Thanks for all the warm thoughts. I don't want to be an alarmist and I certainly don't want anyone giving up their riding. But, I wanted everyone to learn from this. I don't always keep my phone handy, but I will now. Always be able to give a good description of where you are as well. Mace is not a bad idea. Again, it would need to be easily accessible as described. Martial Arts are great but I don't know if it would have helped me if one knocked me on the ground and the others rushed me.
Relax, enjoy, but stay alert as well.