Join iBIKE At The 8th Annual Courage Classic

Courage Classic Photos
Introduction
1997 Ride Schedule
See A Map Of This Year's Tour Route

"I've been working with the Courage Classic for the past 4 years, and I have to say this year was by far the best tour yet. The level of support from our sponsors, the 650 volunteers, and the enthusiasm from the riders has been incredible."

John Eddy
Executive Director
The Children's Hospital Bicycle Tours

'97 Courage Classic At A Glance

by Anke Corbin

There are a number of different fundraiser rides, you probably have a couple in your state, where thousands of people get together for one to 7 days of challenging mountain or road biking. Each entrant has to raise a minimum dollar amount and all of the proceeds go to a very worthy cause. This past weekend, 2 of the iBike staffers participated in one of the nations best fundraiser rides called the Courage Classic in Colorado, a 3 day benefit ride for The Children's Hospital. These rides are designed to be challenging, fun, and rewarding both physically and mentally. Read on and hopefully, you too will get off of your computer and sign up to ride next time.

The Courage Classic was held in Summit County, Colorado in the Rocky Mountains. Over 2000 road and mountain bikers took part in last weekends ride. Each day was filled with fun, challenging terrain and weather conditions, plus the camaraderie that develops from spending many hours together with strangers.

Some cyclists such as Scott Davidson, Ken Davidson, Tim and Susan DeHerrera have been riding in the Courage Classic for the past 8 years, they are members of a group called the Founders Club. "There are only about 10 of us left from the beginning. It's great because we all see each other every year. We really love this abuse and the volunteers really make this ride the best."

Volunteers such as Neil Gillis, high-five'n and cheering on the riders as they made it to the top of the 10,615 ft Vail Pass climb at the end of day one, make this event and others like it memorable. As Beth Nesis, one of the iBike team members said, "the Courage Classic is awesome, it's like having your mom or grandmother around every corner cheering you on, making sure you have enough food, wearing the right clothes, and going the right way."

Riders of all ages and abilities come together to contribute to a worthy cause, some because of personal experiences with a sick family member, others because they simply like to ride. Walt Spuler, age 62 who liked the challenge of being in the top 10 finishers, and his daughter who was at least an hour behind her dad in finishing, as well as Jim Henthorn and his daughter Ally, all rode together for a weekend filled breathtaking scenery and lots of fun.

Next year I expect to see you there, look me up because I will be one of the riders instead of the photographer shooting from the side of the road.