The Pelotonia community looks forward to welcoming Dr. Kim Rathmell as she experiences her first Ride Weekend as CEO of the OSUCCC – James! 

“Anything is possible.” That mantra drives Matthew Marquardt, a third-year medical student at The Ohio State University College of Medicine, dedicated cancer researcher and Pelotonia Scholar, four-time Pelotonia Rider, and professional Ironman triathlete. 

Matthew serves as peloton team captain of the BSR–Spin Doctors under the Team Buckeye super peloton and will ride the 100-mile route during Ride Weekend 2025. As a four-year Rider and High Roller, he has made a significant commitment to innovative cancer research at the OSUCCC – James, raising nearly $20,000 during his years of Pelotonia participation. 

“I ride in Pelotonia because I want to be a part of creating a cancer-free world. This mission is deeply personal to me,” says Matthew, who honors loved ones affected by cancer by writing their initials on his bike — a symbolic reminder of why he rides. 

A 2021 graduate of Princeton University with a degree in chemistry (magna cum laude) and a minor in entrepreneurship, Matthew hopes to become a head and neck cancer surgeon. At the OSUCCC – James, he is involved in three projects that combine medical science, innovation and human performance. His first project, mentored by Carmen Quatman, MD, PhD, in the Department of Orthopaedics, explores the surgeon-athlete connection, examining how principles from sports science can improve surgical performance. His second project, in collaboration with Kyle VanKoevering, MD, in the Department of Otolaryngology and the Medical Modeling, Materials and Manufacturing (M4) Lab, uses 3D printing to enhance surgical outcomes for head and neck cancer patients. 

“Matthew blends the science and art of medicine with engineering and technology — the same mindset he applies to training and racing,” Dr. VanKoevering says. 

His third project, with David E. Cohn, MD, a gynecologic oncologist who serves as chief operating officer and chief medical officer at the James Cancer Hospital and Solove Research Institute, explores the use of continuous glucose monitoring during chemotherapy to identify metabolic changes.

“He’s one of the most committed and motivated individuals I’ve ever worked with,” Dr. Cohn says. 

Matthew’s passion for performance extends far beyond the lab. After discovering triathlon in 2021, he quickly rose through the ranks. He won the overall age-group title at the 2022 IRONMAN World Championship in Kona and turned professional in 2023. That year, he earned three podium finishes and the fastest swim split at the IRONMAN World Championship in Nice. In 2024, he continued to excel with three more podiums and a bike course record at IRONMAN Lake Placid — securing a fourth place finish in the IRONMAN Pro Series. In April 2025, he clocked a sub eight-hour performance at IRONMAN Texas, solidifying his top-30 position in the global PTO World Rankings. 

“Triathlon is too hard of a sport to do only by yourself — and so is battling cancer,” he says. “There is incredible power in tackling challenges with others and having a purpose beyond oneself that can positively impact lives.” 

As he trains, researches and races, Matthew’s path remains clear: pursue purpose, push limits and help end cancer — one mile, one study and one ride at a time. 

In connection to funds raised by the Pelotonia community, Glen Barber, PhD, FRS, a globally distinguished immunologist, was recruited to join the OSUCCC – James’ Pelotonia Institute for Immuno-Oncology (PIIO) as director of the Center for Innate Immunity and Inflammation. His groundbreaking work focuses on the body’s innate immune system, which is considered to be the first line of defense against diseases.  

A pivotal achievement of Dr. Barber’s team is the discovery of a signaling pathway controlled by a molecule called STING (Stimulator of Interferon Genes) that is activated by microbes such as viruses, bacteria and parasites. This finding has sparked efforts to design drugs that strengthen the body’s immune system by boosting the STING pathway, which is important for generating antitumor immunity. 

“Our goal is to design drugs that stimulate innate immunity and test them in new clinical trials,” Dr. Barber explains.  

Dr. Barber’s research also explores the development of vaccines that target viruses linked to cancers. Supported by the National Cancer Institute, these efforts strive to prevent virus-induced cancers through innovative immunological strategies.  

Beyond the lab, Dr. Barber is inspired by the community’s commitment to cancer research, exemplified by Pelotonia. He arrived at Ohio State just a day before Ride Weekend 2024, but he’d had his bicycle shipped from Florida to Columbus and joined the Pelotonia community on the 20-mile route the next day. 

He shares the OSUCCC – James’ vision of creating a cancer-free world. 

“I think it’s possible because there’s so much more to learn, and that means so much opportunity to design ways to combat malignancy,” he explains. “We’re still scratching the surface to a certain extent, but the more we learn through the investment of donors, grants and the cancer center itself, the more team science we can generate and the more trials we can offer. Never say never.” 

With a legacy of discovery and a vision for a cancer-free future, Dr. Barber continues to push the boundaries of immunology to develop transformative treatments. 

A powerful new cancer-fighting drug, developed entirely at The Ohio State University, is now entering its first human clinical trial, offering new hope for patients with advanced cancers who have exhausted other options. 

