Hi Everyone - 

If you jump into your time machine and go back more than ten years, I was still a lawyer who went to the courtroom. After a particularly grueling six week trial, I was tired, out-of-shape, and realizing that my health was in decline. So, I decided that I was going to ride the Courage Classic, which was then a three day fundraising ride for Children’s Hospital Colorado, and I humbly asked whether any of my friends would donate to support the ride.

Fast forward, since that first Courage Classic, where I couldn’t ride up Vail Pass and had to push my bike, I’ve ridden 35,125 miles (not that I’m counting) and climbed 1,251,807 vertical feet (the equivalent of 43 Mount Everests). Beyond the miles I’ve become a healthier and happier person. I’ve also managed to raise over $100,000 for Children’s Hospital Colorado (in particular the Center for Cancer and Blood Disorders – and its team of pediatric oncologists, hematologists, bone marrow transplanters, nurses and nurse practitioners, physician assistants, pharmacists, psychologists, child life specialists, social workers and family navigators who care for critically ill children and support their families). I’ve been humbled by your generosity over the years.

And now I am again appealing to you as I get ready to ride again next weekend. 160 miles and about 14,000 feet of climbing. But I’ll do it all with a smile on my face. Thanks for your support!

Pat