On September 1, mountain bike racer Tara Llanes fell while competing in an event in Vail, CO. She was airlifted to Denver Health Center where she underwent 7 hours of surgery to correct massive trauma on her lower back. She's breathing on her own and communicating with friends and family. She has no feeling below her waist as a result of the crash.

Our thoughts are with Tara. When I met her, she was 17 years old. The world was just opening up to her. We both rode for the same factory, so we shared lodging at venues around the country. It was evident, even at her young age, that she had the spirit to become World class in her discipline. Her talents just needed honing, and that's what she worked on every day. Tara went on to win several National Championships and World Championship medals in downhill and dual slalom.

Having Tara at events, back then, always made the weekend more enjoyable. Even if I only saw her for thirty seconds, my day was better for it. Her smile, that beautiful face, the stars in her eyes, her thick black hair. No one who came near her could be immune. Her upbeat attitude affected everyone she touched.

Tara is now in the most challenging time of her life. She's 30 years old, starting another chapter in her great story. Tara, such an extraordinary person, will no doubt discover strength and power that few among us ever realize. Our feelings are with her and we wish her a strong recovery.

There is a recovery fund started for Tara. Details are here:

Tara Llanes Road to Recovery

Tara also has a couple of web sites where you can learn more about her:

Tara's MySpace page
Tara Llanes Racing