turned and fled uphill back to their hotel, as more and more water surged onto the beach and town below them. Had they been just a few minutes earlier, they would have been caught directly in it. The tsunami came in multiple waves, leaving much of the western coast of Phuket in a jumble of destruction and chaos. Kelly and Abby spent that night huddled with dozens of other local and tourist survivors in the hotel lobby. They sat in the pitch dark, with power and communication to the outside world cut off.

It was terrifying. A lot of people were crying. Some had lost loved ones. Nobody was really sure what was going onit was a long night. It really made me think, deeply, in a way I hadnt before. There were literally hundreds of people killed all around us. I think 5,000 people died on the beaches that day, and more than 227,000 died around the world, Kelly told the Pioneer. That night, it changed the whole way I look at life. Every day since then has been a gift. And I promised myself Id make the most of that gift.

This, Kelly says, is where his boundless exuberance for life, his irrepressibly positive nature, comes from. (The Pioneer can attest, based on multiple in-person interactions, that Kelly is likely the most ebulliently cheerful person in the Columbia Valley). That night in Phuket, he was given a second chance at life. And earlier this year, above Kokanee Creek, he was given another second chance.

And this time, starting second-chance-at-life number two, he made himself another promise. Lying there in the hospital bed in Kelowna, trying not to focus too much on whether or not I would walk or ride again, I thought really hard about everybody all the medical personnel and others who had helped me through the ordeal. They had been fantastic, Kelly told the Pioneer. And vowed that I would pay it forward, somehow. That I would help other people who are in a similar situation as I was right then.

As a first step in that direction, hes now training to become part of the local Invermere chapter of the nonprofit Cycling Without Age, which takes the elderly and others with mobility challenges for free bike rides in specially designed, trishaw-like bikes.

I want to give back, and make a difference for those who can use a hand. If I can help somebody else feel the wind in their hair on a bike, help make their days a bit brighter, then sign me up, said Kelly. People keep telling me Ive got all this positive energy, well, Im going to spend it. This world needs it.

1047. https://ktla.com/news/local-news/lafd-rescues-airlifts-seriously-injured-mountain-biker-out-of-santa-monica-mountains/

LAFD rescues, airlifts seriously injured mountain biker out of Santa Monica Mountains

by: KTLA Digital Staff
Posted: Dec 11, 2021 / 01:49 PM PST / Updated: Dec 11, 2021 / 01:50 PM PST

A mountain biker was seriously injured after falling while riding his bike in the Santa Monica Mountains in the area between Pacific Palisades and Encino Saturday, requiring an airlift from the Los Angeles Fire Department.

The 23-year-old biker was reported injured just before 11:30 a.m. along the Sullivan Fire Road that passes along the eastern edge of Topanga State Park, according to an LAFD alert.

Officials said the cyclist was wearing a helmet at the time of the fall and was in serious condition after sustaining injuries to his head, arm and shoulder.

An LAFD rescue helicopter was able to land nearby and was assisted by ground crews to medically stabilize the man, officials said. The biker was then transported by air to a regional trauma center.

No further information was immediately available.

1048. https://www.scoop.co.nz/stories/AK2112/S00334/greenlea-rescue-helicopters-november-missions.htm

Greenlea Rescue Helicopters November Missions

Tuesday, 14 December 2021, 5:07 pm
Press Release: Greenlea Rescue Helicopter

The month of November saw the Greenlea Rescue Helicopter completing a total of 23 missions, including 10 inter-hospital transfers, 5 medical events, 1 rescue, 5 missions to remote locations and 2 motor vehicle accidents. Rural mission made up over 20% of the total missions for November, Taupo, Turangi, Rotorua and Mangakino being the most visited locations for the month.

The Greenlea Rescue Helicopter responded to a callout to the Wairakei Forest Mountain Bike Park for a mountain biker who had fallen, seriously injuring himself on Sunday, November 14. Due to the area and his injuries, the male in his 50s required to be winched from his location and was flown to Rotorua Hospital for further treatment.

1049. https://www.southwalesargus.co.uk/news/19797331.mountain-biker-suffers-serious-back-injury-bikepark-wales-crash/

Mountain biker suffers 'serious' back injury in BikePark Wales crash

By Dan Barnes cobaines Multimedia Reporter

MOUNTAIN rescue crews were called to assist a mountain biker who had sustained serious injuries while out riding over the weekend.

The incident had occured at BikePark Wales, near Merthyr Tydfil, on Saturday.

Central Beacons Mountain Rescue Team (CBMRT) were contacted by BikePark Wales requesting assistance with a rider who had sustained a significant and potentially serious back injury after crashing on one of trails.

"The BPW first responders were quickly on scene and administered the initial treatment," said a CBMRT spokesperson.

"Recognising the seriousness of the situation, they asked for our attendance alongside the Welsh Ambulance Service (WAS).

"Our team paramedic and casualty carers continued with treatment administering further pain relief and immobilising the casualty.

"The WAS paramedic arrived and was able take it that one step further with IV access."

Having been immobilised in a vacuum mattress the man was carefully loaded onto a stretcher and slowly evacuated back to the main track to be handed over to the ambulance crew.

He was then transferred to hospital for a full trauma assessment.

A CBMRT spokesperson said: "We hope that the injuries dont turn out to be serious in the long term and that he makes full recovery."

The man has since undergone surgery and, commenting on social media, said he was now looking ahead to recovery and spending Christmas with family.

He thanked the mountain rescue team for their help.

1050. https://www.google.com/url?rct=j&sa=t&url=https://www.yorkpress.co.uk/news/19808809.mountain-biker-rescued-christmas-eve/&ct=ga&cd=CAEYACoUMTM4MTg0MzUwMzM5OTEwMjg1OTgyGjg1NTcyM2ZlZDcxMTQwN2E6Y29tOmVuOlVT&usg=AFQjCNHjhLBwMnEXBa_cYA4RB_KleJMsVw

Mountain biker rescued on Christmas Eve

By Mike Laycock @mikelaycock2 Chief reporter

A picture tweeted by the Scarborough and Ryedale Mountain Rescue Team after the rescue

A MOUNTAIN biker was rescued after suffering an ankle injury on Christmas Eve in Dalby Forest, near Pickering.

The Scarborough and Ryedale Mountain Rescue Team tweeted that it was called in by the Yorkshire Ambulance Service to assist when the biker was hurt on the Dalby Forest Red Route close to Bickley Gate.

"After the administration of pain relief and splinting, the patient was taken to the roadside for his riding partners to drive him to the local accident and emergency for definitive medical care,"it said. "Fourteen team members deployed for an hour and a half."

1051. https://mynewsla.com/riverside/2022/01/03/bicyclist-injured-on-jurupa-trail-airlifted-to-hospital/

Bicyclist Injured On Jurupa Trail Airlifted To Hospital

Posted by Contributing Editor on January 3, 2022 in Riverside
Photo via Pixabay

A man who was injured when his mountain bike went down an embankment just north of the Pomona (60) Freeway in Jurupa Valley Monday was airlifted to a Riverside hospital in stable condition.

The Jurupa Trail biker went down about 12:30 p.m. in the area of Campbell Street and Granite Hill Drive, according to the Riverside County Fire Department.

The agency said that multiple engine crews were sent to the location and found the victim, whose identity was not released, with moderate injuries.

Firefighters had to pull the man to safety and take him to a makeshift landing zone near the freeway, where a Reach Air Ambulance crew picked him up about 1:20 p.m. and transported him to Riverside Community Hospital.

1052. https://www.theadvocate.com.au/story/7577903/mountain-biker-seriously-injured-on-west-coast-trails/

Westpac Recue Helicopter deployed to assist injured Mt Owen cyclist

Sandy Powell

A rider descends a trail on Mount Owen, at Queenstown. Picture: Dirt Art/West Coast Council

A 44-year-old man has been taken to hospital with serious injuries after crashing off his bike on trails on the West Coast.

The Westpac Rescue Helicopter was deployed to assist in the retrieval of the man who was riding the recently opened Waterfall Track on Mount Owen at Queenstown.

"The rider crashed on a hair-pin corner of the trail and hit some rocks on the ground when he came off his bike," Queenstown police Senior Constable Brad Coulson said.

"The Westpac Police Rescue Helicopter was utilised to retrieve the rider from the trail. Local SES and TFS volunteers from Queenstown assisted paramedics from Ambulance Tasmania at the scene.

"The rider was transported to the Royal Hobart Hospital for medical treatment for serious injuries."

Senior Constable Coulson said the new mountain bike trails on Mount Owen had attracted a large number of visitors to the region throughout the summer so far.

"The Queenstown region has a rich history against a breathtakingly beautiful landscape and during summer the West Coast mountain bike trails have proved to be exceptionally popular with a high number of both visitors and locals riding on the trails".

"Good weather and trail conditions across the state have increased riders across all the trail networks".

Senior Constable Coulson thanked members of the public and the State Emergency Service and Tasmania Fire Service volunteers who assisted in the rescue.

For a timely response during an emergency situation, Tasmania Police advise downloading the Emergency+ app to your smart phone which will display your coordinates so you can provide your exact location when calling for help.

1053. https://www.timesnews.net/news/local-news/mountain-bike-trail-leads-public-comments-to-replace-closing-warriors-path-pool/article_2cb8a158-8080-11ec-b194-5ff1838fd5fb.html

Busy weekend for Tayside Mountain Rescue Team after injured mountain biker drama

The volunteers also took part in nerve shredding cliff-face training
By
James Moncur
Assistant Live Editor
13:18, 31 JAN 2022

Tayside Mountain Rescue Team saved a mountain-biker after a nasty fall at the weekend.

The team of volunteers helped recover the cyclist who was badly injured on a trail at Birnam Hill, near Dunkeld.

They located the man - who had suffered a nasty leg break - packaged him up and evacuated him to a nearby ambulance on Saturday.

1054. https://www.grough.co.uk/magazine/2022/01/31/rescue-team-member-called-out-to-his-own-son-after-mountain-biking-crash

Rescue team member called out to his own son after mountain biking crash

Bob Smith, Editor
Monday 31 January 2022 06:29 PM GMT
The rescue scene in Whinlatter Forest. Photo: Keswick MRT

A Lake District mountain rescuer was called out to aid his own son, who was reported unconscious after a mountain biking accident.

The Keswick Mountain Rescue Team member rushed to the teams base so he could be on the first vehicle that went to the casualty in Whinlatter Forest.

The information provided to police by the riders companions included his first name and date of birth.

A team spokesperson said: A Keswick MRT member recognised this as highly likely being his son and so rushed to base in time for the dispatch of the first vehicle. An RAF mountain rescue team who were training in the area also attended.

The injured man was with a group of experienced mountain bikers on Saturday when he suffered a heavy crash on the red south loop trail in the forest. The alarm was raised about 1.20pm.

The spokesperson said: The team vehicle was able to park close to the incident and on arrival the casualty had regained consciousness and was sitting up with a space blanket and warm clothes provided by his friends.

After a thorough check over by a team doctor the man was able to walk to the team vehicle and was driven down to an awaiting ambulance. He was taken to the Cumberland Infirmary at Carlisle for further checks but was later discharged.

Although suffering from concussion he had chosen that day to use a full face, rather than an open face helmet, which no doubt saved him from more serious injuries.

The riders father said: You never stop worrying about your kids, even when theyre 42.

The incident involved 10 Keswick MRT members and lasted almost 1 hours.

1055. https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/person-dies-after-dirt-bike-crash-in-southland/C2T2BWRZHVKA7S5IDUFDHQNFYM/

A man is in critical condition after a mountain-biking incident in Cardrona, near Wanaka.

The incident happened at Cardrona Bike Park, with police alerted just after 2pm.

St John said one helicopter was sent to the scene and a man with critical injuries was flown to Christchurch Hospital.

1056. https://www.richmondshiretoday.co.uk/injured-mountain-biker-airlifted-to-hospital/?unapproved=65790&moderation-hash=3f93a0febc62beb8f09c59d759b91b38#comment-65790

Injured mountain biker airlifted to hospital

February 6, 2022 Joe Willis News 1

An injured mountain biker was airlifted to hospital after crashing in the Yorkshire Dales today.

Volunteers from Swaledale Mountain Rescue Team (SMRT) were called at Sunday lunchtime to rescue the cyclist following the incident.

The female rider had crashed on a steep, gravely slope in Apedale near Grinton.

Steve Clough, SMRT rescue controller, said: Other riders initially took care of the rider and also summoned help from mountain rescue.

Conditions were very poor at the time with snow flurries and strong winds.

The first team member on scene was able to provide first aid for a suspected broken ankle and also provide more protection from the elements.

A brief break in the snowfall allowed the Yorkshire Air Ambulance to land nearby.

The casualty was stretchered to the Helimed which was able to take off before the next snow blizzard came in.

Steve added: Big thanks to the fellow bike o provided great initial care and also to Yorkshire Air Ambulance.

1057. https://www.gpone.com/en/2022/02/07/motoamerica/jason-aguilar-didnt-make-it-he-loses-his-life-after-a-mb-accident.html

https://www.superbikeplanet.com/statement-from-racer-jason-aguilars-parents-regarding-his-condition/

Statement from racer Jason Aguilars parents regarding his condition

By Dean Adams
SuperbikePlanet Editor
Monday, February 7, 2022

MotoA racer Jason Aguilar was mortally injured in a mountain bike crash Saturday and is not expected to survive.

His parents released this statement:

Jason Aguilar, our son, professional MotoAmerica road racer, 2017 Superstock 600 Champion, avid mountain biker, and friend to many, had a horrible crash Saturday morning in Laguna on his mountain bike. His friends, Alex and Anthony, acted quickly to get him airlifted to Mission Hospital in Mission Viejo where he was rushed into surgery to relieve bleeding in his brain. While the surgery was successful in stopping the bleeding, he went without oxygen to his brain for too long before the surgery. As a result of the lack of oxygen, he suffered catastrophic brain damage that is irreversible. Jason is an organ donor, so the hospital is making arrangements for donation of his organs, and for recipients of those organs. Once that is complete, Jason will be taken off life support. We hope that Jason will live on in your memories and ours, and that the donation of his organs will allow his memory to live on in others.

1058. https://www.stgeorgeutah.com/news/archive/2022/02/13/sdw-injured-cyclist-flown-out-of-the-clavicle-hill-area-by-life-flight/

Injured cyclist flown out of the Clavicle Hill area by Life Flight

Written by Stephanie DeGraw
February 13, 2022
Bear Claw Poppy Trailhead, St. George, Utah, April 22, 2019 | Photo by Joseph Witham, St. George News

ST. GEORGE A bicyclist in his 50s was flown to St. George Regional Hospital by Intermountain Life Flight Saturday after a crash.
An adult male was transported by Life Flight Saturday after a bike accident in the Bear Claw Poppy Trail area, St. George, Utah, unspecified date | File photo by Joseph Witham, St. George News

The call came in to dispatch at 12:30 pm by a friend who was with the injured man.

St. George Fire Battalion Chief Darren Imlay said the incident happened about four miles up the lower side of the Navajo Bear Paw Trail. The trailhead is near Navajo Drive in Bloomington. But once riders drop off what is known as Clavicle Hill, the area becomes more remote.

Its fairly inaccessible, Imlay said. You cant just drive up to it, so a lot of times, well go out, and UTVs or life-flight will go out. I cant really discuss the patients condition.

The area is a part of the Green Valley loop and the Bearclaw Poppy trail. The bike trail is a downhill segment often ridden from the top of the Green Valley Gap, down what riders call the three fingers of death, into the wash to Clavicle Hill and down two miles of rolling hills.

Personnel from Washington County Search and Rescue, St. George Fire Department, Intermountain Life Flight and Gold Cross Ambulance also responded to the scene.

1059. https://www.wbrc.com/2022/02/15/watch-alea-heroes-help-rescue-mountain-biker-oak-mountain/

WATCH: ALEA heroes help rescue mountain biker at Oak Mountain

ALEA Aviation rescue SOURCE: ALEA
By WBRC Staff
Published: Feb. 14, 2022 at 4:34 PM PST|Updated: 23 hours ago

PELHAM, Ala. (WBRC) - An ALEA Aviation crew helped Pelham Fire and Rescue save a mountain biker who fell and was injured at Oak Mountain State Park.

It happened Friday, February 11, 2022.

Pelham Fire and Rescue requested the assistance of an ALEA helicopter after a 56-year-old man fell while he was mountain biking on the north side of the park and got significant leg injuries.

The terrain was rugged and made his rescue extremely dangerous, therefore, an ALEA helicopter launched from Montgomery with Pilot Ronnie Johnston, Co-pilot, Michael Carswell, Hoist Operator Greg Rankin and Rescuer Wayne Barlow.

The victim was being helped by paramedics on scene and the helicopter crew made the decision to hoist a paramedic into the helicopter to maintain patient care.

ALEA officials said once the paramedic was safely in the helicopter, Rescuer Barlow returned for a second time and rescued the victim. After he was secured in the helicopter, he was taken to a landing site and transferred to an ambulance.

From ALEAs Facebook post: The winds coming over the mountain made the rescue especially difficult and demonstrates the pilots exceptional skill. ALEA Aviation works closely with many Fire Departments and Rescue Squads to serve the citizens of this state and we are extremely thankful for such great partnerships! #ALEAAviation #ALEAProtects

1060. https://www.stuff.co.nz/national/127769740/southland-mountainbikers-death-a-huge-loss

Southland mountainbiker's death a 'huge loss'

Blair Jackson16:56, Feb 14 2022
Kavinda Herath/Stuff
William Impelmans died after a being injured while mountainbiking in Queenstown-Lakes on February 7. [File photo]

A Southland outdoorsman is being remembered as a giving volunteer who enjoyed working with young people.

William Impelmans , 37, of Bluff, died on February 10, after being critically injured while mountainbiking at Cardrona on February 7.

Southland Triathlon and Multisport Club president David Burnett said Impelmans death would leave a huge hole in peoples lives.

[He] did a lot to help the youth of the south, Burnett said.

He put a lot of his free time into getting the youth out and about.

Impelmans is listed as a co-director of Adventure Southland, an Invercargill-based company that trains school students and businesses in adventure activities, team-building and commercial tasks that require harnesses and ropes.

Although not a member, Impelmans and his partner would help the triathlon and multisport club with equipment, Burnett said.

He was a genuinely good lad. He just loved the outdoors.

Southland Mountain Bike Club president Donald Heslip said Impelmans was a great rider and generous with his time in maintaining tracks and teaching others.
Robyn Edie/Stuff
Will Impelmans rides in the Southland Mountain Bike Club downhill championships at Bluff Hill in 2012. [File photo]

He was very humble and very well-liked.

He received the mountainbike clubs volunteer of the year award, would maintain the Bluff Hill tracks and was a highly valued and respected club member, Heslip said.

When he had something to say people would stop and listen.

Hes very generous with his time. He would organise group rides and training rides to teach people how to be better riders.

Adventure Southlands website says Impelmans led the industrial training, with a huge amount of knowledge about working on ropes.

The company marked 20 years of business in 2019. Impelmans was one of four people who bought the business in 2018.

The incident at Cardrona was reported to St John at 1.50pm on February 7. He was taken by helicopter to Christchurch with critical injuries. He died three days later.

A private funeral service will be livestreamed at 1pm on February 16.

1061. https://apnews.com/article/montana-avalanches-a71d6700f2fdafa70302ed720d166126

Snow biker killed in avalanche in southern Montana

COOKE CITY, Mont. (AP) An investigation is underway after a snow biker was killed in an avalanche in southern Montana.

The Gallatin National Forest Avalanche Center reports the motorized snow bike triggered the slide on Miller Mountain in the Sheep Creek Drainage north of Cooke City on Saturday evening. The rider, whose name and age have not been released, was carried through cliffs and was partially buried.

An investigator with the avalanche center planned to head to the slide to gather more information Sunday.

Forecasters warned Saturday that a layer of weak snow was buried about 2 feet (61 centimeters) deep on many slopes in the Cooke City area, making it possible for a person to trigger a large avalanche. The avalanche center said there was a moderate danger of slides in the area Saturday.

No other details about the deadly avalanche have been released.

At least 10 people have died in avalanches in the U.S. so far this winter season, according to the Colorado Avalanche Information Center, which keeps track of fatalities nationwide.

1062. https://www.edhat.com/news/mountain-biker-rescue

Mountain Biker Rescue

Trail Rescue 2/24/22 - Yesterday evening around 830pm, SBCSAR responded along with AMR and Santa Barbara County Fire to the report of a bicyclist about 100 feet over the side with injuries on Tunnel Trail in the Mission Falls area. Units responded to both the bottom and top of Tunnel Trail to make access to the injured rider, whom had been riding with 3 other people in the area.

Initial SAR teams gathered both medical and technical rescue equipment for what could have been an extremely challenging rope rescue operation to bring the rider back up to the trail. With the riders condition worsening, it was determined that an air asset would be the best evacuation for the rider. A request was made to Ventura County for a hoist aircraft and VCASU Copter 4 responded to assist. With the hiking distance to the remote location, the helicopter arrived on scene just before ground teams and inserted a medic at the patients location to evaluate. The decision was made for a quick evacuation of the patient and transport to La Cumbre Jr. High being the most suitable and secure landing area supported by Santa Barbara City Fire personnel and be transferred by AMR to Cottage Hospital.

After Copter 4 made the patient transfer, it returned to the scene to hoist the medic and two of the patients friends that had scrambled their way down to assist the injured rider before teams had arrived. Once hoisted, the additional two subjects were transferred to La Cumbre Jr. High for pick by relatives. Ground SAR teams hiked the remaining uninjured subject that had stayed above and the 3 bikes on the trail back up to Camino Cielo to the vehicle they had left parked. All SAR teams were out of the field and back in service by 1am Friday morning.

Santa Barbara County Search & Rescue is a professional, all volunteer and unpaid 501(c)3 organization that is community supported by generous giving to provide services to the County of Santa Barbara under the direction of the Santa Barbara County Sheriffs Office. To learn about supporting SBCSAR, please visit our website or reach out to us.

Photo: SAR
Reported by Scanner Andrew

Firefighters are on scene for a mountain biker that went off the trail northwest of Rattlesnake Canyon.

1063. https://bikinginla.com/2022/02/27/former-motorcycle-champ-jason-aguilar-killed-in-laguna-beach-mountain-biking-crash-5th-oc-bike-death-of-2022/

Former motorcycle champ Jason Aguilar killed in Laguna Beach mountain biking crash; 5th OC bike death of 2022

February 27, 2022 / bikinginla

Somehow, we missed this one earlier this month.

According to CycleNews, former motorcycle champ Jason Aguilar died following a fall while mountain biking with friends in Laguna Beach on Saturday, February 5th.

He was just 25 years old.

Aguilar, the 2017 MotoAmerica Superstock 600 Champion, was rushed into surgery to relieve bleeding on the brain, but suffered catastrophic brain damage due to a lack of oxygen.

He was kept on life support until February 8th so his organs could be harvested for transplantation to others.

Close to a hundred mountain bikers later turned out for a ride in Aguilars honor.

This is at least the 19th bicycling fatality in Southern California this year, and the 5th that Im aware of in Orange County.

My deepest sympathy and prayers for Jason Aguilar and his loved ones.

Thanks to Bill Sellin for the heads-up.

1064. https://cwherald.com/news/mountain-biker-airlifted-to-hospital-after-rescue-by-volunteer-team/

Mountain biker airlifted to hospital after rescue by volunteer team

by CWH
5 March 2022
Picture: Penrith Mountain Rescue Team

A mountain biker was airlifted to hospital after injuring his leg following a fall in the Lake District.

Penrith Mountain Rescue Team were called out on Tuesday to assist after the man who had fallen from his bike at High Cap, Above Kirkland, and was unable to continue.

Team volunteers responded with two vehicles, but due to the severity of the suspected injury, they requested support from the Great North Air Ambulance Service.

A spokesman for Penrith mountain rescue said: The aircrew were able to land 400m from the casualty site and were joined shortly afterwards by the team.

The casualty was stretchered to the helicopter and flown to hospital for treatment.

The rescue mission involved seven Penrith volunteers and lasted two hours and 30 minutes.

1065. https://globalnews.ca/video/8658216/this-is-b-c-a-mountain-bikers-amazing-recovery/

This is B.C.: A mountain bikers amazing recovery

In the latest instalment of This is B.C., Jay Durant talks to a mountain biker whos defying the odds after being badly injuried, and told he wouldnt walk again.

1066. https://losangeles.cbslocal.com/2022/03/06/rescuers-hoist-mountain-bike-rider-out-of-remote-area-in-brentwood/

Rescuers Hoist Mountain Bike Rider Out Of Remote Area In Brentwood

By CBSLA StaffMarch 6, 2022 at 4:13 pm

BRENTWOOD (CBSLA) Los Angeles County Fire Department rescues successfully hoisted a mountain bike rider via air ambulance on Sunday afternoon.

The biker was trapped in a remote area near the 2600 block of North Westridge Road in Brentwood, close to Westridge Trailhead.

LAFD transported the victim to a nearby trauma center. It is unclear what type of injuries the biker sustained or how severe they were.

Its also unclear how the person ended up in the remote area.

1067. https://www.irishpost.com/news/fundraiser-for-irishman-paralysed-in-mountain-biking-accident-passes-e30000-in-just-one-day-230791

Fundraiser for Irishman paralysed in mountain biking accident passes €30,000 in just one day

1068. https://www.coastlive.com.au/news/local-news/injured-mountain-biker-rescued-near-lane-poole-reserve-with-the-help-of-st-john-app/

Injured mountain biker rescued near Lane Poole Reserve with the help of St John app

News Home

Wednesday, March 9th, 2022 8:57am

By Monique Welhan

PIC: Pinjarra Police/Twitter

Police say a St John Ambulance app was crucial in rescuing an injured mountain biker near Lane Poole Reserve in Dwellingup.

The rider, a man in his 50s, was winched to safety into the RAC rescue helicopter around 6.45pm on Monday.

He was then flown to Royal Perth Hospital with non life-threatening injuries.

The man had the St John Ambulance First Responder app installed on his phone which shared his exact GPS location with paramedics and DFES.

It also provided crucial first aid tips.

1069. https://www.news24.com/you/news/local/our-mom-was-an-experienced-cyclist-how-could-she-have-plunged-to-her-death-in-the-cederberg-20220311

Our mom was an experienced cyclist how could she have plunged to her death in the Cederberg?

Nasifa Sulaiman
Terry Wampach-Todd with her husband, Sean Todd. He was the only one with her when she died in 2016 after falling off a cliff in the Cederberg. (PHOTO: Supplied)

Their mom died screaming as she plunged down a cliff onto the rocks below.

Thats all Jasmine Swiel and Kendal Victor know for certain about their mothers final moments, but theyre determined to uncover the truth about her death.

Terry Wampach-Todd, a champion mountain-biker, was no stranger to the Cederberg mountain paths where she died in 2016, and visited the area regularly to ride.

1070. https://www.abc.net.au/news/2022-03-12/victorian-rider-dies-on-tasmania-maydena-mountain-bike-trail/100905050

Victorian rider dies on Tasmania's Maydena mountain-bike trail

Posted Yesterday at 2:14pmFri 11 Mar 2022 at 2:14pm
The rider was wearing the "appropriate safety equipment", police said.(Facebook: Maydena Bike Park)
Help keep family & friends informed by sharing this article

A 29-year-old Victorian man, described as an experienced rider, has died after a crash at a popular Tasmanian mountain-biking trail.

Police said Ambulance Tasmania and Tasmania Police were alerted about 12.30pm on Friday to the emergency at Maydena Mountain Bike Trails at Maydena in southern Tasmania, about one hour and 15 minutes by road from Hobart.

"On arrival it was found that a 29-year-old man from Victoria had received life threatening injuries as a result of crashing his mountain bike whilst descending a technical section of the track," police said in a statement late on Friday.

"This person was identified as an experienced rider and was wearing appropriate safety gear at the time of the crash."

Police said despite the "combined efforts of members of the public, who were close by at the time of the crash and emergency services personnel", the man could not be saved and died from the injuries he sustained.

A report will be prepared for the coroner.

1071. https://www.nsnews.com/local-news/north-vancouver-firefighters-aid-injured-mountain-biker-5172169

North Vancouver firefighters aid injured mountain biker

District of North Vancouver firefighters came to the aid of a mountain biker who sustained significant neck and back injuries Wednesday on Mount Seymour's Hangman Trail.
Jane Seyd

Firefighters from the District of North Vancouver came to the aid of a mountain biker injured on Mount Seymour Wednesday, March 16, 2022.DNV Fire & Rescue

District of North Vancouver firefighters came to the aid of a mountain biker who sustained significant neck and back injuries Wednesday evening (March 16) while riding on trails on Mount Seymour.

Fire crews received a call just before 5:30 p.m. that a man in his late 30s had suffered pretty significant injuries, including injuries to his head, neck and back, while mountain biking on the Hangman Trail, said Walt Warner, assistant fire chief.

Firefighters from fire hall 4 on Mt. Seymour Parkway responded to the call, hiking 15 minutes up from the trailhead to the injured man.

The man was stabilized and loaded on to a stretcher, and firefighters carried him out of the trail to a waiting ambulance by approximately 8 p.m., said Warner. The man was then taken to Lions Gate Hospital.

