Imagine riding a bike for more than 100 miles in a day. Now imagine doing that for five days in a row, covering more than 500 miles—all to raise funds for West Cancer Foundation. That’s exactly what the incredible women of She to Sea do each year, pushing their physical and mental limits to make a difference in the fight against cancer.
The Birth of She to Sea
The journey of She to Sea began with inspiration. For years, the women behind this ride had watched the Ride 2 RosemaryÒ men’s team form a strong bond as they rode together for a cause. They saw the camaraderie, shared determination and impact they were making. And they knew they wanted to create something of their own—a sisterhood of cyclists united by purpose and passion.
In November 2021, ten women formed a committee and planned their first ride, and what started as an ambitious idea quickly became a reality. Each year, the ride gains momentum, attracting more riders and raising more funds to support West Cancer Foundation’s mission of providing cancer patients with access to free resources, screenings and treatment support.
Pushing Through the Challenges
Cycling more than 500 miles in five days is no easy feat. The journey demands months of rigorous training, long weekend rides and unwavering dedication. Even with training, the ride itself presents unpredictable challenges. Heat, wind, rain and exhaustion—there are moments when the body wants to quit. The team leans on each other for strength, and the bond between these women extends beyond the miles they ride. They train together, share meals and form friendships that turn into an unbreakable support system. When one rider struggles, the others rally around her, encouraging her to keep going.
The Heart of the Ride
She to Sea is about something bigger than a rigorous bike ride: it’s about truly impacting those affected with cancer. The ride is a powerful fundraising effort for West Cancer Foundation—to date, they’ve raised more than $300,000—ensuring that cancer patients receive the support and care they need. It’s also a deeply personal journey for each rider. Whether they ride for a loved one, for those fighting cancer or simply to make a difference, each woman has a reason that fuels her. When asked why they ride, each participant has a unique and personal answer.
“I ride for the adventure of finding new places, meeting new friends and sharing moments together. Riding helps remind me that life is an adventure, you just have to get out there and find it. I want my daughter to see that working hard towards something and having it all come together in the end, is truly a blessing. I ride for those that can’t because of cancer to raise money so that maybe they can feel not so burdened by the struggle of all the treatments and appointments they have to go through.” – Heather Nichols
“I ride because there is a feeling of freedom to be outside riding a bicycle in the sunshine, the fresh air on your face and the miles disappearing behind you. The adventures and places you can go on your bicycle are endless and the feeling of being one with nature is amazing. The friendships that you share while enjoying time on the bike, and also suffering together on a bike, are like no other due to the raw emotions that surface when we are tested physically, mentally and spiritually.” – Lesley Brainard
“I ride for the memories. The memories of what friendships start on. The memories of adventures I never saw myself doing five years ago. The memories of conversations that have helped shape my life. The memories of where God has shown His sufficient grace and provision over moments and my life. Riding my bike is so much more than just pushing and pulling pedals. I have gained some of my best friends from sitting on my saddle and introducing myself on a ride. When I need to get through a tough moment on my bike, there the memories are again for me to lean on and find joy and strength.” – Shelby Tucker
“I ride to help bring light and awareness to West Cancer Foundation and the wonderful work they are doing to help those with cancer. I also ride because I love the community of friends I’ve gained and the blessing of seeing God’s creation on two wheels.” – Leigh Ruston
To learn more about She to Sea and support your favorite rider, please visit She to Sea.
