'Ride 430 Challenge': 64 cyclists leave Scottsdale for San Diego in honor of veterans

SCOTTSDALE, AZ - After five months of training, it’s time for a 430-mile trek Wednesday for dozens of cyclists in the Valley.

Hundreds of supporters were in Scottsdale for an emotional send-off to 64 cyclists as they set off on a four-day, 430-mile bike ride, from Scottsdale to the San Diego area.

The goal is to raise awareness and money for injured military servicemen and women, and their families.

During the last five months, the Ride 430 Challenge riders have logged more than 2,000 training miles to prepare for this grueling event.

During the four-day ride, the team will travel more than 100 miles a day, including mountain climbs and crossing deserts in searing temperatures.

The fifth annual Ride 430 Challenge is a philanthropic bicycle ride that begins in Scottsdale and ends four days and 430 miles later at the Gunfighter's Squadron Hangar at Camp Pendleton in California.

Sixty-four cyclists, including some former military service people, will complete the journey.

The funds raised will help supplement military assistance and bridge gaps to ensure families have everything they need for a successful recovery.

Funding also helps provide everything from financial assistance and scholarships to adaptive sports equipment and camps for children who have lost a parent in combat.

Beneficiary organizations include The Injured Marine Semper Fi Fund, the Knights of Heroes Foundation and The MARSOC Foundation.