There was no immediate word on his condition.

1072. https://www.independent.ie/irish-news/appeal-for-teen-left-with-spinal-injuries-after-freak-mountain-bike-accident-41469944.html

Appeal for teen left with spinal injuries after freak mountain bike accident

Ois�O'Connor

Ralph Riegel

March 21 2022 10:53 AM

A SPECIAL appeal has been launched for a Cork teenager who suffered a serious spinal injury during a freak mountain biking accident.

Ois�OConnor (14) is now reliant on a wheelchair after the accident last year which required him to be treated at first Crumlin Children's Hospital and now the National Rehabilitation Hospital in Dun Laoghaire.

The teen from Kealkill in west Cork was competing in a mountain bike event on September 25 last when he suffered the freak accident.

Afterwards, it was diagnosed that Ois�had suffered a serious spinal injury.

Rory Doody, secretary of the fundraising committee, explained they wanted to do something to help the sports-obsessed teen.

Ois�is totally sports mad. He played GAA with St Colums, a skillful player who also excelled on the rugby field with Bantry Bay RFC and on the basketball court with Colᩳte Phobail Bheanntra�quot; he said.

"Being the youngest of five boys, sport has given Ois�a competitive nature and the will to succeed.

Following the accident Ois�spent five months in Crumlin Childrens Hospital with both parents Marie and Wesley at his bedside.

"Ois�has now progressed to the care of Dn Laoghaire National Rehabilitation Hospital. The next stage will be to get Ois�home to west Cork permanently.

However, because of Ois�s mobility needs, his family home will have to be converted to better suit him and his ongoing recovery.

"The family home needs to be extended and modified to support Ois�s long term recovery. Funds are also needed for ongoing rehabilitation and equipment costs to ensure a full and independent life, Mr Doody said.
"All funds will be gratefully received and the support will go towards giving Ois�the best fighting chance for optimising his recovery."

While there have been exceptionally difficult days, brave Ois�has continued to smile through the pain, work through the discomfort and adjust to his new circumstances, all the while his eyes shine bright with hope and determination.

His motivation has been getting well enough to return to west Cork.
Oisins family have now set up a GoFundMe page and all funds raised will go directly to his recovery journey and any remaining funds will stay in trust for his future needs.

1073. https://centraloregondaily.com/dcso-volunteers-rescue-injured-mountain-biker-near-phils-trailhead/

DCSO volunteers rescue injured mountain biker near Phils Trailhead

by Central Oregon Daily News Sources
|
Thursday, March 24th 2022

Deschutes County Sheriffs Office Search and Rescue volunteers helped an injured mountain biker west of Bend on Wednesday afternoon.

An off-duty medic found the 52-year-old Reno woman on Kents Trail near Phils Trailhead soon after the incident, according to Deputy Shane Zook.

The medic reported to DCSO that the rider had sustained a broken arm and needed help getting back to the parking area.

A special services deputy was sent to help the rider on Kents Trail near Phils Trailhead at around 12:45 p.m.

The deputy called for backup, and DCSO Search and Rescue volunteers as well as a U.S. Forest Service Officer went out to help.

Volunteers arrived at the site with a wheeled litter at around 1:45 p.m., and members of the SAR medical team helped secure her broken arm before they began the journey back.

They carried her around two miles back to the parking area where Bend Fire and Rescue was waiting in case she needed further assistance.

In the end, the biker decided to ride in her own car to the hospital instead of taking the ambulance.

1074. https://www.pentictonwesternnews.com/news/badly-injured-mountain-biker-rescued-from-penticton-mountain/

A 52-year-old man who was badly injured on Nkwala Mountain while mountain biking Sunday. (hikingaddictions.com)

Badly injured mountain biker rescued from Penticton mountain

The 52-year-old was biking on Nkwala Mountain Sunday
Monique Tamminga
Apr. 10, 2022 3:30 p.m.
News

Penticton Search and Rescue was called by BCEHS at noon to evacuate a 52-year-old man who was badly injured on Nkwala Mountain near West Bench on Sunday.

According to Penticton and District Area Search and Rescue, the man was mountain biking when he had an incident and sustained head and chest injuries.

Nine search and rescue volunteers responded to the call using two side-by-sides and the Jeep rescue vehicle. The victim was evacuated down the mountain (formally known as Gerrys Mountain) and turned over to ambulance crews in the West Bench area of Penticton.

1075. https://www.leaderlive.co.uk/news/20075594.mountain-biker-injured-llandelga-forest-fall/

Mountain biker injured during Llandegla Forest fall

By Arron Evans
@ArronEvansNews

NEWSAR Volunteers at Llandegla Forest. PIC: North East Wales Search and Rescue.

NORTH East Wales Search and Rescue volunteers helped save an injured mountain biker who sustained a suspected spinal injury during a fall in a forest.

The incident had taken place near the Oneplanet Adventure site in Llandegla Forest in the afternoon of Friday, April 15.

The casualty was packaged onto our stretcher, then a rope system was used in order to protect a move to easier ground.

They were then carried to a waiting ambulance.

A spokesperson for North East Wales Search and Resuce said: "Great to work with the excellent people at Oneplanet, plus our blue light colleagues at Welsh Ambulance Services NHS Trust."

PIC: Location where the mountain biker was rescued from.

A statement from Oneplanet Adventure read: "We would like to thank the team from North East Wales Search and Rescue for their assistance in extracting a patient with a possible spinal injury from a tricky location on the trails today."

"They are all volunteers who give their time freely to help out in these situations and their professionalism and expertise are second to none. We wish the rider a speedy recovery."

1076. https://www.nzherald.co.nz/hawkes-bay-today/news/mountain-biker-airlifted-off-te-mata-peak-hawkes-bay/QAEUBMQ42C7SZP3AV4TLWVHIUM/

Tuesday, 19 April 2022
Mountain biker airlifted off Te Mata Peak, Hawke's Bay

18 Apr, 2022 02:07 PM2 minutes to read

The Lowe Corporation rescue helicopter returns to base at Hawke's Bay Hospital in Hastings with a woman injured in a Te Mata Peak mountain bike accident on Easter Monday. Photo / Paul Taylor
NZ Herald
By Gary Hamilton-Irvine

A mountain biker airlifted off Te Mata Peak was one of several emergency callouts on a busy Easter Monday.

1077. https://www.heraldscotland.com/news/20080543.mountain-biker-airlifted-hospital-crash-innerleithen-trail/

Mountain biker airlifted to hospital after crash on trail

Mountain biker airlifted to hospital after crash on Innerleithen trail

13 hrs ago
By Ema Sabljak
@emasabljak Digital Reporter
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Mountain biker airlifted to hospital after crash on trail (Images: Tweed Valley Mountain Rescue Team)

An injured mountain biker had to be airlifted from a Scottish trail after a serious crash.

The Tweed Valley Mountain Rescue Team (MRT) assisted the man after the collision at Innerleithen mountain bike trails on Tuesday.

The man had sustained a significant upper arm injury among others deemed potentially more serious by paramedics at the scene.

A helicopter evacuation was decided to be the best course of action and saw him in hospital within ten minutes of the aircraft arriving at the scene.

Seven members of the MRT team helped carry the casualty up in a stretcher, alongside friends of the injured biker.

Tweed Valley MRT said: "After assessment by Scottish Ambulance Service Paramedics, it was decided that the casualty required helicopter evacuation due to a significant upper arm injury coupled with potentially more serious injuries caused by the impact of his crash.

"The helicopter evacuation meant he was at hospital 10 minutes after the aircraft left the incident site as opposed to potentially a 1.5 hour transfer by road ambulance.

"This incident involved 7 volunteer team members. Thanks go to the crew of Rescue Helicopter 199, Police Scotland, Scottish Ambulance Service, HMCG Aeronautical Rescue Coordination Centre as well as the other members of the casualties riding party who assisted in the stretcher carry."

It was the teams thirteenth callout so far this year.

(Images: Tweed Valley Mountain Rescue Team)

1078. https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/mountain-biker-suffers-significant-leg-23762890

Mountain biker suffers 'significant' leg injury after crashing

A search and rescue team was called to the incident at 9.30pm last night
By
Harri EvansReporter
20:13, 22 APR 2022

The mountain biker suffered a significant injury to his leg which had to be put back into position (Image: North East Wales Search and Rescue)

A mountain biker suffered a significant injury to his leg near Holywell last night. The North East Wales Search and Rescue (NEWSAR) team was called to the incident, which occurred just south west of the town, at 9.30pm.

The biker was given pain relief before his leg was put back into position, NEWSAR said. The leg was then splinted and the man was carried by stretcher to the team's Land Rover which took him to hospital.

In a statement issued on Facebook, NEWSAR said: "At 9.30pm on Thursday night the team was called to assist a mountain biker south west of Holywell. He had sustained a significant injury to his leg.

"Team members attended and provided pain relief, before manipulating his leg back into a neutral position, in order to protect the blood supply to the limb below the injury site. His leg was then splinted and he was carried by stretcher to our Land Rover, then he was driven directly to hospital.

"Well done to the casualty party who had fitted an improvised splint before we arrived and met incoming team members to direct them quickly to the scene."

1079. https://www.fox16.com/news/local-news/cyclist-rescued-after-fall-down-cliff-near-pinnacle-mountain/

Cyclist rescued after fall down cliff near Pinnacle Mountain

by: Chris Counts

Posted: Apr 26, 2022 / 10:30 PM CDT

LITTLE ROCK, Ark. A cyclist had to be rescued Tuesday evening after falling 30 feet off a cliff near Pinnacle Mountain.

According to Pulaski County officials, the biker was on a trail near the Pinnacle Mountain Visitor Center when they fell down the mountainside.

Investigators say the person suffered a head injury in the fall.

Several agencies assisted in the rescue.

1080. https://www.msn.com/en-us/news/us/mountain-biker-loses-control-and-falls-off-bridge/vi-AAWQv3q

Mountain Biker Loses Control and Falls off Bridge

Occurred on October 2021 / Cidade de Goias, Brazil: We were on the way to Cora Coralina, Corumba de Goias up to the city of Goias 300 km. On the fourth and last day missing about 40 km to the end our friend ended up entering with the front wheel in the ...

1081. https://www.thenorthernecho.co.uk/news/20108604.rescue-team-members-assist-two-casualties-separate-incidents-just-hours-apart/

Busy Bank Holiday weekend for Cleveland Mountain Rescue Team

Rescue team members assist two casualties in separate incidents just hours apart

By Bruce Unwin
@BruceNEcho Crime and Court Reporter

MOUNTAIN rescue volunteers have had a busy Bank Holiday weekend on top of commitments with scheduled outdoor events.

Following call-outs on both Friday and Saturday, when the Cleveland Mountain Rescue Team was also covering the English Championship Fell Race, hopes of a quiet Sunday were dashed for the annual Whalebones Walk, from Whitby to Marske.

Members also ended up dealing with two more call-outs while providing assistance with the walk.

North Yorkshire Police informed rescuers of a man with potentially serious injuries resulting from a mountain bike accident near to Kirby Knowle, Thirsk, shortly before midday, on Sunday.

A team member was sent to the village to act as the incident officer whilst a team Land Rover was sent from its base, with other members travelling from across the area.

The Yorkshire Air Ambulance was also dispatched and on arrival its crew dealt with the casualty before the mountain rescue volunteers carried him on a rescue stretcher to the helicopter for onward treatment at hospital.
Fifteen team members were involved while two others coordinating the response were also engaged in the Whalebones Walk.

The call-out lasted approximately two-and-a-half hours, plus additional return travelling time.

1082. https://www.thenorthernecho.co.uk/news/20108604.rescue-team-members-assist-two-casualties-separate-incidents-just-hours-apart/

Busy Bank Holiday weekend for Cleveland Mountain Rescue Team

Rescue team members assist two casualties in separate incidents just hours apart

By Bruce Unwin
@BruceNEcho Crime and Court Reporter

MOUNTAIN rescue volunteers have had a busy Bank Holiday weekend on top of commitments with scheduled outdoor events.

Following call-outs on both Friday and Saturday, when the Cleveland Mountain Rescue Team was also covering the English Championship Fell Race, hopes of a quiet Sunday were dashed for the annual Whalebones Walk, from Whitby to Marske.

Members also ended up dealing with two more call-outs while providing assistance with the walk.

North Yorkshire Police informed rescuers of a man with potentially serious injuries resulting from a mountain bike accident near to Kirby Knowle, Thirsk, shortly before midday, on Sunday.

A team member was sent to the village to act as the incident officer whilst a team Land Rover was sent from its base, with other members travelling from across the area.

The Yorkshire Air Ambulance was also dispatched and on arrival its crew dealt with the casualty before the mountain rescue volunteers carried him on a rescue stretcher to the helicopter for onward treatment at hospital.
Fifteen team members were involved while two others coordinating the response were also engaged in the Whalebones Walk.

The call-out lasted approximately two-and-a-half hours, plus additional return travelling time.

1083. https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-10790803/British-mountain-biker-46-dies-fell-60ft-Italy-despite-surviving-initial-drop.html

Friday, May 6th 2022 4PM 78F 7PM 62F 5-Day Forecast

British mountain biker, 46, dies of cardiac arrest while being treated after he fell more than 60ft while on holiday in Italy and suffered severe injuries - despite surviving initial drop

Unidentified 46-year-old was with a group of friends when he fell off cliff in Italy
He survived initial drop, but died after second cardiac arrest during treatment
A helicopter was dispatched and took the man to hospital, but he did not survive
Brit tour guide in Molini di Triora near Genoa said: 'The whole town is devastated'
Guidebook: 'Some small jumps, some rocky sections. Don't miss bath at the end!'

By Nick Pisa for MailOnline

Published: 15:19 EDT, 6 May 2022 | Updated: 15:19 EDT, 6 May 2022

A British mountain biker has died after falling more than 60ft while on holiday in Italy.

The unidentified 46-year-old was with a group of friends when the accident happened early on Friday.

They raised the alarm and a specialist mountain rescue paramedic unit was helicoptered to the scene.

The incident happened in thick woodland at Molini di Triora about 50 miles south west of Genoa and in a national park.

The Brit cyclist survived the initial 60ft fall but suffered two cardiac arrests during treatment

Officials said the man was on a marked trail which leads down to a lake and is described in guides as 'beautiful, fast one. Some small jumps, some rocky sections, enjoy. Don't miss the bath at the end!'

A spokesperson for the Liguria Mountain Rescue team that were called in said the man had fallen around 60ft and suffered multiple injuries but had survived the initial drop.

He added: 'His friends immediately alerted emergency services and a team managed to get there on foot and he was treated at the scene.

'While being stabilised he suffered a cardiac arrest and for 15 minutes CPR was performed and the team managed to revive him while a helicopter was sent to the scene.'

A helicopter was dispatched to the scene and lifted the cyclist to safety, but he sadly died

Pictures released by the rescue services show a team of paramedics at the scene with the man's concerned friends looking on and a helicopter later flying away from the scene.

The man was taken to hospital at Pietra Ligure where officials said he suffered another cardiac arrest before and he was pronounced dead.

A British tour guide who runs mountain bike trips in the area told Mail Online: 'It's a really popular place and we got loads of groups coming over from the UK for tours.

'The whole town is devastated by this news - the area lives on tourism and especially mountain biking so the whole community will be shattered.

'Molino has loads of fabulous trails and they come down through the trees and end up back in the village.'

A local said the group had only arrived a few days ago and were due to leave after the weekend.

1084. https://rrobserver.com/sheriff-recovers-from-broken-back/

Sheriff recovers from broken back after bike crash

By Argen Marie Duncan | News Editor | May 26, 2022

The Sandoval County sheriff is recovering from a broken back, keeping track of happenings at the office and planning to go back to work as soon as he can.

Tuesday, Sheriff Jesse James Casaus was doing in-patient rehabilitation.

Im walking now with a walker, he said. Still a lot of pain.

Casaus said he was mountain-biking alone on Strip Mine Trail in Placitas on May 14 when the accident happened. He was going downhill fast, veered off the trail and tried to ramp over a rock to get back on the path.

Instead, the bike slammed to an immediate stop on the rock, whipping the sheriffs upper body forward so forcefully while his lower body was more anchored that it fractured a vertebra. He also fell off the bike, breaking a rib.

He crawled over to his backpack to get his phone and called Chief Deputy Allen Mills, who lives in Placitas.

Mills said the call came just before 10 a.m. Casaus told Mills he fell and might need help walking his bike out of the trail area.

So I didnt know how injured he was, Mills said.

Mills headed to the sheriffs location. Meanwhile, two hikers and another mountain biker came across Casaus and stopped to help.

Not knowing he had loose pieces of bone in his back, Casaus instructed the passers-by to help him stand and then, when he couldnt manage standing, to sit up. With his movement, the pieces of bone could have punctured his spinal cord.

The surgeon told me it was literally a miracle I wasnt paralyzed, Casaus said.

Mills arrived about 10:40 a.m.

When I got there, I knew he needed an ambulance, Mills said.

A Sandoval County emergency medical crew tends to county Sheriff Jesse James Casaus, lying down, as passers-by who stopped to help look on after a mountain-biking accident that resulted in a broken back May 14. Courtesy photo.

The sheriff was lying on the ground, chatting with the hikers and mountain biker, but had come to the same conclusion. Mills called county Fire Chief Eric Masterson, who had an emergency medical crew meet Mills at the intersection of Rainbow Valley Road and Nighthawk Way in Placitas.

The crew arrived quickly. However, figuring out the best way for the crew to get to Casaus, a quarter-mile away, took considerable time.

Mills said he and the EMS crew reached the sheriff again about 11:25 a.m. Then, it took about half an hour to transport him on a wheeled gurney back to the ambulance.

Casaus underwent surgery to fuse the broken vertebra with the two vertebrae above and below it.

The surgeon says he does these surgeries on football players all the time, and they eventually go back to playing football, Casaus said.

Hes doing physical therapy and has been told he wont suffer long-term effects from the injury as long as he prioritizes core and leg strength in his workouts and is careful.

Im sure Ill be altered a little bit, but nothing I cant work around, Casaus said.

He expected to be sent home Sunday. He isnt working but checks in with Mills and Undersheriff Joe Gonzales.

Theyre doing a good job of holding the fort down, so I dont worry too much, Casaus said.

He expects to start going into the office little by little as he heals and has less pain. Hes running for re-election but has no opponent in the primary.

Casaus said hed hit the campaign trail in August.

Ill be back to being (the residents) sheriff in no time, he said. Im looking forward to a full recovery and coming back even stronger.

1085. https://www.singletracks.com/mtb-trails/mountain-biker-dies-on-palisade-plunge-trail-after-running-out-of-water/

Mountain Biker Dies on Palisade Plunge Trail After Running out of Water

By Jeff Barber
June 12, 2022 Updated June 12, 2022
File photo: Matt Miller

The Mesa County Sheriffs office reports that a 52-year-old mountain biker died on the Palisade Plunge trail on Saturday after suffering a heat-related illness. A release says the man, from Colorado Springs, was riding alone and ran out of water.

The Mesa County Sheriffs Office, Mesa County Search and Rescue, Palisade Fire Department, and Careflights helicopter immediately responded to the remote area and began life-saving measures. The person did not survive.

The man was discovered by a group of three bikers and they also ran out of water about ten miles from the end of the 34-mile trail. Temperatures in the area reached 102 degrees on Saturday, and the three men who survived started the ride with a gallon of water each. Still, the Mesa County Sheriffs office advises Palisade Plunge riders to carry two and a half gallons if attempting the trail this summer.

Strenuous activity during extreme heat is strongly discouraged.

At least 10 liters (2 gallons) of water per person and electrolyte replenishments are recommended for riders to carry on the Palisade Plunge trail in the summer. https://t.co/5Tz4cDF0Ex

Mesa County Sheriff (@SheriffMesaColo) June 12, 2022

Unlike some of the other shuttle routes in Colorado, as Matt Miller noted in his Palisade trip report, the Plunge involves 2,000 feet of climbing, and much of the ride is a traverse that requires significant pedaling.

Well update this story with additional information as its available.
Jeff Barber
Jeff co-founded Singletracks.com with his wife Leah (mudhunny) in 1999. Today he works out of Singletracks World HQ in Decatur, GA as the Editor in Chief.

1086. https://www.kpcw.org/park-city/2022-07-04/mountain-biking-on-park-citys-crowded-trails-fun-popular-dangerous

Mountain biking on Park City's crowded trails: fun, popular, dangerous

KPCW | By Michelle Deininger
Published July 4, 2022 at 4:20 PM MDT
City Mountain Resort

Park City Hospital sees hundreds of mountain bike crash victims every month. With crowded trails and more accidents in remote areas, emergency service crews have their hands full. A Park City Hospital ER doctor has advice and words of wisdom on what bikers should know when they head out.

Greater Park City is home to more than 400 miles of single-track mountain bike trails. As the areas population has boomed, so has trail traffic. Between newcomers to the sport, wildlife, and crowded conditions, accidents are on the rise.

Dr. Austin Smith, medical director of Park City hospitals emergency room, sees it all, including what he calls the worst of the worst. He said the hospital sees about 20 cases each month of level 1 or 2 trauma; thats the most severe. Overall the emergency room gets 800 visits per month. About a third of those are mountain-bike related.

These aren't trails made to hurt people," Smith said. "It's folks that are getting onto these trails very frequently that have either never been mountain biking and say, Oh, I can do a Black Diamond skiing so I can do a black diamond on my bike. And maybe they've never been on a bike before. It's usually when people are defying gravity - when they're up in the air and going off these huge jumps. That's when we're seeing a large portion of these injuries.

He said advancing bike technology is moving people into harder to reach areas than before, and most injuries occur when riding downhill. He named two local trails riders frequently injure themselves on: Tsunami and Tidal Wave.

Smiths advice to riders new to those, and other steep trails, is to ride them at least once without attempting to get air, to get the lay of the land.

Lynn Ware Peek, a longtime Parkite and expert mountain biker who recently had a serious crash, said more accessible trails contribute to crowded conditions.

The trails have changed," she said. "They've changed in such a way that the degree of the angle of the slope is much less and so it opens up the sport to many more people. You know, 30 years ago in Park City all of these trails were so steep that it was only the gnarliest of people that can be out there mountain biking. Now it's everyone.

Smith said the hospital sees frequent head-on collisions between bikers. Those can happen when people arent paying close enough attention, not yielding right of way and not knowing ones limitations.

And then theres the occasionally dangerous matter of sharing the dirt with wildlife.

Certainly there are some just bizarre injuries and wildlife is one of them," Smith said. "I have a friend that was riding down a beautiful trail and suddenly there's a porcupine in the middle of the trail and you know, what do you do? When you see a porcupine you slam on your brakes and he said he endoed and almost landed on the porcupine and that would have been a an interesting, interesting injury to see.

Head injuries are the most common, Smith said. Clavicle injuries are also frequent.

He praised the constant efforts of Summit County Search and Rescue along with the Park City Fire Department to find hurt bikers and transport them safely. Crews with those agencies must use motorcycles, ATVs and UTVs just to locate someone hurt. Then they must use extreme care when moving someone who may have spinal or organ damage.

He offered basic tips for minimizing the risk of a crash, and for maximizing chances of surviving crashes.

Before heading out, confirm bikes are in good working condition. Be ready for big rides by hydrating and having enough energy. Crucially, know your helmet is properly fit and is at its best. Helmets must be replaced after even minor crashes as their effectiveness declines in ways that arent visible.

When you hit the trails, above all make sure someone knows where youll be. Carry a communication device, and ideally a backup device too. And for especially remote rides, prepare for weather conditions and carry at a minimum, snacks and an extra layer.

Michelle Deininger
Michelle, who joined KPCW in 2021, arrived in Utah in 2018 by way of Massachusetts, where the skiing was icy and the mosquitoes formidable. A former daily newspaper reporter and editor (at the Visalia Times-Delta in CA) and columnist (at The Cohasset Mariner in MA), Michelle has been a writer and editor for decades. She holds a journalism degree from CSU Fresno and has worked as a journalist, freelance writer and web content creator, reporting extensively on education and youth along with general assignment and breaking news.

1087. https://kdvr.com/news/local/boulder-mountain-biker-sustains-life-threatening-injuries/

16-year-old Boulder mountain biker sustains life-threatening injuries

by: Nick Wills

Posted: Jul 17, 2022 / 03:24 PM MDT

Updated: Jul 17, 2022 / 10:02 PM MDT

BOULDER COUNTY, Colo. (KDVR) A 16-year-old boy who was mountain biking Saturday evening sustained life-threatening injuries after he crashed in Lower Lefthand Canyon.

The teenager is believed to be from Boulder and was with a group of riders out on U.S. Forest Service Property riding trails described by Boulder County Sheriffs as rugged and steep.

At roughly 7:12 p.m. on Saturday, a report came into the Boulder County Communications Center revealing that the teenage rider had crashed and was unconscious.

Once Boulder County rescue crews arrived, they realized the assistance of a MedEvac was needed to get the boy to a hospital. Shortly thereafter, the helicopter unit arrived but was unable to land near the injured rider due to the steep terrain.

The pilot adjusted and landed nearby on Lefthand Canyon Drive so that members of the Rocky Mountain Rescue Group, American Medical Response, and Lefthand Fire Protection District could carry the unconscious rider in a litter to the helicopter.

He was then transported to a hospital in the Denver area where he is still facing life-threatening injuries. The rescue mission in total took roughly one and a half hours to complete.

The identity of the 16-year-old boy from Boulder hasnt been released at this point.

FOX31 will bring you updates on the boys health as well as details of how this unfolded once they are released. In the meantime, let this serve as a difficult reminder to make sure you are undertaking the proper safety measures while enjoying your favorite outdoor activity in the coming months.

1088. https://patch.com/california/san-francisco/san-francisco-man-killed-marin-e-bike-crash

San Francisco Man Killed In Marin E-Bike Crash

The crash occurred Tuesday afternoon at China Camp State Park, authorities said.

Gideon Rubin , Patch Staff

Posted Wed, Jul 20, 2022 at 10:10 am PT
The victim was identified as Sherman Wayne Chen, 67 of San Francisco, the Marin County Sheriffs Office said. (Shutterstock)

MARIN COUNTY, CA A San Francisco man was killed Tuesday in an e-bike crash at China Camp State Park, authorities said.

The victim was identified as 67-year-old Sherman Wayne Chen, the Marin County Sheriff's Office said.

Chen was riding on the Bay View Trail when for unknown reasons during an ascent he plunged from a steep ridge, the Sheriff's Office said.

Deputies responding to the 12:23 p.m. report of the crash found Chen in a steep ravine with injuries consistent with a long fall, the Sheriff's Office said.

Chen died at the scene after paramedics provided resuscitative aid.

Chen was wearing a helmet at the time of the crash.

The cause of the crash is under investigation.

"A forensic postmortem examination with toxicology testing is scheduled for later this week," the Sheriff's Office said in a statement.

"The cause and manner of death will be pending the conclusion of the investigations being completed by the California State Parks Rangers and the Marin County Sheriff's Office - Coroner Division."

1089. https://kdvr.com/news/surviving-mountain-bike-crash-broken-leg-desert/

How a solo mountain biker survived a desert crash

by: Rogelio Mares

Posted: Jul 21, 2022 / 10:42 PM MDT

GRAND JUNCTION, Colo. (KDVR) A Broomfield mountain biker is counting his blessings after surviving the elements and a broken leg while alone in the middle of the Moab desert.

David Ignatew broke his femur and used a tire inner tube and an air pump as a splint. Ignatew is no novice on a mountain bike.

I raced mountain bikes as a pro for years, Ignatew said. He said hes been to Moab, Utah, more than 45 times and is very familiar with trails there.

On the entire trail loop, its about 17.5 miles, and I was about 8.7 in, Ignatew said.

It was there he encountered an incline in the trail.

The bikes back-end skipped out from underneath me, Ignatew said. He braced himself with his left leg, but he fell backward with his leg remaining in place.

Thats when my femur snapped, Ignatew said.

With a broken leg, the blazing Utah sun overhead and in the middle of nowhere, Ignatew faced overwhelming odds.

You are in really big trouble, because you do not have cell phone coverage, youre alone and there will be nobody coming on this trail, Ignatew said.

How to survive a broken leg while alone in the desert

His first task was to keep his leg straight.

I grabbed my spare tube and started to hook that around the pump, wrapped that tube around my leg, Ignatew made a makeshift splint with an inner tube.

I had to crawl on my butt and the back of my hands, Ignatew said.

His next task was to let someone know his location.

My first thought was: Start a signal fire, Ignatew said. He found a shrub and, using a lighter, he ignited a beacon that would eventually burn out.

Thats when the dread started to set in because I thought: I dont know what Im going to do, Ignatew said. But at that point, Ignatew said despair led to determination.

Im not kidding, I probably said a hundred times: Just keep moving if you want to live, Ignatew said.

Ignatew crawled for two hours and covered 150 yards, finally finding a cell phone signal.

I went through a process of losing that signal and then re-calling them back about six times, Ignatew said.

One call went through long enough for first responders to geo-locate him, and crews were on their way.

I could hear the helicopter coming, Ignatew said.

Alone and in the dark, crews found him and flew him to a hospital in Grand Junction.

