COLUMBUS, OH (July 25, 2023) – Pelotonia will host its annual Ride Weekend on August 5-6, 2023, with Opening Ceremony kicking off the experience on August 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.

“The Pelotonia community continues to make a remarkable impact on the world of cancer research, screening and early diagnosis,” said Joe Apgar, president of Pelotonia. “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 percent 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 (OSUCCC – James), including The Pelotonia Institute for Immuno-Oncology.

“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,” said Raphael Pollock, MD, PhD, director of The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center – Arthur G. James Cancer Hospital and Richard J. Solove Research Institute. “Pelotonia dollars support critical efforts including work underway at the Pelotonia Institute of Immuno-Oncology. 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.”

Beginning on August 5, more than 6,500 Riders will 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. Additional route details are available at pelotonia.org/ride-weekend.

Ahead of this year’s Ride Weekend, which is expected to be the most vibrant experience to date, Pelotonia’s Opening Ceremony will take place at McFerson Commons and North Bank Park in the Arena District on Friday, August 4 from 3 – 8 p.m. Pelotonia is thrilled to announce that Emmy award-winning, multi-platinum artist Andy Grammer, known for inspiring fans around the world with hits including “Honey, I’m Good.” and “Keep Your Head Up,” will perform as the headliner for the community celebration. Opening Ceremony will also feature musical performances curated by Music Columbus -- central Ohio’s own 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 August 4th will receive two free tickets.

Spectators are encouraged to cheer on Riders on both Saturday and Sunday. Learn more about spectating and view route maps at pelotonia.org/cheer. For those interested in riding or volunteering with Pelotonia, registration is still available at pelotonia.org/register. Donations will also be accepted through October 15 at pelotonia.org. For more information on participating and to learn about the impact of Pelotonia dollars, please visit pelotonia.org.