The First-Year Rider award recognizes a new member of the Pelotonia community who brings newfound energy, excitement, and passion to recruitment, fundraising, and participation as a First-Year Rider. This year, we honor two recipients with this well-deserved recognition.

First-Year Rider, Sarah Hagan’s Pelotonia experience was deeply personal. She was awarded the First-Year Rider award due to her courage, resilience, and determination through her own cancer diagnosis.  

Sarah was diagnosed with invasive ductal carcinoma in October 2023. Over the next 10 months, Sarah faced numerous medical challenges that tested her both physically and emotionally. In December 2023, she underwent lumpectomy surgery, followed by an egg retrieval procedure in January 2024 to preserve her fertility before starting chemotherapy from February to May.  

During all of this, Sarah remained committed to riding in Pelotonia and to her team, Designer Brands/DSW Peloton. Throughout her six weeks of radiation in June and July, Sarah participated in training rides, embodying perseverance and resilience of Living Proof.  

On August 2, the same day as Opening Ceremony, Sarah completed her final radiation session and was declared cancer-free! The very next day, she rode the 20-mile route and crossed the finish line alongside her teammates.  

Sarah’s journey is a powerful testament to her unwavering dedication to supporting Pelotonia’s mission, turning her personal cancer fight into a symbol of hope and triumph that not only inspires her team members, but the whole Pelotonia community.