Do you have a friend, co-worker, or family member who you want to recruit as a Pelotonia Rider? Participant referrals are one of the best ways we can continue to expand the Greatest Team Ever and the impact of Pelotonia!

As you are navigating conversations with prospective Riders, we’ve curated the Top 5 anticipated questions about riding in Pelotonia and responses you can communicate:

To start, Pelotonia created a Fundraising Toolkit to provide helpful tips and templates and help participants plan for fundraising success! The Pelotonia Team is also happy to answer any questions about its resources.

Next, don’t underestimate the power of social media! Asking your online communities and creating Facebook fundraisers can go a long way in helping you reach your goal. You never know who on your friend list will feel inspired to give. If you aren’t a fan of posting on social media, personal emails are a great fundraising resource, as well.

Finally, remember that 100% of the money you raise for Pelotonia goes toward cancer research. This is a unique model and goes a long way when asking for donations.

The Pelotonia website provides resources on stretching and nutrition to ensure that each Rider is as prepared as possible. Start with Pelotonia’s monthly Training Plan to find tailored training advice for your specific route.

The Pelotonia community also provides many different opportunities for training rides, so take advantage of those when you can. TeamCOPC is just one example of a Peloton (team) that offers rides for all levels of cyclists. If you want to get connected with a Peloton or find local training rides, you can reach out to the Pelotonia Team for help.

Rest assured, on the day of the Ride there are a number of rest stops along the route that can help if you’re feeling tired or sore. Many Riders have even said that the atmosphere of Ride Weekend makes them feel motivated on a whole new level.

There are several bike shops in the Columbus-area that offer discounts to Pelotonia participants who are looking for a new bike. You can see the full list in the Rider Perks blog on the Pelotonia website.

A bike can be a great ask for a birthday present or an upcoming holiday. If you want to find a used bike, Facebook Marketplace is a helpful tool. You could also ask a family member or friend to borrow their bike.

If you’re riding the 20-mile, 38-mile, or 57-mile routes, you won’t need as expensive or high-tech equipment; however, if you decide to reach higher miles the nicer bikes become more important.

100% of all participant-raised funds go toward innovative cancer research at the OSUCCC - James!

This includes developing enhanced treatments and therapies, funding immuno-oncology research, supporting the Pelotonia Fellowship Program, and funding statewide initiatives focused around prevention and early detection. You can learn more about specific research initiatives at pelotonia.org/impact.

The impact of Pelotonia funding is really seen throughout Ride Weekend in each Survivor story and person participating. This is best personified by the gentleman who stands on the side of the route with a sign each year that reads, “Thank you for saving my wife.”

Ride Weekend is an experience unlike anything else. You are surrounded by thousands of community members who are all united around the same goal: to see an end to cancer!

Ride Weekend kicks off on Friday with Opening Ceremony, which is a fun get-together that features entertainment and impact. Then, the Ride routes kick off on Saturday in Downtown Columbus. Two-day routes stay overnight at Kenyon College and begin their return journey on Sunday morning.

Throughout the weekend, you’ll see inspirational signs and people cheering with cowbells. You’ll enjoy well-stocked rest stops with the snacks and hydration you need. And you will have the support of other Riders to see you through to the legendary Pelotonia Finish Line experience!