Natalia Scales
(From left) Lindy and Adam Hopp, Scott Storck (President of IVOE), Denny Hansen, Paula, Nile Heefner, and Gabe Heefner gather together with the IVOE flag before taking off on their ride to Ely Saturday, August 9. The route is part of a new event series started by Gabe and Nile working with the Iowa Veterans Outdoor Experience to support and connect local veterans
In 2021, Gabe Heefner’s life was changed. While driving along Highway 6 in Iowa City, a .22 caliber pellet fired from an air rifle at a squirrel by Iowa City resident Phillip Olson struck Gabe in the head. The Marine Lance Cpl. was just 20 years old at the time. The injury left him with a traumatic brain injury, memory loss, and limited mobility. But through therapy, community, and sheer grit, he’s fought to regain what was taken.
Now, every other Saturday morning, Gabe rides.
With his father, Nile Heefner, by his side, Gabe leads a growing group of family, fellow veterans, and friends on a bike ride from the Solon Recreation and Nature Area (SRNA) to Ely and back. It’s part of a new initiative launched with Solon based Iowa Veterans Outdoor Experience (IVOE)—an organization that provides outdoor services for veterans, including hunting, fishing, and suicide prevention awareness programs.
“Riding is something he enjoys, so we like to come out here,” Nile said.
The Heefner’s approached Scott Storck (President of the IVOE) with the idea earlier this year, and in June they hosted their first official ride together.
“This past weekend we held our veterans bike ride, thanks to Nile and Gabe for organizing this. We found out how out of shape some of us are!” IVOE posted on Facebook.
The next rides are scheduled for August 23, September 13, and September 27, all starting at 8:00 a.m. at the SRNA. All are welcome, veterans and non-veterans alike. The rides are casual, social, and meant to support not just Gabe, but the broader veteran community. “We have friends and family join us every other Saturday to ride, and we invite anyone to come join us on our leisurely ride! We want to continue to spread the word,” Nile said.
For updates on future rides, visit the Iowa Veterans Outdoor Experience Facebook page.