As many of you know, I was in a serious accident while participating in one of SBRA's STRUCTURED Montauk Training Rides. Recently, I have been hearing some twisted stories about what happed and I want to clear this up.
The Ride: 40 mile B+ Structured ride. A structured ride means the WHOLE group will stay together.
What happened?
At the junction of Granny Rd and Rt. 112 (approx. 5mi into the ride) the ride leader called out "mechanical." All of the riders stopped riding to wait for that person. I told the group that I
was going ahead to take off my base layer. I positioned my new bike in the road so that the group would clearly know I was not ready. As I was zipping up my jersey, I could see through the bushes, the group was coming towards me. I could hear "cat calls" and whistles because they KNEW I was there changing. I stepped out, from the bushes and saw the group coming closer. The ride leader led them right past me. I was CLEARLY not ready. I DID NOT HAVE MY HELMET ON (a requirement for any SBRA ride!); glasses or gloves. I thought the group might stop. Didn't we just stop for someone else? They kept riding and I MADE SURE I had my helmet , glasses and gloves on. I looked up and saw another rider get up(out of the seat) to bridge up to the group. This is how I knew the group was going faster.
Trying to catch the group, I got onto my bike and started to pedal.....and that was it! My base layer jammed into the front tire, it seized; and I flipped over the handlebars while still being clipped in. I don't know if the base layer was in my pocket or my hand? That I don't know but what I do know is that this could have been EASILY prevented if I was treated the same as the other rider. It could have been prevented if some people were concerned about the fact that I didn't have my helmet on; istead of concern about their ride.
Why does something need to be said?
Something needs to be said because it could have been EASILY prevented. Also, some people are not even thinking about what happened to me; and making sure it doesn't happen again.
The injuries:
Yesturday, I had oral surgery. I needed 3 dental implants (that will take months to heal fully). I have scars on my upper lip and a lack of feeling in it. Part of my right hand is still healing and I'm hoping there is not a fracture. I have some neck, shoulder and lower back pain. Aside from the physical recovery, I have to miss a lot of work time. What happened to me was very serious. So for those who think I have nothing to be upset about; you are wrong! I have every right to be upset. I went on a CLUB ride that was supposed to stay together. That's not what I got. After all, why belong to a club? Why have structured rides?
Thanks:
To all who reached out to me in very kind and supportive ways; and I sincerely appreciate you all.
~Bonnie