Charity bike event, Pan-Mass Challenge, joins forces with Holy Cross and Worcester for collaborative efforts.
Holy Cross College to Serve as New Start Location for Pan-Mass Challenge 2026
The College of the Holy Cross in Worcester, Massachusetts, has announced that it will partner with the Pan-Mass Challenge (PMC) in 2026, with the institution serving as the new start location for the event. This change promises to improve rider logistics and facilities, providing a more comfortable and accessible experience for participants.
The PMC is the largest single athletic fundraiser in the United States, raising millions of dollars annually for the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute in Boston. In fact, the PMC is Dana-Farber's single largest donor, and the funds raised through this event have been instrumental in advancing cancer research and treatment, including the development of new therapies.
By moving the start to Holy Cross, the PMC enhances the rider experience, which could potentially help sustain or increase fundraising capacity for Dana-Farber's mission against cancer. The PMC was originally organized by the Holy Cross College Democrats and the "Committee to Re-Elect Dan Donahue", reflecting the college's long-standing commitment to the cause.
The College of the Holy Cross has a rich history of academic excellence. Rev. Thomas Worcester, S.J., who achieved tenure in 2000 and was promoted to professor in 2010 at the College, has been a significant contributor to this success. However, he will be moving on from his role at Holy Cross, as he has been appointed as the President of Regis College in Toronto, Ontario, starting in August.
The PMC 2026 is expected to bring together more than 6,800 riders and 3,500 volunteers. Further details about registration for the PMC 2026 and its route options will be available to the public in the coming months. The event is scheduled to take place on August 1 and 2, 2026.
It's worth noting that Dan Donahue '09, a State Representative for Worcester, played a role in the event's organisation. Holy Cross students also participated in a stand-out for State Representative Dan Donahue '09 on Cambridge and Southbridge Streets.
In summary, the partnership between Holy Cross and the PMC promises to enhance the rider experience and continue the critical support for Dana-Farber's mission against cancer. With its rich cycling history, Worcester seems an ideal choice for the new starting line of the PMC, which is expected to attract thousands of riders and volunteers in 2026.
- The faculty at College of the Holy Cross, including Professor Rev. Thomas Worcester, S.J., have contributed significantly to the college's academic excellence.
- Despite Professor Thomas Worcester's departure to Regis College in Toronto, the College of the Holy Cross continues its commitment to the Pan-Mass Challenge (PMC) as the new start location for the event in 2026.
- The PMC is a significant tradition in the College of the Holy Cross community, with roots tracing back to the Holy Cross College Democrats and the "Committee to Re-Elect Dan Donahue."
- State Representative Dan Donahue '09, a graduate of Holy Cross College, has been instrumental in the organization of the PMC and community events.
- In 2026, the PMC is anticipated to be a grand event, attracting over 6,800 students who act as riders and 3,500 volunteers, making it a significant sports event and news story.
- As the newest start location for the PMC, Holy Cross College offers opportunities for sports-related activities, as well as sports-betting and sports-analysis centered around college basketball, NBA, or other sports.
