Pelotonia Kids is a series of community-led youth cycling events across Ohio, created to engage the next generation in cancer research fundraising and healthy habits. In partnership with The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center – Arthur G. James Cancer Hospital and Richard J. Solove Research Institute (OSUCCC—James), 100 percent of every dollar raised by participants supports innovative pediatric cancer research at Nationwide Children’s Hospital. 

For the first time, Pelotonia Kids is coming to Cincinnati. This exciting addition to the growing Pelotonia Kids movement invites young Riders to get involved in the mission of ending cancer, and it’s already making an impact with $2,550 raised toward pediatric cancer research. 

Pelotonia Kids Cincinnati is set for Saturday, July 26, at Mason Sports Park (3400 Mason Morrow Millgrove Road, Mason, OH, US, 45040).  

Each event is uniquely local, planned by Pelotonia community volunteers with support from the organization, including event logistics, equipment rentals, promotional materials, and branded merchandise. Ride formats vary by location, with routes designed to accommodate a wide range of ages and abilities. 

The Cincinnati event is organized by Rachel McCarthy and Emily Wall, two longtime Pelotonia Riders who met at a Pelotonia recruitment event in Cincinnati and quickly joined forces. Cancer research is deeply personal for them. Both have felt cancer’s touch in their families: Rachel lost her father-in-law, and Emily lost her father.  

The Pelotonia Kids Cincinnati event kicks off at 9:00am with registration and a wide range of kid-friendly activities at Mason Sports Park. Participants can decorate their bikes, fill out tribute bibs to honor loved ones, enjoy Pelotonia face paint, and fuel up with snacks like granola bars, fruit pouches, and water bottles. In a festive twist, kids can also celebrate Christmas in July with baked goods from Santa and ice cream from Special Neat Treats.

At 10:00am, the 2-mile ride will begin. The approachable looped course is on a fully paved trail, ideal for kids of all skill levels including those with training wheels. Following the ride, families are invited to gather at the After Party at BC’s Brewing Company (4064 US 42) starting at 11:00am to celebrate their accomplishments and the community’s shared commitment to ending cancer. 

Registration for the ride is free, and families are encouraged to take part in fundraising. Any child who raises $25 by July 20 will receive an official event T-shirt. Volunteers are needed to help ensure a safe and memorable experience for all. If interested, sign up here.  

Follow updates on the Pelotonia social media channels and follow @pelotonia_kids_cincinnati on Instagram or visit the Pelotonia Kids Cincinnati Facebook page. Read more about the Pelotonia Kids program and upcoming rides at pelotoniakids.com, or donate to Pelotonia Kids Cincinnati to support pediatric cancer research.