SAVE THE DATE The 2027 Cursive Ohio event will be held on Saturday, September 4.

By Paula Pyzik Scott / CLICK photos to enlarge

Sixth-generation farmer Austin Heil created the Cursive Ohio charitable bike ride as a one-time thank you to people he met while finishing his first half IM Ohio. Ten years on, Heil draws riders to the Ada area for a beautiful, flat outing where they follow a route that spells O-h-I-o in cursive letters.

In recent years, Heil has used the ride to benefit the Ohio AgrAbility program, which supports Ohio farmers with a disability or long-term health condition.

Following an exceptionally stormy night, the area for the September 5 ride was littered with leaves and twigs, but the route remained clear of fallen trees, and the weather was beautiful. Some 95 riders registered for the event, raising approximately $4,000 for Ohio AgrAbility.

Riders are given the option to ride 17-, 34- or 65-mile routes. On their return to Ada's War Memorial Park, the scent of smoked brisket, burgers and cornbread hinted at a delicious post-ride meal, which also included homemade ice cream. The atmosphere was relaxed and sociable among the riders, many of whom participated in pairs.

At the picnic shelter, volunteers checked in riders and served the meal wearing Cursive Ohio T-shirts listing 29 sponsoring organizations and families.

Riders turned in tags to show they completed the ride. Participants can call in from the road if they need help, with the Hardin County Amateur Radio Club providing communication support. If tags aren't turned in, organizers track the riders and find out if assistance is needed.

Heil's enthusiasm for riding with a purpose is shared by the volunteers and riders at the 2026 event. Folks from the Ohio AgrAbility program provided a rest stop at the dot on the "i" in Ohio.

While discussing the day's event, Heil also spoke of experiences he had in an Ironman competition when he almost drowned. He recalls, "I heard God say, I'm not done with you." Remarkably, he was able to finish the swim and complete the event despite a time disqualification. During the run, he met a man and told him about his experience. This exchange proved to be a turning point for this new acquaintance, who had been despondent. 

These experiences have clearly shaped Heil's sense of purpose with the Cursive Ohio charity ride. He explains that it is his way of giving back, following the example of people who helped him during the Ironman event.

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