SAN ANTONIO — Dozens of Texas veterans hit the pavement for some therapeutic recreation at McAllister park in San Antonio.

Operation Comfort puts on the event

This is the 4th year for the workshop

Workshop promotes health

The Alamo City-based non-profit, Operation Comfort, hosted its annual bicycle workshop teaching vets how to safely ride their specialized bikes.

"I never thought I would ride a bike again," said veteran James Madison. "I never thought that I would feel the wind in my hair again, and being able to get on these trails and go a decent speed and feeling the wind in my hair, it’s just exhilarating. I felt alive again."



Photo of veterans participating in Operation Comfort’s workshop (Chris Grisby/Spectrum News)

Madison and other U.S. military veterans are riding their way back towards good health.

"It's just a whole new look on life. I’m not depressed anymore. I have something to do and enjoy myself," said Madison. "When I’m dealing with frustrations, or angers, or any kind of issues with PTSD, I take it out on the bike."

For many of the vets, their bikes serve as a tool to get in a decent workout and a chance to interact with others who share their same challenges. While the ride may feel and look a bit different at first, the perfect dose of pure fun soon sets in.

"I’m a below the knee amputee on both of my knees. I still get plenty of power," said veteran Rick Dunlap. "It’s just relaxing. It gives me a little more freedom and everything."

Operation Comfort's cycling workshop has been taking place in San Antonio since 2016​. To learn more about the non-profit, you can visit their website here.