Some bad news, as of May 10 09 ive been off the bike. Dislocated right shoulder, it happened on a practice day, on a non competitive trail.
To paint a picture.. the weather for the day was undecided, as it turned out i opted to not change out my tires, and left my wet weather tires home... while unloading at the hill it opened up and poured, it was a short burst, but enough to give things a good soaking. I got a couple session runs in then was about to go for a little more lively run when it went wrong. I noticed that my tires were totally useless in this weather, but seemed somewhat predictable, so it may be a good curve to learn incase of a similar situation on event day.
As the run progressed there was alot of slipping but as mentioned nothing out of the ordinary, however there is a sharp burm corner there is framed by a small chute between 2 trees, while entering this corner my rear wheel slid down a fairly signifigant root and sent me off line. I clipped the end of my bar off the tree and my shoulder . The 31.8 bar bent under the stress my soulder only grazed the tree and i was not aware of the signifigance of the hit untill i couldnt bring myself to a sit up with my right arm. ive recieved no other damage to myself or my bike, that i am aware of.
Fortunately my brother-inlaw and riding buddy had just arrived on the scene to get me rounded up and to a hospital. at the hospital they took some xrays before and after the relocation process. also thankfully i was sedated for the process.
Ive been told to sling my right arm for 3 weeks at which time i am slated for other xrays and a consultation with a joint specialist as well as a physio therapest. ive been trying to exercise my hand wrist and elbow to keep it mobile... this has been a huge setback for the season starts in less than a month. my team members are optomistic, and hopeful. perhaps i may get back on it within a month or so.. missing only one event this year.
Thanks again to kelby for taking me in and again sorry for putting a damper on your training day, i know you had some serious testing with setups. perhaps i can help you get that day back somewhere.
wish me a speedy recovery
sheldon