Courage Classic: 2,000 Cyclists Complete 3-day Bike Tour Benefiting Children's Colorado

The riders of the 26th Courage Classic bike tour benefiting Children’s Hospital Colorado have finished their three-day journey through the Rocky Mountains. The nearly 2,000 cyclists started their trek on Saturday, July 18 and concluded in Copper Mountain on Monday, July 20 to the cheers of hundreds of volunteers, family members and friends. 

Bike tour spans 182 scenic miles across the Rocky Mountains

Avid cyclist Andy Tuthill of team Ponzio Pedalers had already logged more than 1,700 miles this year before he arrived at Courage Classic.

“This is a tour, not a race,” said Andy. “I do a lot of events and I wouldn’t miss this one for anything! It’s just great to set competition aside and connect with a cycling community for a good cause."

More than 300 volunteers give back at cycling event​

The event would not be possible without the support of more than 300 volunteers. 

Patty Paddock returned to volunteer for her third straight year. Having lost two grandchildren to genetic disorders, she has a special place in her heart for the work done at Children’s Colorado.

Over breakfast on the final day of the tour, Patty’s eyes filled with tears as she shared, “My only daughter lives abroad,” said Patty. "I never got to hold those babies. My hope is that events like this can help fund research and save other children from the same fate."

Like many of the volunteers at the tour, Patty goes above and beyond in her creativity. She dresses as a bee and holds a sign that says “Bee Strong” as riders approach tough stretches on the course.

Over the course of three days, the courageous riders battled the elements to summit three mountain passes, communed over connections to the hospital and raised $2.2 million for pediatric healthcare. 

Raising funds for top-ranked pediatric healthcare

Funds raised through Courage Classic help Children’s Colorado achieve our mission to improve the health of children through high-quality, coordinated programs of patient care, education, research and advocacy. 

Fundraising for this year’s event will continue online through Aug. 31. Read more about the annual Courage Classic or make a donation.