They literally saved my life that night, Ignatew said.

Ignatew had surgery to repair his broken femur but is in recovery. He and his wife plan to make the drive back to Broomfield Friday.

1090. https://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/news/scottish-news/mountain-biker-airlifted-hospital-after-27561966

Mountain biker airlifted to hospital after horror fall on Stirlingshire hills

Mountain Rescue teams, police and ambulance scrambled to the casualty at 6pm yesterday.

By
Ruth Suter
09:56, 24 JUL 2022

The Mountain Rescue team prepare for their mission (Image: Ochils Mountain Rescue Team)

A mountain biker has been airlifted to hospital after falling over his handlebars on a Stirlingshire hill.

The man had been riding through the Ochil Hills in Stirlingshire yesterday before the incident took place. Mountain Rescue teams, police and ambulance crews scrambled to the scene after receiving the alarm at 6pm.

It soon became apparent that the biker had suffered multiple injuries to his body - including on his collar bones and ribs. He was airlifted by a rescue helicopter to a nearby hospital.

His current condition is unknown.
The casualty was airlifted to hospital (Image: Ochils Mountain Rescue Team)

A statement from Ochils Mountain Rescue Team reads: "Yesterday evening the team was called out by Police Scotland to assist an injured mountain biker near the Third Inchna Burn. Team members worked with colleagues Rescue helicopter 199 from Prestwick to treat and stretcher carry the casualty to the helicopter.

"Great work from the rest of the cycling group providing a precise location and keeping the injured person warm until help arrived. As always we wish the casualty a speedy recovery."

1091. https://gephardtdaily.com/local/mountain-biker-falls-60-feet-in-zion-national-park-is-airlifted-out-with-multiple-compound-fractures/

Salt Lake City
Thursday, August 4, 2022
Mountain biker falls 60 feet in Zion National Park; is airlifted out with multiple compound fractures

By
Nancy Van Valkenburg
-
August 3, 2022
Zion National Park staff photo of a slickrock high plateau.

ZION NATIONAL PARK, Utah, Aug. 3, 2022 (Gephardt Daily) A 19-year-old man riding a mountain bike off road on slickrock Monday in Zion National Park fell about 60 feet and suffered multiple compound fractures, a park spokesman told Gephardt Daily.

Park spokesman Jonathan Shafer said riding bikes in Zion is prohibited except on park roads and on the Parus Trail.

Sixty feet is about the height of a five or six story building.

National Park Service staff including park rangers, EMTs, and a paramedic responded, Shafer said in an emailed statement.

They moved the patient to the road. The NPS called a life flight helicopter which transported them to a hospital in St. George Utah.
The slickrock area is in the eastern part of Zion National Park. Image: Google Maps

Nancy Van Valkenburg
Managing editor Nancy Van Valkenburg is an award-winning multimedia journalist with more than 30 consecutive years in the field.

1092. https://www.gloucestershirelive.co.uk/news/gloucester-news/gloucester-man-left-paralysed-after-7465867

Gloucester man left paralysed after mountain biking accident, fundraises for adaptive mountain bike

This adaptive mountain bike would give Matt access to the countryside and a sense of adventure again

By
Marsha O'MahonyReporter
15:12, 15 AUG 2022

An adaptive mountain bike would mean the world to Matt. If you can help, please go to his fundraising page. (Image: Image: Matt Lathan.)

A mountain biker has launched a fundraising campaign for an adaptive mountain bike to allow him to return to the sport he loves. In 2008 Matt Lathan was 19 and enjoying another ride on Painswick Beacon, when he suffered a devastating fall.

It resulted in life changing injuries that would test the strongest of us. The accident broke Matts back, leaving him permanently paralysed from the waist down.

Despite what happened, it didnt deter Matt from his passion for cycling and just two years after the accident, in 2010 he bought himself a low-end manual handcycle. This was a basic handcycle, perfectly adequate for cycling along roads, but unstable on rougher terrain.

Matt before his accident was a passionate mountain biker. (Image: Image: Matt Lathan.)

In my teens I would cycle everywhere, said Matt. I was particularly fond of mountain biking and my favourite place to go was Painswick beacon. On that day in 2008, I was enjoying another ride along the Beacon, but that day I took a different route to normal and thats when the accident happened.

I fell 15 feet braking my back. There have been low moments since the accident, but Matt has proved to be resilient and remains a leader inspiring younger members at his Scouting pack at Elmbridge.

But Matts disability has restricted his ability to truly access the countryside and a sense of adventure he yearns for. An adapted mountain bike could change that.

Being able to get into the countryside gives me a sense of freedom and adventure, said Matt. But as you can imagine, being in a wheelchair limits me as to where and how far I can go.

To be able to follow my Cub group on their walks during summer camp and to be able to go out independently on various cycling trails would mean the world to me.

Whether its with my Cub group, my family or even just on my own, being in a wheelchair, the world feels limited. But on a bike it feels virtually limitless.

The Bowhead RX is an adaptive e-bike specifically designed to take on the varying terrain of mountain biking such as rocks and roots. Unfortunately, as is the case with nearly all equipment for disabled people, it doesnt come cheap, said Matt.

Matt is trying to raise 12,000 to buy the special model, which is built in the USA. I know this is a lot to ask for and I can't exactly offer much in return, but any and all donations will help me towards my goal and are very much appreciated.

If you can help Matt make his dream come true [so he can get even more injured!], please visit his gofundme page to make a donation.

1093. https://www.10news.com/news/local-news/paralyzed-mountain-biker-says-apple-watch-saved-his-life-after-jamul-crash

Paralyzed mountain biker says Apple Watch saved his life after Jamul crash

By: Michael Chen
Posted at 5:12 PM, Aug 26, 2022
and last updated 8:01 PM, Aug 26, 2022

SPRING VALLEY, Calif. (KGTV) - A Spring Valley man back home more than four months after a mountain bike accident left him a quadriplegic, credits his Apple Watch with saving his life.

Ryan McConnaughey, who has been mountain biking since he was a kid, was on his daily ride that April evening on trails in Jamul, his helmet strapped on when he crashed.

It was close to sunset time, about 40 minutes into my ride. It was a steep section. My bicycle went forward, and I went over the handlebars, headfirst into the ground., said McConnaughey.

McConnaughey says he ended up on his back.

Immediately I knew what had happened. I didn't have movement from my neck down. He says he wasn't in much pain, but knew he needed to get help, fast.

I knew for sure that I need to get medical attention as quickly as possible. My brain kind of kicked into survival mode, said McConnaughey.

My phone, its in my in backpack. Theres no way Im going to get to that. Instantly, Im like, I'm wearing my watch.

McConnaughey bought the Apple Watch a few years prior, using it mostly as a fitness tracker. In those moments after the crash, it would be put to a different use.

I said, Hey Siri, call Peter, said McConnaughey.

He made a phone call to a biking friend who would know his location.

It just felt amazing. It was so assuring, said McConnaughey.

McConaughey and his friend both made calls to 911. McConnaughey also left a voicemail for his girlfriend Lauren, which later went viral on TikTok.

I'm so sorry, babe. I just love you more than anything, said McConnaughey in the three-minute voicemail.

Didn't know what was going to happen Just wanted to say goodbye, said McConnaughey.

I also felt it was my fault. I got hurt. I knew things would never be the same after that.

Not long after leaving the voice mail, McConnaughey was located and airlifted to a hospital.

He needed several life-saving surgeries to stabilize the shattered vertebrae in his neck and relieve pressure on his damaged spine.

Diagnosed a quadriplegic, he spent months at a spinal cord rehab facility in Coloradohis family and Lauren at his sidebefore returning home a few days ago.

Though he cant move his fingers, hes regained some motion in his arms and wrists. As he navigates his new life, his Apple Watch will remain close by.

That watch saved my life. No doubt about it. No way anybody would have found me. I never would have thought Id be using an Apple Watch to make a life-saving phone call, said McConnaughey.

McConnaughey, who graduated from Grossmont College with a business degree, had been admitted into SDSU for the fall term. He's hopeful he'll be able to attend classes in the spring.

An online fundraising campaign has been set up to help McConnaughey with medical and other expenses.

1094. https://ktla.com/news/local-news/lafd-works-to-rescue-severely-injured-mountain-biker-in-brentwood/

LAFD works to rescue severely injured mountain biker in Brentwood

by: Travis Schlepp

Posted: Aug 27, 2022 / 11:11 AM PDT

A man riding a mountain bike on a path near Brentwood was seriously injured and needed to be rescued by Los Angeles Fire Department personnel Saturday morning.

The biker, identified as a 56-year-old man, suffered several traumatic injuries around 9 a.m., according to an alert from the Fire Department.

His location was around the 3000 block of Mandeville Canyon Road, LAFD said, and ground resources were unable to reach him.

A helicopter was called to hoist the man off of the trail and transport him to the hospital. LAFD said the crews would need to provide extreme care to the man to ensure he was hoisted safely and successfully.

No further details were made available by the Fire Department.

1095. https://buckrail.com/tcsar-rescues-biker-on-sunday-currently-conducting-rescue-in-alaska-basin/

TCSAR rescues biker on Sunday, currently conducting rescue in Alaska Basin

by Buckrail @ Lindsay August 29, 2022
TCSAR is out on an interagency helicopter rescue today Aug. 29. The agency does not have a helicopter contract during the summer but rather requests use of the interagency heli when needed. Photo: TCSAR

JACKSON, Wyo. Teton County Search and Rescue Foundation shared more information today about a rescue conducted on Sunday on Teton Pass, adding that the team is currently on an interagency helicopter rescue in Alaska Basin.

On Sunday afternoon, Teton County Search and Rescue (TCSAR) volunteers responded to a mountain bike accident on Parallel, a downhill-specific mountain bike trail that includes multiple jumps. The 14-year-old patient attempted a gap jump but came up short and crashed into the landing transition. He sustained severe injuries, according to the report.

Volunteers used the RZR and SAR truck. The RZR drove up highway 22 to a pullout about 75 feet from the patient. They packaged the patient in a suck bag a full-body vacuum splint used to immobilize and transport a patient and transferred him to a waiting ambulance.

The mountain bike incident was the 101st call for service for TCSAR volunteers in 2022. It was the second serious bike accident on Teton Pass in just a few days and TCSARs 10th mountain bike rescue response since June 1.

According to the release, more information about todays incident in Alaska Basin will be released once the mission is complete and the team is debriefed.

1096. https://www.outtherecolorado.com/news/report-founder-of-company-dies-due-to-mountain-biking-injuries-in-colorado/article_75701adc-2947-11ed-949a-63bed4e2b972.html

REPORT: Founder of company dies due to mountain biking injuries in Colorado

By Spencer McKee
Aug 31, 2022

This map shows the terrain of Snowmass Ski Area, which is home to many mountain biking trails when snow isn't on the ground. Map Credit: 2022 Google Maps.

According to a report from local news organization Post Independent, a 58-year-old man named Michael Kersting, of Wilmington, North Carolina, has died following a mountain biking accident that put him over the handlebars at Snowmass Ski Area. A company website for Kersting Architecture lists Michael Ross Kersting as the founder of the firm, with the company being started in 1995.

On the company Instagram page, Kersting Architecture reports that Kersting was vacationing in Colorado at the time of his death, "living life to the fullest in the vastness of the wilderness with his two boys, William and Jack and wife, Pam."

The original report on the death notes that Kersting was with his son at the time of his death and wearing full protective gear.

Exactly what trail Kersting was on when the accident took place was not detailed, but it may be worth noting that Snowmass Ski Area is home to Snowmass Bike Park, which features more than 25 miles of trail, including steep downhill routes. Many downhillers opt for a full-face helmet, along with body padding and additional back protection due to the risk involved with the sport. Trails at this destination range from beginner to expert.

Condolences go out to those impacted by this death.

1097. https://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/news/scottish-news/scots-cyclist-breaks-back-alps-27891968

Young Scots cyclist breaks back in French Alps after tackling deadly 'widowmaker' jump

Arran MacLean, 27, was airlifted to hospital after the tragic mountain biking accident left him with a broken back, hip and femur.

By
Samantha CroalDeputy Digital News Editor
04:30, 3 SEP 2022

Arran MacLean, 27, suffered serious injuries in the biking accident in the French Alps (Image: Daily Record)

A young Scot broke his back in a horror mountain biking accident while on holiday with his pals in the French Alps. Arran MacLean, 27, from Forres, was in the French resort of Morzine with his twin brother Ewan and a group of friends to watch the Mountain Bike World Championships last week.

The group had gone to a popular mountain biking trail in the area and Arran was tackling a famous stunt jump called the 'widowmaker' when he came off of his bike on Friday, August 26. Given the name by locals, the dangerous jump is for experienced bikers who want to perform stunts, and is reportedly known for 'sending riders home early'.

Self-employed mechanic Arran suffered a broken back, hip and femur and was airlifted to Leman Hospital. He received emergency surgery on Saturday, August 27, and is now undergoing physiotherapy to walk again.

His mum Brenda told the Record that Arran is unable to get a commercial flight home due to his injuries, and his brother and friends were forced to fly back to Scotland without him. The family have been quoted upwards of 8,000 for a private flight home and have yet to receive an estimation for a hospital bill.

His sister Fiona has created a fundraiser to raise cash so the family can pay for a private flight to bring Arran home. The fundraiser has already brought in almost 8,000 in donations.
His family are desperate to get him back home to Scotland to continue his recovery (Image: Daily Record)

Brenda said: "He's had a major accident, and he's in a lot of pain. But knowing Arran he will get through this. We will get him home. Ewan has had estimates ranging from 8,000 to 20,000 to bring him home on a private flight. We've really no idea how much it will cost.

She added: "We really appreciate everyone's generosity and support so far. Our family are so grateful for the donations. It's really lovely.

Fiona said: "Arran is so kind to everyone and always goes the extra mile to help anyone in need and I felt now was his time. The sooner we get him home the better, when he is fit to travel. We are all missing him lots, especially his nephew Lewis, who is 3.

"I decided to start a go fund me page after lots of thought. It's hard to ask for help but so many people have messaged offering help and suggested a fundraiser. Lots of people have been so kind with their generous donations. We really appreciate it."

To donate to Arran's fundraiser, click here.

1098. https://www.theboltonnews.co.uk/news/20900400.bolton-mountain-rescue-team-come-aid-injured-person/

Bolton Mountain Rescue team come to the aid of injured person

By Alima Nadeem
@AlyallstarLT News Reporter

Mountain rescue team come to the aid of injured person

Emergency services responded to an injured person in Rivington this morning.

Today at around 9.20am, the Bolton Mountain Rescue Team were contacted by North West Ambulance Service to assist with an injured mountain biker in Rivington, near to the Terraced Gardens.

The first team members were on the scene within nine minutes and commenced a primary assessment.

A spokesman for the service said: Two of our Landrover Ambulances arrived shortly after to deliver equipment to the scene, followed by members of NWASs Hazadous Area Response Team (HART).

It was quickly established the casualty's condition was serious and a quick transfer to hospital was required.

The casualty was treated on scene and then loaded onto our specialist Mountain Rescue stretcher fitted with a wheel to make the 800m evacuation back down the track to the ambulance easier.

We wish the casualty a speedy recovery.

A total of 15 team members were involved for 1 hour and 50 minutes.

1099. Such a healthful sport!

Mike

https://www.2news.com/news/mountain-biker-found-dead-in-sierra-county/article_e7bf8ac8-2e2e-11ed-b3eb-e3deaf1d7f86.html

Mountain biker found dead in Sierra County

Sep 6, 2022
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Sierra County Sheriff's Office

The Sierra County Sheriff's Office says a man died after a mountain biking incident over Labor Day weekend in Downieville, California.
On Saturday, September 3, 2022, the Sierra County Sheriff's Office received a report of an overdue mountain biker.

The reporting party told us her husband, Scott Fraser was mountain biking the Downieville Downhill Trail and had not yet returned.

Nevada County Search and Rescue was requested to assist in the search, and California Highway Patrol Helicopter H-24 was requested to search from the air.

Nevada County Search and Rescue arrived at approximately 10 p.m. and initiated a full-length trail search, searching on foot from Packer Saddle to Downieville.

This search was conducted throughout the night and, unfortunately, did not locate the missing party.

Sunday morning, Search and Rescue members from Marin County, Placer County, Downieville Fire Department, and the United States Forest Service (Tahoe National Forest), along with additional local volunteers, established a command center at the top of Packer Saddle Road at the trailhead.

At approximately 2:50 p.m., Mr. Fraser's mountain bike was located over the embankment in a very steep and remote trail area.

The Marin and Placer Counties Mountain Rescue Team's concentrated their search efforts below the bicycle.

Search and Rescue members located Mr. Fraser deceased approximately 200 feet below the trail.

With the assistance of the California Air National Guard helicopter, Mr. Fraser's remains were airlifted out of the canyon to awaiting deputies at Packer Saddle.

The Sierra County Sheriff's Office offers their sincere condolences to the Fraser family and friends during this challenging time.

1100. https://www.stgeorgeutah.com/news/archive/2022/09/13/sdw-mountain-biker-falls-100-feet-down-a-ravine-on-the-jem-trail/

St George News

Mountain biker falls 100 feet down a ravine on the JEM trail

Written by Stephanie DeGraw
September 13, 2022

ST. GEORGE A 60-year man is in critical condition following a mountain bike accident Monday at 10:50 a.m. when he went off the side of the JEM trail, east of Hurricane and LaVerkin, according to the Washington County Sheriffs office. His name and hometown have not been released.
In a file photo for illustrative purposes, Hollie Stark rides a portion of the JEM Trail, Hurricane, Utah, Nov. 1, 2014 | Photo by Dave Amodt, St. George News

The male was airlifted by Intermountain Life Flight to St. George Regional Hospital after a two-hour rescue operation, Sgt. Darrell Cashin said. The area the man was in is past Hurricane on state Route 59, going toward Apple Valley, off of Sheep Bridge Road, Cashin said. The JEM trail is 6.7 miles in length and is primarily a single track known for its fast downhill, according to the Bureau of Land Management website.

It looked like he missed the first or second switchback and went from there straight down to the bottom and landed on his head. So thats why even with a helmet on, he never regained consciousness the whole time search and rescue were there, Cashin said.

Another biker found the man and called for help. It took a while to get the male stabilized and find a place for Life Flight to land. Cashin said that the incident was about 100 feet from the top of the switchbacks to the bottom of the ravine.

At this point, the only information I got since yesterday is that the biker was not doing well, Cashin said. And I do think he is local.

Neither Cashin nor St. George Regional Hospital would confirm any further information.

Hurricane Valley Fire EMS and Washington County Search and Rescue responded to the incident.

This report is based on statements from court documents and law enforcement officials and may not contain the full scope of findings.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Stephanie DeGraw is an award-winning journalist. For 25 years, she engaged in journalism, broadcasting and public relations. DeGraw worked for the Salt Lake Tribune, Associated Press and The City Journals. She was a reporter for a CBS television station in Twin Falls, Idaho. She graduated from Weber State University with a Bachelor's Degree in Journalism and Broadcasting.
Email: sdegraw@stgnews.com

1101. https://www.triathlete.com/culture/news/triathlon-news-notes-lionel-sanders-leans-into-vanlife-brownlee-stress-fracture-a-tragic-death-and-more/

Kiwi pro triathlete dies in mountain biking accident

Emily McNaughtan, a professional triathlete from New Zealand, died on Sept. 11 as a result of injuries sustained in a mountain bike accident the previous Sunday, Triathlon New Zealand reported. McNaughtan, 28, is being remembered as a shining light who had just started to stamp her mark as a professional triathlete after achieving success as a national field hockey player. McNaughtan, who recently posted videos of her riding her mountain bike and shared her love of off-road riding on her Instagram feed, raced her first triathlon in 2018, and just three years later placed third at Ironman New Zealandher pro debut at the distance. McNaughtans funeral is set for next Wednesday, guests are encouraged to ride their bike to the service in her honor.

1102. https://patch.com/california/millvalley/marin-pedestrian-who-died-after-electric-bike-collision-idd

Marin Pedestrian Who Died After Electric-Bike Collision ID'd

The 63-year-old succumbed to his injuries following August crash on a biking/walking trail in the Mill Valley-Sausalito region.

Susan C. Schena , Patch Staff

Posted Mon, Sep 19, 2022 at 4:25 pm PT
The decedent of a pedestrain-bicyclist collision on an area walking/biking trail was identified by the Marin County coroner. (Shutterstock)

MILL VALLEY, CA A 63-year-old Marin County man, who died a week after sustaining a life-threatening head injury in an Aug. 31 collision with a driver of an electric bicycle, was identified Friday as James Charles Gordon of Sausalito.

Gordon was walking on the pedestrian-bicycle path near Gate 6 Road in the Mill Valley-Sausalito area Aug. 31 at about 8:40 p.m. when he was knocked to the ground and hit his head after being struck by a person on an electric bicycle, according to the Marin County Sheriff's Office.

The bicyclist was travelling "at a moderate rate of speed," but the crash led to Gordon's fall, rendering him "immediately becoming unconscious and unresponsive," officials said.

First responders provided aid at the scene, then took the pedestrian, who was suffering life-threatening injuries, to an area hospital, the department said.

"Despite medical treatment and interventions provided over many days with a survival interval in the hospital, the subject failed to improve and prognosis for improvement remained poor," deputies said. "The subject continued to decline in health and passed on Sept. 6, 2022."

An offical cause of death is pending completion of investigations by the Marin County Sheriffs Office's investigations and coroner divisions, the agency said, adding that toxicology testing is in progress.

1103. https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-england-essex-63207994

Sailor Jamie Mears died in Italy mountain bike fall

Image source, Getty Images
Image caption,
Stewart Mears said he and his brother were not aware of the steep drop on their trail

An international champion sailor died after a mountain biking accident in Italy, an inquest has heard.

Jamie Mears was taking part in a package cycling tour in the province of Imperia on 6 May when he came off his bike and fell roughly 10 metres (33ft) into a ravine.

The 46-year-old, from Essex, died from multiple injuries.

Senior coroner Lincoln Brookes, sitting at Chelmsford Coroners' Court, concluded his death was an accident.

"This was a man very much loved and I'm sure there would be many more who would say the same," he said.

"I can only describe this as a very tragic accident."
Image source, Getty Images
Image caption,
The ambulance service arrived in about 20 minutes, close to Molini di Triora

The inquest heard that on the group's second day, cycling out of Molini di Triora, they took a different route than planned because of a lorry blocking their path.

No-one saw the moment he came off, but he was believed to have skidded off a wet stone and fallen through shrubbery, which separated the track and the ravine.

His brother, Stewart Mears, was in the group, and he told the court that Mr Mears wore a full-face crash helmet as well as elbow and knee pads.

"It was a pretty innocuous pass and the gradient was pretty shallow. The sort of riding we do isn't extreme," said the brother.

"But we weren't aware of the steep drop on this trail."
Image caption,
Chelmsford Coroner's Court heard he was a keen skier and a champion sailor

Mr Mears was conscious after falling into the ravine and the ambulance service arrived in about 20 minutes, the court heard.

He suffered a cardiac arrest and was resuscitated, but could not be revived after a second cardiac arrest while being transported to hospital by air ambulance.

The post-mortem examination concluded he died from multiple injuries, due to a fall from height.

'Extremely successful'

Mr Mears grew up in Stansted Mountfitchet before moving to Saffron Walden, and later, to the village of Widdington, where he lived with his wife, Gemma, and their three sons.

He worked for his parents' business Pica Floorings from the age of 18, before becoming co-director with his brother Stewart.

The coroner heard he was a keen skier and won "numerous" sailing titles along with his brother.

An obituary from Sail World reported that he won four UK grand prix titles with Team Pica in the 18 footers class and also European titles, including the coveted Mark Foy Trophy regatta.

Another obituary from The Royal Corinthian Yacht Club in Burnham-on-Crouch, where he trained, said: "To put it simply, they were extremely successful."

1104. https://www.perthnow.com.au/news/wa/perth-hills-mountain-bike-death-man-found-dead-by-bushwalker-days-after-crash-c-8554104

A mountain biker has been found dead days after a crash in bushland east of Perth. Credit: Lincoln Baker/The West Australian

Perth Hills mountain bike death: Man found dead by bushwalker days after crash

Caitlyn RintoulPerthNow
October 14, 2022 9:22PM
Caitlyn Rintoul

A mountain bike rider has been found dead days after a crash in bushland east of Perth.

It is understood a woman walking her dog in the Perth hills suburb of Piesse Brook made the gruesome discovery and called triple-0 just before 8am on Saturday.

The man, aged in his 30s, was found with horrific injuries.

The bushland is in a hard to access area with police and paramedics taking several hours to find the location.

The death has been deemed non-suspicious.

Police will prepare a report for the Coroner.

1105. https://www.ktvu.com/news/peninsula-educator-badly-injured-in-tahoe-mountain-biking-accident

Peninsula educator badly injured in Tahoe mountain biking accident

By KTVU staff
Published October 16, 2022 12:58PM
Burlingame
KTVU FOX 2
Photo Credit: GoFundMe by Nick and Beth Rogers

BURLINGAME, Calif. - A Burlingame High School assistant principal was seriously injured in a mountain biking accident near Lake Tahoe a few weeks ago.

Dominic Bigue suffered a life-altering injury while out riding on Oct. 1, according to a GoFundMe post created by Nick and Beth Rogers. He was airlifted to a trauma center in Reno after the crash, they said.

Bigue has undergone surgeries to stabilize and will be transferred to Santa Clara Valley Hospital to start intensive rehabilitation to regain mobility in his hands, legs, and feet.

"There is hope for Dom to regain his mobility in the long term, and this is where these specialized care services become essential," the post said. "If someone is going to overcome these challenging and unimaginable circumstances, it's Dominic Bigue."

So far, more than $200,000 has been raised to help him with medical care.

1106. https://www.thestar.co.uk/news/people/mountain-biker-rescued-after-nasty-fall-in-sheffield-woods-causing-upper-and-lower-body-injuries-3890052

Mountain biker rescued after 'nasty fall' in Sheffield woods causing 'upper and lower body injuries'

A Mountain biker had to be rescued after a nasty fall in a city woodland in which they suffered 'upper and lower body injuries'.

By Lee Peace

Members of the Woodhead Mountain Rescue Team and a crew from the Yorkshire Ambulance Service were dispatched to the scene in Greno Woods at 1.25pm on Sunday October 16. A spokesperson for the rescue team posted details about the incident on Facebook.

They said: The young rider had taken a nasty fall sustaining both upper and lower body injuries. Crucial casualty care was provided by the teams doctor and team members were they able to administer pain relief and treat the casualty for a suspected right arm fracture, a suspected right femur fracture, and cuts. With the casualty stable just as the heavens opened, the young rider was packaged into a vacuum mattress for extra stability, a casualty bag to provide warmth and onto the teams stretcher to be carried off to the waiting ambulance.
Pictures from the scene.

We wish the boy a full and speedy recovery.
Pictures from the scene.
Pictures from the scene.
Sheffield Facebook Yorkshire Ambulance Service

1107. https://www.loscerritosnews.net/2017/04/15/mountain-biker-severely-injured-riding-in-santiago-oaks-regional-park/

Mountain Biker Severely Injured Riding in Santiago Oaks Regional Park (CA)

Santiago Oaks Regional Park, the area is studded with bike trails.

Rescue units of the Metro-Net Division rescued an injured mountain biker below the trails of Santiago Oaks Regional Park today at approximately 10:45 A.M.

Two helicopter circled the area before one got into position to rescue the injured rider.

Minutes later the biker could be seen lifted into the chopper via a rescue basket.

HMG-CN spoke to representatives at Metro-Net who said the injured rider was taken to UCI Medical Center.

1108. Speeding is stupid, from every point of view!

Mike

https://www.whiskeyriff.com/2022/10/27/mountain-biker-is-gored-after-high-speed-collision-with-red-deer-on-the-trail/

Mountain Biker Is Gored After High-Speed Collision With Red Deer On The Trail

Brady Cox
RIFF OUTDOORS VIDEOS
October 27, 2022

Mountain biking is a great way to exercise, relieve stress, and take in the beauty of nature.

Of course, you have to be quick thinking and keep an eye out for rocks, roots, or fallen brush that may have fallen on the trail whenever youre riding.

However, the last thing you probably have on your mind when biking through the forest is the fact that a massive creature could run out in front of you at any certain moment, and wipe you out and cause possible serious injury.

And in this example, were talking about a buck.

In the footage, a mountain biker is flying downhill through a trail at Lac Blanc Bike Park in Alsace, France, and got the GoPro strapped up, capturing the run.

Everything appears to be going smooth, and the biker is REALLY flying I must add, until you see something jump out directly in front of the biker, and they collide, sending the biker straight to the ground.

And that object he collided with?

It was a massive buck.

In caption, the man reveals that he actually was gored by the antler and lost a decent amount of blood:

Lost the fight with Rudolph, lost quite a bit of blood and lost consciousness a few minutes later.

And while he calls this beast Rudolph, its not a reindeer, but a red deer stag which are common across Europe. Unfortunately for him, theyre much bigger than the average whitetail, closer to the sign of an elk.

