Author: The Pelotonia Team
In the News
New Gravel Day Weekend Experiences Announced for 2024
| June 27, 2024
Pelotonia Gravel Day was introduced with an inaugural ride in 2023. This unique cycling adventure takes participants on the gravel roads of beautiful southeast Ohio! Riders and Volunteers can register now to participate in Gravel Day 2024 at Snow Fork Event Center in Nelsonville, Ohio.
Today we’re introducing new, exciting experiences for Gravel Day. Details are below. We hope to see you there!
Friday Night Community Gathering
New in 2024, join us on Friday evening for a community gathering as we kick off Gravel Day weekend. The gathering will be on Friday, September 20 from 6-9pm at Snow Fork Event Center in Nelsonville, Ohio. The community will enjoy acoustic music, food, drinks, and s’mores by the campfire to come together ahead of the Saturday morning ride.
Camping at Snow Fork
This year, we’re excited to offer Gravel Day Riders and Volunteers the opportunity to camp on-site at Snow Fork Event Center from Friday through Sunday. You can make your campsite reservations online here. Each campsite is primitive, so there will be no power available or access to water. There will be porta johns in the camping area and a shower trailer nearby. Two campsite options are available based on your camping style:
-
Car and Tent Camping (20’x20’ campsite for $25 per night): Pull your vehicle right up and set up a tent within the allocated space. One vehicle is permitted per campsite, but you can fit as many tents and friends as space allows within your site. Small pop-up campers or trailers are permitted as long as both the camper and vehicle fit within the campsite.
-
RV Camping (20’x50’ campsite for $50 per night): One RV, motorhome, or vehicle with camper is permitted per campsite. Tents and awnings can also be set up, as long as they fit within the space. Please note: there are no electricity or water hookups.
Campsites will be available for check-in after 3pm on Friday, September 20, and must be packed up and vacated by 11am on Sunday, September 22. Reserve your campsite here! Campsite reservations must be made by September 6.
If camping is not your style, no problem! For those who prefer to stay off-site, there are plenty of great hotels and vacation rentals within the Nelsonville area and Hocking Hills region. Check out this recent Gravel Day Overnight Accommodations blog post for more information to make your reservations.
Camping Equipment Rental
Our friends at Hocking Hills Outdoors offer camping and outdoor equipment rentals! They have a limited number of camp setups available for rental during Gravel Day weekend. Their team will even handle equipment setup onsite for you, so it is ready when you arrive!
To reserve camping equipment, please fill out this request form and a representative from Hocking Hills Outdoors will contact you directly.
Gravel Bike Rental
Ready to ride in Gravel Day but need a gravel bike? Registered Riders can rent a gravel bike to use for training and Gravel Day weekend through Pelotonia’s bike fleet.
Inventory is limited and availability is first come, first serve. Email pelotonia@pelotonia.org to secure your gravel bike!
Gravel Riding 101
If you are new to the gravel riding experience, we’ve got you covered! For an informative and fun overview of gravel riding, watch this Gravel Riding 101 video to learn more about this growing segment of cycling and things to know to ensure you have a safe and fun Gravel Day ride!
REGISTER for Gravel Day 2024 as a Rider or Volunteer today!
Community Stories
Remembering Michael Nestor: A Legacy of Strength, Kindness and Courage
| June 20, 2024
In 2021, Pelotonia proudly awarded the inaugural Mary Hyatt Courage Award to Michael Nestor to honor his outstanding contributions to cancer research and a life dedicated to advocacy, leadership, fundraising, and volunteerism. As a cancer advocate, Pelotonia staff alumni, and 6x Rider, Michael helped raise tens of millions of dollars to fund innovative cancer research at the OSUCCC—James.
Today, Pelotonia remembers and celebrates the life of Michael Nestor whose battle against cancer was marked not only by his strength and courage, but also by his big heart and unwavering resilience.
“Michael’s legacy lives on each day at Pelotonia in our daily work,” said Joe Apgar, Pelotonia CEO. “He has forever influenced our approach to stewardship and creating experiences for the community. Michael was always the first person to lift someone up on a bad day and comfort people in times of need. His smile brought warmth to every room he entered.”
Michael’s unfaltering optimism in the face of adversity touched the lives of all who knew him, leaving an imprint of love, courage, and inspiration.
Michael Nestor’s lifelong commitment to philanthropy was ignited by early volunteer work, culminating in a decade of transformative contributions to cancer research and survivor support. From a young age, Michael developed a passion for helping others. He studied hospitality at Cornell University and worked at some of the world’s leading hotels and resorts. After pursuing a master’s degree in organizational leadership and ethics, Michael transitioned into the nonprofit sector, joining LIVESTRONG, and later Pelotonia as a staff member. Over the next decade, he dedicated his professional career to improving the lives of cancer survivors and funding innovative, lifesaving cancer research which has left a lasting legacy on the community.
