Of all the experiences I had last week at Interbike, none compared with meeting Saul Raisin, the 24-year-old pro cyclist who just over a year ago staged his most impressive win yet. Saul beat death by “within a hair’s breadth”, as the doctors put it. On April 4, 2006, this aspiring cyclist — on track to race his first Grand Tour, the Giro d’Italia (Tour of Italy) — crashed during a tune-up race in France. The accident resulted in significant injuries and brain trauma, and Saul later slipped into a coma. Author Dave Shields details the harrowing story in his book Tour de Life: from Coma to Competition. Follow the jump to find out more.

At last week’s Interbike show, Saul spent some time in the Garmin booth, signing copies of his book. Sales of the book and other “Raisin Hope” events go to support charities such as the Brain Injury Association of Geogia. As countless fans stopped by to speak to Saul or get an autograph, Saul paused to speak to each one and gladly obliged requests for photos — as long as the photo was with him, not just of him. I overheard Saul talking to one man who was telling him about a friend who’d been in a coma. Saul encouraged him by saying, “they can hear you. I remember hearing my mother sing to me when I was in a coma.” What a big-hearted guy. And I mean that in every way. In fact, Saul has amazed doctors around the world with his impressive lung capacity and a heart that’s nearly three times average size. Nice combo to have when racing bikes is your passion. Saul is fully back into training now and he uses the Garmin Edge 305 and MotionBased to track his rides and analyze his training. See his MB digest here.

To learn more about Saul’s story, order the book. I’ve gotta tell you — it’s been a long time since I’ve been hooked on a book, and this one did it. Truly an exceptional read, whether you’re a cyclist or not. And for those who’ve already read his book, here’s a little trivia for you: Lance Armstrong called Saul’s mom just days after Saul’s accident. He offered words of encouragement and then he told her to tell Saul he’s a [????].  First one to post the correct reply gets a Garmin cycling jersey!

Comments

[Pat Collier]

I was one of the interbike attendees to purchase "Tour de Life". I too thoroughly enjoyed the book. I normally do not read books, but this one I read in two days! Saul gives a personal and in depth look into his recovery. This book is a must read for cyclists. What an inspiration.

Pat Collier
Cat 1 Cyclist
Tucson, AZ

[Dianne Burnett Hale]

Peg, Thanks for the kind words regarding Saul, his story and his book, "Tour de Life". I've had the pleasure of working with Saul and his co-author Dave Shields, as a publicist for the book. My hope is that many people are inspired by Saul's story--he is the real deal! Again, thank you & best wishes for continued success at Garmin!

[Gary P. Martin]

My wife received a green ribbon when we volunteered in the Dalton leg of the Tour de Georgia in 2006 which she has on her bike. I have a Raisin hell bracelet on my bike. We ride with both on our bikes because we feel it keeps us safe.Thank you Saul, for your courage and inspiration. I am really enjoying the book. Your parents are tremendous.
Gary P. Martin
Chattanooga, Tn.

[Peg]

You got it! Lance called Saul a "punk" after joining him for a training ride where Saul essentially "attacked" on a mountainous climb. Lance admits he gave it all he had, but he couldn't catch Saul. Thanks for playing along, William. One Garmin jersey coming your way.

[William]

Punk.

That's the answer I think.