WOUNDED WARRIORS RETURN THIS WEEKEND

a group of men riding bikes down a street
Wounded Warriors pedal down U.S. 1 on a past Soldier Ride. The ride returns to the Florida Keys Jan. 10 and 11. LARRY BLACKBURN/Keys Weekly

The Wounded Warrior Project Soldier Ride takes place Friday and Saturday, Jan. 10 and 11, in the Upper, Middle and Lower Keys. Residents and visitors are encouraged to cheer on and support the warriors while they cycle through the Keys or join them for a guided community ride on Saturday, Jan. 11  in Key West.

“We are proud to celebrate the 20th year of the Wounded Warrior Project Soldier Ride in the Florida Keys. This event empowers veterans and brings us together to honor their strength and commitment,” said Cathy Crane, Monroe County Veterans Affairs director, who is also a coordinator of the event. “Let’s support our heroes, recognize their sacrifices and build awareness as they cycle through our community.”

Motorists should take extra time to get to their destination during the ride times. U.S. 1 will remain open during the Soldier Ride, but motorists should be patient, use caution and note that there may be rolling lane shifts in traffic.

Here is the schedule:

Friday, Jan. 10

Key Largo to Islamorada

Start: 8:30 a.m. from VFW Post 10211

Break: 9:30 a.m. Coral Shores High School

End: 10:30 a.m. Three Waters Resort & Marina

Marathon to Big Pine Key

Start: 1:30 p.m. from Marathon Fire Station across the 7 Mile Bridge

End: 2:30 p.m. Veterans Memorial Beach

Saturday, Jan. 11

Key West and Boca Chica

Start: 10:30 a.m. from Boca Chica Naval Base

Welcome Ceremony: Noon at Bayview Park, Key West

City of Key West

Guided Community Ride: 12:45 to 2 p.m. Start and end at Bayview Park