Reconnecting Veterans Through Mountain Biking
At Disconnect to Reconnect, we are dedicated to using the great outdoors and nature's healing power to support Veterans, especially those dealing with PTSD. Our recent MTB Campout event in Nevada City, Northern California, was a shining example of this mission in action. The event was AWESOME, bringing together a diverse group of Veterans for a weekend of mountain biking, camaraderie, and adventure.
A Diverse Group of Riders
We were thrilled to see a large turnout for the MTB Campout, including both new and advanced riders. The new riders were equipped with E-MTBs provided by our main sponsor, Mike's Bikes. These bikes were pivotal in helping the new riders navigate the challenging mountain terrain safely and with big smiles on their faces. Mike's Bikes came through in a big way, showing up with a van full of bikes and outfitting everyone who needed one before we hit the trails.
Essential Gear and Generous Sponsors
Safety is always a priority, and we were incredibly grateful to Kali Protectives for donating helmets, knee pads, and gloves. Additionally, Ride Force sponsored the event and provided amazing jerseys for all the Veterans in attendance. Their support, along with contributions from Big Sexy Brewing and B1KER, helped make this event unforgettable.
A Day Full of Adventure and Connection
Saturday was packed with fun and adventure. We spent the day riding bikes, relaxing by the lake, and enjoying delicious food and great company around the campfire at night. New friendships were forged, and stories were shared, creating a bond that only Veterans and their families can truly understand.
Inspiring Words from a Participant
Phil, one of the attending Veterans, shared his thoughts on the experience:
"Last week, I attended a multi-day Veteran event hosted by Disconnect to Reconnect. There were a lot of laughs, tears, old sea/field stories, new friendships made, new and old bike skills learned, demented military humor, and of course a whole lot of $h!t talking and refreshing beverages shared between the four branches of service. It was a great bonding experience only Veterans and their families would understand. A very grateful thank you to Casey White and his crew, Mike's Bikes, B1KER, Ride Force, Big Sexy Brewing, and the other sponsors for making this program happen. Please share this beneficial group with any Northern California or Reno-based Veterans who would be interested in getting outdoors, whether it's biking, hiking, backpacking, camping, surfing, of any ability level, and connecting with other vets who have gone through the same experiences as them."
The Heart of Disconnect to Reconnect
Phil's words encapsulate what inspires us to continue our mission. When I started Disconnect to Reconnect, events like the MTB Campout were what I envisioned. Seeing Veterans reconnect, heal, and find joy in outdoor adventures is what drives us forward. I am proud of what our organization has become in just two years, and I can't wait for the next MTB Campout.
Join Us for Future Adventures
If you're a Veteran in Northern California looking to get outdoors and connect with others who have shared similar experiences, join us at Disconnect to Reconnect. Whether it's mountain biking, hiking, backpacking, camping, or surfing, we welcome all ability levels. Visit www.d2rvets.com for more information.
Conclusion
The MTB Campout was more than just an event; it was a transformative experience that brought Veterans together through mountain biking and adventure. We are deeply thankful to our sponsors and supporters for making this possible and look forward to many more successful events in the future.
Reconnect, heal, and thrive with Disconnect to Reconnect.
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