Michael also played a pivotal role in advancing the lives of LGBTQ+ individuals. He and his husband, Doug Zullo, were among the first to marry in California before the state temporarily halted same-sex marriages in 2008. Their wedding celebration showcased the true meaning of commitment and their deep devotion to each other continued throughout life’s joys and challenges.
In July 2020, after a decade of working in the cancer nonprofit space, Michael was diagnosed with Myxoid Liposarcoma, an extremely rare soft tissue cancer. He underwent vigorous treatment at The James as well as MD Anderson in Houston, including a below-knee amputation on his right leg in November 2020.
Despite his four-year battle with cancer, Michael’s life was never defined by his illness. Instead, the experience uncovered strength and courage in himself that helped him push forward and deeply moved those around him.
On March 11, 2024, at the age of 44, Michael passed away, leaving behind a loving family, countless friends, and an enduring legacy as a beacon of hope and light in the world. He is remembered for his exemplary gratitude, gentle smile, gregarious laugh, and thoughtful handwritten cards.
“It was the honor of a lifetime to work alongside and learn from Michael Nestor. His tenacity, courage, and commitment to kindness inspire me greatly,” said Doug Ulman, Pelotonia Vice Chair. “He leaves a legacy that is unmatched. We miss him dearly and we are committed to furthering Michael’s impact in the years to come.”
This Pride Month and National Cancer Survivors Month, the Pelotonia community honors Michael for his contributions to our mission of ending cancer and celebrates his life as a champion of kindness.
Michael’s colleague from LIVESTRONG and Pelotonia, Steph Zimmerman, Special Assistant to the Vice Chair at Pelotonia, shared, “Pelotonia unites people with a common goal and brings out the best of humanity. No one exemplified this more than Michael. He worked to not only create an environment of kindness among the Pelotonia staff, but to spread encouragement and hope throughout the broader community.Michael continued to inspire others and instill hope by sharing his own personal cancer story, being the first to encourage others going through hard times, and expressing gratitude at every opportunity. As we honor Michael this year and beyond, we look forward to creating lasting ways to celebrate his core value of kindness and make sure that his values remain at the heart of the Pelotonia community.”
Community Stories
Pedal for Pancakes Kicks off Pelotonia Kids on June 15
| June 14, 2024
Volunteers from Team Bexley have organized the first Pelotonia Kids ride of 2024, Pedal for Pancakes, which will be on Saturday, June 15, at Capital University in Bexley! The youth cycling event engages children ages four to 10 to participate. Community members of all ages are also invited to cheer on these youngest Pelotonia Riders, enjoy pancakes, and participate in various family-friendly activities.
All proceeds from Pedal for Pancakes now benefit Pelotonia Kids, a series of youth 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.
Pedal for Pancakes is one of the original kids rides that has seen success before the Pelotonia Kids program launched this year. This is the fifth Pedal for Pancakes in Bexley, and the planning for this year’s event is led by Susanne Kondracke, Survivor, 16x Rider, High Roller, and co-captain of Team Bexley, and Todd Evert, 9x Rider and Team Bexley team member.
“I am ecstatic that Team Bexley’s fifth Pedal for Pancakes is now part of Pelotonia Kids, benefiting pediatric cancer research. We’re thrilled about this collaboration with the OSUCCC—James and Nationwide Children’s Hospital. Our participants and community can take great pride in knowing their support is touching countless lives, including the youngest among us,” Susanne said.
Pedal for Pancakes hosted its first ride in 2017 when members of Team Bexley saw an opportunity to get local kids more involved in their community peloton and fundraising for Pelotonia’s mission. For the first three years, Pedal for Pancakes went through the heart of Bexley, and in 2023 moved to Capital University, allowing for additional space to expand the course and host more activities.
To date, Pedal for Pancakes has raised more than $23,300 for innovative cancer research!
As Pelotonia Kids continues to grow, Susanne, Todd, and Team Bexley look forward to expanding Pedal for Pancakes beyond the Bexley community with youth participants and families from around Columbus.
The event on June 15 will include open course riding for 6 and under from 9-9:30 am and then 9:30-11:30 am for all Riders. The official kickoff will include an opening ceremony at 9:30 am featuring Pelotonia CEO Joe Apgar, Nationwide Children’s Foundation, and Bexley Mayor Ben Kessler.