This potential breakthrough, known as HOSU-53 during testing and now JBZ-001, was discovered and advanced from lab to clinic by researchers at the OSUCCC – James. Unlike many academic discoveries that are licensed early, Ohio State carried this one through the entire development process — a rare feat — before partnering with a commercial sponsor for clinical testing. 

The oral drug works by blocking a key enzyme that cancer cells rely on to grow. “The goal is to starve the cancer while sparing healthy cells,” says Chad Bennett, PhD, one of the lead scientists behind the drug. The treatment has shown promise in lab models against a wide range of cancers, including non-Hodgkin lymphomas and solid tumors. 

This success story began with a small collaboration and grew into a large-scale, multi-year effort supported by teams across Ohio State. It was powered by critical philanthropic funding from partners like Pelotonia and foundations deeply committed to cancer research. 

Now, with a phase I trial open at the OSUCCC – James, this drug could make an immediate impact for patients, and it marks a milestone in Ohio State’s mission to bring lifesaving discoveries from the lab to the bedside. 

“This study has the potential to immediately help some patients for whom previous therapies have failed. This is the goal of clinical trials in medicine,” says Sebastian Biglione, PhD, PharmD, director of clinical and regulatory strategy for the Drug Development Institute. 

The 2024 Impact Report is now available!

The drive for Matthew Old, MD, to be involved in philanthropy to accelerate innovative cancer research, like many of his colleagues, is highly personal.

Dr. Old has ridden in every mile of every Pelotonia event — 2,850 total miles to be exact.

His participation started with the first Ride Weekend in 2009 and has continued as a Rider each year since, adding the Gravel Day rides in 2023 and 2024.

Dr. Old is a professor and director of the Division of Head and Neck Oncology in the Department of Otolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery at The Ohio State University College of Medicine.

A 16-Year Rider and Peloton team captain, his contributions to cancer research extend beyond his lab and scientific achievements to include his long-time participation in and fundraising for Pelotonia.

Dr. Old leads Team Head and Neck, a peloton team within the super peloton, Team Buckeye, with wife and co-captain Molly Old. In its 13th year, 8 this peloton team includes providers, family members, friends, and cancer Survivors. Team Head and Neck has raised over $1.5 million. Through his individual fundraising efforts, Dr. Old has raised more than $65,500 in all-time funds for Pelotonia.

Dr. Old started his work at Ohio State in 2009, the same year that the first Pelotonia ride began. His personal motivation for participating as a Pelotonia Rider year after year stems from his deep connection to the shared mission of Pelotonia and the OSUCCC – James to create a cancer-free world.

Head and neck cancer rates continue to increase due to the rising human papilloma virus (HPV) epidemic.

“Philanthropy will help fund research and advances to stay ahead of the curve and get to more effective therapies quicker. These innovations wouldn’t be possible without the support of our [Pelotonia] community,” Dr. Old says.

His research focuses on improving surgical outcomes and developing innovative therapies for head and neck cancers, particularly through minimally invasive techniques and targeted therapies. As a highly respected figure in oncology, Dr. Old has authored numerous publications and received several awards for his work in advancing cancer care and research.

“We have one of the largest databases of adenoid cystic carcinoma in the world and are well-positioned to do research on this cancer,” Dr. Old says. “I’ve been proud to further these research efforts through the generosity of the Pelotonia community, including funds raised from a lemonade stand and bake sale hosted by Santino Carnevale, who lost his father to head and neck cancer. Santino alone has raised more than $135,000 to enable this breakthrough research.”

Through his leadership and dedication as a cancer care advocate and researcher – as well as a passionate Pelotonia Rider — Dr. Old continues to inspire others to support Pelotonia and drive advancements in head and neck cancer research, making an impact on patients’ lives and on the broader community.

It’s been five years since the launch of the Pelotonia Institute for Immuno-Oncology (PIIO), a pioneering research center at the OSUCCC – James. 

Established in July 2019 with a pledge of $102,265,000 over five years from Pelotonia, the PIIO was founded with a bold vision: to harness the power of the immune system to to fight cancer at all levels — from prevention to treatment and survivorship.  

Led by Founding Director Zihai Li, MD, PhD, a renowned medical oncologist and immunologist in the ever-expanding field of cancer immunotherapy, the overall ambition of the PIIO is to be a leader in driving immuno-oncology (IO) breakthroughs. 

Since its founding, the PIIO has achieved several key milestones. PIIO researchers have developed novel therapies that boost immune responses to various types of cancer, from melanoma to lung and blood cancers. The institute has also led clinical trials that offer patients new, personalized immunotherapy options, improving outcomes and giving hope to those battling the disease. 

“Together, we are making a difference in the lives of cancer patients and their families,” says Dr. Li, crediting the PIIO’s success to the collaboration between scientists, clinicians, and the community.  

In 2023, the PIIO expanded to the new state-of-the-art Pelotonia Research Center on The Ohio State University’s new innovation district on campus – a major step in promoting collaborative science and innovation. The labs at the Pelotonia Research Center cover a wide range of specialties, including cancer immunotherapy and computational immunobiology. 

