Derek Byrne, Wente 35+ 4

Hey guys,

Lee and Tom and a couple of guys asked how I am doing, so here is my "fall" report. To call it a crash would be far too grandiose. Basically got dropped on the first climb of the first lap. On the descent I hooked up with Lee and a few other guys. Our numbers fluctuated until we were down to 4 of us on the last lap. Shortly before the uphill, 90 degree, right hander before the descent, Lee kindly held up for me with the other 2 guys. I repayed that kindness by catching up with them, but finding myself quickly coming up on the rear wheel of an Infovista rider. I guess I was more mentally fatigued than I thought, cuz while I could see what was happening my brain couldnt get my hands to hit the brakes. So I promptly rammed into the back of this guys wheel and fell over like a turtle at a whopping 15 mph or so.
Lee and the other riders were nice about offering to wait for me. I got back up and on the bike, but something was rubbing. Made it couple hundred yards or so around the right turn, and there was Mark Adkinson. He offered me a ride, and I took it, and told Lee and those guys to go on without me. I had a possible appointment for an audition in SF, and didnt want to be late, and was just pissed at myself for being so stupid. Got a ride back to the finish, and rolled down to my car, tail between my legs. Oh, I never told you guys about my tail. Some other time.
If anyone knows of a lamer crash, my ego would love to hear about it some time. Big thanks to Lee for trying to keep us all together. We had a nice little pack going for a while. Special thans to Mark A. for the ride, cold water, and paper towels for my wounds. I picked a great month to start shaving!

take care guys, derek