According to Nature Is Metal, the man was close to having a big problem on his hands:

As for the man on the bike, he got banged up pretty good. He suffered heavy losses in the vital fluid department, and upon medical examination it was discovered that one of the deers antler points narrowly missed his right lung.

In other words, this man might not be on the road to recovery right now, had the business end of that deers antler landed 1cm (0.39in) higher than it did.

Needless to say, the collision nearly turned deadly for the biker, who probably felt like he hit a brick wall with, you know spikes sticking out of it.

1109. Speeding is stupid, from every point of view!

Mike

https://www.whiskeyriff.com/2022/10/27/mountain-biker-is-gored-after-high-speed-collision-with-red-deer-on-the-trail/

Mountain Biker Is Gored After High-Speed Collision With Red Deer On The Trail

Brady Cox
RIFF OUTDOORS VIDEOS
October 27, 2022

Mountain biking is a great way to exercise, relieve stress, and take in the beauty of nature.

Of course, you have to be quick thinking and keep an eye out for rocks, roots, or fallen brush that may have fallen on the trail whenever youre riding.

However, the last thing you probably have on your mind when biking through the forest is the fact that a massive creature could run out in front of you at any certain moment, and wipe you out and cause possible serious injury.

And in this example, were talking about a buck.

In the footage, a mountain biker is flying downhill through a trail at Lac Blanc Bike Park in Alsace, France, and got the GoPro strapped up, capturing the run.

Everything appears to be going smooth, and the biker is REALLY flying I must add, until you see something jump out directly in front of the biker, and they collide, sending the biker straight to the ground.

And that object he collided with?

It was a massive buck.

In caption, the man reveals that he actually was gored by the antler and lost a decent amount of blood:

Lost the fight with Rudolph, lost quite a bit of blood and lost consciousness a few minutes later.

And while he calls this beast Rudolph, its not a reindeer, but a red deer stag which are common across Europe. Unfortunately for him, theyre much bigger than the average whitetail, closer to the sign of an elk.

According to Nature Is Metal, the man was close to having a big problem on his hands:

As for the man on the bike, he got banged up pretty good. He suffered heavy losses in the vital fluid department, and upon medical examination it was discovered that one of the deers antler points narrowly missed his right lung.

In other words, this man might not be on the road to recovery right now, had the business end of that deers antler landed 1cm (0.39in) higher than it did.

Needless to say, the collision nearly turned deadly for the biker, who probably felt like he hit a brick wall with, you know spikes sticking out of it.

1110. https://unofficialnetworks.com/2022/10/28/mountain-biker-redemption-crash/

WATCH: Mountain Biker Seeks Redemption After Scary Crash

By Matt Lorelli | October 28, 2022 11:28 am ET

Theres something to be said about action sports athletes that are determined to hit a spot, jump a gap, or nail a trick after a brutal fall. You might call them stupid, but I call them determined.

It took true determination for mountain biker Geddy Pratt (@geddypratt) to try this gap again after his mistake the first go-around.

Check out the clip posted by GoPro below:

Crazy, right?

With that being said, Pratt must have felt like he was on top of the world to nail it after his scary fall. Thats a high you cant simulate with any substance known to man.

Well done Geddy Pratt, well done!

1111. https://www.leaderlive.co.uk/news/23106257.llandegla-newsar-volunteers-rescue-injured-mountain-biker/

Injured mountain biker rescued from Llandegla forest

Llandegla: NEWSAR volunteers rescue injured mountain biker

12 hrs ago
By Arron Evans
@ArronEvansNews

Search and Rescue volunteers helped the injured biker at Llandegla forest. (Image: NEWSAR)

NORTH East Wales Search and Rescue (NEWSAR) volunteers were on hand to support an injured mountain biker over the weekend.

The team received a call to assist the man shortly after 5pm on Saturday, November 5.

They then attended the scene at Llandegla Forest, where the injured biker had been helped to the car park by staff at the site.

The man, who was believed to have suffered a serious leg injury, then received treatment before being transferred to a friend's car for the journey to hospital.

A statement from NEWSAR on the incident added: "Shortly after 5pm on Saturday we were called to assist an injured mountain biker at Llandegla Forest. He had what was believed to be a serious leg injury.

"When we arrived we found the man had helpfully been transported to the car park by staff at the centre.

"One of our members carried out a full assessment for any other injuries and provided additional bandaging and pain relief, before he was transferred to his friend's car for the journey to hospital."

1112. Quite often we go out there, and we conduct winch extractions. "There was also the lack of cellphone reception." "A NPDC spokesperson said there had been no request from the New Plymouth Mountain Bikers or the trust for a landing pad to be considered in the Lake Mangamahoe area."

Typical mountain bikers: do it now, think later (if at all)!

Mike

https://www.stuff.co.nz/taranaki-daily-news/news/130418902/investigation-under-way-after-taranaki-mountain-biker-flown-to-hospital

Investigation under way after Taranaki mountain biker flown to hospital

Eva Davies16:41, Nov 09 2022
SUPPLIED/Stuff
Part of the Lake Mangamahoe mountain bike track has been temporarily closed after a rider was airlifted to hospital in a serious condition.

Part of a Taranaki mountain bike track has been temporarily closed after a rider was airlifted to hospital in a serious condition at the weekend.

The rider is understood to have come off a wooden ramped feature called the Serpent at the Lake Mangamahoe mountain bike track, near New Plymouth, on Sunday afternoon.

The Taranaki Rescue Helicopter flew the rider to Aucklands Middlemore Hospital.

The hospital has been asked for an update on the riders condition.

READ MORE:
* Concussions from mountain biking crashes on the rise - don't get back on the bike, get checked out
* Rescue helicopter airlifts climber from Mt Taranaki
* Rescue helicopter pilot loving living in Taranaki

Hamish Neale, president of New Plymouth Mountain Bikers, which manages the track, said its committee agreed to close the Serpent on Monday.

The feature will remain closed until we have conducted our investigation.

The rest of the park is open. We have not closed any tracks or forestry roads.
SIMON O'CONNOR/Stuff
Taranaki Rescue Helicopter pilot and base manager Mike Adair says the team would usually conduct winch extractions to get to patients in the Lake Mangamahoe area.

Mike Adair, base manager for the Taranaki Rescue Helicopter Trust, said they were called to the track area a good couple of times a year for bike-related injuries.

It can be for head injuries or spinal concerns, mainly people who come off their bikes and their body goes into shock.

Quite often we go out there, and we conduct winch extractions.

Adair said because the bike track is surrounded by bush it could be difficult to land the helicopter.

We end up using the rescue hoist so that people can be looked after where theyve taken a tumble, and we will come to them and lift them out from that location.
Taranaki Rescue Helicopter Trust/Stuff
The helicopter managed to find a space to land the aircraft by the off-road near the lake.

The trust has a long-standing agreement with the New Plymouth District Council (NPDC) about where the helicopters can land.

The usual spot is in the nearby lake car park, but when that is full, it will sometimes fly overhead.

Often well winch a paramedic to the scene, and then they just need time to clinically assess and provide some treatment.

During Sundays call-out, an ambulance drove to where the patient was and took them to the intersection at Plantation Road where the helicopter had landed.
STUFF/Stuff
The Taranaki Rescue Helicopter had to land at the corner on Plantation Road where an ambulance met them with the patient.

Asked whether the area should have a helicopter landing pad, Adair said: It would be useful to have a central point there, but I dont think fundamentally its going to mean that every single time we go there well go to that landing zone.

Adair said landing was not the main issue for emergency services at the park.

There was also the lack of cellphone reception.

Quite often if someone comes across someone thats injured or someone hurts themselves, they have to move away to then dial 111, and then it can be quite difficult to find out where the actual patient is.
123rf
Adair says cellphone coverage is another issue emergency services have in order to find its patients.

If people are needing to do that, its always really useful to have as close an idea as they can about where the hurt person is.

A NPDC spokesperson said there had been no request from the New Plymouth Mountain Bikers or the trust for a landing pad to be considered in the Lake Mangamahoe area.

Its up to the pilot to make the call whether they think they can land safely, and it will depend on the emergency they are responding to.

The spokesperson said if a request for a landing pad was made by either party, the council would need to consider, lots of different things including, as for any request for a new service or facility within our parks, what the actual need is.

The discussions would talk around is it practical in that site and any long-term or operational maintenance costs and what other legislation we may need to consider.

1113. Orrick Partner Jeff Kayes Dead at 47 | The Recorder - Law.com
Law.com
Orrick Herrington & Sutcliffe partner Jeff Kayes, 47, died while mountain biking in the Bay Area on Saturday, the firm announced this week.

https://snbc13.com/jeff-kayes-orrick-partner-at-orrick-herrington-sutcliffe-died-in-a-biking-accident-death-obituary/

1114. https://www.edhat.com/news/mountain-biker-seriously-injured-in-crash

Mountain Biker Seriously Injured in Crash

News Report
Nov 21 2022 12:54 PM
byEdhat Staff

By the edhat staff

A mountain biker sustained a spinal injury on Tunnel Trail after crashing Sunday morning.

At 7:27 a.m., Santa Barbara County firefighters and County Search & Rescue responded to the scene and rendered aid to the 47-year-old cyclist.

Air Support Helicopter 4 arrived and with a hoist rescue the cyclist was lifted into the helicopter and transported to Santa Barbara Cottage Hospital.

MountainBikerRescue: Tunnel Trail, SB. 47yo make Mount biker crashed w/spinal Injury. Hoist rescued by w/SBC ASU Copt 4 FF Paramedics/air transport to SBCH /assisted by SBC Medic Eng.15 & Recon 11, SAR, and ambulance. CT 7:27am pic.twitter.com/mJvbk1bfS2

Scott Safechuck (@SBCFireInfo) November 20, 2022

1115. https://www.ruetir.com/2022/11/20/112-news-mountain-biker-injured-in-heavy-fall-barn-fire-in-blankenham-extinguished/

Wednesday, November 23, 2022
Mountain biker injured in heavy fall
by Ruetir
November 20, 2022
News

5:15 pm | Mountain biker injured in fall

During the 200-kilometre Dutch Masters bike ride for mountain bikers in Haarlem this afternoon, a participant fell heavily within sight of the finish and was seriously injured. The unfortunate mountain biker collided on the Poggenbeltweg against a road barrier that should prevent cyclists from an unpaved path suddenly shooting onto the public road with the risk of being hit by a passing car. The mountain biker wasnt the only one today to crash at this point. He was taken to hospital with unknown injuries.

After the accident, the organization placed a traffic controller at this point of the route.

Mountain biker crashed heavily at this road barrier and was injured Jan Willem Klein Horstman/News United

1116. https://www.ksro.com/2022/11/28/henry-1-rescues-five-over-the-weekend/

Henry 1 Rescues Five Over the Weekend

November 28, 2022 App Local News, App Top Stories, Local News, Morning News, Top Stories

Five people are safe after getting rescued by the Sonoma County Sheriffs Office helicopter. There were two separate rescues during the weekend. On Saturday afternoon, someone at Sand Point in Tomales Bay reported seeing two kayaks get swept out to sea. Two adults and two children were rescued. That happened about a day after the helicopter crew rescued a seriously injured mountain biker at Shiloh Ranch Regional Park. Its unclear how the bike rider was hurt.

1117. https://www.sapeople.com/2022/12/05/missing-cyclist-alan-broderick-has-been-found/

Missing Cyclist Alan Broderick Has Been Found

By
SAPeople
-
Dec 5, 2022

Cyclist Alan Broderick has been found after going missing in Diepwalle Forest in Knysna. Image Credit: forum.bikehub.co.za

Missing cyclist, Alan Broderick, has been found and is being airlifted to hospital for a medical check-up and observation. Alan went missing two days ago, after setting off on a cycle through Diepwalle Forest in Knysna on Saturday morning. Volunteers had joined Emergency Medical Services and SA Police Service in the hunt which included a K9 unit and drones for the missing 58-year-old.

PBCPA Plettenberg Bay Crime Prevention Association reported on Monday afternoon that after 53 hours, Alan has been found and said: All round applause to everyone that helped, great job!

Alans wife had dropped him off at 11h30 on Saturday and reported him missing after he failed to pitch up in Plettenberg Bay, as expected, at around 14h00. The search had been hampered by the sheer size of the area, and that there was very little phone signal in the forest.

Life Star Ambulance, Port Elizabeth, said the Incident Commander had requested a helicopter and that Broderick is alive but had an accident and a bad fall.

According to a fellow mountain biker, he was found in a ravine, walking along the river line. He is now in hospital, bruised and battered but alive.

Southern Cape police spokesperson Sergeant Chris Spies told Kynsna-Plett Herald that: The search and rescue operation with the deployment of air support led to the discovery of (Alan) in the forest near the Bitou River at about 16h00 today.

He said the crew noticed activity in the vicinity and a search in the area led to the discovery.
The Missing Cyclist in Diepwalle Forest in Knysna: Alan Broderick has been Found. Photo: Facebook

1118. https://unofficialnetworks.com/2022/12/08/biker-encounter-grizzly/

Biker Has Close Encounter With Grizzly (Watch)

By Matt Lorelli | December 8, 2022 5:30 am ET

A mountain biker near Jasper National Park in Alberta, Canada had an intense encounter with a huge grizzly bear, and filmed the entire thing.

Heres his description of events followed by the video itself:

I was biking down the Hochimini trail, which is on the benchland just above town in Jasper, and came across a grizzly. I took my bear spray out and then filmed as I tried to talk to it calmly.

1119. https://www.cornwalllive.com/news/cornwall-news/talented-teenage-mountain-bikers-heart-7925739

Talented teenage mountain biker's heart stops while out riding on Cornish moors

Oscar, 14, stopped breathing and collapsed during a bike ride

Comments11

News
By
Chris MatthewsCourt Reporter

05:00, 14 DEC 2022

Oscar, from Bodmin, being treated in hospital

A family has spoken of receiving the second worst call imaginable after a 14-year-old collapsed and stopped breathing whilst out on a bike ride. Keen mountain biker Oscar, from Bodmin, was riding at Minions on Bodmin Moor when his heart stopped.

Oscar was rushed to hospital and remains at Bristol Childrens Hospital awaiting open heart surgery. But luckily for Oscar and his family, a quick-thinking member of the public rushed off and grabbed a defibrillator, an act that saved Oscars life.

Oscars auntie Gemma Dawe said: Oscar is 14 years old and mad about mountain biking. On Monday last week, we received a call that no one ever wants to hear. Oscar (usually completely fit and healthy) had been out on his usual Monday night bike ride and had collapsed and stopped breathing, his heart had also stopped.

Due to the quick thinking of one incredible person there that night and a team effort of everyone else involved, they managed to perform CPR and get a defibrillator from the nearest village, which resulted in them saving Oscar's life.

They managed to get Oscar's heart started again and he was rushed to Derriford Hospital, but he had not regained consciousness. When he got there, he was still in a critical condition and was transported to Bristol's Children's Hospital, where he was put in an induced coma and put onto life support.

He remained in a coma for a few days but the team of amazing doctors and nurses slowly brought him out of his coma. We were worried sick whether Oscar would come off of life support ok, or whether he would be showing any signs of brain damage from the cardiac arrest.

Thankfully, Oscar has come back fighting fit and is starting to recover with no signs of damage.
Oscar riding his mountain bike

Oscar is still in Bristol awaiting open heart surgery for an underlying heart condition he did not know he had, but is expected to make a full recovery.

Gemma added: It was absolutely terrifying just horrific. It was the second worst call that a family could get. It wasnt a fun night.

One little machine, in the middle of nowhere, in a muddy car park on the moors, managed to save Oscar's life. We are so grateful to everyone involved in Oscar's treatment, but especially grateful that there was a defibrillator so close to where they were riding.

Oscar would not be alive now if it wasn't for that defibrillator, so we want to get more into the local community. Cornwall has so many rural areas that ambulances would struggle to get to in enough time to save someone's life, so it is vital that these machines are around. So we are fundraising for more.

Gemma and the family will be organising raffles and other events to raise money towards the defibrillators. The raffle will be held at her escape room DreadLock and donations from local businesses will be gratefully received. An online fundraiser set-up following Oscars crash has already exceeded 2,000. You can donate here

1120. https://www.msn.com/en-gb/news/uknews/warning-after-one-dead-and-two-in-hospital-following-blaze-sparked-by-charging-e-bike/ar-AA16aCG9?ocid=EMMX

Warning after one dead and two in hospital following blaze sparked by charging e-bike

Story by Tom Pyman For Mailonline

One person died and two more were taken to hospital after a fire was sparked by an e-bike which was charging overnight.

Crews from Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service (MFRS) in four fire engines were called to a semi-detached home in Litherland, near Aintree Racecourse, at 3am on Sunday, where they found the ground floor ablaze.

Four firefighters entered the property wearing breathing apparatus and used hose reel jets to extinguish the fire while also searching for occupants.

Two people were found in the home and carried out of the property by firefighters.

Crews, along with paramedics who joined them at the scene, performed CPR but they were unable to save one of the occupants.

The other remains in a serious condition in hospital, while a third person - who managed to escape the property after being woken by smoke alarms - has also been treated by doctors for smoke inhalation.

A joint investigation between MFRS and Merseyside Police has revealed the fire was accidental and caused by an e-bike left charging overnight.

The blaze had rapidly taken hold and spread quickly through open internal doors and fire chiefs are now issuing a warning to e-bike owners.

Area manager Mark Thomas said: 'This is a devastating incident and our thoughts are very much with the family and friends of those involved.

'We are also mindful of the impact that the incident will have on the local community at this time and we will be on hand to offer our support in the coming days.

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2 Comments

An 11-year-old schoolboy suffered a broken jaw after he got his head trapped between a balcony and an escalator while riding the moving stairway at a metro station in Russia.

Video shows frantic efforts to free Misha after he got his head and hands stuck in between the escalator and an overhanging glass partition next to it.

Misha had been going up the escalator with his father when he rested his head on his hands on the moving rail, not seeing the danger from an unsafe design.

The 11-year-old was pulled under the overhanging structure and became trapped at the metro station in Okruzhnaya, a northern suburb in Moscow.

First his arms were pulled in, then his head became wedged as the rest of his body was pulled updated.

The boy's frantic father tried to pull him out, but failed, and passersby also sought to help.

The escalator kept moving making efforts more difficult to rescue the anguished child.

Eventually, say reports, the escalator was halted and emergency staff were able to free the boy and paramedics rushed the boy to hospital.

Misha suffered multiple fractures including a dislocation of the lower jaw, as well as head wounds and severe bruising.

He is in a Moscow children's hospital after the terrifying incident which happened last week. Video was only released today.

A witness explained later on a video how the boy got trapped.

'The child was going up the escalator from the bottom to the top,' he said. 'But on this corner he decided to look up. His head got trapped here.

'With his head caught, he went all the way up here. They unclamped this glass here - and pulled him out.'

The authorities blamed the boy and his father for the accident due to 'non-compliance with the rules of safe behaviour'.

A statement from Moscow Railways, which runs the suburban station connecting to the metro [underground] network, said: 'The escalator was stopped, and medical workers were called to the scene.

'At the entrance to the escalator there is a sign with a warning about the need to monitor children while on the moving the steps

'The Ministry of Railways calls on citizens to strictly observe the rules of safe behaviour at all railway infrastructure facilities.'

1121. At 10:02 PM 1/13/2023, Karen Sullivan <greymare56@gmail.com> wrote:

So, if you are stupid enough to try to do this, don't whine and
complain when you get hurt

Notice that they don't suggest the obvious solution: Don't mountain bike! Are they afraid to tell the truth???

On 1/13/23, mjvande@pacbell.net <mjvande@pacbell.net> wrote:
> https://www.outtherecolorado.com/news/video-bull-brutally-tosses-biker-during-notorious-california-race/article_156cc684-92ac-11ed-8183-2fb7d1882587.html
>
> VIDEO: Bull brutally tosses biker during notorious California 'race'
>    - By Spencer McKee
>    - Jan 12, 2023
>    - Image: AdrianHillman (iStock).
> Shocking footage that's going viral across the web shows a bull charging a
> gravel biker, knocking them off their bike before tossing them in the air
> during a second charge.
>
> According to Mountain Bike Action, the encounter occurred during the 'Rock
> Cobbler' gravel bike race, held in Bakerfield, California this past weekend.
> While video of a single collision is being shared, the bull reportedly had
> physical encounters with four riders throughout the race. No one was
> seriously injured.
>
> According to an article from ABC7, the encounter with the bull was the
> result of the race winding through a private working cattle ranch.
>
> The Rock Cobbler race is notorious for its unique nature, roughly 80 miles
> long and marketed not as a race, but as "a damn challenging ride." That
> being said, participant times are tracked, with 2022 'winner' Peter Stetina
> taking 4 hours and 49 minutes to complete the course.
>
> On the race website, Stetina is quoted as saying "the Rock Cobbler is the
> kookiest bike race I've ever done. It's unclassifiable. One minute, you're
> on nice surface and the next, you're slip-sliding down a scree field, or
> just plain old riding through a field, dodging cattle."
>
> Watch the shocking footage below:
>
>
>       - When city folks get out of the hustle and bustle for some good time
> in nature pic.twitter.com/i7277O5uEg
>
>       - � Barstool Sports (@barstoolsports) January 12, 2023
>
>
> This encounter is an important reminder to always keep your distance from
> animals while on the trail � especially when on a bike. Bikes can tend to
> scare animals, prompting an aggressive response, whether that's from a deer,
> a dog, or a bull. Distance tends to be the best first step when it comes to
> preventing a negative encounter.

1122. "The experienced downhill racer told the coroner more needs to be done to prevent spectators from standing in exclusion zones and argued that people should not have been allowed to stand where Judith was stood at the time of her death."

A better soluton: stop mountain biking!

Mike

https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/judith-garrett-inquest-mountain-biker-25991240

Judith Garrett inquest: Boyfriend calls for more protection for bike race spectators

The 'outgoing, bubbly and positive' 29-year-old died when she was struck by an out-of-control mountain bike at 2014 North Wales race where her partner Peter Walton was competing, inquest told

Comments

News
By
Harri EvansReporter

18:09, 16 JAN 2023
Updated18:13, 16 JAN 2023

Judith Garrett (Image: Handout)

The former boyfriend of an "outgoing, bubbly, and positive" woman who died following an accident at a mountain bike race called for more to be done to protect spectators at an inquest today. Judith Garett, 29, died when she was hit by an out-of-control mountain bike at the race at Tan y Graig Farm, near Llangollen on August 31, 2014.

She was there to watch her partner, Peter Walton, who was competing in the event. Judith suffered devastating injuries and received treatment from paramedics before she was airlifted to Stoke University Hospital where she passed away the next day.

Today (January 16), at the resumption of a pre-inquest hearing held in 2019, Mr Walton appeared as a witness at Ruthin County Hall. The experienced downhill racer told the coroner more needs to be done to prevent spectators from standing in exclusion zones and argued that people should not have been allowed to stand where Judith was stood at the time of her death.

Senior coroner for North Wales east and central, John Gittins considered issuing a regulation 28 report to prevent future deaths. The inquest was concluded but the decision on whether a prevention of future deaths report will be issued to the British Cycling Federation (BCF) was deferred.

In 2018 at Mold Crown Court, Michael Marsden, who organised the event, was cleared of failing to conduct it in such a way that people were not exposed to risk. The BCF, which sanctioned the race, was also acquitted of failing to ensure the health and safety of people attending, and race marshal Kevin Duckworth was found not guilty of failing to take reasonable care to ensure the health and safety of others.
Judith Garrett, 29, died after she was hit by a mountain bike during the race in Llangollen eight years ago

The BCF had provided the coroner with a lengthy dossier of the safety changes made following the tragic event in 2014. The body will report back to Mr Gittins in February following a couple of meetings over the coming weeks in which changes to signage and the colour of the tape used to exclude spectators from certain zones, among other potential changes, will be considered and actioned.
Judith Garrett with her partner Peter Walton who was competing in the event at the time (Image: Handout)

Nigel Cowell-Clark, risk manager at BCF, told the court that no spectators have been injured in downhill racing events since Judith's death. A cause of death of "major traumatic head injury due to a collision incident with moving mountain bike" was heard at the inquest, following a post mortem by Dr Andrew Dalton.

Recording a narrative conclusion, the coroner said: "On the 31st of August, 2014, whilst a spectator at a downhill mountain bike event, Judith Garrett was struck by a mountain bike which left the track, causing injuries that caused her death at the Royal Stoke University Hospital on September 1, 2014."

1123. https://www.news10.com/news/ulster-county-news/forest-rangers-rescue-biker-with-broken-leg-in-kingston/

Forest rangers rescue biker with broken leg in Kingston

by: Michael Mahar

KINGSTON, N.Y. (NEWS10) A 68-year-old Kingston resident was rescued by Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) Forest Rangers after falling off his mountain bike. The rescue happened on January 11 around 4:45 p.m.

Rangers responded to Bluestone Wild Forest with Ruby Fire, Sawkill Volunteer Fire, and paramedics already at the scene. Rangers say the man suffered a broken femur, after falling approximately one mile from the Jockey Hill Wintergreen trailhead.

Rescue crews took the patient back to the trailhead via a fire department ATV. He was then taken to Kingston Hospital. Rangers say resources were cleared at 6:30 p.m.

1124. https://unofficialnetworks.com/2023/01/20/mountain-bike-ski-jump-fail/

Mountain Bike World Record Ski Jump Attempt Does Not Go To Plan

By Francis Xavier | January 20, 2023 9:30 am ET

Official application for fail of the year. -Johannes Fischbach

If there was a hall of fame for gnarly wipeouts, this would a first round candidate. Press play and watch this gnarly video of German MTB Downhill Pro Johannes Fischbach failing spectacularly in an attempt to set a world record for longest jump on a mountain bike. Everything was going smooth until a last second nosedive at 55mph that terminated in an endo for the ages. Thankfully Johannes popped up at the bottom of The Vogtland Arena ski jump in his native Germany and seemed to be in one piece. Bonkers.

The background story about my world record project: Ive been haunting a special idea for several years now: To make the worlds longest jump with a MTB, i.e. a world record ! Some years ago Fischi already made test jumps from an 85 meter ski jump and reached a distance of 50 meters. The goal now was to max it out. Fischis objective: If I can jump 50 metres from your 85-metre ski jump, then the 140-metre ski jump has to go a lot further!

1125. https://www.stuff.co.nz/marlborough-express/300812493/mountain-biker-suffers-leg-impalement-injury-in-fall

Mountain biker suffers leg impalement injury in fall

Eva Davies14:06, Feb 21 2023
Martin De Ruyter/Stuff
The Nelson Marlborough Rescue Helicopter was called to a mountain biker with an impaled leg on Saturday.

A mountain biker was airlifted to hospital after suffering an impalement injury to his leg in Marlborough at the weekend.

The Nelson Marlborough Rescue Helicopter responded to the incident at Archer Track at 2.30pm on Saturday.

A patient unfortunately suffered a bit of a fall off his bike and he ended up with a serious impalement injury in his leg, crewman Carl Babe said.

Because of [the injury] immobilising him, weve gone in and located him and winched him out.

Babe said the patient was transported to Nelson Hospital in a stable condition despite the severity of the injury.

He suffered what would be a relatively minor fall but because of the leg injury we had to winch him and stabilise him.

1126. https://www.iol.co.za/mercury/news/howick-mountain-biker-who-fell-off-his-bike-airlifted-to-hospital-in-a-critical-condition-09f9d5bf-ed74-404b-be44-41cb3da8b097

Howick mountain biker who fell off his bike airlifted to hospital in a critical condition

A mountain biker was airlifted to a hospital in critical condition after he fell off his bike in Howick. Picture: Screen grab of video posted by Midlands EMS

Published Feb 20, 2023

Durban A mountain biker who fell off his bike on Petrus Stroom Road and injured his head was airlifted to a hospital in critical condition on Monday.

According to Midlands EMS spokesperson Roland Robertson, Midlands EMS Howicks advanced life support ambulance was dispatched for a mountain bike accident.

On arrival it was found that one patient was in critical condition and required urgent advanced life-support treatment, he said.

Robertson said reports at the scene revealed that the man was cycling down a road when he hit a hole and was thrown off his bike.

He said the man sustained head injuries.

Robertson further explained that due to the road terrain and the nature of the mans injuries, he could not be transported to a hospital by road.

A Netcare 911 helicopter was activated to the scene and the patient was placed on a ventilator before being airlifted to hospital for further care, he said.

Meanwhile, in an unrelated incident, IOL reported that a 14-year-old teenage girl was left in a critical condition following a bike accident last week.

According to Netcare 911, she had been riding at Hobby Park in Paardeplaats, Krugersdorp, when she hit a rock and fell off her mountain bike. The incident took place just before 6pm.

Spokesperson Shawn Herbst said they responded to a fall on an off-road mountain bike trail.

Reports indicate that a female had come off her bike, sustaining suspected spinal and head injuries.

On the paramedicss arrival, they found that the handle bar of the bike had impaled the young girl in the right thigh, leaving her in a serious condition.

The young lady was treated on scene by Netcare 911 emergency care practitioners while bystanders dismantled the bike.

Herbst said that due to the time-sensitive nature of her injuries, a Netcare 911 helicopter ambulance was activated to airlift the patient through to a specialised trauma facility.

