While Kristian Blummenfelt, Jonas Schomburg and Casper Stornes were battling their way to an epic Oceanside 70.3 finish last weekend, one of their fellow competitors was already at the hospital and awaiting major surgery.
American Justin Riele didn’t make it past the bike leg, as he suffered a ‘blow-out’ and crashed onto his right-hand side, breaking his clavicle and scapula.
Luckily, his helmet also did its job and took the full force as he crashed to the tarmac, with Riele admitting later: “Fortunately, my helmet saved my life.“
Shoulder has been ‘plated up’
Posting updates on his Instagram page, he explained how, less than 24 hours after Oceanside, he had undergone successful surgery to ‘plate’ up his damaged shoulder, having driven to Las Vegas in an ambulance for an immediate operation.
“Broken clavicle and scapula confirmed, but 🧠 is the same as before the crash 🙏 (so it’s mostly fine 😂). Got that bad boy plated up, so front swim pack gonna be easy on the other side of it. Time to hit the trainer for a while. Gonna come back stronger and see you in Lake Placid. Thanks, everyone,” he posted on his account.
Middle-distance specialist Riele achieved three podium finishes last season, with a second place at the 70.3 in Cozumel and two third places at Boise and Peru. Oceanside was his first outing of the new campaign.
Despite looking in pretty bad shape in the images posted on his Instagram page, Riele is already plotting his return to action, with his final message to followers stating: “Time to hit the trainer for a while. Gonna come back stronger and see you in Lake Placid.”
IRONMAN Lake Placid takes place on July 19, which is just 15 weeks away.
Well wishes from his fellow pros
His fellow pros were quick to send him their best wishes, with Oceanside winner Blummenfelt responding to one of his updates: “A shame to see you hit the tarmac. You looked great just before. Have a speedy recovery.”
Ben Kanute added: “Dude. I’m so sorry. I heard it was right behind me. Missed your power on the front of the bike today. Heal up quickly, and you’ll be better than ever!”
Fred Funk said: “Sorry Brother! Wishing you a speedy recovery,” while Jackie Hering added: “😢Shoot!! Sending healing energy!” And Chelsea Sodaro wrote: “Such a bummer! Sending healing vibes your way, friend.”
The GOAT, Jan Frodeno, also gave his own piece of advice by saying: “Sorry to see it, dude! Heal up and use the time wisely 🙏.”
