The Solidarity Mission, led by Toby and Saul Feldberg, toured Israel from the Golan to Eilat, met its leaders and heroes and enjoyed exclusive experiences with the armed forces.

Simultaneously, the international group of 27 riders cycled from Latrum to Eilat alongside some 40 Zahal Disbled Veterans, members of the Beit Halochem riding courses who rode on single bikes, tandem bikes and hand bikes. The cycling guests from abroad were able to raise several thousand dollars for rehabilitation programs at the Beit Halochem Centres in Israel.

In addition to the significant funds raised, the presence of Canadians in Israel for these two events were a great show of support and encouragement to the many disabled veterans whom they met and were greeted with a warm and grateful embrace. The event was produced by Bike Israel and held in conjunction with the Zahal Disabled Veterans Organization and the Beit Halochem Centres in Israel.

See below, from a blog written by Monica Drexler who participated in this year's ride.

"Change in Motion: 330 kms. for Vets"
By: Monica Drexler

I recently completed my first fundraiser cycle ride in Israel called “Courage In Motion” (Oct.19-23). It’s organized by Beit Halochem Canada Aid To Disabled Veterans Of Israel, which supports and helps to rehabilitate soldiers who have been wounded as well as citizens who are victims of terrorism. This was a chance for me to give back and at the same time participate in a sport that I love. I signed up with my boyfriend Paul who had done several of these fundraisers in the past. I envied the way he would return from these trips full of accomplishment.

I knew that I needed to train hard in order to complete the 300+ km route from Tel-Aviv To Elat. When the day arrived to leave for the trip I started to feel a little anxious, not knowing what to expect. Would the rest of the 30 riders leave me in the dust? Would I be able to keep up with the pace? Would I remember to refill my fanny pack with tissue for emergency pee breaks?

When we arrived to meet our group, I was pleasantly surprised and relieved to hear that many riders felt the same way as I did, although there were a few elite cyclists ready to burn rubber.

Riding with vets
We had the privilege to cycle with remarkable war veterans. Although they each had their own personal story of tragedy they do not consider themselves as victims. They are strong, courageous and determined and they demonstrated each one of these qualities during our 5-day challenge. Their injuries quite often affected mobility of their legs and therefore they were equipped with 3 wheel bikes, requiring them to pedal with arm strength. These bikes were low to the ground and in 40 degree (Celsius!) weather the heat from the pavement would have been unimaginable yet they were unstoppable. This is the only event of its kind that incorporates a support system encouraging vets to participate; otherwise it is impossible for them to experience riding a bike outdoors - which we so easily take for granted.

I met Helen the second day of my ride. She had sustained her injuries from a suicide bomber while shopping one day. My initial reaction of feeling sad about her situation quickly changed to someone I looked to for inspiration. She handled her 3 wheel bike with ease and glided in front of me with confidence and pure core strength. She was one of many who gave me the strength to finish the 330 km challenge. Each one of these veterans is a hero in my mind and it was my privilege and honor to be able to ride along side with them.
Giving back feeds the soul but don’t underestimate the strength and drive of these survivors as we have much to learn from them.

I made many new friends on this trip and learned many life lessons and will be able to relive the wonderful memories at our Toronto reunion in a couple of weeks. As a group we raised $150,000 and hope to surpass this goal again next year! Maybe I’ll see you there?
To all my dear friends and family, thank you for your support…you each helped to make a difference.