January 23, 2006 – Ertl amputee and long distance endurance cyclist Dan Sheret recently announced an updated itinerary for AbilityTrek 2007, an adventure in which he will cycle about 16,000 miles across four continents. Sheret’s journey will begin June 1, 2007, in San Francisco rather than in England. The cyclist will circumnavigate the globe to continue his message of hope and awareness for others dealing with limb loss. The trek will raise funds and awareness for two charities: Clear Path International and the Rotary International Basra Project.

After Sheret cycles across America, he will become the first amputee to have cycled twice across the continent. While in Salt Lake City, AbilityTrek 2007, in conjunction with The Orthotic & Prosthetic Assistance Fund Inc. (OPAF), will be hosting a First Ride Clinic. Slated for June 21, 2007, the First Ride Clinic is an adaptive cycling clinic for the disabled to learn or re-learn the pleasures of cycling not only because just about every physically challenged individual is able to ride a bike, but also because it contributes dramatically to an individual’s emotional and physical well-being, instilling self-confidence and pride in personal achievement.

There is no charge to disabled participants, but pre-registration is required.

In addition, AbilityTrek 2007 announced that those interested in supporting Sheret by cycling with him on his ride across America can now register to join the AbilityTrek 2007 ride. The U.S. portion of the trek has been broken down into five segments lasting from seven to 15 days. Both able bodied and disable cyclists are encouraged to ride with Sheret in support of his efforts.

For more information and registration for the First Ride Adaptive Cycling Clinic, please contact Robin Burton, OPAF executive director at 215.752.5756 or rlb@opfund.org or visit their website www.opfund.org

For more information about AbilityTrek 2007, visit www.abilitytrek.org