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2024 marks my 15th Cycle To The Sea (CTTS). Back in 2010 when I started this journey, I never thought the allure of the road would still be this strong. For those who don't know, each year, I, and other disabled hand-cyclists, join with a group of able-bodied bicycle riders and other volunteers for the annual Cycle To The Sea. CTTS is an 180 mile trek from Charlotte to North Myrtle Beach that we make peddling with just our arms. We travel 60 miles a day for three days to raise awareness and funds for the Adaptive Sports and Adventures Program (ASAP).
ASAP is a wonderful program that provides disabled youths and adults the opportunity to participate in a wide variety of sports at little or no cost to them. Some of those activities include, cycling, quad rugby, tennis, water skiing and archery, just to name a few. Participating with ASAP gives me a sense of purpose and accomplishment. In short, ASAP focuses on a person's abilities instead of their disabilities.
Like the trip to Myrtle Beach itself, the past 15 years have been filled with ups, downs, peaks and valleys. My first year riding in 2010, nothing has ever topped crossing that finish line. It was an indescribable feeling that made all the sore muscles and popped blisters worth it.
CTTS is a big family and we get to celebrate a family reunion every year and it's not that dissimilar to the family reunions you are used to. We have plenty of food, fun and fellowship on our journey as we celebrate what we can accomplish together. We even have a crazy uncle (Chef Jeff) who does all the cooking and keeps things interesting.
Each rider has their own story as to why they participate in CTTS.
I am on a team with three able-bodied riders, Steve Gilbert of Ellenboro, Dr. Shea Stuart of Shelby and Aaron Harper of Weddington. Collectively, our team is known as the Rollin' Raptors because we all like the Jurassic Park books and movies. I like a challenge and want to prove to myself and others every year that I can still pedal 180 miles. Aaron Harper says, "I have had the pleasure of supporting the ASAP program for over 10 years. I never thought I would need their services, but that changed with my most recent spinal surgery. My surgeon knew how much I love cycling and prescribed specific therapy to get me back on the road. After months of rehab, I was able to join my CTTS family for this adventure. We get to encourage and motivate each other for 180 miles and then share stories of our time on the road."
According to Dr. Stuart, "I get to spend three days on a bike with fantastic people and raise money for a wonderful and transformative organization. Every year is like a family reunion."
CTTS lost a member of the family in 2013. Jimmy Melton of Rutherford County, passed away following CTTS that year. That was one of the deepest valleys I have ever been though. It was difficult to get back on the bike after that, but each year I ride in his memory and I feel as if he is riding right next to me.
After completing my 15th CTTS, I am the second most veteran rider on the trip behind Greg Taylor who just completed his 20th ride. Next year will be the 25th annual Cycle To The Sea and I hope to be back on the bike and better than ever, continuing to ride, raise funds and make memories with my CTTS Family.
Steve Gilbert has ridden with Jacob for about five or six years and the recent Cycle to the Sea marked his third trip to the coast.
Gilbert said he is blessed to be able to ride with Jacob and observe so many obstacles Jacob has overcome to continue riding.
"We take so much for granted," Gilbert said. "I am blessed to be friends with Jacob."
Gilbert said the experience has changed his life, realizing how much everyone takes for granted has made him a better person.
