MESA, AZ -- Dave Collins doesn't remember much about the accident that left his facial bones broken, and maybe that's a good thing.
On August 22, Collins was participating in the 1,000 Warriors Bicycle Race for charity just south of Salt Lake City, Utah when the driver of an SUV had to brake suddenly. Collins smashed straight into the rear window.
"My face made the first contact," said an emotional Collins. "I broke all the bones in my face."
Collins said he's just happy to be alive.
"Two weeks later I woke up and they told me what happened. At that time, in my mind the race was in the future, it was so surreal," said Collins. "When I see pictures, I know I'm lucky."
SEE PHOTOS FROM THE AUGUST RACE IN THE ATTACHED SLIDESHOWCollins had severe wounds to his upper body and was airlifted to a nearby hospital for surgery.
His 17-year-old son was waiting with water for Collins on the next hill when he heard of his father's fate. Collins said, "He actually beat me to the hospital, he beat the helicopter to the hospital."
Collins has since had reconstructive surgery on his face. Plates were placed where bones once made up his face.
Four other riders from the Red Mountain Brumbys Bicycle Club were also injured in the the accident.
Collins said he is trying to be patient with his healing. There are many things he won't be able to do for quite some time. One of them is ride a bike.
"My bike is in my garage split in two," he said. " I want to ride again and I think I will."
A memorial ride will be held Saturday, honoring cyclists like Collins and others injured while cycling. For more information about Saturday's event, visit
Ride of Honor.
