Finn Bradford, Rae Bramson, Aaron and Linda Bradford at the Courage Classic at Copper Mountain. (Photo courtesy of Linda Bradford)

The “Wheels of Justice” riding team will participate for the 12th consecutive year in the Children’s Hospital Colorado Courage Classic bike tour dedicated to supporting our region’s only all-inclusive, nonprofit pediatric hospital. The team, comprised of lawyers and other legal professionals, initially began riding to help support the construction of the new Children’s Hospital Colorado campus. “We wanted to make a powerful impact on a Colorado nonprofit,” says founding member Aaron Bradford. “It was pretty easy to point at the cranes and heavy equipment building the new hospital to show where the funds we raised were going.”

Now, with over 200 riders participating on their team each year, the group has raised $3.3 million earmarked for the Children’s Hospital Center for Cancer and Blood Disorders. The money raised helps fund a family wellness program for pediatric cancer patients and their families dealing with the stress that comes with the diagnosis and treatment of a life-threatening illness. Funds raised by the team also go toward primary research, grant funding, and salaries for one-year pediatric oncology fellowships.

The team accommodates all skill levels and family participation by encouraging riders to select one of several bicycle routes that best matches their ability. Cyclists can participate in rides as long as 81 miles or as short as the 10-mile Family Ride.

Bradford says in addition to knowing that the team’s efforts helps others, he has enjoyed watching his son attend the event for all nine years of his life. “This year, my son is fundraising and riding as a team member and learning what an inspiration it is to give back.”

The 2017 Courage Classic will be held in Copper Mountain on July 22–23. Volunteers are needed at the event and donations are welcome. Sponsorship opportunities are still available.

To learn more, visit www.childrenscoloradofoundation.org/courage-classic/. For additional information, contact Andrea Caruso at 720.777.1783.