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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.

Regular Weekly Rides

The group rides from Dry Canyon in Redmond throughout the riding season.

Wednesday Evening Ride

• Time: 5:00 PM
• Pace: B Ride
• Average Speed: Approximately 16–17+ mph
• Riders should be comfortable maintaining a steady pace for the duration of the ride.

Friday Evening Ride

• Time: 5:00 PM
• Pace: C Ride
• Average Speed: Approximately 13–15 mph
• No-drop ride—the group stays together and no one is left behind.

Most weekday rides cover 18–25 miles and take 1–2 hours, making them a great way to get in an evening workout while still getting home before dark.

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

One of the best things about the Cardiac Kids is how easy it is to join.

There are no dues, no membership forms, and no commitments.

Simply show up at the Dry Canyon / Antler Dog Park a few minutes before 5:00 PM, introduce yourself, and someone will add you to the group's phone contact list so you'll hear about future rides and any schedule changes.

Whether you're returning to cycling after a heart procedure, looking for a welcoming no-drop Friday 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.

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