Author: The Pelotonia Team
Community Stories
Gears & Cheers: Pelotonia Kids Expands to Lima
| June 18, 2025
Pelotonia Kids is a series of kids cycling events to engage the next generation of Pelotonia participants. In collaboration with The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center – Arthur G. James Cancer Hospital and Richard J. Solove Research Institute (OSUCCC—James), 100 percent of every Pelotonia Kids participant-raised dollar will be directed to innovative pediatric cancer research at Nationwide Children’s Hospital.
This summer, Gears & Cheers is rolling out for the first time in Lima, Ohio, thanks to the passion and dedication of event organizer Emily Brock and the Gears and Beers peloton.
Each event is uniquely local, planned by Pelotonia community volunteers with support from the organization, including event logistics, equipment rentals, promotional materials, and branded merchandise. Ride formats vary by location, with routes designed to accommodate a wide range of ages and abilities.
The Gears and Beers peloton has been involved in Pelotonia for 10 years, honoring loved ones lost to cancer and recognizing the impact cancer continues to have on their lives. Inspired by the energy and enthusiasm of young riders, Emily and her team wanted to create an opportunity for kids to join the movement — and so, Gears & Cheers was born.
“We realized that many of us know kiddos who love riding their bikes, and so we thought, ‘why not get them involved in the community and fundraising with their own Pelotonia experience?’ We are so excited to expand our efforts with Gears & Cheers this year,” Emily said.
Emily is passionate about using Pelotonia Kids to illustrate to children how they can give back and help their community.
“Pelotonia Kids is such a great way to get foster kiddos interest in helping and giving back by getting them involved early and making their own impact by riding their bike,” she said. “It’s a fun way to teach them about the power of giving back and helping their community.”
Gears & Cheers takes place on Saturday, June 28, 2025, from 8:30am to 12:00pm at Heritage Park, 2092 Reed Road, Lima, Ohio.
Rider registration is $35 and includes a Gears & Cheers T-shirt. Kids 12 and younger can collect pledges from family, friends, and neighbors, and every dollar raised goes to support pediatric cancer research. The event will be packed with activities including bounce houses, a coloring station, a friendship bracelet and rainbow loom station, a bike decorating station, music, and plenty of snacks to keep everyone energized.
Follow updates on the Pelotonia social media channels. Read more about the Pelotonia Kids program and upcoming rides at pelotoniakids.com, or donate to Gears & Cheers to support pediatric cancer research.
In the News
DHL Supply Chain Joins Forces with Pelotonia and RTRX to Accelerate Cancer Research and Drive Columbus Region Growth
| June 17, 2025
World’s leading logistics provider aims to drive impact in cancer research, and growth of Columbus as a hub for global thought leadership
COLUMBUS, Ohio (June 17, 2025) – Pelotonia and RTRX are proud to announce a new partnership with DHL Supply Chain North America, the Americas’ leading contract logistics provider, naming the company a Notable Funding Partner of Pelotonia, and a Funding Sponsor and the Life Sciences Lead for RTRX 2025. This expanded partnership brings together purpose-driven innovation, community impact and a shared commitment to transforming health outcomes — while catalyzing leadership and business growth across the Columbus Region. Pelotonia’s generous funding partners provide operational support, enabling the organization to donate 100 percent of every participant-raised dollar to innovative cancer research at The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center – Arthur G. James Cancer Hospital and Richard J. Solove Research Institute (OSUCCC – James). RTRX’s sponsors provide funding support for the annual experience held in downtown Columbus, which invests 100 percent of proceeds in Pelotonia’s innovative research, with more than $7 million invested to date.
A long-time supporter of Pelotonia, DHL Supply Chain will celebrate its 15th year as a Peloton team. Throughout this decade-and-a-half of committed involvement, DHL associates have consistently shown up as Riders, Volunteers and Challengers, raising more than $2.46 million for Pelotonia’s mission of ending cancer. This expanded partnership will see the company named as a 2025 Pelotonia Roundtable partner and RTRX sponsor, which underscores a broader commitment to advancing cancer research, scaling healthcare innovation and strengthening the Columbus Region as a hub for impact-driven enterprise.