In addition to a youth cycling course, Pedal for Pancakes event highlights include bike decorating, yard games, kids safety activities with the Bexley Police Department and Columbus Fire and Rescue, a raffle benefiting Pelotonia Kids, and more!
Follow updates on the Pelotonia social media channels and @pelotoniateambexley on Instagram!
Read more about the Pelotonia Kids program and upcoming rides at pelotoniakids.com, or donate to Pedal for Pancakes to support pediatric cancer research!
In the News | Research Stories
Pelotonia Kids Launches in Collaboration with the OSUCCC – James to Accelerate Pediatric Cancer Research at Nationwide Children’s Hospital
| May 29, 2024
Series of Youth Cycling Events will Engage Next Generation of Pelotonia Participants
COLUMBUS, Ohio (May 29, 2024) – Pelotonia today announced the launch of Pelotonia Kids, 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.
The program launches with five kids ride events beginning in June with plans to add more this year. Each will be organized by Pelotonia community volunteers with assistance provided by the organization, including planning resources, equipment rentals, merchandise and promotional support. Events will vary in participant ages, route distances and venue locations.
Prior to this launch, children under 14 years old could register to fundraise as Challengers but were unable to participate as Riders in Pelotonia’s annual cycling events, Ride Weekend and Gravel Day. This new program gives children the opportunity to participate in Pelotonia event experiences through both fundraising and cycling at a younger age.
“Children in the Pelotonia community are among our most enthusiastic spectators and fundraisers, and the launch of Pelotonia Kids gives them the opportunity to be more actively engaged participants,” said Joe Apgar, Pelotonia CEO and cancer survivor.“Pelotonia Kids is a collaboration with two of the most renowned hospitals and research centers in the U.S. We are grateful for the opportunity to work alongside both the OSUCCC – James and Nationwide Children’s Hospital, who are leading the way in scientific research and care to save and extend the lives of cancer patients, including children.”
Funds will be 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 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. The relationship between institutions is stimulating novel research and developing collaborations in pediatric cancer-related studies that will also have applications to adults.
“The OSUCCC—James is proud to collaborate with Pelotonia to launch youth cycling experiences for a meaningful impact on creating a cancer-free world,” said Raphael Pollock, MD, PhD, director of OSUCCC and cancer survivor. “Breakthroughs in science happen faster when there is a shared goal and collaboration. Pelotonia Kids leverages the long-standing relationship between the OSUCCC—James and Nationwide Children’s Hospital to accelerate research on innovative and alternative treatments for childhood cancer patients and survivors.”
There are more than 500,000 childhood cancer survivors in the U.S., and 47 children are newly diagnosed with cancer every day. Through research advancements, prognoses have improved dramatically for some pediatric cancer types and cancer mortality rates among children have decreased in recent decades. However, cancer is the leading cause of death by disease in children today, resulting in the deaths of approximately 1,800 kids each year in the U.S.
“Not only will this collaboration with the OSUCCC—James and Pelotonia create a fun, new program, it will make a real difference in the lives of children,” said Tim Robinson, Nationwide Children’s Hospital CEO. “Pelotonia Kids will help accelerate Nationwide Children’s groundbreaking research, making an impact on patients in central Ohio and around the world.”
Though critically needed, childhood cancer research is significantly underfunded by the federal government. Organizations like Pelotonia help address that gap through investing in innovative ideas and talented researchers that may otherwise go unfunded. Pelotonia Kids dollars may go toward accelerating clinical research as well as studies on the psychosocial factors of pediatric cancer. The Center for Childhood Cancer Research at Nationwide Children’s Hospital is part of The Abigail Wexner Research Institute, one of the top 10 National Institutes of Health-funded free-standing pediatric research facilities.
Prior to this launch, Pelotonia community teams have hosted youth rides as fundraising events. Four existing rides are returning in 2024 within the new Pelotonia Kids program, and the fundraising done by participating children will now go toward research for childhood cancers.
“The many community members who have supported the original kids rides within the Pelotonia community used creativity and intention to engage youth in fundraising. Their efforts laid the foundation for this new Pelotonia Kids platform, inspiring our youngest advocates to take action in advancing our mission of ending cancer,” said Apgar.“We look forward to seeing others embrace this experience as new hosts step up to organize kids rides and bring the grassroots Pelotonia experience to children across various communities.”
Youth participants can register for 2024 Pelotonia Kids rides at pelotoniakids.com, including:
-
June 15: Pedal for Pancakes, Capital University in Bexley (hosted by Team Bexley)
-
July 6: Pelotonia Kids UA, Jones Middle School in Upper Arlington (hosted Sarah Jane and Paul Germain)
-
July 27: SpokesKIDS Jr., Wildwood Park in Granville (hosted by Team Granville Spokesmen for a Cure peloton members)
-
July 27: SpokesKIDS, Newark to Granville (hosted by Team Granville Spokesmen for a Cure peloton members)
-
TBA: Building Brighter Futures, Plain City (hosted by M/I Homes, Inc.)
