Columbus Riders Raise Record $29M for Cancer Research

A record-breaking number of cancer survivors will pedal through Columbus this weekend, turning their personal battles into fuel for lifesaving research.

Pelotonia's 2026 Ride Weekend expects 8,000 cyclists and 15,000 spectators as it celebrates an unprecedented achievement: raising $29.2 million last year for cancer research at the Arthur G. James Cancer Hospital. Over 1,000 cancer survivors have registered to ride, the most in the event's history.

"I am most excited to see all the survivors and caregivers and people impacted by cancer out there celebrating," said Joe Apgar, Pelotonia's CEO and a cancer survivor himself.

This year introduces a new 17-mile route designed to welcome more people into the fight against cancer. The shorter distance joins existing options ranging from 23 to 165 miles, all starting from downtown Columbus and weaving through neighborhoods like Bexley and New Albany.

Among the riders will be Sarah Thomas, a second-year Ohio State student cycling 66 miles on her late father's refurbished bike. Dylan Thomas competed in world cycling championships before Ewing sarcoma took his life when Sarah was just 5 years old. With help from Ohio State's Bike Hub and her father's old riding partners, she restored his bike after it sat untouched for 15 years.

The Ripple Effect

Since launching in 2009, Pelotonia has poured over $339 million into cancer research at The James. That funding created the Pelotonia Institute for Immuno-Oncology, transforming a small program into one of the nation's largest teams developing therapies that activate the immune system to attack cancer cells.

The money also supports the Pelotonia Scholars Program, giving undergraduate and PhD students opportunities to focus their talents on cancer research. Dr. Kimryn Rathmell, CEO of The James, says the funding helps "bring some of the best and brightest minds" to tackle cancer's toughest challenges.

Future investments will expand comprehensive genomic profiling for every cancer patient and grow the BRIDGE program studying why cancer rates are rising in young adults ages 18 to 50. These initiatives aim to eliminate county-based medical disparities across Ohio and personalize care for patients of all ages.

"The funding gives us this tie to the community," Rathmell said. "We really want to be partners with community members."

The opening ceremony kicks off Friday at McFerson Commons with inspirational speakers and live music, followed by rides Saturday and Sunday supported by 3,000 volunteers and local police departments ensuring rider safety.

Every pedal stroke this weekend represents hope turning into action.