The ride from Waco to Cleburne is usually one of the memorable days on the UnitedHealthcare Texas Challenge. The undulating roads and tailwinds make for a fast and fun day in the saddle. Add in thousands of screaming school kids chanting "U-S-A, U-S-A" and anyone would have a big smile on their face all day long.

We finally were able to see the sun for the first time this week and with it came warmer temperatures that were a welcome sight. Today was service branch jersey day where the riders showed their pride in their service. There were plenty of Army, Navy, Marine Corps, and Air Force jerseys on display, as well as jerseys representing first responders - Police and Fire Departments.

Our Project HERO program has included police and fire fighters who were injured on the job. The high suicide rates go mostly under the radar and the PTSD and TBI issues they face are much the same that the military members face. It has become more and more common to see first responders well-represented on Ride 2 Recovery's UnitedHealthcare Challenge events. The progress seen by 9/11 rescuer, Capt. Bob Gray, and North Carolina State Policeman, Humberto Reyna, has been remarkable.

Both men have suffered significant brain injuries and have regained almost all of their function in large part due to riding in Ride 2 Recovery's program.