As the PIIO celebrates its fifth anniversary, the focus remains on the future with a renewed sense of optimism and hope. With ongoing support from the Pelotonia community, the PIIO will continue to push the limits of cancer research to further advance targeted treatments and immuno-oncology for patients today and for years to come.  

In February, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved lifileucel as a new cancer treatment that uses a person’s own immune cells for treating the most dangerous types of skin cancer. This tumor infiltrating lymphocyte (TIL) therapy is the first cell therapy approved by the FDA to treat skin cancer, or melanoma.  

Clinical trials at the OSUCCC – James have shown that this cell therapy is also a promising treatment for patients with advanced stages of lung cancer who have developed resistance to other therapies.   

“Most of these patients, particularly those with stage 4 or metastatic cancer, will eventually develop resistance to immune checkpoint inhibitors,” says OSUCCC – James thoracic oncologist and study lead author, Kai He, MD, PhD, who leads cell therapy in solid tumor in the Cell Therapy Program and Pelotonia Institute for Immuno-Oncology.

“In such situations, the treatment options are limited, and there is a critical need for developing novel immunotherapy treatments to prolong people’s survival and maintain their quality of life. Lifileucel is a step in that direction.” 

Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer deaths in the United States, accounting for one in five cancer deaths. The second most common cancer in both men and women, it is estimated that nearly 240,000 cases of lung cancer will be diagnosed in 2024 in the U.S.  

The current study is the first global phase 2 clinical trial to use this therapy against lung cancer, with patients in many hospitals across the U.S. and Europe.  

“The results so far are very encouraging and promising,” says Dr. He, adding that the team is conducting the additional clinical trial with larger population of patients to validate the finding. If successful, it will provide evidence for potential FDA approval for using lifileucel to treat non-small cell lung cancer.  

In July, Pelotonia announced a $2 million donation from Jimmy and Dee Haslam and The Haslam 3 Foundation to accelerate scientific research on CLL, supporting Pelotonia’s mission.  

Dee and Jimmy Haslam are managing partners of Haslam Sports Group, a sports and entertainment group with ownership of the NFL’s Cleveland Browns, operating rights to Major League Soccer’s Columbus Crew, co-ownership of the NBA’s Milwaukee Bucks, and investors in the WNBA. The Haslam 3 Foundation is the family’s philanthropic foundation which gives back to community organizations in Ohio and Tennessee.   

“Pelotonia offers hope for so many people impacted by cancer, including my own family,” said Dee Haslam. “Everyone is affected by cancer. My hope is more and more people get involved in Pelotonia – whether they ride on their bikes or make donations. I get excited thinking about all of the ways you can participate. I hope our gift inspires others to support Pelotonia as well.”

The donation will also provide operational support for Pelotonia, adding The Haslam 3 Foundation as a funding partner. Funding partners ensure Pelotonia directs 100 percent of every participant-raised dollar to innovative cancer research.  

“As I’ve spent time with Dee and Jimmy over the past few years, they were eager to understand how Pelotonia was making such a big impact not only on research but engaging in the community in meaningful ways. They wanted to be a part of it,” said Doug Ulman, Vice Chair of the Pelotonia Board and cancer survivor. “I’ve been honored to get to know them as people. We are thankful to have the Haslams as part of the Pelotonia community and for their investment in furthering our mission.”  

Investment for CLL Patients Today and Tomorrow

CLL is a cancer that affects the blood, bone marrow, and lymph nodes. It is the most common form of adult leukemia in the Western Hemisphere, accounting for about one-quarter of new leukemia cases in the U.S.  

The OSUCCC – James is a global leader in research and treatment for hematologic cancers, including CLL.   

Jennifer Woyach, MD, a hematologist-oncologist at the OSUCCC – James, professor in the Division of Hematology, and co-leader of the Leukemia and Hematologic Malignancies Research Program, will lead the work. Woyach is a Pelotonia-funded researcher through both an Idea Grant and Fellow, and was named Pelotonia’s 2021 Researcher of the Year for her work in CLL research and patient care.  

“This funding will help us launch clinical trials for frontline CLL to try to optimize therapy for all patients. As well, we are expanding our research program in immunotherapy for CLL, and this funding will greatly accelerate this work,” said Woyach.  

Future of CLL Treatment through Research

The future of CLL treatment is in creating more novel therapies that are better targeted to a patient’s individual cancer.    

Under Dr. Woyach’s leadership, the OSUCCC – James is positioned to continue making significant advancements in CLL research by exploring areas that include overcoming patient resistance to therapies, working with companies to test new therapies preclinically, performing lab work to identify novel targets, and studying new immune therapies.  

This critical research is accelerated through Pelotonia funding and donations like this from The Haslam 3 Foundation.  

“The beautiful thing about Pelotonia is that the community can participate in ways most meaningful to them. Not only is CLL deeply personal to the Haslam family but it is a very promising area of cancer research in which the OSUCCC – James is a global leader,” said Ulman. “We could not be more grateful for the incredible support of Dee, Jimmy, and The Haslam 3 Foundation. This donation is going to change and save lives.”