Courage Ride

Proceeds donated to the Sarcoma Research Program at the University of Iowa Holden Comprehensive Cancer Center. In November 1995, seventeen year old Seth Bailey was passionate about sports. A junior at the University of Iowa, he was surprised when a sore leg turned into something serious. A diagnosis of soft-tissue Synovial Sarcoma came as a shock to all who knew Seth. After a valiant fight, he died in 2003 at age 25. This ride was organized as a tribute to Seth and to others who have been diagnosed with sarcoma. In 2005, spear-headed by his parents, fiancé, and friends, The Courage Ride was organized and executed by an all volunteer team with the support of local businesses including our flagship sponsor, Hills Bank & Trust Co. Many families affected by cancer raised money and participated in this and subsequent rides. In 2007, Bicyclists of Iowa City (BIC) met with the Baileys and decided to combine their fall ride with The Courage Ride, bringing with them their cycling expertise and energy to the event. BIC volunteer participation continues to be a crucial element in the success of the ride each year. The 2009 Amish Tour to Cure Cancer Bike Ride, a splendid and colorful ride through beautiful Amish country in the fall, launched from the Iowa Mennonite School near Kalona, Iowa. Three hundred and twenty-six riders took place in this event and raised over $30,000 for the Holden Comprehensive Cancer Center. Since the initial ride in 2005, The Courage Ride has raised over $790,000 to seed grants for sarcoma research at the Holden Comprehensive Cancer Center. Join us on August 12, 2023 for another great ride event!