COLUMBUS – Ride Weekend is expected to send more than 6,500 cyclists on various routes, including four to Gambier, to raise money for cancer research at The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center. Pelotonia will host its annual Ride Weekend on Aug. 5-6, with an opening ceremony kicking off the experience on Aug. 4.
Now in its 15th year, Pelotonia has raised more than $258 million for cancer research at The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center-Arthur G. James Cancer Hospital and Richard J. Solove Research Institute (OSUCCC-James) and will continue its momentum with this year’s full slate of events.
Beginning on Aug. 5, more than 6,500 riders are expected to tackle all-new routes ranging from 24 to 184 miles, including returns to fan-favorite communities and roads from years past. Ride Weekend is made possible by the efforts of 3,000 volunteers who provide mechanical support, make countless peanut butter and jelly sandwiches and so much more.
Among the seven routes featured, four will begin or end in Gambier. There is a 77-mile course from Pickerington to Gambier, a 101-mile route from Downtown Columbus to Gambier, a two-day, 160-miler from Pickerington to Gambier and then on to New Albany, and a 184-mile journey from Downtown Columbus to Gambier to New Albany over two days. Additional route details are available at pelotonia.org/ride-weekend.
“The Pelotonia community continues to make a remarkable impact on the world of cancer research, screening and early diagnosis,” Pelotonia President Joe Apgar said. “As we move into our 15th Ride Weekend – a momentous milestone for a grassroots organization – we’re eager to bring the community together for another incredible year of transformational impact.
“Thanks to the ongoing support of funding partners, 100% of every dollar raised by participants supports innovative cancer research at The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center-Arthur G. James Cancer Hospital and Richard J. Solove Research Institute, including The Pelotonia Institute for Immuno-Oncology.”
Raphael Pollcok, MD, PhD, director of OSUCCC-James and Richard J. Solove Research Institute said the funds raised by the Pelotonia community go directly to innovative cancer research and are crucial in driving continued breakthroughs in cancer care, research and treatment for patients in Central Ohio and beyond.
“Pelotonia dollars support critical efforts including work underway at the Pelotonia Institute of Immuno-Oncology," Pollock said. "Immuno-oncology is quickly becoming a fourth standard form of cancer care, in addition to surgery, radiation and chemotherapy, and vital to bringing specialized treatment to each individual’s unique cancer diagnosis.”
Ahead of this year’s Ride Weekend, Pelotonia’s Opening Ceremony will take place at McFerson Commons and North Bank Park in the Arena District on Friday, Aug. 4 from 3-8 p.m. Andy Grammer, known for such hits as, “Honey, I’m Good,” and “Keep Your Head Up,” will perform as the headliner for the community celebration. The Opening Ceremony will also feature musical performances curated by Music Columbus, central Ohio’s alt-rock duo The Orphan The Poet, and the Latin Fever All-Stars, an international group of Columbus-based talent coming from the Caribbean and Latin American countries.
The event will also include meaningful survivorship stories, food and drink offerings, a kids zone, vendors and more. All registered Riders, as well as Challengers and Volunteers who have raised $1,250 by Aug. 4 will receive two free tickets.
According to company releases, in 2023, Pelotonia celebrates 15 years of “One Goal,” accelerating funding for innovative cancer research, as it hosts its signature series of iconic and impactful events with cycling, entertainment, and volunteerism experiences. This year’s events include the iconic Opening Ceremony and Ride Weekend in August, a new Gravel Day event in September, and the Impact Celebration in November.
With support from generous funding partners – American Electric Power Foundation, Bath & Body Works, Huntington National Bank, Peggy and Richard Santulli, Victoria’s Secret, M/I Homes, Safelite, Cardinal Health, Diamond Hill, Nationwide Insurance and Pharmavite – Pelotonia directs 100% of every dollar raised by participants to cancer research at The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center.
For more information on participating and to learn about the impact of Pelotonia dollars, please visit pelotonia.org.
