Cherokee Nation's 'Remember The Removal' Cyclists Prepare For Annual Ride

The Cherokee Nation hosted a send-off ceremony Tuesday for ten cyclists taking part in the annual Remember the Removal Bike Ride.

The cyclists are headed to Georgia, where they'll begin retracing the northern route of the Trail of Tears.

The three-week journey will take them 950 miles, through Georgia, Tennessee, Kentucky, Illinois, Missouri, Arkansas, and Oklahoma.

Remember The Removal 

The riders are between 16 and 24-years old. They were selected based on essays, interviews, and a physical to make sure they were up to the challenge.

"There are thousands of Cherokees all over the United States that are envious of you today. That wish they were getting ready to experience what you're getting ready to experience," said Cherokee Nation Chief Bill John Baker.

This is the first time the cyclists will get college credit for the journey