In celebration of National Volunteer Week (April 19–25), we’re proud to recognize some of the incredible individuals who help make Pelotonia possible. Thousands of dedicated Volunteers give their time, energy, and passion to support the mission of Ending Cancer. From early mornings to long days on Ride Weekend and Gravel Day, they play a critical role in creating the unforgettable experience that defines Pelotonia. Below we highlight one of their stories.

Jennifer Hart is a six-year Volunteer with Pelotonia, a journey that began with a simple invitation from a friend in 2021. After returning the following year, she felt called to deepen her involvement and, in 2023, stepped into the role of Lead Volunteer for Sustainability at Kenyon College during Ride Weekend. For Jennifer, the opportunity to spend the weekend fully immersed on campus and contribute in a meaningful way has become something she looks forward to each year. 

What keeps her coming back is the powerful sense of community and connection to the mission. While she plays an important role behind the scenes, Jennifer is continually inspired by the Riders she supports. One memory, in particular, stands out. 

Her first year volunteering coincided with the first Ride Weekend following COVID. Stationed at luggage near the finish line, she remembers standing under the trees as Riders were announced one by one. 

That’s “what hooked me,” she shared. “It is truly inspiring to hear how people come from all over the country to participate in this event.” 

Now, as Lead Volunteer for Sustainability, Jennifer sees her role as twofold: supporting Pelotonia’s fundraising efforts while also helping reduce the environmental impact of Ride Weekend. It’s a responsibility she embraces, knowing that even small actions contribute to a larger purpose. 

She describes the Pelotonia community as one rooted in gratitude and shared impact. Despite the physical and financial commitment Riders make, she’s continually struck by how often they turn around and thank Volunteers. 

“My part is easy,” she said. “They’re the ones raising money and riding the distance. It amazes me that the 100-mile Riders are thanking me for being there to volunteer. It really shows that we all can make an impact no matter how ‘small’ we think our contribution might be.” 

For anyone considering volunteering, Jennifer offers simple but meaningful encouragement: just show up. 

“Cancer impacts all of us,” she said. And what’s special about Pelotonia is that “we all watch out for each other,” highlighting that Volunteers are part of something bigger the moment you arrive. 

Thank you to Jennifer and all of our dedicated Volunteers, whose commitment helps move us closer to Ending Cancer. This National Volunteer Week, and always, we celebrate your impact!

In celebration of National Volunteer Week (April 19–25), we’re proud to recognize some of the incredible individuals who help make Pelotonia possible. Thousands of dedicated Volunteers give their time, energy, and passion to support the mission of Ending Cancer. From early mornings to long days on Ride Weekend and Gravel Day, they play a critical role in creating the unforgettable experience that defines Pelotonia. Below we highlight one of their stories.

Nicole McGarity and Trevor McGarity are entering their fifth year as Pelotonia Volunteers, with a connection to the event that dates back to the very beginning. After volunteering at the first Pelotonia in 2009, they returned in recent years, inspired by the impact cancer research has had and the opportunity to be part of a community united by a shared goal. 

“We love volunteering together. Participation in the Pelotonia community is truly inspiring,” they shared. “Each individual — whether a Rider, Volunteer, Challenger, or supporter — is united in the collective mission to end cancer.” 

Their favorite moments come from being out on the course supporting Riders. 

“We love Ride and Gravel Weekend — they’re both such a blast, especially being out on the course to support the Riders in the most challenging of moments,” they said. 

One impactful memory from 2025 captures the spirit of Pelotonia. While stationed at a split on Gravel Day, they watched two Riders pause, share encouragement, and hug before heading in different directions. 

“It was really cool to see how they rode together but then each proceeded on their own to finish the ride.” 

As part of the First Aid Route Support (SAG) team, they take pride in contributing to the larger mission. 

“We truly appreciate being members of the SAG team and take pride in contributing, even in a small way, to the fight against cancer.” 

For Nicole and Trevor, volunteering is both meaningful and personal. 

“Honestly, we think of volunteering as a ‘date day’ for us.It’s a wonderful way to connect while supporting such a meaningful cause.” 

Their advice to new Volunteers is simple: “Choose any role — you won’t regret it. The Pelotonia team handles everything and makes volunteering or participating easy and fun.” 

Thank you to Nicole, Trevor, and all of our dedicated Volunteers, whose commitment helps move us closer to Ending Cancer. This National Volunteer Week, and always, we celebrate your impact!

