MARLBOROUGH, MA — Bicycles Battling Cancer, the only American Cancer Society event of its kind in New England, bringing cyclists and volunteers together to honor cancer survivors, to increase awareness about reducing cancer risk and to raise money to lead the fight for a world without the disease. This one-day fully-supported, non-competitive ride offers 30-, 50-, 70- and 100-mile scenic loop routes through central Massachusetts. This is the 11th year for the event.
This event takes place on Sunday, June 9, 2019. Courses begin and end at Hillside School in Marlborough (404 Robin Hill Street). All courses are fully monitored with support and gear wagons. Stocked rest stops include drinks and snacks, first aid support and volunteer bike mechanics.
There will be a post-ride celebration — including great food, beer and entertainment — upon the return to Hillside School. Participants, family, friends and cancer survivors are invited to celebrate at the finish line to recognize and celebrate the riders’ efforts to fight back against cancer!
“I have done several charity bike rides over the years, but I have never done one that had a personal impact until now,” said Wilston Johnston, of Wilmington. Four years ago his mother-in-law, Bette ‘Nan’ Smith, passed away from lung cancer 42 days after she was diagnosed. “So, every year, from now until I hang up my biking shoes, I will be here riding for Nan.”
You can donate to Johnston’s fundraising efforts HERE.
“When the ride gets tough I just keep in mind that what I’m doing is nothing compared to what people go through with cancer,” added Carol Harris of Worcester, the captain for Team ImmunoGen. One of the largest teams in the event, it consists of Harris’ co-workers as well as family and friends.
While her work at cancer research and drug development company got her involved with Bicycles Battling Cancer, Harris became a volunteer for Relay For Life of Marlborough Hudson after one of her friends was diagnosed and eventually passed away from pancreatic cancer. She has also known many cancer survivors.
“Most recently I lost a good friend to lung cancer in 2017,” said Harris. “I ride for her, my other friend who passed from pancreatic cancer and the many others who have been lost to cancer.”
Interested in participating or learning more? Call 1-800-227-2345, visit www.bicyclesbattlingcancer.org or email bicyclesbattlingcancer@cancer.org. Riders can select their choice of distance. All riders commit to a $300 fundraising minimum and a registration fee of $60.
(NOTE: The above press release is from the American Cancer Society.)
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