Donors can give to Pelotonia Kids to support innovative pediatric cancer research at pelotoniakids.com.
In the News
Ariel Corporation and Barbasol Join Pelotonia as New Funding Partners; Safelite AutoGlass and Cardinal Health Renew Partnerships
| May 15, 2024
COLUMBUS, Ohio (May 15, 2024) – Pelotonia today announced new funding partnerships with Ariel Corporation and Barbasol, and the renewal of its funding partnerships with Safelite AutoGlass and Cardinal Health. Pelotonia’s generous funding partners provide operational support, allowing the organization to donate 100 percent of every participant-raised dollar to groundbreaking and impactful cancer research at The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center – Arthur G. James Cancer Hospital and Richard J. Solove Research Institute (OSUCCC – James).
“Our community continues to be inspired by and immensely grateful for the commitment of the generous funding partners that make it possible for 100 percent of funds raised by Pelotonia participants to go directly toward innovative cancer research that has fueled progress, driven breakthroughs and saved lives,” said Joe Apgar, Pelotonia CEO. “It’s because of new and long-time funding partners that Pelotonia can continue its significant impact and help save even more lives.”
Ariel Corporation, the largest manufacturer of separable reciprocating gas compressors worldwide, will join the Pelotonia community for the first time in 2024 as a new supporting funding partner. A family-owned business for more than 50 years, Ariel Corporation’s global headquarters is located in Mount Vernon, Ohio, near the Pelotonia 100-mile route finish line in Gambier at Kenyon College. Additionally, Ariel will contribute a corporate donation directly to cancer research at OSUCCC – James as part of their partnership commitment.
“At Ariel Corporation, we believe that our people and community are central to our success, and we have consistently invested in the health and wellbeing of our communities through philanthropy and volunteerism,” said Alex Wright, Ariel Corporation CEO. “The team at Ariel Corporation has long admired the dedication of the Pelotonia community to its critical mission of ending cancer. This mission is near to our hearts, and we’re proud to support both this incredible grassroots movement and their world-class research partners.”
Barbasol, America’s #1 brand of shaving cream, will add to the organization’s Pelotonia relationship as a new notable funding partner in 2024. Family-owned as part of Perio Inc. in Dublin, Ohio, Barbasol’s commitment will go beyond a traditional funding partnership to also include a co-branded shaving cream can. The Barbasol Soothing Aloe can features a Pelotonia takeover design including the organization’s signature green and arrows. Customers may purchase the co-branded Barbasol and Pelotonia cans starting this summer at participating retailers, including Big Lots, Giant Eagle, Meijer and Kroger.
“This partnership with Pelotonia is a natural alignment for our community work through The Barbasol Foundation. Cancer touches far too many lives, but I’ve seen firsthand the inspiring impact of the Pelotonia community on ending cancer through my personal experience as a long-time participant,” said Barbasol COO Andrew Fast. “At Barbasol, we are excited to partner with Pelotonia in accelerating innovative cancer research both as a funding partner and through co-branded products that will bring additional awareness to Pelotonia’s mission.”
Safelite AutoGlass will also extend its commitment as a supporting funding partner, which began in 2021. To date, Safelite employee participants have raised $713,816 for cancer research through Pelotonia.
Cardinal Health will continue its funding partner relationship with Pelotonia that began in 2010. Beyond funding partner support, Cardinal Health participants in Pelotonia have raised more than $3.7 million since 2010.
Pelotonia’s current funding partners — Ariel Corporation, Barbasol, American Electric Power Foundation, Bath & Body Works, Huntington National Bank, Peggy & Richard Santulli, Victoria’s Secret, M/I Homes, Safelite, Cardinal Health, Diamond Hill, Nationwide Insurance and Pharmavite — help make Pelotonia’s inspiring event experiences possible. The 2024 Pelotonia events will include Opening Ceremony on August 2, Ride Weekend on August 3 and 4, and Gravel Day on September 21.
Registration is now open for Riders, Volunteers and Challengers interested in participating in Pelotonia 2024 at pelotonia.org/register.
To learn more about the impact of Pelotonia dollars, including the work of The Pelotonia Institute for Immuno-Oncology, visit pelotonia.org/impact and pelotonia.org/institute.
