Support Injured ShenRock Rider's Recovery -Gabe Napotnik

On October 9th, a mountain bike accident left one of our ShenRock riders with a significant internal injury, requiring emergency surgery and hospitalization. Thanks to quick action from fellow riders and coaches, Wilderness First Responders, and rescue teams, the rider received immediate care and was airlifted to UVA for surgery.

We’re raising funds to cover the unexpected medical expenses during this challenging time. Every bit helps. Thank you!

The following is shared with permission from the rider and his family:

Near the end of ShenRock practice on October 9th, Gabriel Napotnik crashed while descending Laird’s Downhill at a high speed. Tristan (Gabe's dad) was coaching Gabe's crew and was able to be with him immediately after the crash. He realized the severity of the accident and potential injuries (he landed belly-first on a pyramid-shaped rock). Tristan and Coach Jeff radioed for the help of the Level 3 coaches who have Wilderness First Responder training. Coach Nathan, followed soon after by Coach Moe, arrived at the crash site quickly. They evaluated Gabe's condition, and 911 was called.

The ambulance was able to drive up to the pond, but no further. EMTs and an ER doctor made their way to Gabe on foot and by UTV, following the direction of coaches stationed at each trail intersection. Upon arrival, they administered care, started an IV, and gave medications. During this time, other first responders and coaches cleared space for the UTV to turn around. After evaluating his condition and the suspected injuries, they decided the best course of action was to airlift him to UVa. He was transferred to a stretcher and loaded onto the UTV. They slowly descended the mountain to the pond where the ambulance was waiting.

The helicopter (Pegasus) was waiting in a field several miles away. The flight crew was phenomenal and even allowed Gabriel’s mom to fly to UVA with them. The ED staff at UVA quickly diagnosed internal injuries that required immediate surgery. By 1 am, he was in the OR. The surgeon successfully repaired the injuries. Gabe's first question in recovery was, “When can I ride my bike again?” Gabe remained at UVA until Saturday and is healing and recovering well at home. He is expected to fully recover and hopes to have most restrictions lifted by Thanksgiving.

The Napotnik family is overwhelmed with thankfulness for the incredible care Gabriel received... the coaches (Demetra, Jeff, Nathan, Moe, Dusty, Shannon, Matt), the first responders and flight crew, the ED and surgical team at UVA, and the nurses and staff in the hospital.

“We thank God for the many people who have cared for Gabriel and our whole family throughout this ordeal. We’ve always known that ShenRock and the bike community is something uniquely special, and this has only confirmed how remarkable they are. We have so much to be thankful for”.