This Armed Forces Day, Saturday May 21st, we're uniting once again with Ride 2 Recovery to host the Madison Honor Ride. This year marks the Honor Ride's 5th anniversary here in Madison and we're honored to be part of this incredible event. Each year hundreds of bike-lovers in our community come together to support Ride 2 Recovery (R2R) and their life-changing programs. 
Ride 2 Recovery, a 501(c)3, is a groundbreaking veterans program that saves lives by restoring hope and purpose. This organization was founded on cycling-based programs and has served over 10,000 veterans by providing a way for life. Ride 2 Recovery's programs have proved successful in several areas of veterans' lives:
- 55% of R2R participants that take prescription drugs have reduced or eliminated them.
- Increased ability to perform normal day to day activities.
- Speedier recovery from injuries or conditions.
- Improved general health and fitness.
- Reduced pain.
- Improved sleep.
The Honor Ride Series is just one of Ride 2 Recovery's initiatives. These one-day community events are focused on raising awareness and funding for Ride 2 Recovery programs, and over 90% of the funds raised go directly back into R2R programming for our nation's heroes.
Our involvement started five years ago when our tool and die supervisor, Brian, suggested we host an Honor Ride here in Madison. And Brian was on to something.
Ever since the inaugural year in 2011, cyclists have gathered at Saris Cycling Group headquarters to take in the beautiful Wisconsin scenery (and sometimes some Wisconsin rain) to help support our veterans on 12, 38 or 69 mile rides.
We asked Brian why he got involved and he replied saying, "Serving our country is what they do, and they are honored to do it. To me, that is a true hero. So if there is anything I can do to help them when they return, I feel like that is my duty."
Mike (L) and Brian (R) cook up some delicious Wisconsin fare for the Honor Ride attendees.
We hope you'll join us on Saturday, May 21st, here at Saris for one incredible experience. Click here to register for the Honor Ride Madison.
Additional information can be found on the Madison Honor Ride Facebook Page. We look forward to seeing you on May 21st!