I'll contribute. As the only one of 18 in the Vet40 class to DNF...why not!!? Life is full of highs and lows and sometimes all of those are experienced in the same day, as well. My video pretty much sums up my day.
Early rise, great drive watching the sunrise, pre-race excitement and camaraderie, good start (2nd around the big tree left turn and into the woods), crash before one mile into the course, knowing immediately...denying it...and then slowly succumbing to the reality that something is really jacked-up in my right shoulder, getting slower and getting passed, then just trying to stay out of the way, wondering how do I get out of these woods, 599 Brian North coming to my aid and sticking with me all the way, the long ride home pondering this sport of off-road racing....and not to forget the best part of telling my wife "Uh, well, uh, I kind of maybe, uh, well..uh, injured myself again".
https://youtu.be/9LJlddx5OVc
The crash: Just ridiculous! See the video. I think that was like a 2 inch diameter twig I lost it on? Although, it was at a slight angle across the path and it was a little greasy there, I guess. Still can't believe I hurt myself. I've had way worse spills with just bruises. Everything went perfectly wrong right there.
Coolest moment of the day: I pulled up on the line and looked to my left down two bikes. Vet40 points leader, Jason Schupp, #1044 was there staring at me. Words were exchanged..."Jason", little head nod..."Chad", little head nod. Yep, we were ready to race!
The course: I really did enjoy it on my one practice lap. Dan and crew, thanks for all of your hard work.
My injury. MRI today shows complete rupture of one of rotator cuff tendons and partial of a second. Surgery next Friday, 6/17.
#599, Brian North: You Da'Man! Thanks so much for sticking with me and helping me out. I'd probably still be in there without your help, dude. Thanks a ton.
Well, I thouroghly enjoy this sport. Every part of it...nearly. It seriously is the most fun thing I have done aside from time with family and things like that. However, this past year or so may be telling me something. My body just doesn't seem to be very tolerant of it anymore. I will definitely miss you guys.
I asked for a bubble-wrap suit for father's day.
Chad