1127. https://www.stuff.co.nz/sport/131407575/58yearold-man-dies-at-start-of-mountain-bike-race

58-year-old man dies at start of mountain bike race

Joanne Naish11:30, Mar 05 2023
Will Hine/Stuff
Mountain bikers ride 47 kilometres at the Motatapu event. (File photo)

Organisers say they were saddened by the death of an athlete at the start of the mountain bike event in Glendhu Bay, Lake W naka.

Police were notified of the 58-year-old mans death at the Motatapu off-road event and part of Motatapu Rd in Glendhu Bay was closed around 9.30am on Saturday.

The Motatapu team worked closely with the emergency services and continue to assist. We would like to offer our deepest condolences to the bereaved family, Motatapu race director Gemma Peskett said.

Mountain bikers started between 8am and 9am on Saturday.

The 47km ride starts at Glendhu Station near the shore of Lake W naka and finishes at Arrowtown. It is one of six events in the Motatapu sporting event held annually in March in Queenstown and W naka.

Organisers said nearly 4000 bikers, runners and walkers competed on Saturday. It has run for 17 years and is the one time each year privately-owned high country stations between W naka and Arrowtown are open to the public. Queenstown-based Peskett and Craig Gallagher purchased the event from Ironman Oceania in 2020.

A 65-year-old man died while taking part in the same event in 2018, and long-serving Riversdale police officer and former champion cyclist Jacob Schriek died at the event in 2009 from a cardiac arrest.
More from
Joanne Naish West Coast reporter
joanne.naish@stuff.co.nz

A Hato Hone St John spokesperson said its event health services were hired to provide first aid and medical assistance at the race.

They responded to an incident notification at 9.12am and provided medical assistance, she said.

A police spokesperson said it was a sudden death and had been referred to a coroner.

The St John spokesperson said paramedics at the event also assessed and treated about 20 people, mostly for cuts and scrapes.

Two patients were transported to Lakes District hospital in a minor or moderate condition, she said.

1128. https://www.ktvq.com/news/local-news/mountain-biker-missing-near-zimmerman-park
Sheriff confirms missing mountain biker found dead

By: Charlie Klepps
Posted at 10:52 AM, Mar 05, 2023
and last updated 4:42 PM, Mar 05, 2023

UPDATE: After a long search, the 63-year-old missing mountain biker was found dead near Zimmerman Park at around 4 p.m. Sunday.

Yellowstone County Sheriff Mike Linder confirmed that the body was found and that authorities were working on ways to remove it from the area.

Recent Stories from ktvq.com

Family on the scene told MTN that the missing man is Scott Miller. Miller lived in the Billings Heights and had been married for nearly 33 years. He and his wife have five children.

According to the press release Sunday morning from the Yellowstone County Sheriffs office, Miller was mountain biking on Saturday afternoon and had not been heard from since.

His vehicle and phone were located at the parking lot of Zimmerman Park, and that's when authorities launched the search. Linder said the search began before the sun rose Sunday morning but discovered the body after moving further west.

The search included four different agencies and had as many as 40 people searching the area.

1129. https://www.1news.co.nz/2023/03/06/police-appeal-after-man-dies-at-wanaka-mountain-bike-race/

Police appeal after man dies at W naka mountain bike race
3:31pm

File image: Person mountain biking. (Source: istock.com)

Police are appealing for information after a man died at the start of a W naka mountain bike race on Saturday.

The 58-year-old was found dead on Mototapu Road, Glendhu Bay shortly after 9am on Saturday morning.

Police said efforts were made to revive the man but he died at the scene.

Senior Sergeant Chris Brooks is asking for anyone with information to come forward.

"We know that there would have been competitors and supporters in the bike race who had travelled to W naka from all parts of the country," he said.

"So we are asking anyone whether you are currently in the W naka area or have since returned home who may have information to please let us know, so we can help get some answers for this mans family."

People can call police on 105 if they have information.

1130. Such a healthful sport!

Mike

https://www.2news.com/news/mountain-biker-found-dead-in-sierra-county/article_e7bf8ac8-2e2e-11ed-b3eb-e3deaf1d7f86.html

Mountain biker found dead in Sierra County

Sep 6, 2022
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Sierra County Sheriff's Office

The Sierra County Sheriff's Office says a man died after a mountain biking incident over Labor Day weekend in Downieville, California.
On Saturday, September 3, 2022, the Sierra County Sheriff's Office received a report of an overdue mountain biker.

The reporting party told us her husband, Scott Fraser was mountain biking the Downieville Downhill Trail and had not yet returned.

Nevada County Search and Rescue was requested to assist in the search, and California Highway Patrol Helicopter H-24 was requested to search from the air.

Nevada County Search and Rescue arrived at approximately 10 p.m. and initiated a full-length trail search, searching on foot from Packer Saddle to Downieville.

This search was conducted throughout the night and, unfortunately, did not locate the missing party.

Sunday morning, Search and Rescue members from Marin County, Placer County, Downieville Fire Department, and the United States Forest Service (Tahoe National Forest), along with additional local volunteers, established a command center at the top of Packer Saddle Road at the trailhead.

At approximately 2:50 p.m., Mr. Fraser's mountain bike was located over the embankment in a very steep and remote trail area.

The Marin and Placer Counties Mountain Rescue Team's concentrated their search efforts below the bicycle.

Search and Rescue members located Mr. Fraser deceased approximately 200 feet below the trail.

With the assistance of the California Air National Guard helicopter, Mr. Fraser's remains were airlifted out of the canyon to awaiting deputies at Packer Saddle.

The Sierra County Sheriff's Office offers their sincere condolences to the Fraser family and friends during this challenging time.

1131. Motor vehicles don't belong around pedestrians.

Mike

https://www.marinij.com/2022/09/20/sausalito-pedestrian-dies-after-e-bike-collision/

Sausalito pedestrian dies after e-bike collision

By Alex N. Gecan | agecan@marinij.com |
PUBLISHED: September 20, 2022 at 9:38 a.m. | UPDATED: September 20, 2022 at 3:57 p.m.

A Sausalito man died after being struck by an electric powered bicycle, the Marin County Sheriffs Office said.

A 911 caller reported the collision at 8:40 p.m. Aug. 31 on the Mill Valley-Sausalito Pathway near Gate 6 Road, according to the sheriffs office.

James Charles Gordon, 63, was walking along the path when the e-bike hit him. The bike was traveling under power at a moderate rate of speed, the sheriffs offices said in a statement.

Gordon fell, hit his head and lost consciousness. Despite first aid at the scene and days of treatment at a hospital, he never regained consciousness and died Sept. 6, according to the sheriffs office.

The 3.7-mile path is open to class 1 and 2 e-bikes, but not class 3 e-bikes, which allow power assistance at higher speeds. The sheriffs office could not immediately confirm what type of bike was involved.

Investigators have identified the cyclist. Sheriffs Lt. Jesse Klinge, who supervises the agencys investigations division, declined to release the cyclists name or other details, such as whether the cyclist remained at the scene, saying the investigation is still open.

Klinge said there was no particular reason for the time gap between the collision and the departments statement about it, which was released Friday.

Gordon lived in the Richardson Bay houseboat community adjacent to the path, according to an article in the Floating Times, an online newsletter for the Floating Homes Association.

1132. https://www.belfastlive.co.uk/news/mourne-mountain-rescue-sees-badly-25867465

Mourne Mountain rescue sees badly injured biker airlifted from forest in four hour operation

The incident took place on a trail in Ballyedmund Forest

Comments

News
By
Martin McCullough

19:55, 30 DEC 2022
Updated21:22, 30 DEC 2022

Mourne Mountain Rescue volunteers carry casualty to waiting Air Ambulance (Image: Mourne Mountain Rescue)

A rescue operation involving Mourne Mountain Rescue, the PSNI and the Air Ambulance went into full swing on Friday after a mountain biker was badly injured.

The incident took place just after 1pm on a trail in Ballyedmund Forest, Rostrevor, Co Down.

The casualty was stretchered off the hillside by Mourne Mountain Rescue volunteers before being flown to hospital by the Air Ambulance in an operation that lasted almost four hours.

A spokesman for Mourne Mountain Rescue said: The Mourne Mountains are the most popular adventure destination in Northern Ireland and probably one of the most popular in Ireland and with that comes an increased number of people who may need our assistance.

"The Mourne Mountain Rescue Team has dealt with around 80 rescues per year, over a three-year year average, accounting for over 90% of mountain rescue incidents making it one of the busiest teams in Ireland.

"Rescues can certainly increase in the winter months and particularly at holiday periods with this call being the fourth call for the team over the recent holidays.

"We would always ask those venturing out in the greater Mournes region, whether walking, running, climbing or biking to be mindful of their ability alongside the prevailing conditions.

"As accidents can and do happen to even the most experienced, please have an emergency plan, including in the event of an emergency, dial 999 and ask for Police/Mountain Rescue.

In a Facebook post, Mourne Mountain Rescue Team gave details of the rescue: "At 1308hrs, the team received a request to assist a seriously injured mountain biker in the region of Ballyedmund Forest, Rostrevor.

"The team responded and given the nature of the injuries, requested the assistance of the Air Ambulance. With initial assessment by the team and the Air Ambulance completed, the casualty was treated, packaged and evacuated by stretcher to track access.
Air Ambulance takes off from Rostrevor, Co Down, on Friday December 30 (Image: Police Newry, Mourne and Down)

"After a further short evacuation by Land Rover, the casualty was transferred to the Air Ambulance for further treatment and onward transfer to Hospital.

"A total of 18 team members were tasked alongside Air Ambulance and an Ambulance HART crew and stood down at 1657hrs."

In a tweet on Friday December 30, Police Newry, Mourne and Down added: "This afternoon one of our crews was tasked to a report of an injured mountain biker in the Rostrevor area.

"The crew arrived, ascertained the exact location and it passed to @MourneMRT @NIAS999 & @AirAmbulanceNI The casualty was extracted and taken to hospital - we wish them well."

1133. https://www.outtherecolorado.com/news/video-bull-brutally-tosses-biker-during-notorious-california-race/article_156cc684-92ac-11ed-8183-2fb7d1882587.html

VIDEO: Bull brutally tosses biker during notorious California 'race'

By Spencer McKee
Jan 12, 2023
Image: AdrianHillman (iStock).

Shocking footage that's going viral across the web shows a bull charging a gravel biker, knocking them off their bike before tossing them in the air during a second charge.

According to Mountain Bike Action, the encounter occurred during the 'Rock Cobbler' gravel bike race, held in Bakerfield, California this past weekend. While video of a single collision is being shared, the bull reportedly had physical encounters with four riders throughout the race. No one was seriously injured.

According to an article from ABC7, the encounter with the bull was the result of the race winding through a private working cattle ranch.

The Rock Cobbler race is notorious for its unique nature, roughly 80 miles long and marketed not as a race, but as "a damn challenging ride." That being said, participant times are tracked, with 2022 'winner' Peter Stetina taking 4 hours and 49 minutes to complete the course.

On the race website, Stetina is quoted as saying "the Rock Cobbler is the kookiest bike race I've ever done. It's unclassifiable. One minute, you're on nice surface and the next, you're slip-sliding down a scree field, or just plain old riding through a field, dodging cattle."

Watch the shocking footage below:

When city folks get out of the hustle and bustle for some good time in nature pic.twitter.com/i7277O5uEg

Barstool Sports (@barstoolsports) January 12, 2023

This encounter is an important reminder to always keep your distance from animals while on the trail especially when on a bike. Bikes can tend to scare animals, prompting an aggressive response, whether that's from a deer, a dog, or a bull. Distance tends to be the best first step when it comes to preventing a negative encounter.

1134. https://patch.com/california/beverlyhills/mountain-biker-rescued-brentwood-helicopter-lafd

Mountain Biker Rescued In Brentwood By Helicopter: LAFD

Authorities rescued an injured mountain biker in Brentwood Tuesday afternoon.

Emily Rahhal , Patch Staff

Posted Tue, Feb 14, 2023 at 1:28 pm PT
The Los Angeles Fire Department rescued an injured 19-year-old Tuesday afternoon via helicopter in Brentwood. (Shutterstock)

BRENTWOOD, CA Authorities rescued an injured 19-year-old mountain biker in Brentwood Tuesday afternoon.

The man was hoisted via helicopter around 12:44 p.m. after he fell with "serious injuries to his leg," according to the Los Angeles Fire Department. He was rescued at 2720 Mandeville Canyon Road.

The man was sent to a nearby hospital, LAFD said. His condition was not known.

1135. https://www.singletracks.com/mtb-trails/behind-the-lawsuit-that-forced-oregons-mt-hood-skibowl-bike-park-to-close/

Behind the Lawsuit That Closed Oregons Mt. Hood Skibowl Bike Park

Last year a massive lawsuit following a life-changing injury shuttered Oregon's Skibowl bike park. We learned how the series of events led to the paralyzed rider winning the case.
By Richard Shoop
March 14, 2023
An overhead view of Skibowl. All images courtesy of Rick Klingbeil.

In May of 2022, Singletracks published a story about Mt. Hood Skibowl shutting its bike park down indefinitely after being hit with an $11.4M judgement in a case that involved a rider who was catastrophically injured while riding down one of the trails at the park. The verdict was both noteworthy and controversial.

Coincidentally, Nat Lopes, the trail builder I interviewed for a recent article on trail edits, was an expert witness for Owens attorneys. Both he and Rick Klingbeil, Owens lead attorney, gave us some very interesting insights about the case that shed light on why and how the jury reached its verdict.

I also offered Skibowl the opportunity to tell its side of the story, but no one from the resort ever responded to repeated requests for an interview. I noticed on its website that Skibowl is currently asking people to sign a petition urging the state of Oregon to pass liability waiver reform because recent court rulings have effectively nullified Oregon liability waivers.

In a statement on Skibowls website posted after the case, the resort wrote In light of a recent unprecedented plaintiff verdict in a mountain biking lawsuit against Mt. Hood Skibowl, we have made the difficult decision to suspend all mountain bike operations for the summer of 2022. After 32 years without a serious mountain bike claim of any kind, the winds have shifted. Our industry has focused heavily on user education and operational best practices, while working hard toward mitigating risk where possible. Eliminating all risks with recreational activitiesespecially in downhill mountain biking through forests at high speedis something that is just not possible.

The details on Owens crash at Skibowl

A computerized re-creation of the area where the crash occurred.

According to Owens complaint against Skibowl, he was riding down Cannonball, a double-black diamond mountain bike flow and jump trail when he crashed in July of 2016. The trail had an average downhill grade of 17%. A half-mile from its entrance, the trail crossed a hiking trail, known as the wedding trail. At the crossing, there were signs mounted on 4 x4 posts right next to the trail.

The complaint stated that riders would usually reach speeds of at least 30mph on Cannonball just before it crossed the wedding trail. Owens crashed just above the wedding trail crossing and slid downhill, hitting one of the 4״ signposts. He was paralyzed because of the crash.

Owens crash was not due to inexperience. As Klingbeil told us, he was an excellent rider and had been on the racers award podium many times in the past.

Arguing negligence in the design and maintenance of the Cannonball trail

Klingbeil took on the case after another law firm referred it to him. Klingbeil has been mountain biking since the 1990s and is familiar with many of the trails in and around Oregon. He understands the inherent risk of the sport, but he doesnt believe that its dangers excuse landowners from their duty to properly design and maintain trails.

Mountain biking certainly poses more risk than many other sports and activities, but that is not an excuse for avoiding steps to bring the park or facility in line with the standard of reasonable care and safety within the industry, said Klingbeil.

If my clients injury had been caused solely by the inherently dangerous nature of the sport, such as losing control on a properly designed trail and running into a rock or tree beside the trail, or colliding with another rider, or something similar, I would not have filed the case and would have urged my client to not file a case.

In reviewing the case, Klingbeil found that Skibowl developed the Cannonball trail from a service road previously used for powered vehicles to get to the top of the hill. It was a high-speed trail, with an abnormally steep slope, and Skibowl admitted that good riders often achieve speeds up to 50mph in the area at issue. All of that would have been fine if the trail had been designed and maintained properly.

Skibowls waiver did not absolve it of all liability

Klingbeil explained that the Oregon ski statute, ORS 30.985 Duties of Skiers, defines any person who rides a ski lift as a skier. That includes mountain bike riders. Mountain bikers, as well as skiers and snowboarders are subject to that law. According to Klingbeil, the law prevents lawsuits that result from the inherent risks of skiing or riding on the mountain. That would include risks and injuries solely from the inherent dangers of the sport.

However, Klingbeil told me that the law does not excuse the park operator from a lawsuit for injuries caused by its negligence. In Klingbeils opinion, Oregon legislators have worked out a careful balance between insulating park operators from nuisance suits and protecting park guests from a park owners negligence.

To prove negligence, Klingbeil enlisted Lopes as an expert witness

Klingbeil chose Lopes to be the expert witness for his legal team because we wanted someone with significant design experience, who would also challenge us on any parts of our case that were not in line with reasonable design criteria used in the industry. We also wanted someone who did not have a mindset of hyper safety. By that, I mean someone whose philosophy was based in the real world of practical mountain bike park design, and the realization that no trail or park can be totally safe or of perfect design.

Lopes had worked on a few prior cases when Klingbeil contacted him. According to Lopes, Klingbeil retained both Lopes and another trail builder whose job was to vet Lopes opinions in the case. It was a tough assignment for Lopes because the prevailing view of trail builders at that time was that they should not help plaintiffs attorneys.

Lopes agreed to work for Klingbeil because the risk factors in the case were so clear and could have been mitigated so easily. He said that he has always been an advocate for rider safety and that I always think about what I would want as a rider myself and what I would want for my friends and family. While the other cases he worked on were settled out of court, this was the first trial Lopes had been part of and the experience was super intense and dramatic.

The defense attorneys had a dedicated staff person with a whole computer system set up to access all their files in real time.

With Lopes help, Klingbeil had some incredible exhibits prepared, including 3D forensic reconstructions and human factors reports.

The three main problems with the Cannonball trail

In Klingbeils experience as both an attorney and an engineer, most injuries are the result of several concurring problems or hazards. In the Owens case, Klingbeil and Lopes argued there were three design defects in the Cannonball trail. Taken together, the defects combined to cause Owens crash and resulting injuries.
Signs mounted on 4״ wooden posts immediately adjacent to the Cannonball trail were one problem Klingbeil found.

Signposts

The first design defect Klingbeil and Lopes focused on was the placement of the 4״ wooden signposts immediately adjacent to the trail in the area where Owens crashed. The signposts were within 4-6 feet of the trail at some parts, well within an area where riders could easily strike them during an anticipated crash.

Klingbeil noted that Ski Bowl did not use 4״ posts anywhere else within its park adjacent to any trail that allowed riders to develop any speed. They instead used thin wooden or carsonite breakaway posts that would easily break away when hit. Klingbeil noted that, at trial, Skibowls expert witness even admitted that he would not use 4״ wooden signposts close to a high-speed portion of a trail.

Lopes said Skibowl could have set the trail crossing signs further off the trailway and used the same breakaway or bendable signposts that were used everywhere else on the mountain and that, if they had done so, Owens injuries certainly would not have been as severe. As Klingbeil told me, Absent the 4״ posts, he likely would have slid to a stop, got a few cuts and bruises, and continued riding.
This drainage ditch running across the Cannonball trail was also a contributing factor.

Drainage ditch

The second defect Klingbeil and Lopes found was the placement of a drainage ditch across the trail.

While most parks incorporate a variety of water management features such as swales or underground pipes, we found none that used what was essentially a 24-inch wide, 6-12-deep ditch crossing the high-speed portion of a trail. Additionally, at trial Ski Bowls former maintenance employee testified that similar ditches on Cannonball uphill from this one (which were at lower speed portions of the trail) had been replaced with underground pipes a few years earlier and had functioned well and without issue.

Lopes noted that Skibowl had installed all the other drainages on the trail using buried pipes. If they had done the same thing in the area of the accident, there would have been no issue with riders getting bucked at high speed. Lopes mentioned that it was revealed through the discovery process that the trail crew manager had procured a pipe, prepared a maintenance task plan, and asked Skibowls bike park manager for permission to fix the drainage several times prior to Owens crash, but the bike park manager didnt approve it.

Klingbeil stated there was no reason that a buried pipe or even a moderate swale could not have been used instead of the ditch. After my clients injury, Ski Bowl apparently eliminated the ditch and presented photos at trial showing a moderate and far safer swale like that used by most parks within the US.

Lopes helped Owens attorneys create a life-sized cross section of the drainage dip that ran across the Cannonball trail for trial, along with a drainage pipe and cover to demonstrate how easily the risk could have been mitigated.

The wedding trail

An overhead view showing the location of the wedding trail, a hiking trail that crossed the Cannonball mountain bike trail.

Finally, according to Klingbeil and Lopes, Skibowls placement of a pedestrian trail (known as the wedding trail) near the Cannonball trail also increased the risk to riders. Klingbeil stated there had been several close calls where riders were coming through this area at high speed and had near collisions with people attending weddings. Tall trees often cast dark shadows over that area of the trail, adding to the hazard created by the crossing.

Klingbeil said that, after Owens crash, Skibowl abandoned and blocked off the wedding trail, and re-routed traffic to a safer location for both pedestrians and mountain bikers. When the trail moved, they also removed the 4״ posts, as they were no longer needed. In Klingbeils opinion, if that one simple task had been done timely instead of putting it off year after year, there would have been no 4״ posts in place to break my clients back, and this would not have happened.

The design defects were symptoms of a bigger problem at Skibowl

For Klingbeil and Lopes, the presence of the three design defects on Cannonball stemmed from Skibowls failure to have an adaptive risk management policy. Lopes explained that an adaptive risk management policy is where you gather data [on injuries], review the data periodically, and assess whether you need to make changes to reduce risk.

Lopes said that during the discovery process, it was revealed that Skibowl had no system in place for tracking where accidents and injuries were occurring on their trails which meant they had no way of understanding, accessing, or mitigating risks to riders.

Skibowls attitude toward risk reminded Lopes of the infamous Action Park in New Jersey. To illustrate this point, Lopes told me that, when he did his site visit to Skibowl, he observed a medical tent set up at the base of the mountain with a constant stream of injured guests getting bandages and ice packs applied to all kinds of injuries. Lopes, who has visited more than 60 lift-accessed resorts across North America, had never seen anything like it.

As Klingbeil put it, their method of tracking what type injuries of occurred and where was beyond appalling. We obtained several years and hundreds of pages of incident reports from their files. For all but a few, Ski Bowls personnel were unable to provide any details of where on the trail the injuries occurred, what caused the injury (other than a generic crash or hit rock), or whether any investigation or changes were made in response to the reports.

Klingbeil hopes the Owens verdict will benefit all riders

Klingbeil told us that, as with most of my cases, the hope is to change behaviors and prevent future injuries from the same type of mechanisms or problems. We often see that when businesses believe they are protected from liability, they pay far less attention to safety. I believe that was the case here. At least two other riders had suffered serious injuries at the same area of Cannonball in the past, with one requiring a life flight and causing the end of his riding career, yet Skibowl didnt make any changes in response to those injuries.

Additionally, Klingbeil thinks other bike parks can learn three valuable lessons from the case. First, having a release of liability does not insulate you from the responsibility to maintain a safe park. Second, that mountain bikes, equipment, and riders styles and abilities have changed significantly over the past few decades, and that it may be necessary to re-evaluate their parks periodically to determine if their trail system and safety measures are still sufficient considering these changes. Third, that a system of tracking the location and circumstances of injuries within their park is important and can help them discover unsafe features or areas that need to be addressed.

Klingbeil told me that all bike parks can reduce their risk of liability by doing two simple things. First, retain a qualified and experienced mountain bike park designer when creating a facility or adding trails, and periodically evaluate and address areas within the park that are the source of recurring injuries.

Second, dont put profits over the safety of riders. Its tempting to put off necessary maintenance and changes to save money, but when a park does that and a severe injury occurs, they should not be allowed to dodge liability or point their finger at the rider.

The Owens verdict has affected both Klingbeil and Lopes personally, in addition to Skibowls operations

Winning the Owens case has not been a completely positive experience for Klingbeil and the other attorneys involved in the case. He told us that our team has received death threats, as well as other threats from people upset about the verdict. I am not that concerned about the threats to me, but my client should not have to go through that in addition to being paralyzed for the remainder of his life.

Lopes has continued to be an expert witness working on behalf of both plaintiffs and defendants and feels it is an extension of his work and affiliation with the International Mountain Bicycling Association, the National Recreation and Park Association and the Professional Trail Builders Association to promote best practices in the industry. The Owens case made him much more conscientious about things I design and recommend as a trail builder, as I better understand the tragic real-life consequences and legal liability at stake.

Currently, there is nothing on Skibowls website indicating it will resume mountain biking at the resort after canceling it last year. It is also unknown if Skibowl has made any changes to the way it manages risk at the resort after the Owens verdict, including implementing an adaptive risk management policy like Lopes recommends.

1136. https://www.breakinglatest.news/news/jacket-blocked-tires-mountain-biker-fell-fatally/

Jacket blocked tires mountain biker fell fatally

March 19, 2023

According to the Tyrol State Police Headquarters, the accident was caused around 3.30 p.m. by a jacket hanging on the handlebars, which was pulled in between the suspension fork and tire while driving and blocked them. The Romanian, who was traveling without a helmet, subsequently hit her head on the road.

The rescue workers tried in vain to resuscitate the 48-year-old. She succumbed to her injuries at the scene of the accident. The woman had been traveling with a 55-year-old Romanian.

1137. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lWoi0QkYVBg

ST. GEORGE Intermountain Life Flights rescue team was called to assist a mountain biker on Friday afternoon after the rider crashed into a ravine near the Bearclaw Poppy Navajo Trailhead south of St. George. Washington County Search and Rescue responded to a call of an injured female at approximately 1:30 p.m. to the trailhead near Bloomington. Written by Haven Scott March 31, 2023 Full story here: https://www.stgeorgeutah.com/news/arc...

1138. Hmmm. Mountain bikers have no responsibility to consider possible conditions on the trail, and ride accordingly??? But the land manager is ultimately responsible for this accident, due to allowing bikes on trails, where they don't belong.

Mike

https://au.news.yahoo.com/woman-concussed-breaks-thumb-after-dangerous-act-in-national-park-074614429.html

Woman concussed, breaks thumb after dangerous act in national park

Despite suffering several injuries, the mountain biker believes she got off lightly and took to social media to warn others against the irresponsible behaviour.

Sophie Coghill
News Reporter
Tue, 11 April 2023 at 12:46 am GMT-72-min read

A mountain biker is calling out the dangerous behaviour which left her "pretty banged up" over the Easter weekend, believing the situation could have been a lot worse.

Excited to try out her new ride, Beth Fairley took to a trail at Tewantin National Park in Queensland on Saturday, travelling downhill at speed when she unexpectedly collided with something coming the other way.
Mountain biker Beth Fairley was travelling downhill on a Queensland trail when a rider travelling the opposite way on an electronic bike collided with her, causing injury. Source: Facebook/BethFairley and Supplied

"On a steep, blind bend I was hit by an electric motocross bike and its rider coming up the one-way trail," Beth told Yahoo News Australia, with the moment caught on video by her body camera.

Due to the other rider being on an automatic bike powered by a throttle, Beth said she was badly injured from the impact with her thumb broken, body covered in scrapes and bruises, and suffering from concussion. However, she thanks her lucky stars her injuries were not more severe.

"If it was a child he ran into, as this is a very popular trail for the kids, I hate to think what could have happened," she said. "To be clear, these national park trails are for the exclusive use of pedal powered bikes," she explained, before adding, "And for very good reason. Motorbikes cause massive trail damage and could prove fatal on these trails."

Video of mountain biker hit on Queensland trail

The video shows mountain biker Beth Fairley collide with an electronic motorbike rider, showing how dangerous these automatic bikes are on park trails. Source: Supplied

Electric motorbikes not permitted

According to the Department of Environment and Science, no individual should be riding motorbikes on national park trails to avoid accidents like this from occurring. "No motorbikes, including electric motorbikes, are permitted on any trails in Tewantin National Park," a spokesperson told Yahoo. "Pedal assist electric bicycles (e-bicycles) are allowed."

"There are several offences that can apply for the unlawful use of vehicles in national parks," they continued.

1139. An addiction is an activity that is continued in spite of its danger and actual harm incurred.

Mike

https://www.abc.net.au/news/2023-04-12/mountain-biker-injured-in-sunshine-coast-downhill-trail-crash/102208480

Mountain biker injured in crash with electric motorbike on one-way Sunshine Coast trail

ABC Sunshine Coast
/ By Josh Dye
Posted 20h ago20 hours ago, updated 19h ago19 hours ago

Queensland authorities are investigating after a mountain bike rider was injured in a collision with a motorcyclist on a one-way trail on the Sunshine Coast.

Key points:

Motorbikes are not permitted on the trails
Beth Fairley says she gave the rider involved in the crash a "passionate lecture"
A mountain biking club presidents says such accidents have the potential to be fatal

Beth Fairley was riding at Tewantin when she slammed into an off-road electric motorcyclist coming up the trail.

Fairley fell off her bike at about 35 kilometres per hour and sustained a broken thumb and a concussion.

