The event takes place through Feb. 19. Warriors will be fit with bikes for their utilization, provided to them at no-cost by WWP. There are state-of-the-art adaptive hand cycles, trikes, and bicycles to accommodate warriors with various injuries and disabilities, as well as unmodified road bikes for riders not requiring adaptive equipment. During this time, they will also have the opportunity to meet and greet fellow warriors while preparing for the big ride.
"Watching the camaraderie among the warriors is truly a unique, invigorating and uplifting experience," said Dan Nevins, director of Warriors Speak at Wounded Warrior Project, and a Wounded Warrior himself. His left leg was amputated below the knee and he suffered a traumatic brain injury after he was involved in a blast from an improvised explosive device (IED) while serving in Iraq in 2004. His right leg was amputated below the knee nearly four years later due to complications from his multiple surgeries. "It can be as simple as standing on the street corner and waving as they cycle past - community support truly makes a difference in the lives of Wounded Warriors."
The public is invited to bring signs of encouragement and cheer on the warriors as they complete a challenging 27-mile ride. Warriors will embark promptly at 9 a.m. on both the 17th and 18th. The start location on the 17th event is Fort DeSoto County Park - Pavillion 2. The event on the 18th will start at the State College of Florida: Lakewood Ranch.
WWP's purpose is to raise awareness and to enlist the public's aid for the needs of injured service members, to help injured servicemen and women aid and assist each other, and to provide unique, direct programs and services to meet their needs. To volunteer or donate, visit Soldier Ride.
Soldier Ride is a four-day cycling event and Wounded Warrior Project (WWP) initiative that serves multiple purposes. For the wounded vets who participate, it's an opportunity to gain confidence and to heal (both physically and emotionally) by means of feeling empowered, connected and appreciated. For us, its a chance to honor local heroes, to remember those who have sacrificed some, and in some cases, all.
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