Community Stories
Every Fabulous Mile: Tanny Crane’s Coast-to-Coast Cycling Odyssey to Raise $100,000
| May 4, 2024
16-year Rider and 16x High Roller, Tanny Crane, is taking on a personal odyssey to make a significant impact on Ending Cancer. With a goal to raise $100,000 for Pelotonia 2024, Tanny will embark on a 49-day coast-to-coast cycling trip to ride 3,400 miles through 15 states. Her journey begins on May 5 with a dip of her back tire into the Pacific Ocean just south of Los Angeles in Manhattan Beach, and then seven weeks later, she plans to reach Revere Beach in Boston, where she will dip her front tire into the Atlantic Ocean on June 21.
Tanny has completed 2,800 miles of Pelotonia Ride Weekend routes since the first one in 2009, not to mention the many miles in training with her peloton team, Girls with Gears. As a High Roller for the past 15 years, Tanny starts off this journey as the 15th highest all-time fundraiser for Pelotonia, raising more than $434,000 from 2009 through 2023. Tanny’s impact will continue to skyrocket as she aims to raise even more for innovative cancer research at the OSUCCC-James this year. Note: as of today, the day before her cross-country ride begins, Tanny has already raised more than $59,000 (and counting)!
We sat down with Tanny just a few days before her big ride. Here are highlights from an inspiring, authentic conversation as she reflected on her Pelotonia experiences, the motivation behind this “bucket list” ride, and her mixed emotions as she takes on this exciting challenge.
When asked how she was feeling, as the countdown is now just days away, Tanny said, “I feel ready. I am fully packed. I’m so excited and horribly nervous.”
Tanny is CEO of Columbus-based investment company, The Crane Group, and her out of office replies are set as she steps completely away from her inbox for seven weeks. She has been planning for this ride for two years, but had dreamed of it for even longer. “This has been on my bucket list for 13 years,” Tanny said. “A dear friend of mine completed a similar coast-to-coast trip, and I promised him I’d do it someday. Four years later, he died. It’s hard to find the time to embark on such a journey, but in recent years, it’s been weighing on me and I knew I just had to do it.” Tanny even convinced three friends to join her, who will be among the 28 riders on this epic experience.
In January, Tanny started a 10-week intense endurance training schedule that included up to 6-7 days of cycling per week to physically prepare for the ride, which has been much different than her Pelotonia training. “I am more of a fair-weather trainer for Pelotonia; I am typically just getting my bike out this time of year, and then my training gets more intense through the summer,” Tanny admits. She is registered to ride the 190-mile route on August 3-4, but Tanny had to start training earlier, more frequently and more intensely this year as she prepares to ride an average of 80 to 100 miles daily for 49 days.
She has also focused on her nutrition. “At Pelotonia, the peanut butter sandwiches are great; they make it easy for the two-day Ride Weekend endurance. This longer ride is more focused on the electrolytes and a consistent regimen for nutrition,” she added.
For Tanny, this experience is about more than logging miles; it’s a personal quest for self-discovery and connection. “I’m hoping to gain the attitude of being present,” she says. “What I want to get out of this journey is a spiritual sense of really getting to know myself. This is something I’ve wanted to do for so long that it feels important to enjoy the moment.”
Tanny has also been mentally preparing for her 3,400-mile ride, researching each day’s route. She appreciates knowing what to expect, which will include everything from long stretches of flat to hills with up to 5,000 feet of elevation climb — and from roads to highways. She will get just five days of rest along the ride, and she is excited that some family and friends have plans to come visit her in those locations. Plus, Tanny plans to get a massage on each rest day.
Throughout her ride, Tanny looks forward to meeting new people and sharing more about Pelotonia. “Even though I ride with a peloton team, you often ride up next to somebody else you don’t know,” she explains. “You have the most amazing conversations as you listen to someone else’s story — especially with Survivors. I am always in awe of their stories. I’m really eager to share the story of Pelotonia with others during this journey.”
Similar to the incredible community of spectators and supporters along the routes for Ride Weekend, Tanny said that she has heard some of the towns along this ride will have people cheering and holding signs, as well as police officers lined up to support and thank the riders. “That reminds me a lot of Pelotonia,” she said.
Tanny rides in Pelotonia every year in honor of her father, who died after a battle with lung cancer more than 30 years ago. She also adds new names to her list of people she rides for each year as more loved ones have cancer; this year is no different.
“My Pelotonia mantra has always been about the Survivors. They have been through so much more pain than what I feel climbing up the hill on Reynolds Road, my nemesis. What they’ve been through mentally and physically far surpasses anything that I am doing,” she said. “That’s why Pelotonia is so important to me; we need to keep up this fight. I have a friend going through breast cancer treatment right now. It is unbelievable what she’s going through, yet she has such a positive attitude. It really drives me.”