“Pelotonia would not be possible without the generosity of our funding partners,” said Joe Apgar, CEO of Pelotonia. “DHL Supply Chain has been an extraordinary supporter of the Pelotonia community for 15 years, and we are thrilled to welcome them as a funding partner and collaborator with RTRX. Their expanded commitment represents a powerful example of how purpose and partnership can create meaningful impact in driving forward life-saving cancer research.”
With its U.S. headquarters in Westerville, Ohio, DHL Supply Chain has a well-established commitment to community giving, and its partnership with Pelotonia and RTRX reflects its focus on innovation and community engagement, along with growing the region.
“Supporting Pelotonia is deeply personal for many of our associates,” said Will Heywood, Chief Customer Officer, DHL Supply Chain North America. “Our participation in this annual event not only underscores our commitment to improving lives and supporting our local communities but aligns with our strategic focus in delivering next-level healthcare logistics in areas such as clinical trials, biopharma and cell and gene therapies.”
RTRX: An Innovative Experience for Optimism in Action
Held annually in Columbus leading up to Ride Weekend, RTRX is a four-day immersive leadership experience for leaders across all industries. Built around a core belief that optimism in action can solve the world’s biggest problems, RTRX curates immersive, high impact programming and experiences focused on leadership, innovation, well-being and personal growth. RTRX 2025, held July 29 through August 1 in downtown Columbus at Kemba Live!, The Junto Hotel and the National Veterans Memorial and Museum, will feature a dynamic mix of mainstage keynotes to masterclass workshops. Key speakers announced to date include John Hope Bryant, Sharon McMahon and Angus Fletcher.
“We are thrilled to join this transformative event that aligns with our mission to inspire action in our communities. RTRX is not just an opportunity for dialogue; it serves as a catalyst for real-world solutions that can help shape a better future for our teams and the communities we serve,” said Heywood.
Pelotonia Roundtable: Bridging Science, Industry and Community
In addition, DHL Supply Chain will participate in the Pelotonia Roundtable, a unique convening of pharmaceutical and life sciences leaders with researchers, in partnership with the OSUCCC – James. Now in its fifth year, Pelotonia Roundtable has hosted more than 100 representatives from across 15 industry-leading pharmaceutical companies to foster scientific dialogue and community connection.
A Shared Vision for Cancer Research and Columbus
DHL Supply Chain joins Pelotonia’s current funding partners — American Electric Power Foundation, Bath & Body Works, Huntington National Bank, Peggy & Richard Santulli, Victoria’s Secret, Ariel Corporation, The Haslam 3 Foundation, M/I Homes, Safelite, Abbott Laboratories, Barbasol, Cardinal Health, Diamond Hill, Nationwide Insurance and Pharmavite — to help make Pelotonia’s inspiring event experiences possible. The 2025 Pelotonia events include Opening Ceremony on August 1, Ride Weekend on August 2 and 3, and Gravel Day on October 4. Registration is now open for Riders, Volunteers and Challengers at pelotonia.org/register.
DHL Supply Chain joins RTRX founding entity Rockbridge, and sponsors Huntington National Bank, Innosource, Diamond Hill, Gilbane, HVMG, the Columbus Partnership, IGS Energy and others to create an incredible business and individual leadership experience leading up to Pelotonia Ride Weekend. RTRX 2025 experience is July 29 through August 1 and registration is open for all businesses and individuals at rtrx.co.
Suraj Hinduja, Managing Director of RTRX
“We are proud to welcome DHL Supply Chain as a partner in this work. Their business and community leadership makes them a fantastic partner as we continue to grow the RTRX platform and our investment in Pelotonia. ”
Community Stories
Honoring Survivors, Fueling Hope: Fundraising During National Cancer Survivors Month
| June 6, 2025
June is National Cancer Survivors Month — a time to celebrate those who’ve battled cancer, uplift those still fighting, and remember the loved ones we’ve lost. For the Pelotonia community, it’s a meaningful opportunity to connect personal stories to action by turning inspiration into impact.
