GABR at the MRCC

Besides the obvious benefit of raising money for families of children with Cerebral palsy and other conditions, there are other reasons people take part in the Sanford Health Foundation Great American Bike Race year after year.

It builds team spirit and trust, which are vital to people in need of a second chance.

This is not your typical day at the Missouri River Correctional Center: more noise, more smiles, more excitement. Of course, none of them are at the MRCC by choice, but all these people volunteered to participate in a bike race two weeks before the one at Legacy High School.

"I heard it was a good cause. So right away, I wanted to jump aboard, give something back to the kids. Also, a nice little competitive, something we can compete against each other," said Matthew Gilbertson, bike rider.

There are eleven teams of six riders each here, with more than twice as many taking part at the State Penitentiary. They contact family and friends and encourage them to donate on the GABR website.

"I wanted to raise money for them, and it's good to give them empowerment and confidence. Help us, too. Just doing the right thing," said Khiry Hill, bike rider.

"It's an amazing way to break down barriers of staff and residents. They form a team together. We encourage staff join with residents. And you get to know them on a different level," said Joey Joyce, deputy warden.

Last year, the teams in both facilities raised $9,000. This year, the goal is $10,000.

More than a thousand others will be riding all day at Legacy High School on Saturday, April 27. We'll have one hour of live coverage beginning at noon.