She said ignoring one-way signs on downhill trails was extremely dangerous and was glad it was not a child who was hit.

"As I was coming around the corner, I came across a young man on an electric motorbike going up the hill," Fairley said about the incident last Saturday.

"I clocked him a couple of metres out and just threw myself off to the left-hand side of the trail as much as I could.

"I just dumped the bike and went over the bars a bit.

"I ended up with a concussion that I'm still feeling a bit scrambled from and I gave him a quite passionate lecture on trail etiquette and how motorbikes really aren't allowed in national parks for very good safety reasons."
Beth Fairley said motorbike rider apologised for riding the wrong way up the trail.(Supplied: Beth Fairley)

A Department of Environment spokesperson said rangers were investigating and called on anyone with information about the motorcyclist's identity to come forward.

The spokesperson said "several offences" were associated with the unlawful use of motorcycles in national parks.

Fairley, an endurance rider, said she had only just started riding after an injury and that her brand new bike was damaged.

"I'm glad that happened to me and not a kid riding down there and then going underneath the bottom of this bike," she said.

"It could have been so much worse."
Fairley says she's "super keen" to get back on her bike once she's recovered.(Supplied: Beth Fairley)

'Very dangerous'

Noosa Trailblazers Mountain Biking Club president Andy Fellows said riders did not expect to see anyone coming up a downhill trail "especially somebody on a motorbike".

"It has massive consequences it could have been a lot worse," he said.

"It could have been a massive injury you can imagine two bike riders going flat-out, having a head-on collision could potentially be fatal.

"It's pretty significant [and] very dangerous."

Mr Fellows said he hoped authorities increased signage in the area and said electric motorbikes posed an additional challenge for mountain bikers.

"There's no noise you can't hear them coming so you can't really prepare yourself to get out of the way," he said.

"Whereas if it was a [petrol] motorbike it'd probably be less likely to be an accident, because the mountain biker would be able to hear the motorbike coming, but they're pretty stealthy on those e-motorbikes."

Fairley said the incident would "absolutely not" prevent her from getting back on her bike.

"I'm super keen to start racing again," she said.

"So once the head is unscrambled I'll be right back on."

1140. https://www.koin.com/news/oregon/mountain-biker-dies-after-crash-in-ashland-watershed-race/

Mountain bike racer dies after crash in Ashland, OR watershed

by: Aimee Plante

Posted: Apr 13, 2023 / 08:52 PM PDT

Forrest Anthony Angwin, 25, of Grants Pass died of his injuries.

PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) A man died Wednesday night after he crashed during a mountain biking race in the Ashland watershed, according to the Jackson County Sheriffs Office.

Authorities say 25-year-old Forrest Anthony Angwin of Grants Pass was unresponsive when Ashland Fire and Rescue personnel arrived around 6:30 p.m.

Paramedics performed life-saving measures on Angwin, but he eventually succumbed to his injuries.

Angwin had been wearing a helmet and other safety gear during the sanctioned race, deputies say.

1141. What a healthful sport!

Mike

https://www.stuff.co.nz/the-press/news/131679814/mountain-biker-breaks-neck-after-catapulting-over-fallen-tree-on-queenstown-track

Mountain biker breaks neck after catapulting over fallen tree on Queenstown track

Debbie Jamieson05:00, Apr 05 2023
Stuff
Bel Strano spent 10 days in Dunedin Hospital after breaking her neck in a Queenstown mountain biking crash.

In immense pain with a suspected broken neck, cold, and with darkness fast approaching as she awaited medical help, Bel Strano attempted to walk down a Queenstown mountain biking track.

She made it about 10m when a friend ran towards her with the news that, after an agonisingly long wait, paramedics were finally nearby.

More than two hours after she had crashed over a fallen tree on the popular track, the relief was enormous for Strano, her partner Jeremy Cox and those helping them.

However, her journey of recovery was only beginning.

Strano, an Australian who has lived in Queenstown for three years with Cox, is an outdoor sports enthusiast.

I love biking. Its such a nice escape from everyday life, she said.

She has just finished a degree by correspondence and has been working about 15 hours a week at Queenstown Events Centre.
Stuff
Strano, pictured mountain biking on the West Coast, is an outdoors enthusiast.

On March 15 she had completed a first aid course at work.

At about 5.30pm she nipped up the Skyline gondola with a friend for a few runs on the popular trails that crisscross Bobs Peak, overlooking central Queenstown.

It was my first lap, and I was coming down a trail Ive ridden a thousand times before, quite a fast section, and a big tree had fallen over, right across the trail.

I didnt have enough time to stop. It hit the front wheel and sent me straight over the bars straight onto my neck and my head.

I heard a crack.
Stuff
Strano broke her neck, shoulder blade and collarbone in the crash.

Immediately she feared she had broken her neck. Soon after she thought her shoulder blade and collarbone might also be affected.

She was right. All three were broken.

Strano managed to sit up and then remained still. She could feel her limbs but knew that her injuries were serious.

In the meantime there were phone calls to 111, to Cox who was working at his job as a bike mechanic in town, and to Skyline.

Trail riders rallied to stop others hitting the tree and eventually remove it. Some had been down the trail only seconds before Strano, and there was no sign of it falling then.

People gathered, and as Stranos body temperature dropped they did what the could to keep her warm and guide paramedics to where they were.
Stuff
A mountain biker descends one of the scenic Queenstown Bike Park trails on Bobs Peak.

But there was no easy access route to the crash site, which was about halfway down the trail and some distance from the access road.

There was talk of a helicopter, but Cox advised it would not be able to get near the spot.

I thought no one was coming, and I was going to have to walk myself out with a broken neck, said Strano.

Desperate, increasingly worried that emergency services would never reach them and beginning to panic, the decision was made to start the long walk down hill.

It was then that the paramedics arrived, having walked several hundred metres up the trail carrying their equipment.
>
More from
Debbie Jamieson Queenstown and Central Otago bureau chief
debbie.jamieson@stuff.co.nz

Strano was given pain relief, placed on a stretcher and then carried by six people on an agonisingly slow walk down the rough trail.

I could feel every movement, and every bump. Everything.

At Lakes District Hospital a scan confirmed the broken bones in the C1 vertebrae, the shoulder blade and collarbone.

There were options, but the most likely was that she would need to go directly to Dunedin Hospital by helicopter for surgery to fit a halo brace around her head to help her recovery.
Supplied
Strano was delighted to be able to sit up and eat after five days lying on her back in Dunedin Hospital.

The helicopter arrived, and she was being lifted into the bed when the mission was called off and the helicopter diverted to a child having a seizure.

Another helicopter came, then left. It was at about 4am that she was finally picked up and taken to Dunedin Hospital.

As family gathered at the hospital her mother coming from Australia and Coxs mum from Christchurch the halo was fitted and Strano began five long days of lying flat on her back with a pulley system in place to decompress her spine.

She could not eat or drink except via a straw, when she became nauseous from the drugs she vomited over herself, and when nurses moved her to clean her she screamed in pain.

After another few days in hospital she was sent home to Queenstown to begin what will be about three months of living with the halo, and an unknown period of rehabilitation.
Stuff
Strano and her partner Jeremy Cox are looking forward to their wedding later this year, after she recovers from breaking her neck in a mountain biking crash.

The halo braces vest over her chest means she can not shower properly. Sleeping is uncomfortable, if not impossible at times. She can only go on short walks, can not work and will have to seek a refund for her ski pass for the year.

As much as this sucks its hopefully only for three months, and months of rehab.

In the meantime, Cox has set up a Givealittle page in the hope of getting some financial assistance to cover the costs they have incurred so far, and for ongoing costs of rent and food while Strano is unable to work.

They are hoping she wil be healed in time for the next big occasion their Queenstown wedding in December.

1142. https ://unofficialnetworks.com/2023/04/16/mountain-bike-ski-jump/

VIDEO: Mountain Bike World Record Ski Jump Attempt Does Not Go To Plan

By Francis Xavier | April 16, 2023 2:41 pm ET

Official application for Fail of the year. -Johannes Fischbach

Gnarly video of German MTB Downhill Pro Johannes Fischbach failing spectacularly in an attempt to set a world record for longest jump on a mountain bike. Everything was going smooth until a last second nosedive at 55mph that terminated in an endo for the ages. Thankfully Johannes popped up at the bottom of The Vogtland Arena ski jump in his native Germany and seemed to be in one piece. Gnarly.

The background story about my world record project: Ive been haunting a special idea for several years now: To make the worlds longest jump with a MTB, i.e. a world record ! Some years ago Fischi already made test jumps from an 85 meter ski jump and reached a distance of 50 meters. The goal now was to max it out. Fischis objective: If I can jump 50 metres from your 85-metre ski jump, then the 140-metre ski jump has to go a lot further!

1143. https://news.sky.com/video/california-mountain-biker-rescued-by-helicopter-after-30ft-drop-from-trail-12859508

California: Mountain biker rescued by helicopter after 30ft drop from trail

California Highway Patrol responded with San Rafael Fire Department to the rider, who had fallen approximately 30ft off the trail. The patient was hoisted from the scene and taken to a waiting ambulance with moderate injuries.

Monday 17 April 2023 21:15, UK

California

1:09
Play Video - Biker rescued after 30ft drop
Watch the moment a mountain biker was rescued after a 30ft drop from trail.

1144. Oh, that makes it okay....

Mike

https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/wanaka-mountain-biker-died-doing-the-thing-he-loved/HVKL3QIVRVBOLHSHSCT3YXGN6Q/

Wanaka mountain biker died doing the thing he loved

Otago Daily Times
17 Apr, 2023 08:21 PMQuick Read

Mark Gould. Photo / Supplied

The man who died at Queenstown Bike Park on Easter Sunday was a former president of Bike W naka.

He was Mark David Gould, 64.

Goulds death was said to be the result of a medical incident and has been referred to the coroner.

A family notice on social media described him as a loving husband, father and grandfather.

Mark was an avid mountain biker and passed doing the thing he loved, it said.

In a tribute, the Otago Mountain Bikers - Social Riders Facebook group said Gould had been living in Wanaka and had previously lived in Dunedin.

Queenstown Bike Park is in the Ben Lomond Reserve, the same location as the Skyline gondola and luge.

1145. https://www.auntminnieeurope.com/index.aspx?sec=ser&sub=def&pag=dis&ItemID=623877

Traumatic injuries from downhill biking can be life-changing

By Edna Astbury-Ward, PhD, AuntMinnieEurope.com contributing writer

April 18, 2023 -- Get to know the wide range of traumatic injuries related to the extreme sport of downhill biking that often require a multimodality imaging approach in the emergency setting. That's the advice of Italian researchers who've shared their clinical experiences of this area.

"Downhill mountain biking can be considered a high-risk sport," noted Dr. Raffaella Colantonio and colleagues from Santa Chiara's Hospital in Trento. "With the increasing popularity, there has also been a corresponding increase in injury, often multisystemic. Some are severe."

In the last decade, this activity has expanded worldwide at both recreational and competitive levels for individuals of all ages, particularly young men, especially in mountainous areas where ski lifts are used to access downhill trails, they explained at ECR 2023 in Vienna.
A 25-year-old male sustained direct head trauma due to a high-speed fall (forward, over the handlebars) after hitting an obstacle on the trail. He appeared sleepy and inattentive at the neurologic examination. Axial CT scan (A, F) shows a small hemorrhagic lesion in the splenium of the corpus callosum (arrow in A). A subsequent MRI scan obtained two days later confirmed the finding and showed other punctate lesions in the left basal ganglia that appear hyperintense on T2-weighted (B, G) and FLAIR sequences (C, H), and hypointense on gradient echo (D, I) and susceptibility-weighted sequences (E, L), suggestive of diffuse axonal injury lesions. All images courtesy of Dr. Raffaella Colantonio and colleagues and presented at ECR 2023.

"Mountain biking accidents can lead to a wide variety of injuries involving the head and face, neck, spine and spinal cord, upper and lower extremities, chest, abdomen, and genitourinary system," they wrote, adding that Santa Chiara's has become the treatment hub for trauma patients in the autonomous province of Trentino.

Most injuries are minor (e.g., skin abrasions and contusions) or moderate (e.g., bone fractures), and the commonly injured body parts are lower leg and forearm, they continued. Serious injuries -- including brain concussion with hemorrhage, vertebral fractures with or without spinal cord injury, internal organ damage, and bleeding -- are also possible.

The aim of the sport is to go quickly down the mountain, usually on narrow tracks with slippery and uneven surfaces consisting of rocks, mud, dirt, and tree roots. It involves speeds of up to 70 km/h and bold maneuvers to avoid obstacles, turns, and jumps. The bikes are designed to provide the best possible traction and suspension, with the rider in a more upright position, and bike frames are also stronger and heavier (between 15 to 20 kg) than other mountain bikes.

Selecting the best modality

The choice of imaging modality in the emergency setting is mainly based on the presenting condition of the injured biker and the mechanism of injury, following general guidelines of trauma care, the authors noted.

"Patients with high-energy trauma and a high risk of multisystemic involvement should generally be managed as polytrauma patients, and multidetector CT is currently the imaging technique of choice," they wrote. "MRI has a fundamental role in the evaluation of severe spine injuries before neurosurgical intervention and is the modality of choice for assessing the real extent of brain damage after severe head trauma."
A 22-year-old female sustained a high-speed fall after a jump, during a competition. She presented with acute paraplegia. CT scan performed with polytrauma protocol (axial plane in A, sagittal plane in B with bony window) shows a burst fracture of T8 (with involvement of its left transverse process and with a posterior bone fragment displacement into the spinal canal, arrow in B), T9, and T10 vertebrae. A subsequent MRI obtained on the same day shows spinal cord compression (note the retropulsed bone fragment in contact with the spinal cord on axial T2-weighted image in G), spinal cord contusion that appears hyperintense on sagittal T2-weighted (C), and STIR sequence (D) and a posterior epidural hematoma (arrow in D). Thoracic CT scan shows a lung contusion (arrow in E) and bilateral pleural effusion (F).

Angiography with embolization has a pivotal role in the treatment of vascular and parenchymal injuries, they pointed out. "Radiography is the first-line tool in the evaluation of a bony injury of the upper and lower extremities. Ultrasound still has an important role in minor blunt abdominal trauma, particularly in the pediatric population due to the absence of ionizing radiation."

Causes of injury typically are multifactorial, with rider-related, terrain-related, and bicycle-related factors that variably contribute to the outcome.

Types of injury

Falling forward over the handlebars is the most frequent mechanism in downhill biking and is associated with the most serious injuries, especially to the head and neck. Falling onto the top of the head may result in a flexion injury, while a fall onto the face can result in hyperextension. Falls are associated with a variety of factors -- e.g., hitting a bump in the trail, landing incorrectly after a jump, or applying excess pressure to the front brake -- with the result of a rapid deceleration while going downhill, according to Colantonio and colleagues.

Falling off the bike to the side tends to result in less severe injuries involving mainly the lower extremities and also the upper extremities when the rider uses a hand to break the fall.

Direct impact due to collision with stationary objects (such as trees or rocks, other bikers, or unexpected hikers on the trails) or with the handlebars may result in a blunt trauma that most commonly involves solid organs of the abdomen.
A 26-year-old male sustained a high-speed fall on his left side against rocks. 3D reconstructed CT image shows a distal third clavicular fracture (arrow in A). Axial CT image in lung window shows posterior rib fracture (arrow in B) and left anterior pneumothorax (asterisk in B). Contrast-enhanced CT images in axial (C, E, F) and coronal planes (D) show a wide laceration of the left kidney (asterisk in C and D) associated with perirenal hematoma (arrow in C), a contusion of the pancreatic tail (arrow in E), and a grade IV splenic injury (arrows in D, F). Angiography (G) performed on the same day shows inhomogeneous opacification of the spleen without any sign of active bleeding; main splenic artery embolization was performed with coils (H).

Injury prevention strategies should focus on improving riders' technique, trail conditions, and protective equipment, they added. The use of protective equipment is of crucial importance, and a full-face helmet -- like those used in motorcycling that include a horizontal bar to protect the lower face -- is probably the most important and nearly universally adopted piece of safety gear for downhill biking.

"Athletes without helmets are at greater risk to sustain fatal head injuries leading to disability or death," the authors pointed out. "A full set of body protections, gloves, and safety glasses are also encouraged. The neck brace is a novel protective equipment to prevent cervical spine injuries."

Looking to the future, the group is now collecting data with a retrospective analysis to better investigate the real frequency of each specific injury pattern in downhill biking injuries.

To view the whole ECR 2023 poster and learn more about the full range of cases, go to the EPOS section of the congress organizers' website.

The co-authors of the ECR e-poster were Drs. Giulia Porretti, Emanuela Baglivo, Francesco Ranieri, Giulia Casagranda, Francesca Paganelli, Umberto Rozzanigo, Benedetto Petralia, and Mauro Ferrari.

1146. https://www.auntminnieeurope.com/index.aspx?sec=ser&sub=def&pag=dis&ItemID=623877

Traumatic injuries from downhill biking can be life-changing

By Edna Astbury-Ward, PhD, AuntMinnieEurope.com contributing writer

April 18, 2023 -- Get to know the wide range of traumatic injuries related to the extreme sport of downhill biking that often require a multimodality imaging approach in the emergency setting. That's the advice of Italian researchers who've shared their clinical experiences of this area.

"Downhill mountain biking can be considered a high-risk sport," noted Dr. Raffaella Colantonio and colleagues from Santa Chiara's Hospital in Trento. "With the increasing popularity, there has also been a corresponding increase in injury, often multisystemic. Some are severe."

In the last decade, this activity has expanded worldwide at both recreational and competitive levels for individuals of all ages, particularly young men, especially in mountainous areas where ski lifts are used to access downhill trails, they explained at ECR 2023 in Vienna.
A 25-year-old male sustained direct head trauma due to a high-speed fall (forward, over the handlebars) after hitting an obstacle on the trail. He appeared sleepy and inattentive at the neurologic examination. Axial CT scan (A, F) shows a small hemorrhagic lesion in the splenium of the corpus callosum (arrow in A). A subsequent MRI scan obtained two days later confirmed the finding and showed other punctate lesions in the left basal ganglia that appear hyperintense on T2-weighted (B, G) and FLAIR sequences (C, H), and hypointense on gradient echo (D, I) and susceptibility-weighted sequences (E, L), suggestive of diffuse axonal injury lesions. All images courtesy of Dr. Raffaella Colantonio and colleagues and presented at ECR 2023.

"Mountain biking accidents can lead to a wide variety of injuries involving the head and face, neck, spine and spinal cord, upper and lower extremities, chest, abdomen, and genitourinary system," they wrote, adding that Santa Chiara's has become the treatment hub for trauma patients in the autonomous province of Trentino.

Most injuries are minor (e.g., skin abrasions and contusions) or moderate (e.g., bone fractures), and the commonly injured body parts are lower leg and forearm, they continued. Serious injuries -- including brain concussion with hemorrhage, vertebral fractures with or without spinal cord injury, internal organ damage, and bleeding -- are also possible.

The aim of the sport is to go quickly down the mountain, usually on narrow tracks with slippery and uneven surfaces consisting of rocks, mud, dirt, and tree roots. It involves speeds of up to 70 km/h and bold maneuvers to avoid obstacles, turns, and jumps. The bikes are designed to provide the best possible traction and suspension, with the rider in a more upright position, and bike frames are also stronger and heavier (between 15 to 20 kg) than other mountain bikes.

Selecting the best modality

The choice of imaging modality in the emergency setting is mainly based on the presenting condition of the injured biker and the mechanism of injury, following general guidelines of trauma care, the authors noted.

"Patients with high-energy trauma and a high risk of multisystemic involvement should generally be managed as polytrauma patients, and multidetector CT is currently the imaging technique of choice," they wrote. "MRI has a fundamental role in the evaluation of severe spine injuries before neurosurgical intervention and is the modality of choice for assessing the real extent of brain damage after severe head trauma."
A 22-year-old female sustained a high-speed fall after a jump, during a competition. She presented with acute paraplegia. CT scan performed with polytrauma protocol (axial plane in A, sagittal plane in B with bony window) shows a burst fracture of T8 (with involvement of its left transverse process and with a posterior bone fragment displacement into the spinal canal, arrow in B), T9, and T10 vertebrae. A subsequent MRI obtained on the same day shows spinal cord compression (note the retropulsed bone fragment in contact with the spinal cord on axial T2-weighted image in G), spinal cord contusion that appears hyperintense on sagittal T2-weighted (C), and STIR sequence (D) and a posterior epidural hematoma (arrow in D). Thoracic CT scan shows a lung contusion (arrow in E) and bilateral pleural effusion (F).

Angiography with embolization has a pivotal role in the treatment of vascular and parenchymal injuries, they pointed out. "Radiography is the first-line tool in the evaluation of a bony injury of the upper and lower extremities. Ultrasound still has an important role in minor blunt abdominal trauma, particularly in the pediatric population due to the absence of ionizing radiation."

Causes of injury typically are multifactorial, with rider-related, terrain-related, and bicycle-related factors that variably contribute to the outcome.

Types of injury

Falling forward over the handlebars is the most frequent mechanism in downhill biking and is associated with the most serious injuries, especially to the head and neck. Falling onto the top of the head may result in a flexion injury, while a fall onto the face can result in hyperextension. Falls are associated with a variety of factors -- e.g., hitting a bump in the trail, landing incorrectly after a jump, or applying excess pressure to the front brake -- with the result of a rapid deceleration while going downhill, according to Colantonio and colleagues.

Falling off the bike to the side tends to result in less severe injuries involving mainly the lower extremities and also the upper extremities when the rider uses a hand to break the fall.

Direct impact due to collision with stationary objects (such as trees or rocks, other bikers, or unexpected hikers on the trails) or with the handlebars may result in a blunt trauma that most commonly involves solid organs of the abdomen.
A 26-year-old male sustained a high-speed fall on his left side against rocks. 3D reconstructed CT image shows a distal third clavicular fracture (arrow in A). Axial CT image in lung window shows posterior rib fracture (arrow in B) and left anterior pneumothorax (asterisk in B). Contrast-enhanced CT images in axial (C, E, F) and coronal planes (D) show a wide laceration of the left kidney (asterisk in C and D) associated with perirenal hematoma (arrow in C), a contusion of the pancreatic tail (arrow in E), and a grade IV splenic injury (arrows in D, F). Angiography (G) performed on the same day shows inhomogeneous opacification of the spleen without any sign of active bleeding; main splenic artery embolization was performed with coils (H).

Injury prevention strategies should focus on improving riders' technique, trail conditions, and protective equipment, they added. The use of protective equipment is of crucial importance, and a full-face helmet -- like those used in motorcycling that include a horizontal bar to protect the lower face -- is probably the most important and nearly universally adopted piece of safety gear for downhill biking.

"Athletes without helmets are at greater risk to sustain fatal head injuries leading to disability or death," the authors pointed out. "A full set of body protections, gloves, and safety glasses are also encouraged. The neck brace is a novel protective equipment to prevent cervical spine injuries."

Looking to the future, the group is now collecting data with a retrospective analysis to better investigate the real frequency of each specific injury pattern in downhill biking injuries.

To view the whole ECR 2023 poster and learn more about the full range of cases, go to the EPOS section of the congress organizers' website.

The co-authors of the ECR e-poster were Drs. Giulia Porretti, Emanuela Baglivo, Francesco Ranieri, Giulia Casagranda, Francesca Paganelli, Umberto Rozzanigo, Benedetto Petralia, and Mauro Ferrari.

1147. https://road.cc/content/news/cyclist-dies-after-falling-90-feet-while-mountain-biking-300741

Cyclist dies after falling 90ft during mountain bike ride in moorland (Woodhead Mountain Rescue Team)

Cyclist dies after falling 90 feet while mountain biking on Peak District moorland

The tragic incident occurred as the cyclist was riding with friends on Bradfield Moors, near Sheffield, on Tuesday
by RYAN MALLON
FRI, APR 21, 2023 13:15
2

A cyclist has died after falling 90 feet down a hillside while mountain biking with friends in the Peak District earlier this week.

The tragic incident occurred on Tuesday at around 5.30pm at Foulstone Delph, off the Mortimer Road, in the north-easterly part of the Peak District, near Sheffield.

Both the Edale and Woodhead Mountain Rescue teams were called to the scene, following a report that a cyclist had fallen a considerable height.

Yorkshire Air Ambulance, South Yorkshire Police, and the South Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service were in attendance during what quickly became apparent was a gravely serious incident, while aerial support from the Humber Coastguard, requested to winch the casualty to hospital, was also provided.

According to Woodhead Mountain Rescue Team, after a careful examination by the air ambulance doctor, the cyclist was found to have suffered severe injuries in the approximately 90-foot fall and was pronounced dead at the scene.

The coastguard and air ambulance were then stood down, with the attention of the rescue teams turning to descending the steep drop and recovering the cyclist. Local gamekeepers assisted by transporting both the rescue team members and the cyclist across the moor.

Thank you to everyone who gave everything to help the situation, police and fire service, and especially the gamekeepers, Edale Mountain Rescue Team said in a statement(link is external).

Our thoughts are with the gentlemans family and friends at this very sad time.

Woodhead Mountain Rescue Team(link is external) added: Callouts like this dont happen often but when they do, team members remain calm, professional, and respectful. Our thoughts and sympathies are with the gentlemans family and friends at this very sad time.

Ryan Mallon

Ryan joined road.cc as a news writer in December 2021. He has written about cycling and some ball-centric sports for various websites, newspapers, magazines and radio. Before returning to writing about cycling full-time, he completed a PhD in History and published a book and numerous academic articles on religion and politics in Victorian Britain and Ireland (though he remained committed to boring his university colleagues and students with endless cycling trivia). He can be found riding his bike very slowly through the Dromara Hills of Co. Down.

1148. https://www.sacbee.com/news/california/article274576381.html

CALIFORNIA Mountain biker plunges 30 feet off CA trail and gets stranded. See dramatic rescue BY BROOKE BAITINGER APRIL 21, 2023 9:30 AM A mountain biker tumbled 30 feet into a ravine off the side of a single-track bike trail in California and required a helicopter rescue. Golden Gate Division Air Operations A mountain biker tumbled 30 feet into a ravine off a single-track bike trail in California, officials said. First responders hiked to her location in China Camp State Park, about 20 miles north of San Francisco, but the injured biker ultimately required a helicopter rescue, officials said in an April 16 Facebook post. Rescuers with Golden Gate Division Air Operations dropped a crew member from a helicopter into the gulch and hoisted the injured mountain biker into the air, dramatic rescue footage shows. Officials didnt elaborate on her injuries other than saying they were moderate. A San Rafael ambulance waited nearby to take her to the hospital, officials said in the post. PM BROOKE BAITINGER Brooke (she/them) is a McClatchy Real-Time reporter who covers LGBTQ+ news and national parks out west. They studied journalism at the University of Florida, and previously covered LGBTQ+ news for the South Florida Sun Sentinel. When theyre not writing stories, they enjoy hanging out with their cats, riding horses or spending time outdoors.

1149. https://azdailysun.com/news/local/mountain-biker-dies-after-fall-at-schultz-pass-trail/article_b3866cda-f33c-11ed-a8c0-0fad15471a00.html

Mountain biker dies after fall at Schultz Pass Trail

Sierra Ferguson
2 hrs ago

A mountain biker is airlifted by Guardian Medical Transport to Flagstaff Medical Center after suffering a fall from a height of 15 to 20 feet about a mile and a half up Schultz Creek Trail.
Summit Fire and Medical District, courtesy

Sierra Ferguson

Amountain biker was airlifted out of the Schultz Pass area Sunday afternoon after a fall and transported to Flagstaff Medical Center in critical condition.

She did not survive her injuries.

That mountain biker has since been identified as Katie Wittekind. Wittekind was a Northern Arizona University graduate and worked for almost 10 years with Northern Arizona Public Employee Benefit Trust as a Wellness Program Manager.

On Sunday, she fell between 15 and 20 feet off a ledge on Schultz Creek Trail, landing in a pile of fragmented and jagged rock below. In order to reach her, Summit Fire crews had to hike about a mile and a half up the trail, bringing medical equipment with them on foot.

According to Summit Fire Battalion Chief Torsten Palm, the initial call came in at about 2 p.m.

According to a Go Fund Me set up for the family, Wittekind was with her husband and son celebrating Mother's Day when the accident occured.

Wittekind died from her injuries at the hospital later that day.

Because of reception issues, dispatchers used the text-to-911 system, as well as traditional phone calls to help first responders to find the patient.

Summit Engine No. 37 was the first on scene, followed by Flagstaff Fire Battalion No. 1, according to Palm. Because patient access was an issue, additional resources from Guardian Medical Transport, Coconino County Sheriff Search and Rescue, and the Coconino County Sheriffs Office were also dispatched to the trail.

This really was a multi-agency response. Everybody works well together because we all train together, and we have great relationships, Palm said.

The patients condition and location prompted first responders to call in a helicopter from Guardian Medical Transport in hopes of getting the mountain biker to the hospital as quickly as possible.

The crews ended up making access to the patient and carrying the patient to a landing zone, Palm said. It was about transport time. From where the accident happened to the hospital, it was going to be faster than ground transport.

Despite the rescue's outcome, Palm said text messaging proved to be an important tool for first responders, as they tried to reach Wittekind.