Whether you’re riding, volunteering, running, hiking, fundraising, or cheering on someone, this month is a powerful moment to deepen your “why” and engage your network in our shared goal of ending cancer.
Use National Cancer Survivors Month to Power Your Fundraising
Here are creative and heartfelt ways to amplify your fundraising efforts this June:
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Honor Milestone Dates
Use meaningful dates from your life or the lives of those you ride for: diagnosis anniversaries, birthdays, the date someone finished treatment, or the day they were declared cancer-free. Tie donations to those dates by asking for specific amounts (e.g., $6.12 for June 12) or making a calendar-based challenge.
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Make a Dedication List
Start a running list of names of people you’re riding for. Share it with your supporters and invite them to contribute their loved ones’ names when they donate. Update the list regularly and consider sharing short tributes or photos (with permission) to spotlight the individuals being honored.
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Use Time as Motivation
Ask your supporters to imagine what more time would mean—another birthday, another graduation, another trip together. Let that vision fuel your message: that fundraising for Pelotonia gives others the chance for more time with the people they love.
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Create a Survivors Month Challenge
Set a goal tied to June: “I’m raising $500 in honor of five survivors” or “For every $25 donation this month, I’ll ride one mile in your loved one’s name.” This gives your network a way to participate actively and personally.
National Cancer Survivors Month is a reminder of why we ride, fundraise, and rally together. When you connect your fundraising to real stories and real people, you give others a reason to care and contribute.
Every dollar raised fuels innovative research, better treatments, and more hopeful futures. This month, and every month, your efforts make a difference.
Looking for more creative ideas and fundraising tips? Visit our Fundraising Tool Kit and use the fundraising templates in our Community Asset Kit to help boost your fundraising efforts.
Community Stories
Pedal for Pancakes Returns to Inspire the Next Generation
| June 5, 2025
Pelotonia Kids is a series of kids cycling events to engage the next generation of Pelotonia participants. In collaboration with The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center – Arthur G. James Cancer Hospital and Richard J. Solove Research Institute (OSUCCC—James), 100 percent of every Pelotonia Kids participant-raised dollar will be directed to innovative pediatric cancer research at Nationwide Children’s Hospital.
One of the longest-running Pelotonia Kids events, Pedal for Pancakes, is returning for another year, making it the fourth ride of the 2025 Pelotonia Kids series!
Each event is uniquely local, planned by Pelotonia community volunteers with support from the organization, including event logistics, equipment rentals, promotional materials, and branded merchandise. Ride formats vary by location, with routes designed to accommodate a wide range of ages and abilities.
Pedal for Pancakes is hosted by 17-Year Peloton, Team Bexley, which has raised more than $4 million for innovative cancer research with Pelotonia.
Pedal for Pancakes is made possible by Team Bexley’s generous sponsors. Because of them, 100% of registration fees and participant fundraising goes to pediatric cancer research at Nationwide Children’s Hospital. Event founder Tricia Gockstetter and Bexley City Councilwoman Jess Saad (7-Year Rider), are assisting ride organizer, Susanne Kondracke (17-Year Rider, High Roller, and cancer Survivor), and Team Bexley leadership with event planning and execution.
“Children who participate in Pelotonia Kids events like Pedal for Pancakes are giving back to their peers,” Susanne said. “While having tons of fun along the way, they are learning that their personal actions can have a profoundly positive impact.”
Pedal for Pancakes is returning to Commonwealth Park and Jeffrey Mansion in Bexley on Saturday, July 14. Event check-in starts at 8:00am, and the ride begins at 9:00am.
The Rider registration fee is $36. Each pre-registered participant will receive a t-shirt, medal, and raffle ticket. Pre-registration assures your spot, but walk-up registrants will be welcomed as well.
The route loops around the park with staggered start times based on age and comfort level. Kids are encouraged to ride at their own pace and complete as many laps as they feel comfortable riding.
