Will Olson
1975 - 2015
Yesterday our community became one smaller. On stage three of the Enduro World Series in Crested Butte, Colorado, Will Olson crashed hard and, despite the best efforts of the medics and his fellow riders, he succumbed to his injuries. Even riders that never knew or met Will Olson will feel the loss as it brings home to all of us how fragile the threads of life are and that the risks we push to the back of our minds are very real. There is little else to say at a time like this, simply that the thoughts of everyone here at Pinkbike are with Will's family and friends at this most difficult of times.
As for the wilderness first aid and CPR certification, always a good idea. For anyone looking for a good organization to get training from, take a look at NOLS (www.nols.edu/wmi/courses/wildfirstaid.shtml)
God Bless you. He was a great competitor and friend of mine in the 40+ division... I will miss his infectious smile, happy attitude and stupidly fast skills on his bike! My heart goes out for you. Please reach out to me to discuss details. info@enduromtbtraining.com
When they are writing about blunt forces to the chest, one story comes to my mind, because I was in the same situation one year ago. Almost died on inner bleedings too. But my leakage was small enough that I survived till the surgery was done within a few hours.
The reason why I am writing this: There is nothing you can do. No chest protection can help you. In case of a chest impact the spine moves towards the ribs and squeezes everything in between. So please riders, keep in mind that our body is fragile although there is so much protection out there. Ride safe and stop when you are exhausted.
I don’t think they read PinkBike, (I know for sure my wife and kids don’t)
so if someone can redirect all our thoughts and condolence to them, maybe it will be nice.
crestedbuttenews.com/2015/08/fatality-on-course-cancels-rest-of-crested-butte-big-mountain-enduro-event
RIP Will
Rest in Peace Will.
ps: also take this opportunity to wish strength and a sense of hospitality to the entire organization and rescue services who lived this tragedy.
We are one!
www.westword.com/news/will-olson-rip-cyclists-freak-accident-leads-to-bme-race-canceling-tribute-ride-6988248
We all know IT, it's why we do it. Mountain biking bridges the gap between human spirit and mother nature.
See you at the start gate....
www.pinkbike.com/photo/11392400