But the advancements in cancer research made possible through funding from the Pelotonia community excite Tanny, especially when it comes to immuno-oncology and immunotherapy. “I was at the Pelotonia Research Center a couple weeks ago listening to the researchers. The continued progress we’re making is remarkable,” she said. “I love this shift to Ending Cancer. I truly feel that we’ll make huge progress in my lifetime. But if we’re not relentless, it won’t happen.”
As Tanny embarks on her coast-to-coast journey, she carries with her the hope of Survivors, researchers, and all who are affected by cancer. With every fabulous mile (“EFM” as Tanny calls it) that she pedals and every single dollar she raises, the Pelotonia community will rally behind her as we collectively work toward our shared goal of Ending Cancer.
What’s next for Tanny after she completes this odyssey ride? She told us she has already climbed Mount Kilimanjaro, Mount Shasta, and the Grand Teton – which is undeniably impressive. But it sounds like Pelotonia Gravel Day could be next on her list. “I’m thinking about trading in my mountain bike for a gravel bike,” she said. “And pickleball; I can’t wait to play pickleball again.”
You can follow Tanny’s cycling journey at her personal blog, TCsBigBikeRide.com.
Go Tanny! The entire Pelotonia community is cheering you on.
Coast-to-Coast for Cancer Research
Thousands of Miles and More than $273,000 raised
Read the post-ride story about Tanny Crane’s cross-country cycling journey in this updated post. She far exceeded her fundraising goal, raising more $273,000+ for cancer research.
Community Stories
What is a High Roller?
| March 15, 2024
High Rollers are Pelotonia’s top individual fundraisers. This community sets big goals, challenging themselves and their supporters to make a significant impact through a higher fundraising level. Each High Roller commits to a fundraising minimum of $5,000, with 100% of every dollar raised going directly to innovative cancer research at the OSUCCC-James.
In 2023, the 625 High Rollers that participated in Pelotonia raised $6 million of the $25+ million total community-raised funds for groundbreaking research – curating an incredible impact that is bringing brighter outcomes to individuals impacted by cancer every single day.
High Rollers receive perks for going above and beyond in their individual fundraising. This includes a special High Roller jersey, and, new this year, an exclusive event invitation during launch week of the following year!
All High Rollers from the previous year will be invited to the High Roller Evening of Appreciation to kick off Pelotonia Launch Week. At this year’s inaugural event, attendees enjoyed food from top local restaurants, received first access to new Pelotonia merchandise, heard exciting Pelotonia news and research updates firsthand, and celebrated their annual fundraising impact on research at the OSUCCC-James as a collective group.
Are you interested in furthering your Pelotonia impact by becoming a High Roller in 2024? You can register as a High Roller during the registration process at pelotonia.org/register. Current registered participants can commit to being a High Roller within their personal profile at any point during the fundraising period for 2024.
We’re grateful for the efforts of High Rollers on Pelotonia’s mission to date, and for the incredible contributions this community of top fundraisers will continue to make on funding cancer research initiatives that are extending and saving lives around the world.
In the News
Pelotonia to Open 2024 Registration on February 29
| February 28, 2024
Ride Weekend and Gravel Day Events Offer Cycling, Volunteer and Community Experiences to Raise Funds for Ending Cancer
COLUMBUS, OH (February 28, 2024) – Pelotonia will launch registration for the 2024 Ride Weekend and Gravel Day on Thursday, February 29 at 12 p.m. EST. The 2024 Pelotonia events will include Opening Ceremony on August 2, Ride Weekend on August 3 and 4, and, following an incredible inaugural year, the return of Gravel Day on September 28. Riders, Volunteers and Challengers can register at pelotonia.org/register.
Now in its 16th year, Pelotonia has raised more than $283 million, directing 100 percent of every dollar raised by participants, with the support of generous funding partners, to accelerate innovative cancer research at The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center – Arthur G. James Cancer Hospital and Richard J. Solove Research Institute (OSUCCC – James).
“Registering for Pelotonia is not just a commitment to raise funds for groundbreaking research at Ohio State. It’s the chance to join an inspired community committed to ending cancer – a disease that affects us all,” said Joe Apgar, Pelotonia CEO.“Every single Rider, Volunteer and Challenger who registers for Pelotonia 2024 is important to continue the momentum of this movement. The efforts of Pelotonia participants are fueling real, tangible progress for cancer patients and families throughout the country and around the world.”
