Ride Without Limits, a fully supported cycling event benefitting Easter Seals UCP North Carolina & Virginia, celebrated its 5th anniversary on Sunday, August 28th by raising $160,000 for critical programs and services for individuals with disabilities and special needs. Despite the enormous logistical challenges presented from Hurricane Irene, 130 of 201 registered riders found their way to Camp Royall in Moncure, NC for a delayed start to one of North Carolina’s premier cycling events. Traditionally a two-day event, Ride Without Limits was forced to cancel Saturday’s cycling activities.

Undaunted, event organizers, volunteers and participants pulled together a Saturday evening kick-off party featuring great food, serene weather and plenty of Hurricane Irene war stories. Early Sunday morning, riders of all levels lined up to support the mission of Easter Seals UCP. Along the route, smiling volunteers manned fully-stocked rest stops every 12-14 miles.

Among the first-time participants in Ride Without Limits was hand-cyclist Jonathan Merrill, a young man who was left paralyzed from the waist down by a truck accident 10 years ago. Since 2011 was the 10th anniversary of Jonathan’s accident, he pledged to change his life and become a more active person. A major accomplishment for Jonathan was finishing the 52 mile ride.

“This event was something to behold,” said Larry Thompson, Easter Seals UCP vice president of development. “There are four things we at Easter Seals UCP endeavor to do every day – connect with our community, deliver quality outcomes, steward our resources and perform with agility. We touched on all of these things to make the Ride work. We were honored to have Jonathan Merrill participate this year and inspire us all.”

About Easter Seals UCP North Carolina & Virginia

Headquartered in Raleigh, NC with programs and services throughout North Carolina and Virginia, Easter Seals UCP is a lifelong partner to families managing disabilities and mental health challenges. The nonprofit serves more than 20,000 individuals and their families annually through an array of services. Easter Seals UCP enhances the quality of life for individuals and maximizes their potential for engaging in their communities. For more information on Easter Seals UCP North Carolina & Virginia, please visit www.eastersealsucp.com.

###