Hard Miles

'Hard Miles' is an uplifting and powerful movie that follows the journey of a dedicated social worker, played by Sean Astin, who goes above and beyond to help a group of troubled teenage convicts. Set in a youth prison, the social worker sees potential in these young men and decides to start a cycling team with them. This is no ordinary team, however, as the cyclists are all serving time for various crimes and have never ridden a bike before.

The team is made up of a diverse group of characters, each with their own unique background and set of challenges. One of the standout characters is Smink, played by Jackson Kelly, who is initially resistant to the idea of joining the team. However, as the team begins to train and come together, Smink starts to open up and find a new sense of purpose. Through the rigorous training and the challenge of the 1000-mile ride, these young men are forced to confront their past mistakes and learn the value of hard work, discipline, and teamwork.

The movie is inspired by the true story of Greg Townsend and the Ridgeview Academy Cycling Team. Townsend, a former convict himself, started the team as a way to help young men in similar situations turn their lives around. The team became a massive success, with many of the members going on to lead successful and fulfilling lives. 'Hard Miles' is a testament to the power of second chances and the resilience of the human spirit. It's a must-watch for anyone who loves a good underdog story, and a reminder that it's never too late to make a change for the better.