Behind The Scenes
Gears & Cheers: Pelotonia Kids Expands to Lima
By The Pelotonia Team|June 18, 2025
Pelotonia Kids is a series of kids cycling events to engage the next generation of Pelotonia participants. In collaboration 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 Pelotonia Kids participant-raised dollar will be directed to innovative pediatric cancer research at Nationwide Children’s Hospital.
This summer, Gears & Cheers is rolling out for the first time in Lima, Ohio, thanks to the passion and dedication of event organizer Emily Brock and the Gears and Beers peloton.
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 Gears and Beers peloton has been involved in Pelotonia for 10 years, honoring loved ones lost to cancer and recognizing the impact cancer continues to have on their lives. Inspired by the energy and enthusiasm of young riders, Emily and her team wanted to create an opportunity for kids to join the movement — and so, Gears & Cheers was born.
“We realized that many of us know kiddos who love riding their bikes, and so we thought, ‘why not get them involved in the community and fundraising with their own Pelotonia experience?’ We are so excited to expand our efforts with Gears & Cheers this year!”
-Emily Brock
Emily is passionate about using Pelotonia Kids to illustrate to children how they can give back and help their community.
“Pelotonia Kids is such a great way to get foster kiddos interest in helping and giving back by getting them involved early and making their own impact by riding their bike,” she said. “It’s a fun way to teach them about the power of giving back and helping their community.”
-Emily Brock
Gears & Cheers takes place on Saturday, June 28, 2025, from 8:30am to 12:00pm at Heritage Park, 2092 Reed Road, Lima, Ohio.
Rider registration is $35 and includes a Gears & Cheers T-shirt. Kids 12 and younger can collect pledges from family, friends, and neighbors, and every dollar raised goes to support pediatric cancer research. The event will be packed with activities including bounce houses, a coloring station, a friendship bracelet and rainbow loom station, a bike decorating station, music, and plenty of snacks to keep everyone energized.
Follow updates on the Pelotonia social media channels. Read more about the Pelotonia Kids program and upcoming rides at pelotoniakids.com, or donate to Gears & Cheers to support pediatric cancer research.
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