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Professional off-road cyclist Howard Grotts was seriously injured on Friday during the final stage of the Breck Epic mountain bike race.
Grotts led the overall pro field on the sixth and final stage of the Colorado race. About a mile from the finish, other riders found Grotts unconscious on the side of the road. All riders in the pro field stopped at the scene of the accident to help.
Lance Haidet was one of the first drivers to encounter Grotts on the track. He said the next two drivers were quickly dispatched to radio the nearest marshal.
Breck Epic race paramedics arrived on scene within 10 minutes, followed by local emergency services and Summit County Search and Rescue. Grotts regained consciousness as help arrived and became oriented about himself and the situation.
Grotts was then flown by helicopter to St. Anthony’s in Denver where the severity of his injuries could be fully assessed and treated. He reportedly suffered severe injuries to his back, spine, ribs, collarbone and shoulder blade. He underwent surgery on Saturday, according to friends and family.
Breck Epic race director Mike McCormack has launched a GoFundMe campaign to support Grotts’ medical expenses.
Velo will update this story as more information becomes available.