In celebration of National Volunteer Week (April 19–25), we’re proud to recognize some of the incredible individuals who help make Pelotonia possible. Thousands of dedicated Volunteers give their time, energy, and passion to support the mission of Ending Cancer. From early mornings to long days on Ride Weekend and Gravel Day, they play a critical role in creating the unforgettable experience that defines Pelotonia. Below we highlight one of their stories.

Fulya Dos, alongside OneLove Cafe and Bike Shop, is in her third year as a Pelotonia Volunteer, bringing a unique perspective as both a Rider and a bike shop owner. Knowing how important it is for Riders to feel supported while riding, she was excited to provide mechanical support and peace of mind at rest stops. 

“As a Pelotonia Rider, I know how important it is to have peace of mind on Ride Day and to have a reliable bike mechanic at a rest stop,” she shared. 

Her passion for volunteering also extends beyond Ride Weekend. As a children’s mental health therapist, Fulya is deeply committed to helping young people find healthy outlets, making her involvement with Pelotonia Kids especially meaningful. 

What she values most is the people. 

“Surrounding myself with selfless, caring people who aren’t there for themselves, but for something much bigger is my favorite part.” 

Some of her most impactful moments come from watching that support in action, especially among younger Riders with Pelotonia Kids. 

“Seeing kids ride together, following pace line rules, calling out road hazards, and supporting one another during ride day is incredibly rewarding,” she said. 

She also recalls a moment at a lunch stop when her team helped a Rider experiencing a mechanical issue get back on the course, an experience that reinforced the importance of showing up for one another. 

Fulya continues to volunteer because she sees the difference it makes. 

“I continue to volunteer year after year because I can see the impact, I can see the growth in participation, and I can see how this mission is truly helping people.” 

She describes the Pelotonia community simply as “supportive, brave, and positive people with incredible energy.” 

Her advice to anyone considering volunteering is clear: “You will never regret it — and you’ll be counting down the days until next year.” 

Thank you to Fulya and all of our dedicated Volunteers, whose commitment helps move us closer to Ending Cancer. This National Volunteer Week, and always, we celebrate your impact!

In celebration of National Volunteer Week (April 19–25), we’re proud to recognize some of the incredible individuals who help make Pelotonia possible. Thousands of dedicated Volunteers give their time, energy, and passion to support the mission of Ending Cancer. From early mornings to long days on Ride Weekend and Gravel Day, they play a critical role in creating the unforgettable experience that defines Pelotonia. Below we highlight one of their stories.

Drew Grozenski is a 5-year Pelotonia Volunteer, first getting involved after joining Ohio State in 2022 as a way to connect with the Columbus community. Working in the Ohio State Sports Medicine Department, his role has grown from medical site lead to one of the medical directors for Gravel Day. 

For Drew, what stands out most is the atmosphere. 

“It always amazes me how positive and happy everyone is,” he shared. “I love how grateful the Volunteers, Riders, and those being represented throughout the event are.” 

One of his most memorable moments happens at the start of the Gravel Day ride each year. What begins as a quiet, peaceful morning quickly transforms into something powerful. 

“You get to the start line and see hundreds of people with their bikes, and the energy completely shifts,” he said. “It’s a really special moment.” 

That energy is what keeps him coming back. 

“I keep coming back for the atmosphere on event day: the positivity, the energy, and the camaraderie of working toward something bigger than ourselves.” 

He describes the Pelotonia community as incredibly generous, driven not only by fundraising but by the personal stories behind each Rider. 

“Many Riders are representing loved ones,” he shared. “People train and show up as a way to give their best for the people they care about.” 

For those considering volunteering, Drew keeps it simple: “Just sign up and show up. There are a variety of roles, and every one of them makes a meaningful impact.” 

Thank you to Drew and all of our dedicated Volunteers, whose commitment helps move us closer to Ending Cancer. This National Volunteer Week, and always, we celebrate your impact!

Join us at the Pelotonia office during Launch Week to celebrate the start of 2026!

• Wednesday, March 4, from 4-6pm
• Thursday, March 5, from 8:30-10am

• Pick up 2026 yard signs, car magnets, and stickers (free community giveaways!)
• Shop for brand new Pelotonia merch in collaboration with Homage
• Connect with fellow Pelotonia participants and community members
• Meet Pelotonia-funded researchers from the OSUCCC – James
• Enjoy light snacks and drinks with Pelotonia staff

We hope to see you during Launch Week 2026 at the Pelotonia HQ!

