Cycling California’s Coast to Raise Money for Wounded Veterans

September 2, 2010 - This will be the third California Challenge that Roger Coggins has competed in. The challenge has participants riding almost 500 miles from San Francisco to Los Angeles in order to raise money for veterans with amputations and brain injuries. Coggins saw this as his chance to actively support American troops by not only raising money but by riding alongside them, as many veteran-amputees participate in the ride as well.  

The ride is sponsored by Ride 2 Recovery. Ride 2 Recovery also organizes and runs programs at military bases and VA hospitals across the nation. Exercise such as cycling has been proven to help both the body and the brain. Cycling strengthens the body and helps to reduce:  

• Stress;
• Depression; and
• Anxiety.

Cycling is a fitting sport for amputees as bicycles that are able to accommodate amputees are plentiful. Ride 2 Recovery even modified one bike for a veteran missing all 4 limbs so he could participate in the race. These are the types of stories that convinced Coggins to get involved.

This year's race is set to take place from October 3-9, 2010. Participants must raise $3200 in order to participate in the race, although most raise more than that. Not all riders have served in the military, but the camaraderie still exists. Strangers form bonds and emerge on the other side of the race as friends. Most importantly, the money raised goes towards helping thousands of wounded warriors.