3 cyclists suffer serious injuries when tree topples during California triathalon

3 men injured by falling tree during triathlon

SANTA ROSA, Calif. — Three cyclists are recovering from injuries after an oak tree fell on them during a California triathlon.

Officials say Howard Holderness, a 43-year-old San Francisco attorney, suffered a severe back injury and broken arm Sunday during the Vineman Ironman race in Sonoma County. Two other competitors sustained broken collarbones.

The incident occurred early in the 70-mile competition and hampered the race for at least 15 minutes.

Information from: The Press Democrat, www.pressdemo.com