Bikes On A Mission: Pedal The Cause

Pedal the Cause has raised nearly $16 million for cancer research since its founding in 2010. It’s an awe-inspiring figure, but what’s even more impressive is that 100 percent of those donations are used to fund life-saving research at Siteman Cancer Center and Siteman Kids at St. Louis Children’s Hospital. This model is possible, in part, because of the event’s presenting sponsor, Edward Jones.

The financial firm is not content with just sponsoring Pedal the Cause, however. Edward Jones also organizes one of the largest teams, which has raised more than $1.7 million since 2011. This year, it hopes to raise another $300,000. “It is a ‘shoot for the moon and land among the stars’ target,” says Alex Faught, the team’s co-captain. “The dollar amount is not the end-all. We’re looking for more team involvement and for returning riders to push themselves above and beyond.” Faught himself is a returning rider. A part of the Edward Jones team for four years, he’s ridden 200 miles and raised more than $5,000. This year, he’s pledged Yellow Jersey, which requires raising $2,500 or more. “Working toward curing cancer is first and foremost for everyone,” he says. “But it’s also really fun! I’ve been lucky to meet a lot of great people through this opportunity. Everyone is happy to be there and make an impact.”

This is Faught’s first year serving as co-captain. He shares the leadership position with Brian Ashworth, who has captained the team since the ride started. Faught says, “Ashworth is just one example of a giving leader who embodies the spirit of volunteerism at Edward Jones.” Another is managing partner Jim Weddle, who has ridden in support of the cause since 2011.

For Trish Hull, a member of Team Edward Jones and a breast cancer survivor, this firm-wide commitment to Pedal the Cause is important. “I am so thankful to be a thriving survivor who works at a firm that believes in helping others,” she says. “Putting an end to cancer is a big passion of mine, and it helps to be part of an organization that shares that mission.” Hull did not even own a bicycle when she joined the team in 2014. She initially served as a virtual rider before taking on the 10-mile PTC Circuit last year. “I was inspired by the stories of riders at Edward Jones and felt I should get more involved as a cancer survivor,” she says. “So I bought a bike, and I call it ‘my bicycle on a mission.’ That mission is to put an end to cancer.”

This year marks Hull’s second to pledge Yellow Jersey, bringing the total she’s raised for the cause to almost $6,000. Her motivation comes from first-hand experience with important research at facilities like Siteman. “That vital research informs patients’ crucial decisions regarding treatment,” Hull says. “Decisions I made based on that information are partly why I am cancer-free today.” This year, Pedal the Cause is Sept. 23 and 24. The event includes live entertainment, an inspirational program, Taste the Cause and more. With six different courses, a stationary cycling option and the Ameren Kids Challenge, there is a truly a way for everyone to get involved.

Pedal the Cause, an annual cycling challenge benefiting research at Siteman Cancer Center and ST. Louis Children’s Hospital, is Sept. 23 and 24 at Chesterfield Amphitheater. Edward Jones is the presenting sponsor. Pictured on the cover: Trish Hull, Michael Williams, Brian Ashworth, Alex Faught, Colleen Thompson. Fore more information or to register, visit pedalthecause.org. 

Cover Design: Julie Streiler | Cover Photo: Colin Miller of Strauss Peyton Photography

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Bikes On A Mission: Pedal The Cause

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Pedal the Cause has raised nearly $16 million for cancer research since its founding in 2010. But even more impressive is 100 percent of the donations benefit cancer research in St. Louis.

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Stephanie Wallace