​Team 224 History

​In the Summer of 2011, two young friends, with a couple of water bottles, energy bars, and sheer determination, rode their bicycles 200 miles from Rittman, Ohio to the Gateway Woods Annual Charity Auction in Leo, Indiana. With no specific purpose to this ride, other than a good time and proving critics wrong, the friends wondered if they could turn their ride into something more. In 2012, the two friends, along with nine other riders and the help of two support cars, completed the first annual Team 224 Gateway Woods Benefit Ride helping raise money for the Gateway Woods Auction. Word of this organized ride traveled quickly and in 2013 there were 28 riders and three support cars. In 2014 a couple from Illinois with a passion for riding and supporting Gateway Woods asked if they could join the efforts and start a ride from Fairbury, Illinois to Gateway Woods meeting the Ohio group coming from the East. Soon, Team East (OH to IN) and Team West (IL to IN) were working together for one common goal. The following years brought continued interest and growth. In 2016 with the desire to continue to grow this event and support other Christ centered organizations, Team 224 incorporated and officially became a 501c3 organization.  Our 2017 season brought the 6th annual Gateway Woods Ride and the first ever Food Bank Flyer to benefit the Midwest Food Bank in Normal Illinois. Over the years we have been blessed with the opportunity to meet so many incredible riders, supporters and sponsors to help us support those in need. 

​About Team 224

Team 224, Inc. is a 501c3 nonprofit organization, faith driven and Christ centered. Our mission is to fufill the teachings of Matthew 25: 35 – 36: "For I was hungered, and you gave me meat: I was thirsty and you gave me drink: I was a stranger, and ye took me in: Naked and ye clothed me: I was sick and ye visited me:.." We partner with other non-profits to organize cycling and running events to raise funds for the poor, distressed and underprivileged. Our goal is to promote the spirit of giving along with a healthy lifestyle.

Ride. Run. Give.