Pelotonia introduces a new campaign annually as registration opens. The Pelotonia arrow is a brand mark that has evolved into a unifying symbol for the Pelotonia community and is painted on barns, tattooed on participants and displayed on vehicles. The 2024 arrow design uses a gradient of green to create a glow and convey forward progress, hope and optimism. This year, Pelotonia also revealed a new tagline, “Ending Cancer,” in this video. The phrase represents the evolution of the organization’s founding mission to end cancer; it also celebrates significant progress toward that goal. “Ending Cancer” means the funds raised by Pelotonia participants are resulting in significant scientific advancements and breakthrough discoveries in cancer research that is happening now.
Ride Weekend
The 2024 Ride Weekend will epitomize the iconic Pelotonia ride experience with route distances ranging from 20 to 190 miles and fundraising commitments starting at $1,250. Ride routes and start/finish lines will continue to offer incredible new experiences alongside community favorites. One-day ride options range from 20 to 100-mile routes. Those interested in the two-day rides of 155 or 190 miles will have the option of an overnight stay at Kenyon College. Route overviews and estimates are listed below; final route distances and specific locations will be communicated in the coming months.
Saturday, August 3:
-
20-Mile Route: Downtown Columbus to New Albany
-
50-Mile Route: Downtown Columbus to New Albany
-
65-Mile Route: New Albany to Gambier
-
100-Mile Route: Downtown Columbus to Gambier
Sunday, August 4:
-
35-Mile Route: New Albany Loop
Two-Day Routes:
-
155-Mile Route: Saturday 65-Mile Route and Sunday 90-Mile Gambier to New Albany Route with overnight stay at Kenyon College
-
190-Mile Route: Saturday 100-Mile Route and Sunday 90-Mile Gambier to New Albany Route with overnight stay at Kenyon College
-
Any Saturday Route and 35-Mile Loop
Second Annual Gravel Day
With the highly successful debut of Gravel Day last year, the 2024 event will again offer three route options sharing the same start and finish location. The 22, 30 and 52-mile routes ride through the stunning landscape of Southeast Ohio, each with a minimum fundraising commitment of $1,500. The gravel riding experience, a different challenge than traditional road riding, offers new and seasoned Pelotonia Riders a more adventurous opportunity to get involved and is the perfect complement to Ride Weekend. Saturday, September 28:
-
22-Mile Route: Nelsonville Loop; More than 1,400 feet total elevation gain
-
30-Mile Route: Nelsonville Loop; More than 2,600 feet total elevation gain
-
52-Mile Route: Nelsonville Loop; More than 4,700 feet total elevation gain
Volunteers
More than 3,000 Volunteers support Ride Weekend and Gravel Day. Roles include bike management, first aid, food and beverage, merchandise sales and more. To learn more about Volunteer opportunities, a full list of role descriptions and opportunities is available on Pelotonia’s website.
Launch Party, March 1
To celebrate registration opening, Pelotonia will host a 2024 launch party that will be open to the public on Friday, March 1 from 5 – 8 p.m. at The Kee, 225 Neilston Street in Columbus. Those interested in learning more about how to get involved can join the Pelotonia community at this free event. In addition to Ride Weekend and Gravel Day registration information, attendees will enjoy food and games while connecting with others passionate about ending cancer. New Pelotonia merchandise including apparel for adults and youth will also be available to purchase onsite. Attendees may also pick up 2024 Pelotonia arrow car magnets and yard signs at the event.
Riders, Volunteers and Challengers interested in participating in Pelotonia 2024 can sign up once registration opens at pelotonia.org/register.
To learn more about the impact of Pelotonia dollars, including the work of The Pelotonia Institute for Immuno-Oncology, visit pelotonia.org/impact and pelotonia.org/institute.
###
About Pelotonia
In 2023, Pelotonia celebrated 15 years of One Goal, accelerating funding for innovative cancer research, with its signature series of iconic and impactful events with cycling, entertainment, and volunteerism experiences. This year’s events included the Opening Ceremony and Ride Weekend in August and a new Gravel Day event in September. To date, the Pelotonia community has raised more than $283 million. With support from generous funding partners – American Electric Power Foundation, Bath & Body Works, Huntington National Bank, Peggy & Richard Santulli, Victoria’s Secret, M/I Homes, Safelite, Cardinal Health, Diamond Hill, Nationwide Insurance and Pharmavite – Pelotonia directs 100 percent of every dollar raised by participants to 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.
This year’s signature events will include Opening Ceremony on August 2, Ride Weekend on August 3-4 and Gravel Day on September 28, 2024.
To learn more about Pelotonia, visit pelotonia.org.
In the News
Ending Cancer: Pelotonia 2024 Campaign Launch
| February 14, 2024
Each year kicks off with a new arrow, theme and creative campaign to support your fundraising efforts and rally together as a community of tens of thousands of Riders, Challengers, and Volunteers committed to accelerating innovative cancer research at the OSUCCC-James.
