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2010 Air Force Cycling Classic huge success

  • Published
  • By Aletha Frost
  • AFDW/PA
Air Force District of Washington --  In a sea of colorful jerseys, cyclists of all ages, riding on every type of bicycle imaginable and representing numerous companies and organizations, took to the streets June 12-13 for the Air Force 2010 Cycling Classic in Clarendon and Crystal City, Va.

Nearly 1,950 riders participated in the two-day event to raise funds and promote awareness of wounded warriors and their families.

This year's event, the largest to date, raised more than $55,000 for the Intrepid Fallen Heroes Fund, a charity that supports wounded warriors and the families of military members who have died serving their country.

"We're grateful to be able to sponsor the Air Force Cycling Classic. There is no more profound obligation for any who serve in the Armed Services than to take care of our wounded and their families," said Air Force Chief of Staff Gen. Norton Schwartz, who spoke at the opening ceremony and announced the start of the race. "That's what this event is about - giving back to those who have sacrificed so much."

The Air Force Cycling Classic Crystal Cup kicked off at 7:30 a.m., June 13 with Tom McMahan in the lead position wearing the yellow jersey symbolizing him as the leading individual fund raiser for the Intrepid Fallen Heroes Fund.

"I just think this is a great cause, thats why I'm here today," said Paul Smith, a Philadelphia native who follows the amateur cycling circuit. "The race was faster, and a better course than last year," who said. "Riding under the shadow of the Air Force Memorial put it into the right perspective, remembering those who had given so much to this great nation. The Intrepid fund is just amazing for helping those who give so much and ask for so little in return," he added.

Air Force District of Washington's own Mr. Mark Allen, Security Forces director rode in his second Air Force Cycling Classic Crystal Cup.

"I could feel the exhilaration of the crowd as I rode through Crystal City and having the crowd cheer me on was great," he said. "The toughest challenge was going up the hill to the Air Force Memorial, but it was just inspiring once you reached the Memorial."

The featured event of the day was the Air Force Cycling Challenge Crystal Ride Men's Pro Race - a 60-mile professional cycling race paying tribute to military members.

This elite race began at the Air Force Memorial and ended in Crystal City with 15 professional and amateur teams composed of three international and U.S. pro-teams, competing at speeds of over 25 miles per hour. Jacob Keough (USA), of the United HealthCare team picked up first place in the race.

"It's only fitting that the Air Force sponsor an annual Cycling Classic," said Maj. Gen. Darrell D. Jones, Air Force District of Washington commander. "When you think about it, the Air Force and cycling share a long history. Early airpower can be traced to a bicycle shop owned by two innovative brothers, Orville and Wilbur Wright. They built the foundation of today's Air Force."