July 9, 2014, Washington, D.C. – Injured veterans and able-bodied riders with World T.E.A.M. Sports’ inaugural CanAm Veterans’ Challenge completed their nearly 800 mile journey Friday morning, reaching the Capitol of the United States.
Following a triumphant arrival at the Capitol, the riders accepted an invition by the Canadian federal government to a reception at the Canadian Embassy. Canadian Ambassador Gary Doer welcomed the riders to Washington, and provided access to the building’s impressive top floor views of the Capitol. Serving as the ambassador to the United States since 2009, Ambassador Doer said they would like to play a role in the June 2016 CanAm Veterans’ Challenge ride now in early planning by the non-profit World T.E.A.M. Sports.
Riders then pedaled to the staging area for the annual Independence Day Parade on Constitution Avenue, sponsored by the National Park Service. As Hurricane Arthur continued to churn to the northeast, skies cleared and temperatures warmed, providing a fitting end to the CanAm Veterans’ Challenge.
Riders prepare to depart Arlington, Virginia for the finish in Washington, D.C. Photograph by Richard Rhinehart.
Veterans on hand cycles move to the front of the team prior to departure from the Marriott in Arlington. Photograph by Richard Rhinehart.
Participants of the CanAm Veterans’ Challenge pose in front of the U.S. Capitol in Washington, D.C. for the cameras. Photograph by Richard Rhinehart.
En route to the Canadian Embassy in Washington, D.C. Photograph by Richard Rhinehart.
Arriving at the Canadian Embassy in Washington, D.C. Photograph by Richard Rhinehart.
World T.E.A.M. Sports CEO and President Van Brinson (left) talks with Canadian Ambassador Gary Doer July 4. Photograph by Richard Rhinehart.
Reception at the Canadian Embassy for the CanAm team. Photograph by Richard Rhinehart.
From the upper observation deck at the Canadian Embassy, the team poses for a group image in front of the Capitol. Photograph by Richard Rhinehart.
The team waits for the start of the Independence Day Parade in Washington, D.C. Photograph by Richard Rhinehart.
The CanAm team stands ready for the start of the Independence Day Parade in Washington. Photograph by Richard Rhinehart.
The Independence Day Parade in Washington, D.C. included big balloons, including one behind the CanAm team. Photograph by Richard Rhinehart.
The Parade is underway along Constitution Avenue. Photograph by Richard Rhinehart.
CanAm Veterans’ Challenge rider Bob Clayton enjoys the Independence Day Parade in Washington, D.C. Photography courtesy Bob Clayton.
Following the ride conclusion, there are still tasks to accomplish. On July 5, staff members gathered to sort gear and clean rental trucks. Photograph by Richard Rhinehart.
