Cyclists, runners raise awareness for organ donation

Katie Caples Foundation created event to raise awareness

AMELIA ISLAND, Fla. – Hundreds of cyclists and runners enjoyed the beautiful scenery of Amelia Island on Saturday, riding and walking to raise awareness for organ donation.

Katie Caples was 17-years-old, a high school student at Bishop Kenny. She became an organ donor after a car accident.

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The Katie Caples Foundation created the Ride for Life event back in 2005 to raise awareness about the importance of organ donation, and its education program.

Organizers said the community has embraced it.

"This event is produced to create an awareness among all of the people in the Jacksonville area about organ donation, and about how important it is for us all to take on the responsibility of signing up to be organ donors," said David Caples, Katie's father.

"This is our ninth ride and this is the only year it has rained, and hopefully it will be the only year it will ever rain," added Caples.

The ride caters to cyclists of all abilities. It includes a fun ride, a 100-mile ride and an off-road option.

In 2009, a 5K and 10K walk were added as other options for people supporting the cause.