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Hernando Today

Bicyclists to ride for injured vets

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By JEFF SCHMUCKER

Hernando Today

Published: December 9, 2009

SPRING HILL - At almost 60 years old, Mike Runyan isn't sure about biking more than 300 miles for an upcoming charity event called Ride 2 Recovery Florida Challenge.

The U.S. Air Force veteran and current mental health specialist just picked up the hobby earlier this year, and - although he feels in good shape for it - sometimes he has his doubts.

That is, until he sees a military veteran who overcomes more difficult challenges than just fatigue or muscle aches. The man he sees riding on his route some weekends doesn't have the use of his legs, yet travels more than 20 miles an hour on a specially made bike - using his arms to pedal.

If the loss of a man's legs doesn't stop him from biking, Runyan said his age or being tired aren't excuses to quit either.

"He wasn't going to stop, and that's pretty inspiring to make me think that if he can keep going, I can, too," Runyan said. "And when I'm in pain because of being sore or something, I can think, 'Well at least I can walk and have the use of my legs.'"

He said he wanted to talk to the man, but the other rider was on a mission and didn't stop to rest when Runyan did.

It's for veterans like that Runyan decided to participate in the Ride 2 Recovery event - an annual bike ride and fundraising event for disabled veterans who were injured mentally or physically while serving their country.

Although their medical insurance might cover patching them up, Runyan said the event provides an outlet for those veterans to not only challenge themselves, but have them interacting with other soldiers just like them.

Funds raised from the event will cover costs for clinics, equipment other charges associated with providing outings and other events for wounded soldiers and veterans.
Runyan said that after training for a while on his bike, he sought a cause to get behind that would inspire him to continue training. When he came across Ride 2 Recovery, he said he knew it was the event for him.

"Especially as a former veteran myself, this is something that is important to me," Runyan said. "These guys served their country and are scarred for life, mentally and physically. This event is our way to give back to them, a way to get them back into being active and can raise their morale."

Riders participating in the event will ride from Tampa to Jacksonville during a six-day ride on Dec. 12-17. The first day of the event will take them into Spring Hill where they will rest before leaving for Wildwood the following day.

Meanwhile, Runyan said he is still seeking donations to help meet his $3,500 fundraising goal. He said the weakened economy has made it more difficult to solicit funds, but added that family, friends, coworkers and area organizations have made it possible for him to raise a little less than half that thus far.

"I made a commitment to raise that money and I'd like to be able to provide that for these guys," Runyan said. "Anything people can do to help me reach this goal for them would be appreciated.

Those interested can make a donation in Runyan's name by going to ride2recover.com or e-mailing him at captmike@tampabay.rr.com. You can also call him at 352-544-5271.

Reporter Jeff Schmucker can be reached at 352-544-5271 or jschmucker@hernandotoday.com

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