Cardiac Kids Group
Some ride groups are built around matching fitness levels.
Some are built around shared interests.
The Cardiac Kids Group grew out of something a little different—a shared appreciation for second chances.
Founded in 2022 by Steve Wilson, the group brings together cyclists who enjoy riding together, encouraging one another, and proving that a heart diagnosis doesn't have to mean the end of an active life. While several riders have worked with cardiologists or recovered from heart procedures, there is no requirement to have a medical history to join.
As the group likes to joke:
"You don't need to have a cardiologist to ride with us... but it helps."
The humor reflects the personality of the rides. They are friendly, relaxed, and supportive without taking themselves too seriously.
Favorite Routes
The Cardiac Kids have developed a collection of local favorites, including:
- Dry Canyon → Hanson's Dairy
- Dry Canyon → Peter Ogden Overlook via Ice
- Dry Canyon → Holmes Road via Lower Bridge Way
- Dry Canyon → Tethrow Crossing Loop
- Dry Canyon → 67th → Maple → Helmholz Loop
- Dry Canyon → Smith Rock → 33rd Loop
Every ride is chosen with enjoyable roads, good scenery, and manageable mileage in mind.
Weekend Adventures
Once summer arrives, the group often stretches its legs with longer weekend rides. Recent favorites have included:
- Prineville Reservoir
- Sunriver – Mount Bachelor Loop
- Twin Lakes to Elk Lake and back
- Twin Bridges Scenic Bikeway
- Dry Canyon – Tumalo – Eagle Crest – Redmond
- McKenzie Pass - Village Green Park to Summit and back
These rides provide a chance to explore some of Central Oregon's most beautiful cycling routes while spending a few extra hours with friends.
Come Ride With Us
The Cardiac Kids welcome cyclists who are comfortable with the advertised pace, distance, and terrain. To participate, riders must first join Central Oregon Wheelers (COWS) and then register for each Cardiac Kids ride through the COWS calendar.
This process ensures that riders receive the current route, starting location, pace, distance, and any last-minute schedule changes. Please do not simply arrive at the starting point without registering.
Whether you're returning to cycling after a heart procedure, looking for a welcoming no-drop ride, or simply searching for good people to ride with, you'll find a group that values encouragement as much as mileage.
Because in the end, the joke on the sign is only partly a joke.
The real prescription has always been the same:
Ride often.
Laugh a lot.
Take care of each other.
Back to COBC
Posted in ride-groups by COBC Resources