At The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center – Arthur G. James Cancer Hospital and Richard J. Solove Research Institute (OSUCCC – James), Eric A. Singer, MD, MA, MS, is leading efforts to transform care for patients facing kidney cancer. As director of the Division of Urologic Oncology at the OSUCCC – James, Dr. Singer and his team are working to develop treatments that are both more effective and easier for patients to tolerate. 

One of the division’s most promising studies is exploring “histotripsy,” a noninvasive technique that uses sound waves to destroy tumor tissue without surgery. The multicenter trial has already seen several successful procedures completed at the OSUCCC – James and could offer a less invasive alternative for some patients with kidney cancer. 

Another ongoing study, known as the Cyto-KIK trial, is testing a combination of targeted therapy and immunotherapy in people with metastatic kidney cancer. In this approach, patients receive medication before undergoing surgery to remove the primary tumor and resume systemic treatment afterward. Researchers believe that exposing patients to medicines before the tumor is removed may help the immune system better recognize and attack the disease after surgery. 

Dr. Singer’s group is also leading a new trial combining medications for patients at high risk of kidney cancer recurrence after surgery, an approach that builds on earlier single-drug studies and could establish a new standard of care.  

In addition, the OSUCCC – James played a key role in a National Cancer Institute-led study that showed strong responses in patients with aggressive papillary kidney cancers using a similar two-drug combination. Dr. Singer was a senior co-author of the study, which was published in the New England Journal of Medicine. 

Beyond research, Dr. Singer is expanding the Division of Urologic Oncology, recruiting additional specialists and leading a fellowship program to train the next generation of experts. Most recently, he was named chair of the Board of Directors of the Kidney Cancer Association, which has been supporting patients and providers in the kidney cancer community since 1990. 

Dr. Singer received Pelotonia funds for his research startup at the OSUCCC – James and is now a three-year Rider. He rides for his patients and for progress, embodying the connection between Pelotonia-funded research and discoveries that change lives. 

Read the full story on Health & Discovery here. 

For many people with cancer, traveling to receive the specialized care they need can be difficult. After the COVID-19 pandemic made telehealth more common, researchers at the OSUCCC – James are reimagining what’s possible for cancer patients everywhere. 

Each year, nearly 64,000 people in the United States are diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. Most are diagnosed only after their disease has advanced, which makes them ineligible for surgical options that could cure it in earlier stages. In recent years, oncologists have discovered that some pancreatic cancer patients can benefit from targeted smart drugs, which are precision therapies designed to attack only the specific genetic mutations that fuel a cancer cell’s growth. 

Building on these advances in precision oncology is Sameek Roychowdhury, MD, PhD, a medical oncologist and researcher at the OSUCCC – James. Dr. Roychowdhury’s new clinical trial takes the next leap forward: combining the power of genomic-driven treatment with the accessibility of telehealth. By connecting patients remotely with cancer experts and cutting-edge clinical research, his team is breaking down the geographic and logistical barriers that often prevent people from receiving advanced cancer care. 

Dr. Roychowdhury believes that telehealth represents an operational innovation — a cost-effective, far-reaching model of care that can extend beyond the walls of major cancer centers. He hopes this clinical trial will serve as a prototype for others, paving the way for more equitable access to research participation and the study of rare cancers. 

A 15-year Pelotonia participant, High Roller and Peloton Captain of Team Buckeye – Sameek’s Geeks, Dr. Roychowdhury has raised more than $69,000 for Pelotonia. In 2025, he participated in the 100-mile route at Ride Weekend and the 25-mile route and Trail Run/Hike at Gravel Day. He is also a multiple-time recipient of Pelotonia-funded Idea Grants, and his long-standing dedication to cancer research earned him recognition as the 2025 Pelotonia-Funded Researcher of the Year awardee at the Night of Impact celebration. 

Listen to the full episode of The James Cancer-Free World Podcast on YouTube here.

This article appeared in the Fall 2025 issue of the Pelotonia Insider, which can be found here.

Every summer, the Pelotonia community unites around One Goal. Among those who make this mission possible, Ariel Corporation stands out, not only as a Funding Partner, but as a company that truly embodies what it means to show up with purpose. 

In 2025, Ariel rallied more than 100 Volunteers at the Kenyon College finish line. To say the Pelotonia experience in Knox County would not have been the same without Ariel’s Volunteer presence would be an understatement. This location has traditionally been one of the hardest to staff due to its distance from Columbus, yet Ariel’s local community turned that challenge into a triumph.  

Starting before sunrise and staying through teardown, the Ariel Volunteers enthusiastically greeted Riders as they crossed the finish line with cheers, water, and heartfelt encouragement. They also helped staff first aid and hydration stations, direct cyclists at intersections, and manage vehicle and pedestrian traffic. 

