Cancer Research Annual Bike-a-Thon
Each year the Pan-Mass Challenge brings together thousands of cyclists with the goal of raising money for cancer research. The bike-a-thon takes place in Massachusetts in early August and raises tens of millions of dollars all with the promise of giving the funds to the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute team of doctors. Since 1980, PMC has raised $598 million for cancer research and raised $51 million last year alone.
As contributors to this cause, we couldn’t be more proud of the hundreds of miles biked, the 3,700 volunteers and the excitement PMC brings to the east coast year after year.
With over 600 of the 6000 cyclists being cancer survivors themselves, the ride is especially meaningful. The individuals that organize the massive event are a nimble team of nine full-time staffers backed by a volunteer coordinator staff that manages the 4,000+ volunteers.
Established by Billy Starr in 1980 and under his direction, the PMC has grown considerably and consistently from its modest beginnings into an event that draws 6,000 cyclists from 41 states and seven countries. Today, the Pan-Mass Challenge raises more money than any other athletic fundraising event in the country. The PMC generates more than 50% of the Jimmy Fund’s annual revenue and it is Dana-Farber’s single largest contributor. Over the past 38 years, PMC cyclists have ridden to raise and contribute $598 million to cancer research.
The PMC Route can take as long as two days and starts at 64 miles one way. This ride begins at 7 a.m. and depending on pace and rest times, can last from 3.5 hours to 11 hours. Our friend, Jim Swan, rode again this year and had this to say about the bike-a-thon:
The first day (110 miles) of my ride was rainy and slick, but fortunately, the second day (85 miles) was sunny and warm. Participants included thousands of riders and volunteers and a never-ending cheering section of warm and loving spectators along our cycling routes. I remain truly honored to partner with you in elevating cancer awareness and funding cancer research. These PMC rides continue to fill my heart with immense joy and purpose. Together we continue to move “Closer by the Mile” to finding a cure for cancer and making a difference int he fight to eliminate this insidious disease that impacts the lives of so many of us.
David Hovey, #PanMass2018 rider and team captain of PMC Team CRUS11Tour, a 70+ team, rides in memory of his son Davey Hovey (right). Images courtesy of PMC Instagram.
As of this week, they have raised $47,988,793 of their goal – just shy $4 million with over 3 months left of the year! To donate to their ongoing cause (and help them reach the goal!) please visit here and consider making a contribution.
Banner image courtesy of The Business Journal.
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