WHY TAKE PART?

Break the Cycle hosts ultra-endurance cycling and running events to raise awareness and funds for real victims of human trafficking and modern-day slavery. There are more than 50 million victims, according to the Global Slavery Index. Shockingly, 1.7 million of them are kids who have been forced into sexual exploitation.

Break the Cycle participants give voice to the issue and raise funds for Hope for Justice to help rescue and restore real victims in the U.S. and around the world.

2024 EVENTS 

June 8 - Break the Cycle Challenge Ride

Our shorter cycling event is the Break the Cycle Challenge Ride on June 8. Featuring 3 different route distances (25, 50 or 100 miles), this event has an option for all levels of cyclist. New for 2024 - all three distances will start and finish at Firetrucker Brewery in Ankeny and utilize the High Trestle Trail. The 100 mile option will also utilize the Chichaqua Valley Trail. All riders invited to the post-ride lunch and celebration at Firetrucker Brewery! See below for specific route details. 

-- 25 Mile - Start time 9:00am - Route Map --

North on High Trestle Trail (HTT).  Pass thru Sheldahl, continue 12.5 miles to Slater turnaround point.  Water is available outside Nighthawk Bar & Grill, just off HTT.  Turn around and follow HTT route in reverse 12.5 miles to finish.

-- 50 Mile - Start time 9:00am - Route Map --

North on High Trestle Trail (HTT).  Pass thru Sheldahl, Slater and Madrid, continuing 25 miles to Woodward turnaround point.  Aid station, hydration and nutrition available.  Turn around and follow HTT route in reverse 25 miles to finish.

-- 100 Mile - Start time 6:00am - Route Map --

Same as 50 Mile route for first 50 half.  Firetrucker is the 50 mile point with aid station, hydration and nutrition available.  Continue south on HTT thru Ankeny to join onto the Gay Lea Wilson Trail (GLWT).  Follow GLWT to Chichaqua Valley Trail (CVT).  Pass thru Bondurant, continuing 25 miles to Mingo turnaround point.  Aid station, hydration and nutrition available.  Turn around and follow CVT then GLWT route in reverse 25 miles to finish.

June 15 - Break the Cycle 5K All Day Run

It's not all about the cycling either!  Our running event is the Break the Cycle 5K All Day Run on June 15, held at Raccoon River Park in West Des Moines.

June 21 - Break the Cycle 200 Ride

Our flagship event is the Break the Cycle 200 Ride on June 21. During this event, an amazing group of cyclists will ride 200 miles from Des Moines to Okoboji in a single day. This ultra-endurance ride is not easy. Departing from Des Moines before sunrise, riders work hard all day to arrive before sunset in Okoboji. The pace is kept between 18-22 mph, in a tight peloton, with SAG vehicles for protection.

We do tough things for people in tough places.  Whichever event(s) you choose, you will be joining the Break the Cycle team and helping to raise funds and awareness for this important cause!

Choose your favorite(s) or sign up for them all!