Founded in Mount Vernon, Ohio, Ariel Corporation is a family-owned company specializing in gas compressors, led by CEO Alex Wright. The Wright family’s connection to Pelotonia is deeply personal. After the loss of Alex’s brother, Hunter Wright, to colon cancer in 2021, Ariel became a Pelotonia Funding Partner in 2024. The company also committed a generous two-year donation (2024–2025) to colorectal cancer research led by Richard Fishel, PhD, at the OSUCCC – James. In 2025, the family endured another profound loss with the passing of Karen Wright, Ariel’s former CEO and Chairman, to cancer. 

“Ariel shows up for Pelotonia because supporting this mission is personal for our people and deeply connected to who we are as a company,” Alex Wright said. “When our community needs us, we believe in being there, fully, humbly, and together.” 

With their first official Peloton launched in 2025, Ariel’s Volunteers and Riders embodied Pelotonia’s spirit. Their generosity, enthusiasm, and deep-rooted community pride demonstrate that Pelotonia’s success isn’t measured by miles ridden or dollars raised, but in the people who believe in a world without cancer and take action to make it a reality. 

This article appeared in the Fall 2025 issue of the Pelotonia Insider, which can be found here.

MELE DEFY Charity Golf Tournament continues to raise money for cancer research in her memory 

Wendy Chioji lived her life with boldness, joy, and purpose, leaving a legacy that has continued to inspire others after her passing in 2019. A dedicated Rider from 2015 to 2019, Wendy championed Pelotonia’s mission with the same passion she brought to every part of her life. Whether on a bike, in a newsroom, or atop a mountain, she inspired everyone she met to defy the limits before them. 

An Emmy Award–winning journalist, endurance athlete, and advocate for others, Wendy spent more than 25 years anchoring WESH 2 News in Orlando, becoming one of the region’s most trusted and beloved voices.  

Wendy’s connection to cancer began in 2001, when she was diagnosed with Stage II breast cancer. Throughout chemotherapy and recovery, she remained remarkably active, continuing to run, bike, and race triathlons. Her transparency about her cancer journey and determination inspired viewers across Florida and beyond.  

After completing treatment and being cancer-free, she left the news business a few years later to pursue her passions for travel, fitness, and adventure, eventually moving to Park City, Utah. However, in 2014, she received a second diagnosis: thymic carcinoma, a rare and aggressive cancer. True to form, she faced it with optimism and grit, undergoing surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, and later participating in clinical trials, including immunotherapy treatments at the National Institutes of Health. During this time, Wendy sought counsel and advice from Sameek Roychowdhury, MD, PhD, at the OSUCCC – James, as she explored potential therapy options, a connection that would later come full circle through her family’s continued support of his research. 

Still, Wendy refused to let cancer define her. She climbed Mt. Kilimanjaro (shown in photo on the right) and Mt. Fuji, completed IRONMAN triathlons, and traveled to all 50 states and seven continents. Pelotonia Vice Chair Doug Ulman climbed Mt. Kilimanjaro with Wendy while she was in treatment, calling the experience incredibly special and a testament to her remarkable strength and determination. And every summer from 2015 to 2019, she returned to Ohio to ride in Pelotonia, raising funds for the cancer research that gave her and others more time. Her family proudly followed in her footsteps; her niece and sister-in-law have also ridden in Pelotonia, and other family members have come to Ride Weekend as enthusiastic supporters.  

When Wendy passed away in 2019, her impact deepened. She left a generous estate gift to Pelotonia, the organization’s first, ensuring that her passion for discovery and hope would continue fueling the fight against cancer. 

Wendy’s gift led to the creation of the Pelotonia Legacy Society, inspiring others to consider meaningful, lasting contributions through estate and planned giving. Her generosity continues to impact the Pelotonia community long after her lifetime. 

The MELE DEFY Charity Golf Tournament 

Wendy’s family continues her legacy through the MELE DEFY Charity Golf Tournament. Hosted by MELE Associates, Inc. under the leadership of her father, CEO Mel Chiogioji, and her brother, President Al Chiogioji, the event embodies her mantra: DEFY. MELE covers all event costs, ensuring that 100% of proceeds directly benefit Pelotonia. 

The inaugural 2024 tournament raised more than $70,000. This year’s total reached $105,000, supporting groundbreaking cancer research by Dr. Roychowdhury. Combined with Wendy’s legacy gift, these funds have advanced a first-ever nationwide, decentralized clinical trial, which allows patients across the country to participate from their own hometowns, removing barriers to access. 

