SOUTH LAKE TAHOE — A team of athletes, many of whom are wounded Iraq and Afghanistan veterans representing all military branches made a stop in South Lake Tahoe on their cross-country bike ride.

The team departed from the Golden Gate Bridge May 22 for World T.E.A.M. Sports' inaugural bike trek across America: Sea to Shining Sea. The ride honors the courage of America's service men and women, recognizes the strength of the American spirit and challenge perceptions of athletes, according to the organizations website. The ride is set to conclude in Virginia Beach, Va. July 24.

Spanning 63 days and 4,000 miles, the cyclists will test their physical limits and inspire people, disabled or not, to live active and enriched lives. The group will cycle through deserts, mountain passes and historical landmarks providing dramatic proof that disabled Americans can lead productive lives and accomplish feats most people only dream about. Several riders have specially-designed bikes that make it possible for them to participate.

South Lake Tahoe State Farm Agent Erik Watada and Tahoe City State Farm Agent Roxanne Duffield served as community coordinators for the ride.

“This journey takes an incredible amount of fortitude,” Duffield said. “These vets are entering a challenge of a lifetime that is awe inspiring. My hat goes off to them.”

Among the supporters joining the group will be Army Brig. Gen. Arnold N. Gordon-Bray, retired Marine Corps Gen. Robert Magnus and Ambassador Paul Bremer, who oversaw the reconstruction of Iraq from May 2003 to June 2004.

State Farm is proud to sponsor the Sea to Shining Sea ride across America. In addition to funding, State Farm agents will be there for all 63 days of the Sea to Shining Sea ride serving as community coordinators.

For more information and to follow Sea to Shining Sea online, go to s2ssbikeride.org.