Ken Meese

First, here’s Ken’s “official statement” as of this morning, written by Ernie Azevedo with Ken’s input:

“Ken is going to be fine with only a broken right collar bone to show for a low-side crash and tumble on I-95 south of Fredericksburg, VA early this morning. His recollection is that the storm passed through ahead of him and the pavement was excessively wet. He remembers cruising at highway speed with the intention of returning to rally HQ with all of his bonii collected for the leg. He had plenty of time and had stopped for an hour rest at a rest area before the accident, and had time for more stops when needed (I talked to him on the phone when he woke up in the rest area and he sounded good and ready to finish his ride). He said, “the back end of the bike started to come around from a loss of traction”. He does not know what caused the loss of traction, but he and the bike came to rest on the highway. Good people gave him and his bike assistance and he was transported to a local hospital for treatment. Ken is in good spirits and obviously disappointed with the outcome of his rally ride. He is thankful for all of the support he is getting and wants to thank the rally staff and volunteers for making this event so much fun to participate in.”

I’ve talked to him several times today and he’s fine. He’s bored, though! He doesn’t need surgery on his collarbone, and we’re guessing he’ll be released tomorrow.

I want to add my thanks to his: Everyone who helped him prep for the rally, everyone who’s followed along during his crazy ride, everyone who’s called or texted or emailed or left messages, everyone who’s offered support and assistance. THANK YOU. Imagine that in a million point font, flashing, with sparkles. (Okay, no sparkles. I hate sparkles.)

Also, I want to send out a major congratulations to Derek Dickson, the 2013 Iron Butt Rally winner. Well played, sir! And to all the riders, I raise my glass of wine to you. You all had a hell of a ride.

I will also be posting personal updates at my own blog, but I’ll try to remember to pop in here with updates until Ken’s home and he can do it himself.