Big Waves Rides Again in the 2026 Courage Classic
Big Waves returns to the Courage Classic July 18–19 in 2026 for their 8th annual ride to support the Children’s Hospital ARCH program. The Courage Classic holds a special place in the Big Waves story, but what keeps them riding every year?
The Why Behind Every Mile
To the outside world, the Courage Classic may look like just another extreme and epic bike ride through the Colorado mountains. But to the Big Waves team, it holds a special place in their hearts.
What is the Courage Classic?
Founded in 1990, the Courage Classic Bicycle Tour is an annual two-day bicycle event that brings together riders, volunteers, sponsors, friends, and families to support Children’s Hospital Colorado.
Our dedication to the Courage Classic stems from the compassion and care Asa received during his recovery from the shooting that took Vaughn Jr.’s life. Asa spent months at Children’s Hospital Colorado, but his care didn’t end when he left.
What Is the ARCH Program?
Asa had to learn to adapt to life after the shooting. And that’s where ARCH stepped in. Founded in 1968, ARCH stands for Adaptive Recreation for Childhood Health program. They provide kids with a safe place to heal and explore the world again after an illness or injury through sports.
For the Bigelow family, it transformed a very difficult time into hope, healing, and recovery. Because of ARCH’s ski program, Asa made it back onto the mountain with the help of volunteers. He loved the bus ride on wintry Saturdays from Denver to Winter Park to engage with his adaptive friends. Nearly 100 kids participate in ARCH every year.
Ashley & Asa’s Story
Ashley Wilkinson, who is on the Big Waves board, has participated since Big Waves’ first ride in 2018. When asked what motivates her, she said, “The first year we participated in the Courage Classic, I was especially motivated by Asa. His strength and bravery to keep trying to get better every day constantly left me in awe. It still does to this day.”
Ashley goes on to explain, “After participating in that first year, it was amazing to see what the event was like. Kids in wheelchairs on the side of the road holding up signs that said, “Thank you for riding and helping me beat cancer.” left me in tears as I pedaled up towards the summit of Battle Mountain.
The volunteers are wonderful, and the Children’s Hospital really helps make this event heartwarming and special for participants, as well as volunteers and spectators. The Courage Classic means so much to the kids and their families. I am grateful to be a part of it through Big Waves.”
Ashley and Vaughn Sr. riding back in the 2019 Courage Classic.
How Can You Help?
Every dollar raised gets kids out on the slopes, into canoes, climbing walls, and into the outdoors. There are 3 easy ways to get started creating your own ripple of positivity.
#1 Join Our Team!
Join our team and change lives with every mile you ride. Route options are available for all experience levels, from 2 miles to 80 miles.
#2 Cruise the 2-mile Route
A 2-mile route around the base of Copper Mountain. The Courage Cruise is open to all ages, but is great for children and participants who prefer a shorter route with little elevation gain.
#3 Participate Virtually
Raise money for kids anywhere, anytime as a virtual participant in the Courage Classic.
Got Questions?
We’ve got answers. Check out the official Courage Classic FAQs page or contact Ashley Wilkinson for all the details at awilkinson@bigwavesinc.org
Can’t make it to the Courage Classic? Check out our other events. Or donate today here to save lives by providing free gun locks and supporting water polo in Colorado.