Nine years ago, a small group of mostly Sewanee alumni decided to cycle 115 miles from Nashville to Sewanee. What began on a whim has become an eagerly anticipated annual event for all of us. Each year the ride gets better, we add a few more people, and we drink a few more beers at Shenanigans when we arrive in Sewanee after a long day.

During the first few rides, we discussed the idea of expanding the scope of the ride into a fundraiser that would raise some money for a to-be-determined place or cause, but these discussions had yet to land on anything concrete. In 2017, tragedy hit close to home and a cause presented itself.

Lucy Williford, the young daughter of Judson Williford, one of the ride's founding fathers, passed away unexpectedly. The riders reached out to Judson, giving him the opportunity to choose a way to honor their daughter. Judson and his wife, Leah, chose to support Le Bonheur Children's Hospital in Memphis.

Since then, the riders have helped raise nearly $140,000.00 for their local hospital, with a goal of $200,000.00. These funds were allocated towards the installation of The Le Bonheur Green, an outdoor art installation and play space that welcomes patients and their families. The hospital recognizes the need to have access to the therapeutic and restorative properties of the outdoors.

When children can experience the sights and sounds of nature, they are reminded of their normal life outside the hospital. The Le Bonheur Green is an extension of the healing that happens in the hospital: It will be a space for children and families to be renewed, and a place where they can gather to relax, share life, and escape the emotional challenges of hospitalization.

Since last years ride, the first phase of the Le Bonheur Green was completed. It is serving its purpose of actively serving those who need a break from the hospital. We are asking for the same donation, $1 per mile (115 miles) to support each rider but any amount is greatly appreciated. We hope to see you in Sewanee as we raise a glass in memory of our daughter, Lucy.

The outpouring of support for Judson, Leah, Oliver, Hays and Grace has been immense and widespread throughout many communities from Memphis to Sewanee and well beyond.