This year’s campaign introduces an evolved tagline: Ending Cancer.
Since the first Ride in 2009, you’ve been focused on a singular goal. The challenge the Pelotonia community has been working toward is to end cancer. This remains the mission, and the remarkable thing about Pelotonia is that it’s working. The research funded by the Pelotonia community is powering significant scientific advancements and breakthrough discoveries in cancer research that are extending and saving lives.
Ending Cancer is more than a goal. It’s the real, tangible progress that the Pelotonia community is fueling. This phrase is simple yet it means so much. It means that we’re actively doing it. It’s no longer a faraway goal with an unclear path on how to get there. That’s because of the unwavering commitment, tireless efforts, and uniquely compounding impact of the Pelotonia community. It’s because of YOU.
The 2024 Pelotonia arrow features a gradient glow.
The arrow has become a unifying symbol. It represents motion, action, and progress. It reminds the world: Together, we move forward toward our mission of Ending Cancer. Embraced by the Pelotonia community, the arrow is painted on barns along ride routes and tattooed on the arms and legs of Participants.
This year’s arrow features a gradient of green that flows lighter to darker from left to right, representing that the work and progress is ongoing. The artistic glow aims to convey hope, optimism, and positivity. It captures the spirit of Pelotonia with a simple, intentional design element.
Core to the Pelotonia brand, the 2024 campaign uses shades of green.
From the signature, vibrant Pelotonia green to the additions of dark green and mint green to the brand palette, the campaign creative incorporates various shades of the color green.
Through the years, Pelotonia campaigns have included new colors tied to the annual theme. As this year’s campaign theme is a simple yet significant evolution of the idea that Pelotonia was founded on, the colors intentionally center green, which has been central to the Pelotonia brand identity from the start.
Watch and share the 2024 Campaign Launch Video here.
2024 is going to be one of the best years yet for this movement because of you, the Pelotonia community. This campaign reinforces commitment to the Pelotonia mission of Ending Cancer while celebrating progress that is saving lives. But there is still work to do.
Join us in Ending Cancer by participating in Pelotonia 2024. Registration opens February 29!
Joe Apgar
Cancer Survivor
Pelotonia CEO
Pelotonia 2024 Key Dates
-
Registration Opens: February 29 at noon EST
-
Opening Ceremony: August 2
-
Ride Weekend: August 3-4
-
Gravel Day: September 21
You can access the 2024 community asset kit for resources to share the new campaign elements in your fundraising communications and on social media here.
2024 car magnets and yard signs are now available for pickup at Pelotonia HQ!
In the News
Letter from Doug: An Exciting Update for Pelotonia’s Future
| January 31, 2024
One of the things I love most about the Pelotonia community is our collective desire to reach audacious goals.
Whether we are setting fundraising targets or inspiring the newest Rider on our Peloton to sign up for a challenging route, no dream is too big. We have ambitious goals and we achieve them together. This bold spirit is echoed by our partners at The OSUCCC – James, who invest in the most innovative cancer research every day.
Pelotonia’s goal of ending cancer has guided our trajectory for 15 years, and we are excited to announce a new leadership structure that will deepen our impact and facilitate our next phase of significant growth.
Effective today, I will take on a new and expanded leadership role at Pelotonia, serving as Vice Chair of the Board and Senior Advisor to current President Joe Apgar, who will become Pelotonia’s next CEO. In my new role, I will remain an actively engaged leader while focusing on new partnerships and strategic initiatives designed to significantly increase our fundraising and impact. As CEO, Joe will drive forward a vision to grow our impact and oversee all day-to-day aspects of our operations. I have been honored to work alongside Joe for many years and can personally attest to his passion for our mission and his phenomenal leadership accomplishments.
During my nine years as CEO of Pelotonia, I have never been as excited as I am now about our potential to change the landscape of cancer research – and in doing so, to positively impact the lives of individuals affected by cancer. I believe the future is brighter than ever, and that is because of you. You powered Pelotonia to raise more than $283 million for cancer research since 2009. You helped launch the Pelotonia Institute for Immuno-Oncology, and you made the opening of the Pelotonia Research Center possible. Because of you, we are closer than ever to our goal of ending cancer. Both Joe and I are honored to serve alongside you in this new capacity.
On behalf of the Pelotonia Board of Directors, thank you for your commitment to our mission. Countless patients and families are inspired by and depend on the Pelotonia community. We look forward to our most impactful year yet!
One Goal,
Doug Ulman
Cancer Survivor
Vice Chair, Pelotonia Board of Directors
You can read the full press release announcement here.