Following the ride, families and community members are invited to enjoy a pancake breakfast. In the case of inclement weather, the pancake breakfast will take place inside Jeffrey Mansion, but no group cycling will occur.
So far, there are more than 50 participants registered for Pedal for Pancakes, and more than $3,000 has been raised for pediatric cancer research.
Follow updates on the Pelotonia social media channels. Read more about the Pelotonia Kids program and upcoming rides at pelotoniakids.com, or donate to Pedal for Pancakes to support pediatric cancer research.
Community Stories
Stroll Communities Unite to Fuel Pediatric Cancer Research
| May 29, 2025
Pelotonia Kids is a series of kids cycling events to engage the next generation of Pelotonia participants. In collaboration with The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center – Arthur G. James Cancer Hospital and Richard J. Solove Research Institute (OSUCCC—James), 100 percent of every Pelotonia Kids participant-raised dollar will be directed to innovative pediatric cancer research at Nationwide Children’s Hospital.
Stroll Magazine is the nation’s leading neighborhood publication, serving more than 500 upscale communities. The publication helps foster genuine connections in distinct neighborhoods by offering residents a space to share stories and photos, while highlighting business stories, advertising, in-person events, and more. Now several Stroll communities are teaming up to inspire families to support the fight against cancer through a new initiative: Stroll for Life, a Pelotonia Kids ride.
Stroll Highland Lakes, Stroll Muirfield Village, Stroll New Albany Country Club Communities, Stroll Tartan Fields, Stroll Wedgewood, and Stroll Worthington Hills are uniting to launch Stroll for Life, which will teach youth participants in their communities the importance of philanthropy.
Pelotonia Kids is expanding across Ohio in 2025, with 10 events already scheduled – five returning favorites and five new rides. Organized by dedicated community volunteers and supported by Pelotonia, these youth cycling events offer kids a safe, fun, and meaningful way to help fund cancer research.
Each event is uniquely local, planned by Pelotonia community volunteers with support from the organization, including event logistics, equipment rentals, promotional materials, and branded merchandise. Ride formats vary by location, with routes designed to accommodate a wide range of ages and abilities.
Stroll for Life is organized by Kathy Kamnikar (8-Year Rider), Dale Darnell (16-Year Rider and High Roller), and Janice Darnell (15-Year Rider).
“Stroll for Life – Pelotonia Kids Ride was born out of the collective efforts of local Stroll communities, united by a shared commitment to inspire and empower children and families to engage in an active, healthy lifestyle while supporting the fight against cancer,” Kathy said.
Registration for Stroll for Life Pelotonia Kids ride will open at 7:15am with Opening Ceremony beginning at 8:30am, and the first group of Riders set to take off around 9:00am. So far, there are 50 participants registered for Stroll for Life and more than $7,600 raised for innovative pediatric research at Nationwide Children’s Hospital.
“Our hope is to have 100 kids for our first ride and bring awareness to all the rides that are happening this summer,” Kathy said.
After the ride, families can stick around for more fun. Sponsor booths will feature kid-friendly activities and giveaways, and Chris’ Cakes and The Beverage Buggy will provide a delicious pancake breakfast and refreshments for everyone in attendance
Young participants are already contributing to the mission in meaningful ways as we approach the event. Mila Falconi, a Muirfield Village resident, asked for donations to her ride in lieu of birthday gifts. Ava and Anna McKission, from Olentangy Ridge, formed a team in honor of their brave neighbor, “Awesome Alex,” who recently underwent brain surgery.
These stories are just a glimpse of the heart and creativity behind Pelotonia Kids, and a great reminder that even the youngest participants can make a big impact in raising funds for pediatric cancer research.
Follow updates on the Pelotonia social media channels. Read more about the Pelotonia Kids program and upcoming rides at pelotoniakids.com, or donate to Pelotonia Kids Stroll for Life to support pediatric cancer research.
Uncategorized
How to Build Your Pelotonia Fundraising Letter or Email
| May 16, 2025
One of the most effective ways to fundraise for your Pelotonia campaign is to make personal, heartfelt asks. Reaching out to friends, family, colleagues, and your wider network with a meaningful message can make a big impact. We encourage one-on-one outreach — direct, personal connections are often the most powerful.
