I was on one of my favorite training hour and half training routes near my home in Garrison today. I had just did some climbing intervals on Seven Lakes Drive in Bear Mountain and noticed course arrows near the bridge for a ride. Once past the guard house I ran into a group of cyclists taking in the view from the center of t he Bear Mountain Bridge. I stopped and said hello and asked about their ride. 
They were part of a three day charity ride from New York City to Saratoga Springs called the “Get Your Gut into Gear” to support those with Crohns and Colitis disease. They will travel about 70 miles each day and camp in the evenings. Tonight they are in Beacon. Each of the nearly 50 riders had to raise over $1,800 for the cause to participate.
I then volunteered to snap of photo of the group I met with one of their cell phones and here they are, from left, Scott Wilk, Long Island, Tyler Mockry, Saratoga Springs, Derek Peterson, Latham, Winnie Hessel, Philadelphia, PA, Carl Rosati, Albany
It’s always great to meet riders passing through the area as they react to the beauty of the Hudson Highlands. Charity rides like this do so many things. They raise awareness to the cause and provide monetary support to the charity. Provide an outlet for those who have battled a disease like this to give back and maybe more important to show they are back. I’ve been part of some of these events and always have a great experience.
Derek Peterson had this to say, “Great people and a great cause!”
Hope they all enjoy a safe ride on their way to Saratogo Springs this weekend.
For more information please visit. http://www.ibdride.org
