The Ride is an experience of a lifetime! I'd recommend this adventure for everyone's bucket list. It takes you through western Pennsylvania and eastward along the Youghiogheny and Potomac River towards Washington DC. The countryside viewed from a bicycle is spectacular.

Every detail of The Ride is meticulously well planned. Last year each rider received a courtesy duffel bag to pack essentials. Transportation was complimentary for all riders to the Start. Each evening a block of hotel rooms had been reserved so that all riders could sleep comfortably at night. High protein and carbohydrate breakfasts were provided. Plenty of planned check points were in place, where riders could recharge with snacks, re hydrate (Gatorade!), and enjoy conversation with the Volunteers supporting each check point. Dinners among the many riders were enjoyable. And for those of us who have families that were unable to go along for the Ride, our families were encouraged to greet us at the barbeque finale at Smoky Glen Farm. Kudos to all The Ride organizers for making this a truly memorable event.

While The Ride itself was memorable, the Cause is even more significant. All proceeds from The Ride go to support of Operation Second Chance, a local non-profit organization providing home renovations, fishing trips, bowling trips, hospital visits, etc. to our Country's wounded Soldiers returning home from active duty. I am indebted to all the brave men and women of our Armed Forces who have been wounded in the call of duty suffering gravely to protect my family and Freedom.

My fondest memory of RA2011 came during the last 100 yards of The Ride. Just before the finish line there was a wounded Veterans (who had lost his arm in battle) standing and saluting the riders. I've personally never served in the Military, so I've never experienced the honor of receiving a salute. And what an honor is was that this Soldier raised the only arm he had left in gratitude to me! Words can't describe my feeling in that moment. Time stood still and Patriotism overwhelmed me.

Thank you again to The Ride organizers, volunteers, bravest men and women in the Armed Services, Operation Second Chance, hotel staffs, restaurant staffs, bus driver, fellow riders, and Ride Allegheny, for making this such a wonderful time.

Respectfully,
Steve M.