shop. And the potential of being without the bike for a week or so was problematic for my training schedule. I had also grown used to the conditions under which this problem was occurring, and I foolishly thought I knew when it could happen and when it would not happen. Right around the end of June, I was doing a routine workout in a standing position on the bike. I was applying a large amount of power to the pedals and traveling about 27 miles per hour when suddenly and without warning, the chain dropped. This time, the chain dropped off the left side of the chain ring and became wedged against the bike’s frame. This caused the pedals to seize up, which threw me off balance, sent me into a wobble, and ultimately sent me flying forward off the bike and onto the road. My left clavicle (collarbone) was badly broken, and I had “road rash” all down the left side of my body. My head also made contact with the pavement, proving the importance of wearing a helmet! The clavicle required surgery with a metal plate. My bike was totaled. After about two months of recovery, I am back on a bike, training again! A bit more careful, and hopefully a bit wiser! During a past 70-mile Sweetwater ride and about 12 miles into it, I unfortunately lost focus for a split second and veered off the right side of the road. Despite my attempt to correct my mistake, the height difference between the asphalt and the ground proved to be unforgiving. As a result, I fell over hard and injured my shoulder, tore up my jersey, and bloodied my fingers. Regrettably, my mistake also caused my riding partner, Josh, to go over his handlebars. Thankfully, he and his bike were unharmed. One of the enjoyable aspects of the annual ride is the opportunity to ride in a pace group and engage in conversation along the way. However, focus and concentration are essential during every group ride. It’s crucial to keep a sharp eye on the road and the rider ahead, especially since the roads to Sweetwater lack a shoulder and provide little room for error. In many areas, the height or conditions difference between the road and the ground can be significant. ri ding too close to edge of the road 15 Nick Allen