2012 is the 11^th annual year for the Svitak Freedom Ride.

Philip Svitak was killed March 4, 2002 along with seven other American servicemen in Afghanistan. He was caught in what Pentagon officials describe as a fierce twelve-hour firefight after one of the two helicopters carrying them to a landing zone was shot down. The aftermath resulted in the war's worst loss of American lives due to enemy fire. He leaves behind his wife Laura, and sons Ethan, and Nolan.

Phil's hometown was Joplin Missouri . Phil was an avid cyclist. He loved cycling. His favorite was mountain biking. He spent a lot of time on the road bike as well. “The Philip J. Svitak Freedom Ride” was initiated in an effort to honor Phil, his family, all fallen soldiers, and to share his love for cycling. Phil gave his life fighting for what he believed in, our Freedom and our Country. Let's honor Phil, and show our appreciation to all our fallen soldiers by doing what Phil loved best, cycling. Phil was a nightstalker, a very elite group of fighters.

A portion of the proceeds go to the Svitak Memorial Bike Fund to purchase bicycles for children of military families at Christmas. Please consider an additional donation when you register

SIGN UP HERE

Schedule:

Friday August 17

• 4-7 PM- Packet Pickup & late registration @ Bicycle Specialists

Saturday August 18

• 6 AM –Packet Pickup & Registration @ MSSU football stadium parking lot
• 7 AM- 10, 25, 64 mile routes start
• 10:30 AM- 2:30 PM - Lunch is served
• 2:30 PM- Course closes

REGISTRATION:

• 3 Route Choices 10 miles 25 miles 64 miles
• All riders receive a goodie bag, custom cotton t-shirt and water bottle, and post-ride lunch
• Rides start at 7AM August 18, 2012
• Register online, choose the mail-in option, or register in person at packet pickup Friday & Saturday August 17 & 18.
• Sag service will be provided
• Rest Stops are available approximately ever 10-15 miles and will have water, sports drink, and food options.
• Course, SAG, Rest Stops, and Post-Ride Food will close at 2:00 PM (6 hours) you are welcome to complete the ride on your own after this

*Please be aware that Races Online charges a processing fee when registering*

PACKET PICKUP:

• You may pick up your goodie bag, number, shirt & water bottle at Bicycle Specialists Friday 4-7 PM or ride morning 6-7 AM at MSSU football stadium

POST-RIDE PARTY:

• Refreshments served from 8-10 AM for 10 & 25 mile riders

• Full Lunch provided post-ride starting at 10:30 AM

• Post-Ride and race pictures will be posted online within a week after the event