Cyclists embark on their ride towards Bourne, aiming to collect funds for cancer research during the Pan-Mass Challenge.
The annual Pan-Mass Challenge, a renowned cycling event that has raised over a billion dollars for cancer research and care, kicked off on Saturday morning. This year's event saw over 1,000 riders and volunteers, many of whom are cancer survivors or patients themselves, embarking on their journey from Wellesley and Sturbridge.
However, the event's organisers, PMC, have announced that the starting locations will change in 2026. The new location for the Pan-Mass Challenge will be the College of the Holy Cross in Worcester. This change is aimed at providing greater comfort and better accommodations for riders, who face long distances during the event.
The College of the Holy Cross offers more space and access to modern facilities and amenities, making it an ideal location for the growing event. PMC founder, Billy Starr, expressed his excitement about the move, acknowledging that while there is fondness for the history at Sturbridge, the College of the Holy Cross will provide more modern amenities and better support for the riders, enhancing their overall experience during this physically demanding ride.
The change in location also allows for growth and improved care for participants compared to the traditional starts in Wellesley and Sturbridge, which have been used since 1981.
This year's Pan-Mass Challenge has attracted riders from 12 countries and 47 states and territories. The ride will end in Bourne, as it has in previous years. Next year, the ride will start from the College of the Holy Cross in Worcester.
Many riders are participating in honor of or in memory of a loved one with cancer. Despite the significant funds raised, PMC's work will continue as cancer is not yet eradicated. The Pan-Mass Challenge remains a testament to the power of community and determination in the fight against cancer.
The announcement by PMC revealed that the new starting location for the Pan-Mass Challenge in 2026 will be the College of the Holy Cross in Worcester, positioned for providing greater comfort and modern amenities to the long-distance cycling riders. The proposed location offers more space and access to modern facilities, making it an ideal choice for the growing event. Next year's Pan-Mass Challenge ride will commence from the College of the Holy Cross, marking a shift from the traditional starts in Wellesley and Sturbridge. As cancer is not yet eradicated, many riders continue to participate in this annual event in honor or memory of loved ones, contributing significantly to raising funds for medical-conditions like cancer research and care in the sports and news sectors.
