As many of you know, and for those that don’t:

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On Tuesday, Jan. 30, my good friend, strength coach (Dialed Health), and mountain bike legend, Derek Teel, was involved in a nearly fatal hit-and-run incident while out on a training ride.

The car that struck Derek was described as a silver sedan. The right front mirror was detached due to the crash as well as possible damage on the right front side of the vehicle, according to California Highway Patrol. No subject is yet in custody (CHP asks anyone with information or surveillance footage of the area to call the CHP Auburn Office at [phone redacted]).

The offender made contact with him at a very high speed and immediately fled the scene, effectively leaving Derek for dead. Thankfully - the Lord had bigger plans.

There was a woman behind that witnessed the event and stopped to help Derek and call his wife and 911.

Derek survived, but with some catastrophic injuries - including a broken femur, shattered pelvis, collapsed lung, torn colon, and much more.

He has since been in the hospital beginning the long road to recovery. After 8 days and multiple surgeries he was released from the ICU, two days after that he was released and allowed to go home to his family to continue the journey back to full health.

As a close friend, mentor, and fellow cyclist, this one really hit home. It’s gutting to know that some people have enough ill-will to commit what could have been manslaughter and just drive away. An inch in either direction and the world would be a lot less happy. Leaving a family without a father, a father without a son, a community without a leader, a culture without a light.

D has been nothing shy of a loving, bright, positive force in the bike/fitness space, and this struggle has been a lot to swallow. So - In order to help the Teel family and Derek’s road to recovery, I am raising funds to support them through this difficult time.

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In the spirit of Derek and all of his incredible cycling feats that have inspired me:

On Sunday, March 10th - beginning at 6PM (UPDATE: RAIN DATE OF MARCH 17th), I will be riding my mountain bike completely self supported for 24 hours STRAIGHT around the Richmond JRPS trail system.

My ask is that you will donate to this ride and help me, help them! All proceeds will go directly to Derek and his family to cover medical expenses and other affiliated costs.

And remember folks; be safe out there.

The bikers that you pass on the road are people, and not a point value.

They’re your neighbors, they’re mothers and fathers, they’re sons and daughters, they’re human - just like you.

3 feet of space is the least you can do!

Continue to #KeepMovingForward, Derek!

We love you. ❤️‍Derek Teel of Dialed Health - Hit and Run Article