Special Notes for Participants and Volunteers:
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General Program Requirements

Program Dates:

May 11-18, 2019
Application Deadline:

April 1, 2019

If you are interested in being a participant or volunteer, please click on the button below.

Apply Today!

TOUR OF THE CANYONS

Tour of the Canyons is a collaboration with San Juan LEADS Serves and consists of an epic bike ride consisting of blinded veterans and their “pilots” riding from Grand Junction to Moab.  Spanning approximately 250 miles, this five day journey is a mixture of road and off-road riding through some of the majestic canyons of Colorado and Utah.  At the end of each day, riders get to sit back and relax at a hut that is stocked with goodies and off the beaten path from civilization.

Our goal in this collaboration is to memorialize those that gave the ultimate sacrifice and to share the experience with the local communities.  Taking place from May 11-18th this will be our 3rd annual ride.  A little sooner than Memorial Day this year due to scheduling conflicts, but the meaning behind the ride stays the same.  The team will consist of four blinded veterans, their pilots and a small support crew.

If you are interested in participating in this ride, please fill out the initial application form by clicking here or call one of the following numbers:

Blind Endeavors: (970) 787-5438

San Juan LEADS Serves: (970) 318-0885

PARTICIPANT REQUIREMENTS:

– This program is open to military veterans of any era with a visual impairment and over 18 years of age (Proof of visual impairment will be required).
– Must apply by April 1st.  Selections will be made no later than April 7th.
– Must be comfortable with activities that may require physical exertion and willing to learn new skills relating to cycling.

PROGRAM SUMMARY:

Tour of the Canyons is a challenging bike ride that takes place near Memorial Day to memorialize those that lost their life while serving.  The ride will start near Grand Junction or Montrose, Colorado and end in Moab, Utah.  We are considering reversing the route this year.  Total distance is between 250-275 miles.  After the ride, we may spend time with the local community to share the experience of the week.

This is a challenging ride and applicants should be in good physical condition.  Prior tandem bicycle experience is not required, but strongly recommended.

Volunteers do not have to be veterans and we have spots open from driving the lead/sag vehicles, piloting a tandem or general support riders.

Volunteers will have meals and activities covered.  Transportation for volunteers must be pre-approved by the program committee.
We partner & collaborate with other local businesses and non-profit organizations to execute this program.  Participants and volunteers are expected to be good ambassadors of Blind Endeavors and organizations we are collaborating with. Safety is always on our mind and we exercise our best judgement for the pursuit of adventure & exploration. We always want participants and volunteers to be responsible and aware of the risks in participating in adventurous activities. If you ever have any questions or concerns please feel free to contact us at: programs@blindendeavors.org
Important:
We are always seeking new participants, those who have not ventured into the great wilderness and unknown. One way for you to help our mission is to spread the word and share our program and application to all who may be interested. The application is for volunteers, professionals and veteran participants alike. If you have certificates such as CPR, Wilderness first aid, experience working with the disabled, we welcome your application submission.
“When was the last time you tried something for the first time”
Apply Today!