Star Trac is set to support returning military veterans on their path to rehabilitation through Road 2 Recovery, a non-profit organization aimed at creating Spinning and outdoor cycling rehabilitation programs for VAs across the United States. The first official charity ride of 2008 begins Tuesday, May 20 at the Walter Reed VA in Washington DC and ends with a lap around the Lowes Motor Speedway before the Coca-Cola 600 NASCAR race outside Charlotte, North Carolina, on Sunday, May 25.

Military veterans, athletes, celebrities and hundreds of participants are expected for the 500-mile ride set along a scenic route along the East Coast, dotted with historical locations. Three-time Tour de France champion, Greg LaMond, Afghanistan/ Iraq war veterans Mike McNaughton and Major Jason Bryan, Olympic silver medalist and world cycling champion Mari Holden, Olympic cyclist Wayne Stetina and actor and chair of this years VA National Salute to Hospitalized Veterans, Mike Vogal, are a few scheduled ride participants.

Road 2 Recovery was created in response to the influx of veterans returning for war zones overseas and suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder and physical injuries, such as burns and loss of limbs. Studies have shown that physical activity, such as cycling, is effective in combating depression.

Star Trac is honored to have the opportunity to give back to the courageous men and women in our military through Road 2 Recovery, said Keith White, director of global branding for Star Trac. Star Tracs Expect Different initiative is all about promoting and adopting an active, healthy lifestyle, and were thrilled to spread that message to our returning veterans.

Riders interested in participating in Road 2 Recovery can visit road2recovery.us.com or call 818.888.7091 for sign-up information. There is a minimum donation of $3,500 per rider, and participation is limited to 200 participants. Riders will receive a special Road 2 Recovery commemorative jersey and socks. Additionally, riders will be provided with hotel rooms, support vehicles, rest stop areas and food. Special awards and prizes will be available for top fundraisers.

Star Trac, headquartered in Irvine, California, is the fastest-growing company in the commercial fitness industry. The company is partnered with Mad Dogg Athletics as the manufacturer for Spinner bikes, including the groundbreaking Spinner NXT. Global obesity is on the rise. Its time to Expect Different (www.expectdifferent.com). For more information about Star Trac, call 800.228.6635 or visit www.startrac.com.