Most importantly, we encourage you to share your story. Let people know why Pelotonia matters to you — whether it’s in honor of a loved one, a personal experience with cancer, or a desire to help fuel life-saving research. When you lead with authenticity, people are more likely to support your journey.
Below, you’ll find key facts about Pelotonia and impactful highlights to help you show your donors exactly where their dollars are going — and how their support is fueling our shared mission of ending cancer.
We’ve also outlined a few simple steps to help you craft a compelling, personal fundraising letter or email. Whether you’re writing your first message or refreshing your approach, these tools are designed to help you share your story and inspire others to donate.
If your donor isn’t familiar with Pelotonia, it’s helpful to provide a brief overview of what sets this movement apart — especially our 100% model, which means every participant-raised dollar supports cancer research directly.
Quick Pelotonia facts:
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Every dollar raised goes directly toward innovative cancer research at The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center – Arthur G. James Cancer Hospital and Richard J. Solove Research Institute (OSUCCC – James).
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Over the past 16 years, the Pelotonia community has raised more than $309 million for innovative cancer research at the OSUCCC – James.
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In 2024, the Pelotonia community raised $26,200,095 for innovative cancer research.
Explaining where Pelotonia dollars go is a powerful way to engage your donors. Helping your donors see the impact their contribution will have can make all the difference in your fundraising campaign.
Where the Money Goes:
Pelotonia funds support research in seven areas: researcher development, strategic research investments, idea grants, Pelotonia Scholars Program, Pelotonia Institiute for Immuno-oncology (PIIO), Instruments of Discovery, and statewide initiatives.
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Researcher Development: Since 2010, the OSUCCC – James has recruited over 290 top scientists with Pelotonia support.
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Strategic Research Investments: Pelotonia dollars support such OSUCCC – James initiatives as the Drug Development Institute, digital pathology and the Total Cancer Care protocol.
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Idea Grants: Pelotonia-funded Idea Grants help teams of cancer researchers gather early data for innovative ideas so they can later apply for larger grants. Since 2010, Pelotonia funding has supported 221 grants worth $31.35 million. In 2024, 11 new Pelotonia-funded Idea Grants, totaling $1.4 million, were awarded to cancer researchers.
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Pelotonia Scholars Program: $2 million is awarded annually to train the next generation of cancer researchers. Since 2010, the Pelotonia Scholars Program has awarded 712 scholarships to students from 53 countries and 36 U.S. States.
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The Pelotonia Institute for Immuno-Oncology (PIIO) The PIIO is a research initiative focused on harnessing the body’s immune system to fight cancer. Since 2010, 254 immunotherapy clinical trials have been launched.
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Instruments of Discovery: Some Pelotonia dollars are allocated for the purchase of used to conduct cutting-edge cancer research. In 2024 alone, $488,000 was put toward the purchase of equipment for some of the cancer program’s Shared Resources, which provide specialized services to cancer researchers.
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Statewide Initiatives: In 2024, four statewide initiatives funded by Pelotonia have promoted early detection and better outcomes for colorectal, endometrial, lung, and breast cancer patients in Ohio.
After sharing your story, don’t forget the ask. Here are a few examples to help you make it clear:
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“If you’re able, I’d be so grateful if you could support my Pelotonia ride. Every dollar you give goes directly to innovative cancer research.”
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“Please consider joining me in this mission by making a donation to my Pelotonia campaign. Every single dollar helps bring us one step closer to ending cancer.
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“Will you join me in ending cancer? Pelotonia ensures that 100% of your donation goes directly to cancer research.”
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“Every dollar fuels cutting-edge research with one goal: to end cancer. Click here to donate to my Pelotonia campaign.”
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“Thank you for supporting my Pelotonia journey. Your donation — 100% of it — directly supports research that’s changing lives.”
As you finalize your Pelotonia fundraising letter or email, focus on three essentials: share your story, highlight the impact of Pelotonia’s dollars, and invite your donors to support your ride with a meaningful contribution.
