24th International Race for Research set for Sept. 13th in Peabody

On Saturday, September 13, 2025, The Progeria Research Foundation (PRF) will host its 24th Annual International Race for Research - a tradition that unites the local community and global supporters in the mission to cure Progeria. The event takes place in person on PRF’s Peabody, MA course and offers a virtual option for participants around the world.

Proudly presented by PRF and long-time event partner North Shore Bank, the Race for Research is Peabody’s longest-running, most family-friendly 5K event. Participants can run the 5K or walk the 2-mile course while enjoying music, refreshments, and a dog watering station for four-legged friends. Whether you’re racing in Peabody or virtually from home, every step helps accelerate research toward a cure.

Funds raised support PRF’s groundbreaking work, including gene editing -the most promising path to cure Progeria. This pioneering approach aims to directly correct the genetic mutation responsible for the disease. Progeria is a rare, fatal condition characterized by rapid aging in children, who—without treatment—die of heart disease at an average age of just 14.5 years. Thanks to PRF’s global impact and the support of events like the Race for Research, children and young adults with Progeria are now living longer with lonafarnib, the first and only FDA-approved treatment.

“We are so happy to bring this incredible event back for the 24th year,” said Audrey Gordon, PRF President and Executive Director. “The dedication of our superstar race participants and sponsors like North Shore Bank is helping push science forward faster than ever. With gene editing, there is real hope for a cure - and the Race for Research plays a key role in making that future possible.”

In-person participants will be joined by PRF co-founders Drs. Leslie Gordon and Scott Berns, along with 15-year-old Carlos from Massachusetts.

Online registration is now open at www.prfroadrace.org or by calling 978-535-2594.

“At North Shore Bank, we believe in the power of community and the importance of supporting causes that make a real difference. We are proud to continue our support of the Progeria Research Foundation’s Race for Research, an inspiring event that brings hope, awareness, and critical funding to the fight against Progeria. Together, we can help advance the research that brings families closer to a cure.” - Michael R. Wheeler, president and CEO, North Shore Bank