Dunedin Resident To Join 6,000 Bicyclists To Fight Cancer

DUNEDIN, FL — On Aug. 7 and 8, more than 6,000 riders, including Eva Herzing from Dunedin, will take part in the Pan-Mass Challenge, a two-day, 211-mile bike-a-thon across Massachusetts, with the goal of raising $52 million for cancer research and patient care at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute.

The PMC is the nation’s single-most successful athletic fundraiser, donating 100 percent of every rider-raised dollar to Dana-Farber as its largest single contributor, accounting for 64 percent of its Jimmy Fund’s annual revenue.

For the first time since 2019, more than 6,000 riders from 47 states and 11 countries will once hit the road together during the first weekend of August with the common goal of making an impact in the fight against cancer.

In 2020, the PMC raised a $50 million through its summer-long Reimagined campaign, bringing its 41-year contribution to $767 million.

“We couldn’t be more excited to bring our passionate PMC riders, volunteers, donors and sponsors back together in person for PMC Ride Weekend this year,” said Billy Starr, founder and executive director of the PMC. “With fully supported routes and Reimagined options, everyone can customize their PMC experience to join us in the fight against cancer. Cancer doesn’t stop for anything, even a global pandemic, and funding for research, treatment and care is as critical as ever.”

PMC 2021 will include 16 routes – from 25 to 211 miles – designed to cater to all levels of cycling and fundraising ability, including Reimagined options for those who prefer to complete their PMC ride on their own.

Most participate in honor of a family member or friend fighting cancer and more than 950 riders and volunteers are cancer survivors or current patients.

More than 150 Dana-Farber employees are committed to the cause as riders and volunteers as well, in some cases to fund their own cancer research.

The PMC is presented by the Red Sox Foundation. To make a financial contribution for Herzing's ride, visit www.pmc.org or call (800) WE-CYCLE.