Kids & Family
Annapolis Cyclist Returns Home After 10,600 Mile Charity Ride
His trip took him to every major league stadium in the country, but ended abruptly just 180 miles short of his goal after he was injured on the road.
A gathering of friends and public officials greeted Jacob Landis when he came back to Annapolis after a nearly 11,000 mile journey around the country on his bike.
By age 10, Landis was deaf. But a cochlear implant restored his hearing. Insurance didn't cover the life-changing procedure, so Landis dedicated his trip to raise funds and awareness for the implants for children who are in need.
His trip took him to every major league stadium in the country, but ended abruptly just 180 miles short of his goal after he was injured on the road.
Landis set out on Jacob's Ride in April from Whole Foods in Annapolis. And on Wednesday, surrounded by dozens of supporters, fans and media, Landis returned, saying he was glad to be back in his hometown.
When he took the mic, Landis was humble about his accomplishment, and his setbacks, instead spending time thanking those who made his ride happen.
"This ride happened because of the people of Annapolis," Landis said. "I just got on the bike."
The trip was one Landis said he'll never forget. Cycling across the country he passed through the Ozark Mountains, the Appalachains, the Rockies and more. Pedaling up a mountain each time was a challenge he said, but it was made easier knowing the ride downhill on the other side would be a breeze.
"When (the ride) got tough, I didn't want to let the City of Annapolis down," Landis said. "Raising enough money to be able to change a kid's life was always in the back of my mind."
While cycling just 180 miles away from his final destination in Miami, Landis was struck by the side mirror of a tractor-trailer, landing him in the hospital. His injuries were serious enough that doctors said he would't be able to ride his bike to the last stadium.
Injured but not deterred, Landis announced that he planned to complete the final 180 miles in his journey as soon as he was able. Parts of his body were still scabbed, and he said his left arm didn't have full range of motion yet, but he was said he couldn't wait to be able to ride again.
Jacob's Ride has raised $127,000 so far, according to the latest information on his website.
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