In the Schultz Pass area in particular, poor reception can pose a serious safety risk, he said.

Sometimes if you dont have a good cell signal to talk on the phone, you can get text messages out, Palm said.

Still, he emphasized, hikers and mountain bikers should take cell service into account before attempting any trail.

Have a plan in case an accident does occur. Plan to get to a point, or have someone who can get to a point where theres call service to call or text for help, Palm said.

Sierra Ferguson can be reached at sierra.ferguson@lee.net.

1150. https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/national/490159/body-recovered-after-search-for-missing-mountain-biker

Body recovered after search for missing mountain biker

1:40 pm on 18 May 2023

File pic Photo: RNZ / Angus Dreaver

A mountain biker has been found dead after going missing in Coromandel.

Police and volunteers have been searching since the early hours today in Whangamat after receiving a report the person was missing around 1.30am.

Police expressed their condolences to the person's family and friends and also thanked all those who took part in the search.

The death will be referred to the coroner.

1051. https://www.ktvu.com/news/mountain-biker-sustains-life-threatening-injuries-on-walnut-creek-trail

Mountain biker sustains life-threatening injuries on Walnut Creek trail

By KTVU staff
Published May 22, 2023 10:19AM
Walnut Creek
KTVU FOX 2

Mountain biker sustains life-threatening injuries on Walnut Creek trail

A mountain biker is in the hospital after crashing at Shell Ridge in Walnut Creek Sunday. Officials said the victim sustained life-threatening injuries.

WALNUT CREEK, Calif. - A mountain biker is in the hospital after crashing at Shell Ridge in Walnut Creek Sunday.

Fire and rescue crews flew a helicopter to rush the person to John Muir Medical Center. The cyclist sustained life-threatening injuries, officials said.

Photos from the accident show rescuers carrying the person on a stretcher. Two other cyclists looked on as they carried the stretcher away.

Officials did not give the name of the victim.

1052. https://www.abc4.com/news/northern-utah/man-dies-e-biking-at-canyons-golf-in-park-city/

Man dies e-biking at Canyons Golf in Park City

by: Ryan Bittan

Posted: Jun 3, 2023 / 03:26 PM MDT

PARK CITY (ABC4) A man was pronounced dead after a serious incident while he was e-biking in Park City Friday morning, June 2.

Park City Mountain golf course staff responded to the incident at Canyons Golf at around 8:45 a.m.
Wasatch County to be home to new ski resort starting in 2024

Park City Mountain regretfully confirms a serious incident which took place at Canyons Golf on Friday, June 2, 2023, involving an adult male e-biker, a spokesperson for Park City Mountain said.

Officials said the man was pronounced dead at the scene by AirMed.

Park City Mountain, Canyons Golf and the entire Vail Resorts family extend our deepest sympathy and support to this individuals family and friends, said Deirdra Walsh, vice president and chief operating officer of Park City Mountain.

A portion of the course was temporarily closed on Friday, and has since reopened completely.

No further details are available at this time.

1053. https://www.abc.net.au/news/2023-06-04/mountain-biking-photographer-struck-by-rider-mt-stromlo/102438216

Popular mountain biking photographer David Blucher learning to walk again, five months after horrific Mount Stomlo accident

By James Glenday
Posted Yesterday at 5:07pm
David Blucher has spent more than five months in hospital with spinal injuries. (Facebook: David Blucher)

His steps are small and assisted by nurses, but for Canberra man David Blucher, walking is an achievement.

On New Year's Eve he went to Mount Stromlo for what was meant to be a quick session to photograph mountain bike riders. It had been his hobby for 12 years.

David doesn't remember what happened next. It's totally blank. He'd only taken 15 photos and was at a spot that he'd used many times before.

But he's been told a rider lost control near the bottom of a run, hitting him at speed.

Six of his ribs were broken and his family was initially told he'd been concussed.

His injuries though, were much worse.
David was left with serious spinal injuries after being struck by a biker at speed. (Supplied)

His spine had been broken in a few places and he required a lengthy emergency surgery, followed by a transfer for a long hospital stay in Sydney.

"I was in pretty dire straits. I was intubated when I woke up here," David said, speaking to the ABC from hospital in Sydney.

"I was a quadriplegic in clinical terms."

'An absolute legend'

The local mountain biking community was shocked and saddened by the accident.

For more than a decade, David had posted his action shots online for free and had become known to locals and visitors to Canberra.

"He's an absolute legend out here," said Mic Longhurst, a friend and mountain bike instructor.

"I've got huge amounts of my advertising that are photos of his.

"Everyone I know, probably half the mountain bike riders' [social media] photos here are probably something he did."
David Blucher spent many hours photographing mountain bikers at Mount Stomlo, much to the delight of riders. (Supplied: David Blucher)

Without being asked, Mic and the mountain biking community started raising money to assist the Blucher family. So far, they've received nearly $30,000.

"It's the first time I can think of where someone who wasn't riding has been injured here at Mount Stromlo," Mic said.

David has been overwhelmed by the donations and messages of support.

In a sign of how widespread his work is in the mountain biking community, one of the patients in a nearby hospital bed in Sydney has a photo David took on a social media profile.

"It's spirit-warming to know that support exists," David said.

"You have a lot of time to reflect in hospital and I have really reflected on the value of friendship.

"I want to acknowledge the support I've received, including from friends on Facebook."

Signs good for decent, if not full, recovery

David recently celebrated his birthday and is hopeful that he will be moved to a hospital in Canberra within the next few weeks.
David's wife Julie helps him celebrate his birthday in hospital. (Supplied)

Recovery from serious spinal surgery is always slow and it can be particularly hard when you are in your late 70s.

"I've lost a year of my retirement effectively," he said, before pointing out there were people in hospital in worse conditions than himself.

"I have some way to go," he added.

"But the trend certainly is encouraging. I'm feeling remarkably well right now."
David took his first steps a few weeks ago with the assistance of a frame and physiotherapists.(Facebook: David Blucher)

The spinal injury left David impaired down his right side.

"But that's coming, it's improving. The right side is better than it was," he said.

"The signs are good for a decent recovery, if not a full recovery."

Despite the accident, David is determined he will eventually get back on a bike and return to Mount Stromlo to take photos again.

"I need to be walking much better than I am now. It's certainly a goal," he said.

"By the end of the year is certainly realistic and if it happens before that, even better, because I'm keen.

"I'm quite hopeful I'll be back on the bike before too long."

1054. https://www.longmontleader.com/news-releases/mountain-biker-sustains-injuries-at-walker-ranch-7110585

Mountain biker sustains injuries at Walker Ranch

A 38-year-old woman was mountain biking with her partner when her front wheel hit a rock, causing her to go over the handlebars and land on her head
Community Submissionabout 5 hours ago
Image by Fabricio Macedo FGMsp from Pixabay
Listen to this article
00:01:58

NEWS RELEASE
BOULDER COUNTY SHERIFF'S OFFICE
*************************

On Tuesday June 6, 2023, at approximately 5:16 p.m., the Boulder County Communications Center was notified of a mountain biker who had sustained injuries while mountain biking on the Walker Ranch Loop Trail, a Parks and Open Space property located in unincorporated Boulder County.

The 38-year-old female from Boulder was mountain biking with her partner when her front wheel hit a rock, causing her to go over the handlebars and land on her head, but fortunately she was wearing a helmet. When she landed, she felt pain in both her head and neck and because of the crash. She determined she was unable to walk out to the trailhead, so her partner found cell service and called 911.

Paramedics from Mountain View Fire Protection District were able to access the injured party by UTV and were able to provide medical care including immobilization with a full body vacuum splint. She was placed into a litter and a wheeled litter evacuation was conducted by Mountain View Fire Protection District and the Rocky Mountain Rescue Group. Upon arrival back at the trailhead she was evaluated by paramedics from American Medical Response and transported by ambulance to a local hospital for further medical care and evaluation.

Agencies assisting with this rescue effort included: Boulder County Sheriff's Office, Boulder County Parks and Open Space, Mountain View Fire Protection District, American Medical Response, and Rocky Mountain Rescue Group.

As a reminder, if you are in an area with little cell phone service, you can also try to text 911. Dispatch centers in Boulder County have text-to-911 capabilities.

The associated Boulder County Sheriff's Office case number is: #23 03036.

1055. Why does Berkeley High School sponsor such a dangerous, environmentally destructive sport?????

Mike

https://www.nelsonstar.com/news/teenager-dies-following-mountain-biking-crash-at-big-white/

A teenager has died after crashing while competing in the BC Cup at Big White Ski Resort over the Canada Day long weekend. (Big White Ski Resort website)

Teenager dies following mountain biking crash at Big White

The teen was participating in the BC Cup

JORDY CUNNINGHAM
Jul. 4, 2023 10:15 a.m.

A teenager has died following a mountain biking crash at the BC Cup that took place at Big White Ski Resort over the Canada Day long weekend.

While details are scarce, the Kelowna RCMP confirmed the accident on Tuesday morning (July 4).

Despite wearing a helmet during the race, its believed the competitor crashed and hit their head. They died at the scene.

The BC Coroners Service is investigating but the death is not criminal by nature.

The Big White BC Cup was the first of eight events to take place during the BC Cup Series this summer, hosted by Cycling BC.

Were respecting the investigation at this time, a representative from Cycling BC said to Capital News.

Big White Ski Resort declined to comment.

1056. https://7news.com.au/news/sa/cyclist-dies-from-mountain-bike-crash-injuries--c-11331624

7NEWS
Thursday, 20 July 2023
Cyclist dies from injuries suffered in mountain bike crash

The 41-year-old man died in hospital.
Sowaibah Hanifie

A 41-year-old man from Adelaide has died in hospital following a mountain bike crash in Woodcroft.

South Australia Police said the crash happened on a bike track near Education Rd at about 11am on Sunday, July 16.

The 41-year-old man from Somerton Park was taken to Flinders Medical Centre, but died on Tuesday, July 18.

Major Crash investigators are investigating the circumstances surrounding the incident, police said in a statement.

1057. https://www.brecon-radnor.co.uk/news/999/mountain-rescue-team-deployed-for-mountain-bikers-serious-head-injury-627920

Mountain Rescue team deployed for mountain biker's serious head injury

By Joe Corrick | Reporter |
Friday 21st July 2023 2:34 am
@https://twitter.com/BnRExpress
joe.corrick@brecon-radnor.co.uk

(Central Beacons Mountain Rescue Team (Facebook))

Central Beacons Mountain Rescue Team were called out at 10pm last night (Thursday, July 20) to Cwmcarn Forestry Drive.
ALSO IN THE NEWS

A mountain biker had come off his bike in the forest, resulting in serious head injuries.

Central Beacons MRT members living nearby to the forest arrived on the scene quickly and liaised with the Welsh Ambulance Services NHS Trust crew.

The Welsh Ambulance Services NHS Trust workers were able to get their vehicle closer to the casualty

Central Beacons Mountain Rescue Team were told that their services were not required any further and they stood down for the night and headed for home.

A spokesperson for Central Beacons Mountain Rescue Team said: "We send our best wishes to the rider for a speedy recovery."

1058. https://www.bikemag.com/news/aven-elsberg-serious-injury

Up and Coming Canadian Mountain Biker Seriously Injured

Heart goes out to the kid

Alex Butler
Aug 7, 2023

Aven Elsberg, a promising Sea to Sky up and comer, suffered a serious spinal injury in Whistler over the weekend.

I speak for the staff when I say our hearts go out to Aven and his family. I hope he will be able to make a full recovery and be able to get back on the bike at some point in the not so distant future.

Here is the family's statement on the situation.

This is Avens family posting. Aven had a crash last week toward the end of a Whistler trail hes ridden many times. He landed weird on his head and neck, and has a cervical spine and spinal cord injury. He felt the cord injury happen. He had a couple other riders with him, they called patrol, one went for help, and the other stayed with Aven and talked with him and helped him be as comfortable as possible. Bike Patrol got there quickly given the location, and Patrol and Whistler SAR got him out in a difficult extrication, eventually long lining him out at dusk. He was transferred to a medevac helicopter and went straight to the hospital in Vancouver. We cant express enough how grateful we are to the riders with Aven, WBP patrol, and the SAR team that got him out of there in a difficult and risky extrication. As well as the medevac crew that flew through dusk to Vancouver.

Aven had a cervical spine fracture dislocation and his cord was compressed at the injury. He had surgery in the morning and his bone was stabilized and the cord decompressed. He is still on a ventilator with a breathing tube but we are hopeful in the next few days he can get off the ventilator. Many thanks to his care team who are amazing

Cognitively hes fine thankfully. For now we are in the acute phase of care, and hopefully after a week will start the progression toward rehab, and we hope improvement in his motor and sensory ability. Hopefully lots of improvement but the course is unpredictable. We do know he will be working hard, thankfully Aven has drive.

Weve had amazing support from our community. Its absolutely heartbreaking for us to see our son/brother going through this. We appreciate all the messages and positive energy sent to Aven and our family. We welcome messages, and his sister is reading them and will share them with Aven when he is ready. We hope soon he can be reading and responding to them himself. We cant always get back to you but know its appreciated. Please refrain from anything negative, we just plain arent in a space to handle that right now.

Aven just experienced an insane week, riding at a really high level and was super excited about his future riding bikes and going to university. His goals will be different but hell be back doing Aven things again, they just may look different. Hes got an amazing community around him to help get him there. - The Elsberg's via Instagram

Aven has received overwhelming support from the mountain bike community and many eagerly await word on his progress.

1059. https://www.piquenewsmagazine.com/local-news/man-dead-accident-whistler-bc-mountain-bike-trail-kill-me-thrill-me-august-2023-7392518

Man found dead after 'tragic accident' on Whistler mountain bike trail

Police say the mountain biker did not return home after heading out for a ride on Tuesday, Aug. 8
Megan Lalonde

Police say a man was found dead on a Whistler mountain bike trail on Thursday, Aug. 10. Earlier Thursday afternoon, Whistler RCMP issued a tweet asking the public to steer clear of "Kill Me, Thrill Me," a trail on the west side of the valley near Green Lake, while emergency services worked in the area.Screenshot, Google Maps
Listen to this article
00:01:22

A man was found dead Thursday on a Whistler mountain bike trail after what appears to be "a tragic accident," policed have confirmed.

According to a release, police initially responded to a call reporting the sudden death of an adult male on a local trail at approximately 11:20 a.m. on Aug. 10.

The confirmation comes following a tweet Whistler RCMP issued at 12:25 p.m. Thursday asking the public to avoid "Kill Me, Thrill Me," a black diamond route on the west side of Highway 99 northeast of Green Lake, while emergency services worked in the area.

Police said the deceased mountain biker was not reported missing, but reportedly failed to return home after heading out for a ride on Tuesday, Aug. 8.

Foul play is not suspected. Officers are working with the BC Coroners Service to investigate, and have not yet notified next of kin.

Our hearts go out to the family of the male who appears to have died from a tragic accident while mountain biking on one of the more challenging trails in the area," said Insp. Robert Dykstra, Officer in Charge with the Sea to Sky RCMP, in a statement.

Victim services are available to assist anyone affected by the incident, he added.

Check back for more as this story develops.

1060. https://www.bikemag.com/news/crash-captured-spectators

Mountain Biker's Frightening Crash Captured By Spectators

Reason #13921 to always wear a helmet.

Zander Lingelbach-Pierce
Aug 28, 2023

There are huge crashes and there are crashes where hugie is an understatement.

On August 28, 2023, Keegan Fry flew over the bars after crashing at a high speed. Watch the gruesome crash below.

Keegan was racing in the Stevie Smith Memorial Downhill at Mount Washington Bike Park on Vancouver Island, British Columbia. He was charging through a rough, technical section when he stuffed the front wheel and catapulted off the bike.

He flew forward through the air at a sickening pace. Thankfully, Keegan's body did a front flip in the air and he was able to partly roll out of the crash. Fry was fortunately okay and was able to walk off the course.

In later Instagram stories, Keegan confirmed that his x-rays were negative besides a deep bruise that is not for the faint of heart.

Keegan Fry

Keegan was in third place at the split before and absolutely charging. Let's hope he can heal up and compete in more races this year.

Fry gained recognition last year when he broke his femur clipping a tree at a BC Cup in Panorama.

Keegan is basically a human wrecking ball!

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By
Zander Lingelbach-Pierce

1061. https://www.wltribune.com/community/mountain-bike-crash-left-the-young-man-paralysed/

Cam Prest lost the use of his legs and much of his core stability after an injury he sustained mountain biking in 2021. (Ruth Lloyd photo - Williams Lake Tribune) Cam Prest lost the use of his limbs and much of his core stability after an injury he sustained mountain biking in 2021. (Ruth Lloyd photo - Williams Lake Tribune)
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CASUAL COUNTRY: Williams Lakes Cam Prest is taking life as it comes

Mountain bike crash left the young man paralysed

RUTH LLOYD
Sep. 16, 2023 5:00 a.m.
COMMUNITY

Cam Prest is easygoing, friendly and positive, which are three things not everyone would be able to exude just two years after losing the use of his legs at 19 years old.

Cam believes his easygoing personality is one of the factors enabling him to adapt to his new reality after the mountain bike crash which changed his life.

I dont like to think ahead into the future, I just like to deal with stuff as it comes, he explains, speaking to Black Press Media of how he has dealt with the challenges he has faced since June of 2021.

He was riding with friends in the Boitanio Bike Park.

It was dark, so that was the first mistake, Prest begins, as he tells the story of the night of he came down wrong on a bike jump.

Unable to properly see the landing, Cam remembers coming off his mountain bike and landing on his head.

When I crashed, I burst my T4 and T6 vertebrae, he explains.

He was in shock, laying on the ground, until the ambulance arrived.

I just thought it was the rocks digging into my back that was hurting as I was laying there.

An ambulance transported him to the Cariboo Memorial Hospital, where he was prepared and sent by air to Vancouver. At Vancouver General Hospital (VGH), he underwent six hours of surgery.

Prest is soft-spoken, and calm as he recounts the story of the bike crash and injury. He doesnt recall what the doctor said to him when he woke up after his injury and learned he might never walk again.

I didnt really react, I just managed to stay pretty calm through the whole thing.

It was three weeks before he left VGH for GF Strong Rehabilitation Centre where he spent two months doing rehab.

During his stay in GF Strong, Rick Hansen came to visit him while he rehabilitated from the injury.

It was just comforting to know that it was possible, my lifes not over, he said, of the visit from the Man in Motion icon.

Prest is an incredibly positive young man, despite being someone who led an active and physical lifestyle previous to this. Before his injury his hobbies included hockey in the winter, mountain biking in the spring and summer, and his job was fighting fire as a seasonal BC Wildfire Service employee.

But instead of sounding frustrated, Prest sounds grateful as he explains how even through rehab, he did not experience extreme pain.

I was super lucky that is was just my back and nothing else, like no arms or I didnt break any ribs or anything.

Throughout his process of injury, recovery and now adjusting to his new reality, he said he hasnt really had many roadblocks, partly thanks to the incredible support he has had from his family and the community.

The community coming together like it did was amazing, said Prest, noting the Go Fund Me page and donations were a huge support for the family, allowing them to renovate their new home for wheelchair access, purchase a new wheelchair and adaptive mountain bike.

While he was enjoying using the adaptive bike on the machine built mountain bike trail Loose Moose, he did have a crash and scared himself enough to decide to take a break for a bit.

Luckily this time I was wearing a neck brace, he recalls of the incident, which left him sore and his helmet scratched.

It is perhaps because of his amazingly positive outlook, he has managed to obtain a job with BC Wildfire Service. He had been on the Vesta Unit Crew prior to his injury, having worked through the 2020 fire season and was just partway into his second season with the crew when he was injured.

I liked having 20 best friends all the time, it was a pretty cool experience, he says of his time on Vesta.

In September 2021, he arrived back home, his family had moved into a new house in order for him to manage in a wheelchair.

All that winter until February, I was just at home, figuring things out, he recalls.

But it wasnt long before he returned to work, and is now an operations assistant, handling the logistics and plans role for fire centre operations, booking hotels and organizing the food for crews, and calling contract crews when they are needed. While its not firefighting on the line anymore, he does admit it is an exciting desk job.

While there are still challenges he is facing, like being stuck largely indoors during the winter due to mud and snow, Prest is grateful for his own strengths, such as the fitness he does have in his arms.

Being in the manual chair and having good arm strength Im able to muscle my way through a lot of things other people might struggle with, he notes.

Something which has now given him a renewed interest in sports is archery, after his 12-year-old brother Caelan inspired him to try the sport. Caelan had joined the junior Olympian program with the Cariboo Archers and encouraged Cam to join him in the organization.

Cams interest continues to grow, and before the busy work of fire season got underway, he was shooting at the Williams Lake Sportsmens Association a few times a week.

I find it just completely calms me down and then Im so focused on the shot process that I just get away from everything I guess, he explains about what has captured him about the technical sport.

The other aspect which Cam appreciates about archery is how it is more him against himself, trying to better his own performance in a solo activity. His compound bow and other archery equipment were stolen from his vehicle earlier this year, but luckily they were recovered after a call out on local and social media. The bow was turned into the RCMP and returned to Cam in one piece. His sentimental firefighting belt was also returned.

He does hope to compete in para archery, however, the nature of his injury provides a barrier, as the categories for para-sports are very specific in which adaptations an athlete can use.

While Cam does have the use of his arms, due to the location of his injury he does not have much core support. The regulations for competing as a para athlete only allows him to use a chest strap, which does not provide enough support for him to shoot.

With a shoulder strap, he can maintain an upright position enough to shoot the bow, but because he has the use of his arms, he can not shoot with this strap under para rules.

While he has requested an exception, at this point he isnt able to move forward in his dream of competing in the Paralympic Games. As well as a new interest in archery, Prest has also gone to a couple of sledge hockey camps, which he really enjoyed.

Its super hard, he says of the challenges balancing on the sledge, moving with the picks and stick handling all at the same time.

Theres a lot going on for just two limbs.

His pragmatic attitude includes how much assistance he wants from his family, which has been helping him throughout his recovery and reintegration back to work and life.

He says they helped him immensely at the start and now as he becomes more capable, they have backed off to let him manage more on his own.

Which is good, because Id rather be treated like everyone else rather than people tip-toe around me.

1062. https://hoodline.com/2023/10/san-clemente-mountain-biker-airlifted-in-rescue-operation-by-orange-county-fire-authority/

San Clemente Mountain Biker Airlifted in Rescue Operation by Orange County Fire Authority

Source: Facebook/Orange County Fire Authority
By Gabriela Martinez
Published on October 08, 2023

A distress call from a mountain biker initiated an immediate rescue operation by the Orange County Fire Authority (OCFA) yesterday. The accident occurred around 8:00 AM in a secluded region near Avenida Vista Montana in San Clemente, as reported in an OCFA Facebook post.

Multiple units including Engine 60, Truck 59, Patrol 7, and Battalion 6 were engaged to respond to this emergency. Firefighters maneuvered the challenging terrain to reach the injured male to begin immediate treatment. Due to the location's remoteness and the urgent nature of the situation, a quick extraction was necessary, prompting the deployment of Helicopter 2.

The team comprising firefighter paramedics found, the biker with severe injuries. This necessitated evacuation via the dispatched helicopter. In a swift and careful operation, the responders hoisted the patient into the helicopter, as noted by OCFA.

In-flight medical care was provided by the fire department's paramedics during the patient's transport to the hospital.

1063. https://www.ktvu.com/news/berkeley-man-dies-on-mountain-biking-trip-in-sierra-county

Berkeley man dies on mountain biking trip in Sierra County

By Aja Seldon
Published October 11, 2023 6:45PM
Berkeley
KTVU FOX 2

Search and rescue crews were called to Downieville Downhill Trail in Sierra County to find a missing mountain biker, Joel Lusk, of Berkeley.

DOWNIEVILLE, Calif. - A Berkeley man who failed to return from a mountain biking and camping trip in Sierra County was found dead, according to sheriff's deputies.

The Sierra County Sheriff's Office confirmed the recovery of Joel Lusk's body on Tuesday morning in Downieville.

The man's wife had alerted authorities on Monday that her husband did not return from his excursion.

The sheriff's office confirmed that Lusk had taken a mountain bike shuttle from Downieville to Packer Saddle on Friday morning. His plan involved returning to Downieville via the Downieville Downhill Trail, followed by a camping stay in the Gold Lake Basin area after completing his ride.

When Lusk's wife had not heard from him, she contacted the shuttle company, which confirmed that he had been dropped off at Packer Saddle on Friday. Meanwhile, his vehicle, along with his camping gear, were still parked in Downieville.

On Tuesday morning, search and rescue teams began scouring the trail in search of the man. The National Guard deployed its helicopter to support the search operation.

Around 11:40 a.m., search teams located Lusk's mountain bike in a steep and remote area along the trail. The bike was about 100 feet below the trail, near the summit of a large cliff and a box canyon, according to the sheriff's office.

After locating the bike, several specialized search and rescue rope teams rappelled down the cliffs and into the Pauly Creek drainage. Utilizing a drone, search team members located Lusk's body approximately 900 feet downstream.

The National Guard's helicopter airlifted Lusk's remains and transported his body to awaiting deputies.

"The Sierra County Sheriff's Office extends its heartfelt condolences to Mr. Lusk's family and friends during this incredibly challenging and distressing time," the sheriff's office wrote.

Search and rescue crews were called to Downieville Downhill Trail in Sierra County to find a missing mountain biker, Joel Lusk, of Berkeley.

1064. https://www.cbs17.com/news/north-carolina-news/woman-dies-during-nc-mountain-bike-race-fundraiser-honors-legacy/

Woman dies during NC mountain bike race; fundraiser honors legacy

by: Cassie Fambro

Posted: Oct 12, 2023 / 06:28 AM EDT

Updated: Oct 12, 2023 / 11:53 AM EDT

GREENSBORO, N.C. (WGHP) 23-year-old Zoe Clay died shortly after a fall that her loved ones called a freak accident during a competitive charity bike race in Greensboro last Sunday.

Clay, an avid cyclist, was helping to raise money to take care of the mountain biking trails in the Piedmont Triad.

Many photos show Clay in her element, smiling ear to ear in her biking gear and behind the handlebars on the course. Its something she took up later in life, but its where she found her passion.

Clay and her boyfriend Will Hardin regularly recapped bike races on his YouTube channel.

Zoe shared the same love of biking that we did, Hardin said Wednesday afternoon.

Hardin met Clay about a year and a half ago while doing road racing and cycle cross.

Just a wonderful and bright light that was introduced into our little community, he said.

Clay felt at home in the Winston-Salem biking community.

In just a couple of days, a GoFundMe for her has reached more than $65,000. With costs covered, the rest of the money will honor Clays legacy.

Hopefully, we can get support for the causes she loved She was so passionate about getting girls on bikes and seeing them smile, said Hardin.

Hardin said her death is a true loss for the entire cycling community.

Getting to see that trajectory would have been spectacular. She had a lot of promise in the sport, he said.

And those who loved the smiling, adventurous girl on the bike will remember her as long as they ride.

She was a wonderful person, and we miss her, said Hardin.

The GoFundMe will be updated soon when her loved ones figure out the best way to carry out her mission of encouraging young women to ride bikes.

1065. https://www.essentiallysports.com/viral-sports-moments-news-after-young-woman-passes-away-in-a-tragic-mountain-biking-accident-community-comes-together-to-organise-5k-run/

After Young Woman Passes Away in a Tragic Mountain Biking Accident, Community Comes Together to Organise 5K Run

Published 10/27/2023, 7:10 AM PDT
By
KENNETH SOARES

sHaving a community that supports you and the causes you stand for is underrated. With a supportive community comes a feeling of belonging and the confidence that you can rely on people near you. As the saying goes, it takes a village to raise a child. In our interconnected world, supporting local communities is a crucial aspect one cant overlook. And such was a community that came together to remember one of them in an unusual way.

Americas Favorite Video Today

Zoe Clay, a young athlete was once tipped for big things in the future. Unfortunately, fate reared its ugly head, and Clay ended up in a fatal tragedy. The then-23-year-old died doing what she loved most: mountain biking. Now, her community has gathered together to remember and celebrate the life she led.

Who was Zoe Clay?

To her loved ones, Zoe Clay was a curious, bright, loving, and passionate person, always making a massive impact on those around her. Its so hard to summarize how much life she packed into 23 years, said Zoes father, Tom Clay. Zoe was genuinely unique. An athlete by heart, she always loved a challenge. In fact, she was seen as someone who would often get bored of things that werent too challenging for her.

Those around Zoe were often struck by her curiosity. In fact, it was the very trait that made her a great student. She was destined for brilliance from day one, entering Wake Forest on a scholarship and showing an inherent ability to play sports with ease. She dipped her toe into sports by running cross country but graduated to track before eventually finding her niche in cycling.

Tragically, Zoe Clay lost her life on October 8 in a mountain biking accident while racing on a bike trail near Bur-Mil Park The loss was sudden and too much for her family to handle. I text her several times a day about things that I try to tell her, her father says. I keep thinking shes on a trip and shell be coming back soon and I cant get my brain around the fact that shes not coming back. In these tough times, the community and her loved ones have organized a special event in her remembrance to honor and celebrate her life.

