Soldier Ride, an event that supports the Wounded Warrior Project (WWP) – who has assisted over 100,000 veterans, is returning to the Hamptons on Saturday, July 21.
“We couldn’t be more excited to be celebrating our 15th anniversary of Soldier Ride right where it started in East Hampton,” reflected Nick Kraus, Soldier Ride founder.
One of just two national rides where civilian participations can pedal alongside wounded warriors, cyclists will journey on a course that includes exceptional views of local beaches, waterfronts, quintessential East End farmland, and quaint towns and villages.
100 percent of proceeds from Soldier Ride Hamptons supports warriors address stress recovery, job preparation and counseling, adaptive sports offerings, and more.
“Though you don’t read about the conflicts in the papers that much anymore we know the need to support these true heroes on their transition back to civilian life is more important than ever,” Kraus explained.
Participants may select either the 25-mile or 60-mile course. There will also be a Community Walk in Sag Harbor that follows the Lap of Heroes.
“We urge folks to come do the community ride with us on July 21st in East Hampton as well as helping us all welcome and show our support for the over 50 wounded warriors that will be participating in the WWP Soldier Ride Hamptons, ” he added.
Registration begins at 7 a.m., followed by the Opening Ceremony at Amagansett Farm at 8:30 a.m. The Soldier Ride officially commences at 9 a.m., as does the packet-pick up for Sag Harbor 5K Walk at Marine Park. The Lap of Heroes and 5K Walk begins at Marine Park at 11 a.m., and there will be a community picnic at Amagansett Farm following the Soldier Ride.
Cyclists are reminded to make sure to bring their own bicycle, helmet, and water bottle. Registration ranges from $30 to $35.
WWP’s mission is to “honor and empower Wounded Warriors.” The nonprofit 501 organization does so by offering an array of programs and services that “transforms the way America’s injured veterans are empowered, employed, and engaged in our communities.”
Amagansett Farm is located at 551 Montauk Highway in Amagansett. For more information, visit woundedwarriorproject.org.