2 Bellaire Cyclists Trek Israel In Support Of Defense Forces

BELLAIRE, TX — Two Bellaire cyclists and another from Houston concluded an intense six-day bicycle ride through Israel last month with a group of more than 30 other fellow cyclists. Mark Mucasey and Craig Teller of Bellaire and David Massin of Houston endured rough Israeli terrain in support of the Friends of the Israel Defense Forces (FIDF).

The more than 30 cyclists from across the U.S. covered over 350 miles and a total vertical climb of more than 22,000 feet. The ride allowed the participants, all of whom are avid riders, to show solidarity with and support for the soldiers of the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) while experiencing Israel from the seats of their bikes.

"This cycling tour was an incredible opportunity to bring FIDF supporters together with Israeli soldiers," said FIDF Midwest Executive Director Tamir Oppenheim. "Biking across Israel together with wounded veterans helped participants to really understand the impact FIDF has on the lives of the brave men and women who benefit from FIDF programs."

Beginning at the Red Sea in Israel’s southernmost city, Eilat, the cyclists headed north, riding through the Ramon Crater in the Negev Desert, before continuing to Ashkelon, and finally finishing in Jerusalem. Along the way, the group visited national landmarks, ancient historic sites, and Israeli military bases. The participants met active-duty soldiers serving on these bases, Lone Soldiers who serve in the IDF with no immediate family in Israel, and combat veterans who benefit from the FIDF IMPACT! Scholarship Program.

Joining the American FIDF supporters for this cross-country ride, which began in southern Israel on Oct. 20, was a group of wounded Israeli combat veterans who have benefited from FIDF rehabilitative programs and prosthetic devices, and Israeli pro cyclist Roy Goldstein.

FIDF was established in 1981 by a group of Holocaust survivors as a 501(C)(3) not-for-profit organization with the mission of offering educational, cultural, recreational, and social programs and facilities that provide hope, purpose, and life-changing support for the soldiers who protect Israel and Jews worldwide. Today, FIDF has more than 150,000 loyal supporters, and 20 chapters throughout the United States and Panama.

Top image: Cyclist Mark Mucasey of Bellaire bikes the hills of Israel. (Photo by FIDF)