The Community Honors Zoe

Since her tragic demise, her friends and family have organized a 5K fun run before bike races this Sunday. However, it was the overwhelming support from the community that helped those hit the hardest by Zoes death. In fact, the community is looking forward to the big celebration of Zoes life. After the initial activities, participants will walk the dirt trail to Zoes Pondside Memorial. Zoes loved ones will charge a $20 entry fee for the activities, which they intend to donate to local youth cycling in Zoes honor.

It is good to know that the goodness we hold is not gone once we are. It is carried on by people around us and those inspired by us. Zoe left an indelible mark on those around her, and now they will honor her memory in a way that would please her the most.

Providing feedback will help us make your experience better.

The Fan's Perspective

Written by:

Kenneth Soares

1066. https://www.knysnaplettherald.com/News/Article/General/tour-de-plett-participant-dies-during-race-202311120622

TOUR DE PLETT PARTICIPANT DIES DURING RACE

The deceased was described by Stewart as a retired gentleman and avid mountain biker involved in the Plett mountain biking community.

Correspondent Chris van Gass | Sunday, 12 November 2023, 06:14
Photo for illustrative purposes only. Photo: Canva

PLETTENBERG BAY NEWS - A cyclist, believed to be a retired Plettenberg Bay resident, died during the Tour de Plett cycle race yesterday, Saturday 11 November.

Exact details of the incident are not available yet, but race organiser James Stewart described it as a tragic event and said out of respect for the mans family, he was not in a position to comment.

Stewart said the incident took place during mid-to-late morning in Bitou on a rural farm. The Tour de Plett, an annual event that has been held for a number of years, traverses 18 different properties. It is a Cycling South Africa-sanctioned event.

The deceased was described by Stewart as a retired gentleman and avid mountain biker involved in the Plett mountain biking community.

Stewart said it was an unfortunate accident and said investigations were still in the early stages.

The Tour de Plett consists of a 60km, 38km and 18km options. The event offers something for everyone. It was a tragic event and out of respect for the family I do not wish to further comment, said Stewart.

We bring you the latest Garden Route, Hessequa, Karoo news

Read more about: tour de plett race death chris van gass
Posted on: 06:14 Sun, 12 November 2023

1067. https://coastcommunitynews.com.au/central-coast/news/2023/11/man-dies-on-mountain-bike-ride/

Man dies on mountain bike ride

TOPICS:Mangrove Mountain Mountain Biker Dies
A trail near Dubbo Gully is popular with off road cyclists

NOVEMBER 13, 2023

A man has died while on a mountain bike ride at Mangrove Mountain over the weekend.

On Sunday, November 12, at about 11:30am emergency services were called to Dubbo Gully Rd, Mangrove Mountain, after reports of concern for the welfare of a 66-year-old man.

Toll Rescue Helicopter attended the medical emergency to assist NSW Ambulance paramedics who treated the man, but he died at the scene.

Officers attached to Brisbane Water Police District attended and were told the man was participating in a group bike ride at the time.

An investigation into the incident has commenced and a report will be prepared for the information of the Coroner.

1068. https://www.pinkbike.com/news/landon-mcgauley-on-becoming-paralyzed-a-second-time.html

Rebuilt: Landon McGauley on Experiencing Many Shades of Paralysis

Dec 2, 2023
by Alicia Leggett Follow

Landon McGauley is a mountain biker and skier whose mountain biking and skiing path has had some serious twists and turns, and yet hes still working his way forward.

First a standard two-wheeled teenage mountain biker, Landon crashed in a downhill race and was paralyzed at age 15. He worked through his recovery, returning soon to his sports by learning how to sit ski and ride an adaptive bike. Those sports helped him to keep progressing, both physically and in life, and he also formed a partnership with the foundation that helped him learn to sit ski, eventually starting to work for them.

Then, he crashed again, breaking his spine once more, higher, and becoming a quadriplegic. His recovery from that second injury is ongoing and definitely doesnt sound easy, but there are a few highlights: for one thing, feel free to CTRL+F for words like fortunate and friends. Landon can clearly see the ways luck was on his side, even in a horrific context.

This is the latest article in my interview series Rebuilt, in which I talk with people who have gone through severe injuries, trying to understand what happens next. Part of my interest is because Im recovering from my own head injury - find my latest update on that here. But part of my interest is all about the stories themselves and the people who manage to keep moving forward, even if that forward motion looks different than it did before.

Landon is someone with a whole lot of perspective, some of it very hard-earned but all of it valuable. I really appreciate him taking the time to share his story below.

Could you start by telling me the story of what happened?

Landon McGauley: I was 15 when I broke my back, it was actually the second time. That sounds bad, it sounds like I just don't learn. I broke my back when I was in grade 8 but it was kind of just a small fracture, just from a stupid crash. Then I was 15 and I was in a downhill mountain bike race at Sun Peaks. I had a bad crash and broke my back and ended up a paraplegic. I was in Vancouver after that. I learned how to kind of relive life. I was paraplegic and at that point. I pretty much left the hospital totally independent - full arm strength, upper body strength and everything.

I relearned to live, relearned how to ski. I traveled around with the ski team and raced and everything. Then, around 2018, I got a Bowhead adaptive mountain bike, which was so cool. Mountain biking had always been my number one thing, I just wasnt able to do it for a lot of years. And this bike was so capable and so fun, back riding with friends. Id ridden other adaptive bikes, but they were so limited on what you could ride with them. You kind of needed to ride adaptive trails. Those are really great in some ways and really cool, but I was a mountain biker before and I wanted to go ride tech trails or go ride fun trails with my buddies. When I got my Bowhead Bike, I could go ride pretty much any trail for the most part.

Relearning how to ski was a huge part of Landon's recovery process.

I have sort of a dumb question. I keep hearing from people who've ridden Bowhead Bikes that they're amazing and different from all the other adaptive bikes. What makes them special?

They're about 10 inches narrower than the next narrowest bike in the front, and the whole front end is really cool. Its designed around a king pivot so it can actually articulate. So instead of being super unstable and tippy and locked in on uneven terrain, one wheel can be higher or lower than the other. So you can rail coroners or anything off-camber. you can be leaning into the hill instead of being locked in with the axle on the bike. So that makes it really capable.

Yeah, that makes sense, having control over your angle to the ground.

So I got a few years of really fun, awesome riding. It was the same deal, meeting other adaptive bikers and becoming friends, not because we both are adaptive riders - it was like, were friends because we can go mountain biking together. It was kind of the dream again. Then, in March of this year, March 26, I just went out for a chill ride with a buddy. And these trails are so easy. I ended up coming around a corner where there was no berm and there was a ditch on one side. I flipped into the ditch, kind of went headfirst into the ditch, and broke my neck.

That's crazy. How did it feel like when you had just crashed that time? Do you remember what you were thinking and feeling?

I do. I've crashed before and you have that moment of this is gonna suck. I had that, I didn't think really anything more than that. After I hit the ground it was just static through my arms and through my neck. Immediately I was like No, this is so much worse than just getting some road rash or breaking a collarbone or something. I knew right away that it was bad. Fortunately my roommate and good buddy was right behind me and he was able to be there and call the ambulance and stay with me until I was able to get off the trail and into the hospital.

Wow, that sounds brutal. How did your recovery go after that?

It is definitely ongoing, so much more than the first time. I don't know if this will make sense, but it was like an on-or-off thing last time, either something worked or it didn't work. My legs didnt work, but my upper body was fully strong. My arms now, they're pretty weak. My triceps are weak and my hands are very limited, but they are getting better. So they're kind of half on, so that's kind of wild. Before, I could either do something or not. Now, its like, maybe. If that makes any sense.

Does the uncertainty of that stress you out? What does that feel like to deal with?

It does for sure. This injury has been emotionally - and physically, but really emotionally much harder than the first injury, being so limited. My spontaneity - it feel like I kind of need to plan out for how things are gonna work. There's no like, I can make that work. It's like, if theres not an accessible bathroom or something like that, it's probably not going to work. Before, it was more like, I can wheel up this hill and just pee on the bush or something.

The Bowhead no-hander. We love to see it.

I have a question about terminology. Are you paraplegic still or quadriplegic now? Are there different shades like paraplegic-plus or anything?

Yeah, so technically a quadriplegic is anyone who has impairment in all four limbs. A lot of people hear quadriplegic and think, like, Christopher Reeves, cant move anything.

Yeah, that's kind of the idea that I had but I also just haven't learned that.

Totally and that's very common. And so now I'm a quadriplegic, meaning I have impairment in all four limbs.

Are you still able to ride a bike at all now?

Bowheads been great, I've been in contact with them. They do have a setup for different braking and steering and everything. I haven't had the chance to get back on a bike. I don't think I'm quite there yet. Just trying to figure out everything else in my life right now, but I will get back.

Yeah, that's wild but also really cool that you're able to think forward about back. How do you feel about the sport of mountain biking as a whole right? Has your relationship with it changed since getting her again?

I almost wish it had more than it did. Before, I was so obsessed with mountain biking - I could tell you whatever pedal every slopestyle guy was riding, and it was hard at times because I wanted to do it so much. Now, it really hasn't changed. When Rampage was just happening, I was so invested in it, seeing everyone's lines and dissecting it that way, it hasn't changed. It's changed in the way of wanting to go out and do it, but it hasn't changed in the way of being a mountain bike fan.

And with having multiple back breaks, does that change your risk over time of having more breaks to your back, anything like that?

I don't think so, no. I've had two surgeries on my back. The first time, they fused they put a rod from T8 to T3 or something like that, so that became super stable with the hardware in there. And then this time, they went in through the front of my neck and put a smaller plate in just to stabilize the vertebrae that I broke this time, so I shouldn't be at any more risk than anyone else.

After another surgery.

I hear jokes sometimes where people say if they were in a wheelchair, theyd be able to send it so hard because they wouldn't be worried about that again or whatever, but that it seems like you've sort of been through the worst side of that. Do you ever hear that, or how does that feel to you?

I haven't really heard those but that's funny because I guess I'm the study where that's not the case.

Yeah, I don't know. I heard your story and thought of that idea and kind of thought, Wow, turns out you can still get hurt a lot further.

Yeah, your risk of breaking your leg is a lot less but you're kind of in a position where your head is the first to hit the ground.

Seriously, yeah. How did all your phases of injury and recovery change you as a person?

I'd like to think I'm still the same person. I was fortunate in some ways. Usually when you crash on the Bowhead, your head hits and you get that flash of light, you know youve hit your head, youre dizzy and everything. I didn't get that this time. I really don't think I hit my head. So fortunately my brain is still the same, and then physically things are a lot different, but I'd like to think that I'm still the same. My friends who were my friends before, weve only gotten closer and Id like to think there isnt any difference in me mentally or personality-wise.

How's your support system been through all this? Your friends have been able to stick by your side?

Yeah, I feel fortunate in that way. My parents were able to be with me the whole time I was in Vancouver. My brother was able to be with me and then my friends have just been unbelievable the whole time. I feel like they would leave their own wedding to come give me a hand getting off the couch if that's what needed to happen.

I think about that a lot, how fortunate I am to be surrounded by people who are so caring and loving and just great people.

I think that makes a huge difference.

Absolutely, I feel so sad for people because not everyone's in that situation. When I was in rehab there were people my age whose parents weren't able to be there or their friends weren't able to be there all the time. So that would make it even that much harder.

Definitely. What's your best advice for anyone coping with a similar life-changing injury?

That's so tough. Because everything's changing all the time and you kind of got to take it day by day. As cliche as it is, Ive used this example so many times but its real. When you're outside and you're so cold and it feels like you're never gonna be warm again, then you go inside and you warm up, like, I made it through that, that wasn't that bad. I think about that a lot in life. When things are really shitty, eventually they won't be. I still feel like I'm out in the cold a lot of the time and things are really challenging and not how I want them to be, but then they get better, whether it's the next day or a month or a year or whatever. Eventually youre inside and youre warm again. You can look back at that and know you made it through.

Totally. Do you have an idea of what it will take to move you into a phase where you feel more consistently warm and solid and in a good place?

I think just more time. I got a lot of hard work to do, physio and getting stronger. It'll get there someday. It doesn't feel like it but I know it. Yeah, time, hard work, and continuing to be positive.

What types of physio are you doing nowadays?

I actually just started with physio - our medical system is overworked, I think is the biggest problem. Its tough not to get frustrated, but I got to keep in mind that it's not the physio's fault or the hospital's fault, just the system as a whole. I just got set up with physio this last week. My triceps are my weakest muscle that is improving, which is so huge for transferring or getting into bed, off the couch, into a car or whatever. So it's going to be a lot of work on my triceps and trying to get them as strong as possible.

Landon is looking forward to spending more time on the bike once he's further along in his recovery.

Very cool, I hope you keep progressing with that. Is there anything else we havent covered yet thats important in your story?

Well I work for a foundation called the High Fives Foundation.

Oh yeah, Id actually really like to hear about that.

There have been many things that have gone in my favor and probably the biggest one was getting connected with High Fives Foundation back in late 2010 after my injury. Through this crazy chain of events, they started emailing my parents - I didn't even know about it, and they flew me down to Tahoe. They were still a very small foundation at that point and they taught me how to set ski and then gave me my own set ski.

And skiing has been one your main sports, right?

For sure, and it was just like that sense of normalcy, being able to go out with my friends and ski around instead of being stuck at home in my head - an idle mind is not a good thing. So I got connected with High Fives early on and then as they grew, I went on different trips with them. I went surfing with them and waterskiing in Mississippi and just I really connected with the foundation.

Then in 2017, I started working for them. And so it's kind of a full circle. I was able to call people and tell them that we were gonna be giving them equipment that was gonna change their lives. Just like how they did for me in 2010.

I've been working with them for a number of years now and they just have grown much. I was the ninth athlete they supported and we just supported our 715th athlete.
It's really cool and it's a bunch of like-minded people. A lot of the athletes that we get bring on camps and I get to hang out with, like I said before, they're not just good people because they're injured. They're people you'd want to hang out with and spend time with.

The sit ski has been a valuable tool, and there's been some serious sending.

That sounds so great. I'm glad that's been part of your recovery. Are you still doing stuff with them after this next injury?

I am yeah, and that's been so fortunate. They've been so unbelievable, like, When you're ready to come back working, we got a job for you. Theyve supported me throughout my whole recovery. I'm not working to the same capacity, but I am working as much as I can and I'm able to connect with new athletes and people going through similar struggles, which helps me as much as I'd like to think maybe I'm helping them.

That's so cool. And I bet you are helping people even just by getting your story out there, showing whats possible in recovery.

I hope so, totally.

I mean similarly, I appreciate getting to hear your story right now and it's just so cool to see you working through it and see you progressing, getting better.

Im trying, day by day for sure.

For anyone who would like to learn more, find Landon on Instagram here and find the High Fives Foundation website here. Thanks for reading. Landon, thanks again for being so open about your experiences and good luck with your continued recovery.

1069. https://www.newsandstar.co.uk/news/24052747.60-year-old-mountain-biker-dies-near-keswick/

60-year-old mountain biker dies after 'suspected cardiac arrest'

60-year-old mountain biker dies near Keswick

11 hrs ago
EMERGENCY
CUMBRIA
By Paul McTaggart @pmctaggart_7News reporter
Keswick MRT attend to mountain biker at Springs Wood (Image: Keswick MRT)

A 60-year-old mountain biker has died after he suffered 'suspected cardiac arrest' at Springs Wood, near Keswick.

Passers-by alerted authorities at 12.45pm on January 13, which prompted responses from Keswick Mountain Rescue Team and the Great North Air Ambulance Service.

The casualty received emergency medical assistance on scene and was subsequently transported to Cumberland Infirmary.

The man could not be resuscitated and later died in the hospital.

A spokesperson from Keswick MRT said: "Passers-by had reported a 60 year old man who had suffered a suspected cardiac arrest while mountain biking up the trail and had dialed 999 for help.

"The team quickly deployed to the scene where the ambulance crew along with Great North Air Ambulance Service were already providing emergency medical assistance.

"The team helped to transfer the casualty to the waiting ambulance for transport to Cumberland Infirmary. Unfortunately despite everyone's best efforts, the man could not be resuscitated and later died in hospital.

"The team's thoughts are with man's family," they said.

1070. https://www.gjsentinel.com/opinion/editorials/fatality-leads-to-better-plunge/article_50a552b6-d757-11ee-aef3-67d406a0a72d.html

Fatality leads to better Plunge

The 2020 death of a mountain biker on the Palisade Plunge trail forcefully communicated to the riding public that this trail is to be taken seriously.

Jeffrey Higgins death probably did more to heighten awareness about the potential dangers of the trail than any public relations campaign could have.

The Plunge is treacherous in spots; but the biggest danger is staying hydrated on the strenuous 32-mile trail from the top of Grand Mesa to the town of Palisade.

Its hardly a pure downhill experience. Traversing the side of the steep mountainside requires significant exertion. Higgins, from Colorado Springs, ran out of water on a blistering June day when temperatures reached 102 degrees in the valley.

His death, while tragic, made an impact on the activity he loved. Its impossible to calculate the number of riders who, after his death, have taken extra precautions before embarking on the descent.

Now Higgins family is going the extra step to turn their loss into something positive for the community of trail users. When Higgins died, his family asked that donations be made in his name to the Colorado Plateau Mountain Biking Association (COPMOBA), Jeffreys older brother Daniel Higgins told the Sentinels Dan West.

A group was formed to explore ways to improve rider safety on the trail. COPMOBA board member Scott Winans said it included representatives from local governments, federal agencies and mountain bike businesses.

It identified a double-track road, called Cottonwood Creek Road, that intersects with the trail as a good safety exit point before the final major descent into town. Now COPMOBA, the town of Palisade and the Higgins family are working together to install a shade structure at that spot, along with signage on the Plunge trail to help distressed riders get to safety.

The idea was, can we find a location that would be a good stopping point if someone gets down to a certain point and goes, Hey, I dont think I can handle this anymore. I need an easier way down, Palisade Mayor Greg Mikolai said.

The land at that intersection is owned by the town of Palisade, which signed a memorandum of understanding with COPMOBA in February. Palisade will provide the land and the Higgins family, with the help of COPMOBA, will provide the structure, which Winans said will be similar to the Lunch Loops Trailhead shade structures.

We cant say enough about the sense of duty participants showed throughout this process. The Plunge was planned and designed as an extreme trail. The notoriety of a death on the trail wasnt part of the dream to create an epic ride. But once it happened, the parties didnt shy away from the challenge of creating a safer experience for trail users.

Daniel Higgins said he thought his brother would be proud of his family for doing our best to make as good of an outcome out of this tragic event that we could.

Were proud of the Higgins family for that and equally proud of the support they received from locals determined to make a signature trail as safe as reasonably possible.

1071. https://snowbrains.com/snow-biker-killed-after-being-caught-in-2-avalanches-near-revelstoke-bc/

Snow Biker Killed After Being Caught in 2 Avalanches Near Revelstoke, BC

AvyBrains | March 4, 2024 | Avalanche

Overview of the avalanche. Image courtesy Revelstoke Search and Rescue

A 58-year-old man from Alberta was killed in an avalanche while snow biking in the backcountry north of Revelstoke on Sunday afternoon, March 3.

The tragic accident occurred on Sale Mountain, where the man was caught in an avalanche at 6,500 feet around 1 p.m. while riding with a group. While his group was administering first aid to the rider, the situation took a turn for the worst when a second avalanche struck.

A group of snow bikers was riding on Sale Mountain north of Revelstoke when one of the riders was caught in a size 2 avalanche. The other snow bikers located the subject and dug him out quickly. A separate group riding in the area came to help. While both groups were working on the rescue response, which included CPR, a connected slope released, burying some of the snowmobiles of the second group. Both of these avalanches released on a weak layer of facets over a crust which formed in early February.

Avalanche Canada preliminary report

Revelstoke Search and Rescue and local authorities responded to the scene. The man was airlifted to Revelstokes Queen Victoria Hospital, where, despite all life-saving attempts, he was pronounced dead later that day.

Revelstoke RCMP confirmed the incident and expressed condolences to the family and friends of the deceased. The BC Coroners Service has initiated an investigation into the tragic event.

Avalanche Canada, attributing the slides to weak layers formed in early February, extended its public avalanche warning through Thursday following the weekends fatalities.

The avalanche danger rating for the day was High above the treeline. Recent heavy snowfall and underlying weak layers have heightened the risk of avalanches, prompting authorities to urge caution among outdoor enthusiasts. Avalanche Canada emphasizes the importance of making conservative terrain choices and adhering to safety protocols, including checking avalanche forecasts and ensuring all members of a backcountry party possess essential rescue gear and training.

The warning area includes coastal regions, the Rocky Mountains, and areas extending into Alberta. Backcountry users are advised to stay vigilant and updated on avalanche conditions through official channels.

Avalanche Canada provides up-to-date information and resources on their website at avalanche.ca for those venturing into the backcountry.

The fatality is the third avalanche-related death in Canada this winter. There have also been 11 avalanche fatalities in the US.

1072. If a "highly experienced mountain bike rider and coach" can die from a mountain biking accident, what does that say about other mountain bikers & children?!

Mike

https://www.nsnews.com/local-news/north-vancouver-school-worker-dies-following-mountain-bike-crash-8570292

North Vancouver school worker dies following mountain bike crash

Colleagues have identified the victim as an educational assistant and highly experienced mountain bike rider and coach.
Brent Richter
about 5 hours ago
A Talon Helicopter hovers above North Shore Rescues Cap Gate Search and Rescue Station, April 6, 2024 | North Shore Rescue
Listen to this article
00:02:17

A mountain biker has died following a crash on the trails near West Vancouvers Cypress Provincial Park.

West Vancouver Fire & Rescue, BC Ambulance Service and North Shore Rescue were all called to the area just above the District of West Vancouvers works yard Saturday afternoon after receiving a report of a mountain biker hitting a tree and going into cardiac arrest.

Rescue personnel attempted to resuscitate the man and North Shore Rescues team doctor continued working on him right up until they transferred him to an ambulance at a helipad on the Vancouver waterfront after the rider was taken off the mountain by helicopter.

We engaged our advanced medical group. We had a helicopter sitting so we were crewed up and ready to go immediately, said team leader Mike Danks. He didnt make it.

Colleagues from within the North Vancouver School District, where he worked as an educational assistant, have identified the victim as Andrew Chu, 51.

District superintendent Pius Ryan sent a message to Chus colleagues Monday acknowledging the loss.

It is with a heavy heart I inform you of the tragic passing of one of our NVSD colleagues, Andrew Chu. Andrew had worked as an educational assistant for several years, most recently at Windsor Secondary and Norgate Elementary School, it read. Andrew passed away suddenly and unexpectedly on Saturday after a terrible mountain biking accident and our hearts and deepest sympathy go out to his family and friends.

Chu was a highly experienced and popular mountain biker, with more than 2,700 followers on Instagram where he posted videos of his rides on the North Shore and in Squamish.

Fans and friends have been leaving tributes for Chu on his Instagram page and on the social media feeds of the companies that sponsored him.

RIP Andrew, you were the best coach and never failed to make me laugh or smile. Ride In Peace, one comment read.

Thank you for being such a kind and wonderful person another added.

Danks said downhill mountain bike trails on the slopes of Hollyburn Mountain are among the most difficult on the North Shore.

Theres some very, very high consequence trails there, he said.

brichter@nsnews.com
twitter.com/brentrichter

1073. https://www.bikemag.com/news/tacoma-mtber-critical-condition

Tacoma Area Mountain Biker In Critical Condition After Crash

She suffered the accident on Beacon Hill in Spokane, Washington

Alex Butler
Apr 10, 2024

On April 5th, Jayme Hill, a Tacoma area mountain biker, took a bad crash on Beacon Hill - Spokane's local zone - resulting in several broken vertebrae, 16 broken ribs, broken scapula, and sternum. She has been hospitalized in Spokane since the incident.

Here was the alert put out by The Sturdy Dirty on Monday.

Injured biker

The Sturdy Dirty

It is unclear if Jayme was in Spokane to race Hubapalooza, which took place that same weekend, or simply out to ride the hill. But, either way, our thoughts are with her and her family at this time.

According to the post attached to her GoFundMe, doctors are still determining what other internal injuries she has sustained. Jayme posted an update to the page saying that she is stable but in a great deal of pain and that if it weren't for her helmet she surely would have sustained a traumatic brain injury at least.

You can find the link to the GoFundMe set up for her here and a picture of her helmet to remind you why it is always important to wear one below.

Broken helmet after Jayme's crash

GoFundMe

We will update this article with information as it comes out.

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By
Alex Butler

alex.butler@bikemag.com

1074. No amount of signage will prevent such accidents! Bikes should be restricted to pavement, where real safety standards exist.

Mike

https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/national/514116/call-for-stronger-trail-grading-standards-after-mountain-biker-s-death

Call for stronger trail grading standards after mountain biker's death

2:39 pm on 12 April 2024
Natalie Akoorie, Waikato reporter
@NatalieAkoorie

Clinton Handcock, pictured with partner Rosie Sargent. Photo: Supplied

Clinton Handcock had no warning of a difficult jump ahead as he mountain biked through Rotorua's Whakarewarewa Forest with family two days after his birthday in November 2022.

The 48-year-old was an experienced rider who rode with caution and competently handled difficult grade five and six trails, a coroner's report into his death has found.

But on that day, he took a left fork in the grade three Taura Tail that he, his brother-in-law and nephew were riding, and was confronted with a jump divided by a diagonally fallen log immediately next to a tree.

It is believed the Rotorua engineer veered left to the easiest part of the jump and that his left handlebar clipped the adjacent tree, causing him to go over the handlebars.

He suffered catastrophic head and spinal cord injuries and his life support was turned off in Rotorua Hospital three days later, on 13 November.

Coroner Ian Telford opened an inquest into Handcock's death and in his findings released on Thursday, said there was no warning of the danger and difficulty of the trail.

He also said New Zealand's trail grading standards were inconsistent and made sweeping recommendations to overhaul the system at a national level.

At a hearing in January, evidence was given that Handcock had 24 years experience mountain biking and he was not a risk-taker, avoiding highly technical jumps he knew were beyond his capability.

The coroner said Handcock's experience, the way he rode and his equipment did not contribute to the crash.

Instead, the coroner focused on New Zealand's track grading and signage, saying there was no consistent national standard across the country.

That was because the sport began as a "fringe activity" in the 1980s and tracks being "out of grade" was generally seen as part of the experience, the coroner said.

The Ride Rotorua website described the Taura Trail as a hand-built grade three with several features closer to grade four.

However, the coroner found the jump - which had a drop off behind it - was more consistent with a grade five designation, putting it two grades higher than what Handcock was expecting.

Coroner Telford said over time mountain biking had grown in popularity and its participants had become more diverse, particularly with the advent of e-bikes, which brought new challenges.

"I consider this heightens the importance of ensuring track grading and maintenance meets the expectations of users and provides a safe experience."

At Whakarewarewa Forest alone there were 122 trails where the Recreation Aotearoa standards were used for trail design, construction and grading.

Those standards were not consistently in use around the country and ultimately, entities in charge of recreational tracks - where there were no competitions - could choose to work to any standard, the coroner said.

It meant a grade four trail in Rotorua might be considered grade three in Nelson.

After Handcock's crash a red sign denoting "XXX" was erected at the fork in the trail where the accident happened and work was done to make the jump less difficult.

But the coroner noted safety signs at the start of the trails did not explain the meaning of the numerous "XXX" signs across the forest trails and this posed a danger.

As well, it was possible an "easy" sign pointing to the right-hand fork of the trail was not seen by Handcock because of its poor placement.

The coroner said at the time of Handcock's crash, the signage and track grading did not comply with the standards voluntarily adopted and advertised by the Rotorua Lakes Council.

He made a number of recommendations including that the council urgently identify any portions of track "out of grade" and where riders should be warned of upcoming significant changes or danger, and that XXX signs be sited in all those areas pending more comprehensive investigation.

Coroner Telford also recommended entry signs clearly explaining XXX signs, and that the council investigate whether the forest's sign system should be redesigned so that grades are clearly identified and where an XXX area was within each trail.

He also recommended an annual audit and regular checking of trails for hazards.

At a national level, the coroner recommended consultation with the mountain biking industry to identify the best trail grading standards for adoption across all settings including private land and similarly for a single national signage standard.

He directed his findings be sent to the council, Rotorua Trails Trust, Sport New Zealand, Recreation Aotearoa, Cycling New Zealand, the Department of Conservation, Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment, ACC, Ministry of Transport, WorkSafe, Standards New Zealand, Mountain Bike New Zealand, Trail Fund NZ and the police.

Handcock's partner, Rosie Sargent, told the inquest on the morning of the accident Handcock was pleased to have the day off to go mountain biking with family and was looking forward to showing them some of his favourite tracks.

"Clint crashed on the homeward leg of their ride on a track he had ridden many times before and I know it's a clich鬠but... he was doing something he loved with people that he loved."

1075.

Mike

Mountain biker critically injured

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http://www.bcbikerace.com/Media/Blog/

Monday, June 22, 2009

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by Rex Hall Jr. / Kalamazoo Gazette
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Worcestershire News

Mountain biker airlifted to hospital after fall

The biker fell about 200 feet.
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