Challenging Cancer Together: Livestrong’s Annual Ride and Run is More Than a Race

In the fit city of Austin, cyclists and runners take on athletic challenges every day. But the Livestrong Challenge is more than a race.

On Sunday, October 20th, participants will gather at the shore of Lady Bird Lake not only to cycle 20, 45, 65, or 100 miles or run a 5K or 10K, but also to support those facing cancer today. Three in four of them have a loved one who has been affected by cancer, and 7% identify as survivors themselves.

Since the first Challenge in 1997 (formerly called Ride for the Roses, named for the yellow flower all cancer survivors receive when they cross the finish line), this annual event has supported Livestrong’s initiatives to improve quality of life for anyone affected by cancer. Livestrong’s empowering work includes fertility preservation assistance that gives patients hope for a future family after treatment and fitness programs like Livestrong at the YMCA and CancerFit— designed to help survivors regain strength through exercise.

The Austin-based national nonprofit also engages in advocacy for patient-centered legislation at the state and national levels and provides educational resources like the Livestrong Guidebook that offer easy-to-digest guidance for newly diagnosed patients. The Foundation has supported more than 10 million cancer survivors, funded more than 600 community programs, and saved patients more than $100 million in fertility expenses.

Photo by Olympia Roll

Besides offering the 100-mile century ride, the Livestrong Challenge cycling route is also unique in that it both starts and ends in Downtown Austin, with lakeside views of the city’s ever-changing skyline. Riders pass through Buda, Wimberley, San Marcos, and Kyle on their scenic trek through the Hill Country. Though the terrain can be treacherous, Livestrong riders declare, “Hills aren’t tough—cancer is!”

Participants return every year to pay tribute to those they have lost to cancer, like Michael Martin, who leads the General’s Guard team in honor of his late father, Robert, a former Air Force General. They don the General’s photo on their jerseys, dedicating all 100 miles of their ride to honoring his memory. Though loved ones in Michael’s life have continued to be diagnosed with cancer this year, taking part in the Challenge with others who know the struggle reminds him that “we’re not alone…unity is strength.”

The Challenge is also impactful for Livestrong staff, many of whom work on behalf of their own family members and friends who have faced cancer. “The most important piece is why we host it,” says Brenda Leal, Livestrong Challenge Event Manager. “Nothing feels better than handing a yellow rose to a cancer survivor as they’re crossing the finish line, cheering on a participant with their family as they take off for their first major endurance ride after finishing chemotherapy, or seeing people make friends from across the country who understand what they’re going through. The smiles and celebrations make it all worth it. The event always has had such a positive impact in our community that we hope to continue for years to come.”

Finishing the Livestrong Challenge is more than just getting a workout in. For some, it signifies another year of cancer survivorship. For others, it means running for someone who no longer can. Each year, attendees look forward to writing names on the Tribute Wall, which has three sides:  “In Honor,” “In Memory,” and “I Am a Survivor.” This year, many at the Livestrong Challenge will be able to write their names on the Survivor wall with pride for the very first time. Cancer = challenged.

Photo by Elizabeth Kreutz

Challenge Cancer with Livestrong on Sunday, October 20th, at Auditorium Shores. Choose a 20, 45, 65, or 100-mile bike ride or a 5K or 10K run or walk. Enjoy local eats and drinks including Chi’Lantro Korean BBQ, Tito’s Handmade Vodka, and Thirsty Planet Beer.

Register at https://lvstr.ng/austinfit.