Over 350 cyclists–including veterans living with paralysis, limb loss, blindness, PTSD, and traumatic brain injuries–will roll out of Crystal City on May 16 for one of the most powerful events hosted by nonprofit World TEAM (The Exceptional Athlete Matters).
Face of America: Gettysburg, now in its twenty-first year, is a 110-mile adaptive cycling challenge that ends at the hallowed grounds of Gettysburg, PA. Presented by the Osaic Foundation, the ride unites military veterans, adaptive athletes, and civilians for what organizers call “proof of what is possible.”
“We value both the inspiration and inclusion aspects of this annual cycling challenge,” said Stacy O’Keeffe, president and chair of the Arizona-based Osaic Foundation. “Our own team of riders, comprised of Osaic employees and financial advisors, will join with others as we support adaptive athletes and celebrate the service of veterans and first responders who participate.”
This year’s event carries its most ambitious goal yet: raising $1 million to ensure adaptive athletes can participate fully—including travel grants, free hotel rooms, and meals—regardless of their financial situation.
NFL legend and Washington Commanders icon Brian Mitchell, now a World TEAM board member and avid fundraiser for Face of America, will ride alongside the veterans he calls an inspiration.
“Riding alongside veterans is one of the most humbling things I’ve ever done,” Mitchell said. “Face of America is a chance to give back, ride with purpose, and honor those who’ve given everything for this country.”
At the heart of the event is Gregory Gadson, U.S. Army (Ret.), double amputee, World TEAM board member and FOA Global Ambassador, whose story of service, loss, and recovery has shaped the culture of the ride since its founding.
The veterans speak for themselves:
“Face of America reminded me that cycling isn’t just a sport — it’s a powerful way to build community, restore confidence, and prove that there are no limits to what we can achieve together.” — Hilbert P., U.S. Army veteran and amputee
“World TEAM saved my life.” — Charlie P., U.S. Army veteran and PTSD survivor
The event begins Friday, May 15, at the Hyatt Regency Crystal City, opening with a Wellness Workshop focused on mental and physical wellbeing, before transitioning into an evening Kick-Off Banquet and the presentation of the second annual Service Member of the Year Award. Riders set out from Crystal City on Saturday, May 16, passing through Frederick, MD—where communities line the route in celebration—before crossing the finish line at the World War II American Experience Museum in Gettysburg on Sunday, May 17.
“Every mile of this ride carries the weight of real sacrifice and the power of real resilience,” said Jon Brideau, President & CEO of World TEAM. “These veterans aren’t just riding. They’re leading.”
Face of America: Gettysburg runs May 15–17, 2026, departing from Crystal City, Arlington, VA. The event is presented by the Osaic Foundation, with support from Leidos, Capital One, Navy Federal Credit Union, Booz Allen Hamilton, Dell Technologies, Forescout, Restoration Capital, Booz Allen, Network Design Inc., KPMG, Penske, Boulder Crest Foundation, and Mount Airy Bicycle Co.
For more information, visit www.worldteamsports.org.
About Osaic Foundation: Launched in 2023, the Osaic Foundation is a 501(c)(3) private foundation registered in Arizona. Its mission is to empower lives through experiential events that build thriving communities, education support that enriches financial literacy, and workforce development that increases diverse representation. It supports hands-on, grant-supported volunteerism across the country by employees of Osaic, Inc., and its affiliated financial professionals and staff. Osaic, a portfolio company of Reverence Capital Partners, is one of the nation’s largest providers of wealth management strategies, supporting more than 10,000 financial professionals. Osaic’s mission is to empower entrepreneurial advisors to create leading wealth management solutions that enhance lives and legacies. Visit www.osaic.com to learn more.
