Big Waves Celebrates 5 Years of Riding in the Courage Classic
All children should have a chance for a healthy and happy future. That's why we’re riding to support the ARCH (Adaptive Recreation for Children’s Health) Program at Children’s Hospital of Colorado this year. All funds raised will go towards helping and expanding the program and providing financial assistance to any program participants in ARCH.
Ashley and Vaughn Sr. riding the Courage Classic in 2019
Ashley, who is on the Big Waves board, has participated since Big Waves’ first ride in 2018. When asked what motivates her, she said, “The first year we participated in the Courage Classic, I was especially motivated by Asa. His strength and bravery to keep trying to get better every day constantly left me in awe. It still does to this day. After participating that first year, it was amazing to see what the event was like. Kids in wheelchairs on the side of the road holding up signs that said, “Thank you for riding and helping me beat cancer.” left me in tears as I pedaled up towards the summit of Battle Mountain. The volunteers are wonderful, and Children’s Hospital really helps make this event heart-warming and special for participants as well as volunteers and spectators. The Courage Classic means so much to the kids and their families. I am grateful to be a part of it through Big Waves”.
What is ARCH?
ARCH pioneered in 1967 to help those with amputations participate in downhill skiing and was one of the first of its kind in the United States. The first ARCH group comprised young patients from Children’s Colorado and Vietnam veterans from Fitzsimons Army Hospital.
In 1989 a group of HSP (Hospital Sports Program, which is now ARCH) volunteers organized the first bike race event. By 1999, the event became so big that the hospital and foundation began to get involved and support it. It’s now known as the Courage Classic.
Who is ARCH for?
The program has expanded beyond skiing to include year-round recreational activities like golf, fishing, horseback riding, yoga, archery, and more. Participants have a variety of physical and medical conditions, including cancer, amputations, spina bifida, cerebral palsy, head and spinal cord injuries, and other orthopedic conditions. Nearly 100 kids participate in ARCH every year.
Check out this adorable video of the skiing activities that ARCH supports. About 47 seconds in, you’ll see Asa shredding.
How Can You Help?
Ride with Us!
If you’re looking for a challenge, join our team. We’d love to have you. Details about the ride are below.
The Schedule
Saturday, July 15, Day 1: Ride the long route (78 miles)
Sunday, July 16, Day 2: Ride the medium route (40 miles)
Don’t worry. You can sign up for whatever is right for you: day 1, day 2, or both days.
Or Be a Virtual Rider — there’s no commitment to ride, no registration fees, or fundraising minimums. Join us for team events and help us fundraise.
Registration Fees
May 1 through tour weekend:
$150 adult rider registration
$50 child rider registration
Fundraising Minimum
The fundraising minimum is $500 for adults and $125 for child riders.
Rider Packets will be mailed to riders who meet the fundraising minimum by June 26th.
Registration includes helmet/bike numbers, t-shirt, and pre-tour info.
All award merchandise will be mailed after the tour.
Lodging
Call Copper Mountain Resort at 1-866-837-2996. Reference the group name Courage Classic and our group code 5538 to access group rates.
Donate Today!
As of May 10, we’re 39% of the way to our goal of raising $2025. Click here to make a donation. Every little bit helps.