If you’re interested in using Pelotonia branded paper and envelopes, we have them available for purchase in our shop linked here.
Community Stories
Team Huntington Expands Support with Pelotonia Kids Ride
| May 12, 2025
Pelotonia Kids is a series of kids cycling events to engage the next generation of Pelotonia participants. In collaboration with The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center – Arthur G. James Cancer Hospital and Richard J. Solove Research Institute (OSUCCC – James), 100 percent of every Pelotonia Kids participant-raised dollar will be directed to innovative pediatric cancer research at Nationwide Children’s Hospital.
Huntington Bank has been a proud supporter of Pelotonia since its inaugural ride, and since 2010 it has also served as a Major Funding Partner, underwriting operational costs so that 100% of every participant-raised dollar directly supports cancer research at the OSUCCC – James. Since 2009, Team Huntington has raised an astounding $44 million fueling innovation, uniting communities, and pushing cancer research forward.
Huntington is expanding its commitment to the Pelotonia mission with an exciting new addition — the launch of its very own Pelotonia Kids ride. The inaugural Pelotonia Kids Team Huntington event will take place on Saturday, May 17, at the Huntington Bank Columbus office at 7 Easton Oval.
The Pelotonia Kids Team Huntington ride will be the second event in the 2025 Pelotonia Kids series, and it’s one of four new rides rolling out this year. With five returning favorites, Pelotonia Kids has nearly doubled in events since last year.
Each Pelotonia Kids ride is organized by Pelotonia community volunteers with assistance from Pelotonia through planning resources, equipment rentals, merchandise, and promotional support. Events vary in participant ages, route distances, and venue locations.
Planning of the Pelotonia Kids Team Huntington is led by Christopher Kemper (9-year Rider, High Roller, and cancer Survivor); Matt Holtzlander (7-year Rider); Jill Wince (2-year participant); and Kristen Haegele (4-year Rider).
“Team Huntington Bank has been part of the Pelotonia movement since day one. We’ve grown together and have raised millions of dollars for innovative cancer research,”Christopher said.
“To expand our reach, we wanted to be able to engage the next generation of Pelotonia riders and we couldn’t think of a better way to start.”
So far, more than 250 participants have registered to ride. The route features a half-mile loop, which Riders may complete as many times as they wish. Riders will go off in two waves: ages 7 and under will begin at 10:00am, and ages 8 and older will begin at 11:00am. Participants are encouraged to arrive no later than 9:30am to check in.
Team Huntington will celebrate childhood cancer Survivors with recognition and a special gift. All Riders will receive a Pelotonia Kids medal, youth T-shirt, sticker sheet, and more after crossing the finish line. After their ride, they can also enjoy a free breakfast and ice cream treat.
“We would love to continue to grow. As this is our first event, we will learn so much from it. We want to continue to bring this back, year after year and further our reach to help others all while funding critical cancer research,” Christopher said.
Follow updates on the Pelotonia social media channels. Read more about the Pelotonia Kids program and upcoming rides at pelotoniakids.com, or donate to Pelotonia Kids Team Huntington to support pediatric cancer research.
Community Stories
Pelotonia Kids 2025 Series Kicks off May 10 with Pelotonia Kids Rangers
| May 7, 2025
The first Pelotonia Kids ride of 2025, Pelotonia Kids Rangers, is set for Saturday, May 10, at Hamilton Preschool in Columbus. Of the nine kids’ rides planned for 2025, Pelotonia Kids Rangers is one of the four new additions joining five returning favorites.
Pelotonia Kids is a series of kids cycling events to engage the next generation of Pelotonia participants. In collaboration with The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center – Arthur G. James Cancer Hospital and Richard J. Solove Research Institute (OSUCCC—James), 100 percent of every Pelotonia Kids participant-raised dollar will be directed to innovative pediatric cancer research at Nationwide Children’s Hospital.
