Rich’s life changed forever in 1987 when a spinal cord injury paralyzed him from the waist down and left him wrestling with an unknown future. The next twelve years were filled with countless ups and downs which all led to him discovering a new God-given purpose for his life–a ministry that grew from a life-long dream he thought he had lost.

As an avid cyclist, Rich had always dreamed of completing an extended cross-country ride. After his accident, he had given up on that goal until one day when he was introduced to hand-cycling. Not only was Rich able to begin cycling again, but his dreams were renewed.

In 2011, Rich finally set out for his first extended cross-country ride. His goal was to complete 1,500-miles in just 8 weeks, raising money along the way for a cause close to his heart. At the time, Rich thought he was fulfilling his one-time goal, but God had a bigger plan.

After that first ride, Rich and his wife Becky founded The Front Range Freedom Tour, which unites cyclists from all over the nation as they ride together to inspire others, challenge their own limitations, and believe in a hope that restores, all while raising funds for Project Rescue.

Not only was Rich able to raise funds for Project Rescue, he is the inspiration behind the annual Freedom Challenge. With generous donors matching $1 per mile logged, the Freedom Challenge encourages everyone to get moving and allow them the chance to make their miles count just like Rich did!