John and Michele Phua organized and promoted the first Ryan’s Ride in 2004, shortly after the passing of their son Ryan from Sudden Unexplained Death in Childhood (SUDC). Ryan and twin brother Matthew were born shortly after PV member John’s successful recovery from cancer. The event honored Ryan’s memory while supporting local cancer survivorship programs through the Livestrong Foundation.

Over a 16-year span, thousands of children under 12 participated in Ryan’s Ride and nearly one million dollars were raised to support cancer programs addressing issues including, but not limited to community survivorship, palliative care and end-of-life care.

From 2004 through 2017, Ryan’s Ride was held in conjunction with the Burlingame Criterium, promoted by Pen Velo. After the demise of the Burlingame Crit, it continued as a stand-alone event. PV actively supported Ryan’s Ride by providing volunteer course marshals and escort riders. The last Ryan’s Ride was held in 2019, when Ryan would have been 18 years old.