Each Pelotonia Kids ride is organized by Pelotonia community volunteers with assistance from Pelotonia through planning resources, equipment rentals, merchandise and promotional support. Events vary in participant ages, route distances and venue locations.
Planning for Pelotonia Kids Rangers is led by Brittany Smith and Belinda Anderson. Brittany is also a ride organizer for SpokesKIDS held in Granville.
“I am a teacher for the Hamilton Local School District. It was weighing on my heart to bring this opportunity to the kids on the South End of Columbus,” Brittany said.
So far, 30 Riders are registered for Pelotonia Kids Rangers, which is designed for younger children and features a one-mile route. The event has already raised nearly $1,000 for pediatric cancer research. Registration opens the day of the event at 9:30am, with the ride beginning at 10:00am. Helmets and closed-toe shoes are required for all participants.
“Pelotonia Kids Rangers is more than just a bike ride — it’s a movement that empowers children to make a real difference,” Brittany said.
“In partnership with Pelotonia Kids, this event gives young riders the chance to take action, showing them that even at a young age, they can create change. Every pedal stroke supports kids battling cancer, and with 100% of contributions going directly to pediatric cancer research at Nationwide Children’s Hospital, this ride brings hope, support, and a brighter future to those who need it most.”
Follow updates on the Pelotonia social media channels and @rangersrideforkids on Instagram.
Read more about the Pelotonia Kids program and upcoming rides at pelotoniakids.com, or donate to Pelotonia Kids Rangers to support pediatric cancer research.
Community Stories
2025 Volunteer Spotlight: Larry Nolan II
| April 25, 2025
In celebration of National Volunteer Week (April 20–26), we’re proud to honor the more than 3,000 incredible individuals who make Pelotonia possible. These Volunteers are the heart of our mission to end cancer, and their time, energy, and passion fuel every mile and every moment. Without our Volunteers, the mission simply wouldn’t be possible. This week, we’re excited to spotlight five outstanding Volunteers on our social media channels.
We are excited to highlight Larry Nolan II, an 8-Year Pelotonia participant, and now a Lead Medical Volunteer at Gravel Day. Larry decided to get involved with Pelotonia after watching his own family battle cancer.
Larry’s favorite part about volunteering for Pelotonia is the sense of community and impact made by everyone coming together to End Cancer.
His most impactful memory stems from his first time volunteering at Kenyon College, watching everyone, especially Survivors, complete their journey across the finish line. Larry said it was “absolutely amazing and inspiring.”
When asked for advice for people interested in volunteering with Pelotonia, Larry said “Don’t hesitate; jump in. Regardless of your reason for starting, the energy will make you want to stay.”
Larry lives by a quote from Wayne Gretzky and used by Michael Scott in The Office: “You miss 100% of the shots you don’t take.”
Larry’s story is a beautiful reminder of the power of connection and the incredible community behind Pelotonia. Thank you, Larry, for your continued participation!
In the News
Pelotonia Kids Expands in 2025 to Further Impact Pediatric Cancer Research
| April 25, 2025
Series of youth cycling events accelerates innovative research for childhood cancers through collaboration with the OSUCCC – James and Nationwide Children’s Hospital
COLUMBUS, Ohio (April 17, 2025) – Pelotonia announced today the initial 2025 dates for Pelotonia Kids, a series of youth cycling events designed to inspire and engage the next generation of Pelotonia participants — with additional events to be added as community members commit to organize new kids rides and expand the program’s impact. In collaboration with The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center – Arthur G. James Cancer Hospital and Richard J. Solove Research Institute (OSUCCC – James), 100 percent of every Pelotonia Kids participant-raised dollar is directed to innovative pediatric cancer research at Nationwide Children’s Hospital.
Pelotonia Kids launched in 2024 to provide children with the opportunity to participate in Pelotonia event experiences through fundraising and cycling at a younger age. A total of six kids rides raised $85,076 for pediatric cancer research in its first year.
“Pelotonia Kids embodies the spirit of our grassroots movement, engaging the next generation of participants through energetic event experiences in various, local communities,” said Joe Apgar, Pelotonia CEO and cancer survivor. “We are excited to continue to grow this initiative – which is fun for kids and adults – to reach even more neighborhoods and families, further accelerating innovative research that will improve the lives of children with cancer.”