“I am so grateful to be part of Wendy Chioji’s journey. Her spirit is driving our cancer research,” shared Dr. Roychowdhury, who attended this year’s tournament to speak about how the funds are advancing his work. ”Wendy’s mantras of ‘DEFY’ and to ‘Live Fearlessly’ inspire our research team each day to be ambitious and legendary in our goals. This would not be possible without the funding support from her family and partners for this special golf outing. I am moved to know that Wendy’s impact will have nationwide impact in every zip code through a novel decentralized clinical trial approach.” 

The tournament is as celebratory as it is impactful. Participants gather to raise funds and remember Wendy’s infectious energy and zest for life. 

“We put together the DEFY golf tournament to honor my sister and her incredible life,” said Alan Chiogioji. “Throughout her fight with cancer, raising funds and awareness of cancer research was always a priority for her. We thought it appropriate to continue to raise funds for Pelotonia, an organization she loved, and to share her story. I know she is smiling down at us and encouraging us to ‘Live Fearlessly’.” 

Wendy Chioji’s story continues inspiring those who knew her and many who didn’t. Through her extraordinary generosity and the ongoing efforts of her family and the Pelotonia community, her mantra lives on: DEFY fear. DEFY limits. DEFY cancer. 

For more information on the planned giving, please visit our Pelotonia Legacy Society page.

This article appeared in the Fall 2025 issue of the Pelotonia Insider, which can be found here.

Beyond riding or volunteering, Pelotonia supporters can fundraise in a uniquely personal way by becoming Challengers. This program lets participants design up to five custom goals with a minimum fundraising commitment of $100. Challengers participate from anywhere in the world, and 100% of donations raised go directly to innovative cancer research at the OSUCCC – James. We’re excited to share two inspiring stories of Challengers below. 

Project Grit

Inspired by the Backyard Ultra movement, Ryan Willis meticulously planned a running relay race from Cincinnati to Cleveland. He then recruited five friends to join him on this journey, each committing to tackle approximately 52 to 56 miles. 

All six teammates — Ryan, Joe Sanda, Grant Burks, Liam Bott, Cameron Balla, and Joel Craig — grew up in Columbus, Ohio, and shared personal connections to cancer. To give their effort greater meaning, they decided to fundraise for Pelotonia. They named the effort Project Grit, reflecting the determination, teamwork, and perseverance needed not only for their run but also for the fight against cancer. 

On May 2, 2025, the group set out across Ohio. Each runner covered roughly three miles at a time while the others rested, refueled, or stretched in an RV driven by friends and family. The RV then met the runner at the next exchange point, where teammates switched shifts and the relay continued north. Despite battling rain, the dark, and exhaustion, they stayed motivated and finished the 320-mile trek — jumping into Lake Erie just over 49 hours after leaving the Ohio River. Family and friends gathered at the finish to celebrate their remarkable achievement. 

The team raised more than $16,000 for Pelotonia. Ryan is considering another run next year, hoping to expand the group and inspire even more support for cancer research. 

Hi-Impact Program

Eight years ago, Rockbridge, a hospitality-centered investment firm, set out to engage its hotels in Pelotonia fundraising, and what began as a small idea has grown into a nationwide movement. The effort launched in 2018 as Make an Impact, with 14 hotels raising $19,000. Rebranded in 2021 as the HI-Impact Challenge (“HI” as an acronym for hospitality industry), it now unites more than 50 hotel and restaurant teams across the country to raise money for cancer research and has officially surpassed $1 million in total contributions. 

Each year, participating properties find creative ways to give back, from jeans-for-donations Fridays and yoga-and-mimosa classes to drag brunches and signature cocktails like the “Pelotonia Margarita.” Some hotel partners even collaborate with distributors to donate proceeds from beer or wine sales, demonstrating that small efforts multiplied across many teams can make a massive difference. 

The program also celebrates the people behind the effort through the HI-Impact Heisman award, which honors unsung heroes in hospitality. The award finalists receive an all-expenses-paid trip to RTRX, an immersive leadership gathering that unites business leaders from across the country to spark ideas, connection, and action in support of cancer research through Pelotonia. This year’s winner, Debra from Alabama, was honored for her remarkable spirit of gratitude and generosity. 

With more than $350,000 raised in 2025, HI-Impact proves the hospitality industry’s power to create lasting change, one act of generosity at a time. 

This article appeared in the Fall 2025 issue of the Pelotonia Insider, which can be found here.