PMC Profile: Laurel Ainslie Riding For Loved Ones

Most people might buck at the idea of riding almost 110 miles on a bicycle in two days, but not Waltham resident Laurie Ainslie.

Ainslie is more concerned about raising enough money for participating in the Pan-Mass Challenge scheduled for Aug. 4 - 5. Ainslie said this will be her ninth PMC.

Ainslie is just one of the group of riding in the race that raises money for the Dana Farber Cancer Institute's cancer research and treatment. 

"You can say a bit of it is personal challenge," said Ainslie in a recent interview with Waltham Patch on why she is riding the Sturbridge-Provincetown route. 

Like many participants, Ainslie has a personal connection to the causes. Her best friend's monther died in 2004 after a bout with colon cancer, Ainslie said.

Also, like every PMC rider, she is paired with a "pedal partner" for emotional support. Ainslie is paired with 6-year-old Brodie Tolo, who suffers from leukemia, according to Ainslie. 

Ainslie has been preparing for the race for months. She started riding her bike regularly at 5 a.m. months ago, but she as with any physical challenge, mental preparation is necessary. Ainslie said the mental aspects fo the race are difficult especially coping with the emotional tone that hangs over the event.

"There is a lot of emotion in this ride," she said. 

The emotion, however, only drives Ainslie further toward the finish line. Ainslie said she loves seeing supporters cheer her along the race route and knowing the impact they have on cancer. 

"it is inspiring. It is a great event for a great cause," she said. 

Hopefully, Ainslie said, she keep pushing herself through another five years of races.

"It is a great experience," she said. 

To donate to Ainslie's ride, visit her PMC profile and use her eGift ID: LA0050