Pelotonia Kids 2025 Dates
Pelotonia Kids kicks off 2025 with nine community events scheduled plus additional dates to be announced. Each event is organized by community volunteers in partnership with Pelotonia staff. Kids rides range in participant ages, route layouts and venue locations. Participants receive a Pelotonia Kids medal, t-shirt and other fun giveaways after crossing the finish line.
In 2025, there are several returning kids rides as well as brand new Pelotonia Kids events. One of the new kids rides will be organized by associates from Pelotonia major funding partner Huntington Bank. Expanding participation beyond central Ohio into northwest Ohio, a new Pelotonia Kids event in Lima will be hosted by peloton team Gears and Beers. Community members interested in organizing additional Pelotonia Kids rides are encouraged to reach out to the organization to explore their plans, including new events yet this year.
Youth participants can register for Pelotonia Kids 2025 rides at pelotoniakids.com, including:
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Saturday, May 10: Rangers Ride for Kids, Hamilton Local Preschool in Columbus
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Saturday, May 17: Pelotonia Kids Team Huntington, Easton Oval in Columbus
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Saturday, June 7: Stroll for Life, Glacier Ridge Metro Park in Plain City
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Saturday, June 14: Pedal for Pancakes, Commonwealth Park and Jeffrey Mansion in Bexley
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Saturday, June 28: Gears and Cheers, Heritage Park in Lima
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Saturday, July 26: SpokesKids Jr., Wildwood Park in Granville
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Saturday, July 26: SpokesKIDS, OneLove Cafe and Bike Shop in Granville
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Saturday, August 23: Pelotonia Kids Upper Arlington, Jones Middle School in Upper Arlington
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Saturday, August 30: Pelotonia Kids Linden, Maloney Park in Linden
Accelerating Pediatric Cancer Research through Philanthropy
Pelotonia Kids supports the groundbreaking work at two leading institutions focused on innovative pediatric cancer care and research.
“The partnership between Nationwide Children’s Hospital and the OSUCCC – James has been transforming pediatric cancer care and research for years,” said Raphael Pollock, MD, PhD, director of the OSUCCC – James. “The collaboration in delivering radiation therapy and advancing proton therapy treatment and research is helping to shape the future of cancer treatment and provide hope for young patients.”
The OSUCCC – James has a collaborative agreement with Nationwide Children’s Hospital to broaden the study of childhood cancer and accelerate the transfer of key research findings to the clinical setting. This partnership is stimulating novel research and developing collaborations in pediatric cancer-related radiation and proton therapy studies that will also have applications to adults.
“Pelotonia Kids empowers our youngest participants to participate in philanthropy to support innovations in scientific research that will benefit children and their families,” said Apgar. “Their efforts are helping to drive meaningful progress and strengthen our mission of ending cancer.”
Funds raised by Pelotonia Kids participants are directed to research that could improve diagnosis, treatment and outcomes for pediatric cancer patients by leading investigators and physicians at Nationwide Children’s Hospital. The Center for Childhood Cancer Research is part of the Abigail Wexner Research Institute at Nationwide Children’s Hospital, one of the top 10 National Institutes of Health-funded, free-standing pediatric research facilities in the U.S.
“Nationwide Children’s Hospital is honored to be a part of this program with Pelotonia, in collaboration with the OSUCCC – James,” said Steve Testa, Nationwide Children’s Hospital Foundation President. “The passion and dedication of community volunteers to create an experience for Pelotonia Kids participants that is safe, fun, and meaningful is having a positive impact on the cutting-edge pediatric cancer research being conducted here in central Ohio. We are happy to see the next generation of philanthropists engaging in this worthy cause.”
Donors can give to Pelotonia Kids to support innovative pediatric cancer research at pelotoniakids.com.
To learn more about the impact of Pelotonia dollars on innovative cancer research, visit pelotonia.org/our-impact.
