Riding for True Heroes
As I was sweating on my bike up the hill in 90+ degree heat, what kept me going was the cause. The pain and sweat beads were nothing in comparison to the sacrifices that our veterans, service members and fallen soldiers have given for our country. This was my second year participating in the Cycling for Veterans ride and I can’t wait to do it again. On my 55 mile ride, I had the pleasure of meeting new friends and catching up with ones I hadn’t seen in a long time. This year I was joined by more than 40 SAP riders from all over the Bay Area who biked through the East Bay hills and Vineyards. Through flat tires and sunburns, the encouragement, support, and laughter from everyone involved was what kept many of us going– even after some of us took an accidental detour that added 4 extra miles!
When I pulled into the last rest stop and met a mom whose son was MIA, I couldn’t thank her enough for what she’d given up. Giving a Saturday is one thing, but sacrificing self and loved ones to serve–those are the true heroes. I felt honored to be riding for such a great cause, and filled with pride that my company sponsored the ride. Thank you SAP for the opportunity to make a difference while having fun in doing so, on my Saturday in the sun.
-Jennifer Schulze
This is the first time that I hear about this event "Cycling for Veterans". Is this an annual thing? I would like to participate to support the veterans. I am a good cyclist so I should be alright.
it is done yearly in the Bay Area, CA. Riders from all SF Bay Area SAP organizations can participate
Hi Martin, thanks for your interest. Yes, Cycling 4 Veterans is now an annual community ride at Las Positas College in California. 2015 was the inaugural event. All promotions can be found on the SAP Silicon Valley jam page. Feel free to contact me if you have any questions. We'd love to have ride at C4V with Team SAPsv!
Kudos to you, Jennifer! Congratulations on completing the C4V 55 mile ride and thank you for also generously volunteering your time at the event. I really enjoyed hearing about your experience. I never cease to be inspired by camaraderie of Team SAP. Thank you for supporting our veterans and sharing your story.
Thank you for sharing your lovely experience!