Wheels of Grit - Key West to Kittery
The Ride
This spring, I’m riding my bicycle 2,500+ miles from Key West, Florida to Kittery, Maine, traveling the East Coast over 50+ days.
This is a solo endurance ride built around forward motion, not speed. The route follows bike-friendly paths, rail trails, and coastal roads, with daily stops in local communities, including visits to veteran organizations along the way.
Every mile represents a choice: to keep moving, to adapt, and to take the next step forward.
The Why
Wheels of Grit was born from my own turning point, learning to focus not on what I couldn’t do anymore, but on what was still possible.
As a retired U.S. Coast Guard officer and trained life coach, I’ve seen how people get stuck not because they lack strength, but because the first step feels overwhelming. This ride is a living example of a core belief I hold:
You don’t need confidence to begin.
You only need the willingness to try.
This journey is about resilience, momentum, and choosing action — even when the path ahead feels uncertain.
Who this Supports
This ride is a fundraiser and awareness effort supporting two organizations that help people reclaim capability, confidence, and independence:
- Wounded Warrior Project® — providing life-changing programs that support injured veterans in recovery, independence, and long-term well-being.
- Achilles International — empowering individuals with disabilities to participate in endurance sports through community, adaptive opportunities, and support.
100% of donations go directly to these organizations.
Wheels of Grit does not collect or handle donation funds.
Follow the ride, share the story, or donate if you’re able — every form of support helps move this mission forward.