BOULDER, Colorado — Venus de Miles, Colorado’s first and largest all-women’s bike ride and celebration of sisterhood, held its 16th annual event on Sat., Aug. 26 at Bohn Park in Lyons, Colo.
More than 800 riders from 22 states took part in the 2023 annual event. Participants ranged in age from 13 to 82. Venus de Miles riders raised approximately $30,000 for Greenhouse Scholars, an education nonprofit focused on sustainable, generational community change.
The ride is designed for cyclists of all abilities and skill levels, as riders chose between a 30-mile, 64-mile or a 100-mile course, all of the options running through scenic northern Colorado.
CEMEX was the signature sponsor of this year’s ride and contributed $5,000 to the event. Top fundraisers were Doris Cheung of the Venus Bike Club, who raised nearly $8,200, Kat Mann of Team WOGA, who raised $5,175, and Stephanie Adams-Ball, who raised more than $3,000.
In addition to the funds raised, riders raved about this year’s event experience.”This is such an amazing event,” said Kathy Waller. “The staff, volunteers and riders are so supportive, encouraging, and gracious. I love this ride!”
Snacks and hydration were provided at whimsical themed rest stops, staffed by encouraging volunteers and fans, with technical assistance provided by Venus de Miles’ famed “Tutu Crew,” the world’s best-dressed on-course bike mechanics.
“This was my first time participating in Venus de Miles, but I’ve done a lot of races and triathlons in the past, and the vibe at the aid stations was unmatched,” said Lauren Bratten. “We nicknamed them the party stations because it was so much fun!”
At the end of their rides, participants enjoyed Venus de Miles’ iconic Finish Festival, featuring complimentary lunch and drinks, live music from three fun bands, unique local vendors, and a relaxing recovery zone with massages, skin care, wellness needs, and more.
In-kind sponsors at the Finish Festival included J Marie Skin Studio providing facials, Suja providing organic, cold-pressed juice, Gruvi providing non-alcoholic beverages, Swoon Jewelry selling handmade jewelry, Eldorado Spring Water donating all water, Moe’s Bagels donating bagels for breakfast, Stem Cider and Howdy beer providing alcoholic beverages, J&L Distilling providing vodka, and Natalie’s Orchid Island Juice. In addition, food vendors offered Greek fare, pizza, lobster rolls, German food, and Kona shaved ice.
Women from around Colorado and the nation participate annually in the Venus de Miles as a celebration of sisterhood, women’s empowerment, cycling, fitness and fun. For more information on the ride, to donate or to shop in the Venus de Miles store, please visit: https://www.venusdemiles.com/.
The 2024 Venus de Miles ride is scheduled for Sat., Aug. 24, 2024, at Bohn Park in Lyons, Colo. The organizers are also planning other events and group rides throughout the coming year to help grow the event community.
