celebration of hope torch

Ride for Roswell’s Celebration of Hope and Peloton are Back on for 2021 Event

Highlights
  • Celebration of Hope includes ceremonial torch lighting to honor patients
  • Ride Day will take place Saturday, August 7 at four locations in WNY
  • Funds raised support cancer research and patient care at Roswell Park

BUFFALO, N.Y. — The Ride for Roswell presented by the West Herr Automotive Group, is excited to announce the return of the Celebration of Hope and Peloton on Friday, August 6 to kick off Ride Weekend.

Thousands of riders and volunteers will participate in the Ride for Roswell to raise funds for cancer research and patient-care programs at Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center this year and the Celebration of Hope is a night to honor cancer patients.

The Friday evening event will include a procession of Roswell Park doctors, nurses, researchers, patients and survivors; the arrival of the Peloton, a group of top fundraisers; the ceremonial lighting of the Ride for Roswell Torch; family-friendly entertainment, music, food and drinks; and a chance to learn about the difference donations are making in cutting-edge research and care at Roswell Park.

“The lighting of the torch represents a symbol of hope. It represents the hope of cancer patients and survivors, the compassion of Roswell Park nurses, doctors and caregivers; and the brilliance of Roswell Park researchers and scientists,” explains Chris Eberle, cancer survivor, Ride volunteer and creator of the Ride Torch. “The Celebration of Hope brings together the Ride community to honor and commemorate all who are affected by cancer, and to support and recognize the groundbreaking research at Roswell Park that saves people like me.”

The Ride for Roswell is taking place on Saturday, August 7 at four locations across Western New York. Locations for the in-person Ride include University at Buffalo North Campus, Buffalo Outer Harbor, Niagara County Community College and Grand Island. Fourteen routes range from three to 100 miles, offering options for riders of all ages and experience levels. For riders looking to create a DIY experience, the ride your own way option is available for 2021. This allows individuals, families or teams to create their own ride experience by selecting a date, location and route that suits their schedule and experience level.

There is no registration fee and no fundraising minimum for the 2021 Ride. To learn more about the locations, routes, rewards and to register, visit www.rideforroswell.org.

The Ride is the single largest fundraising event in Western New York and the state’s largest single-day cycling fundraiser. Since 1996, riders and volunteers have raised more than $56 million for cancer research and patient care programs at Roswell Park. The funds raised through the Ride for Roswell have helped Roswell Park researchers investigate new treatment options; facilitated clinical trials for both common and rare types of cancers; supported the costs of important medical testing not covered by insurance; and made possible quality of life programs that assist with non-medical needs and help patients remember that cancer doesn’t define them.

###

Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center is a community united by the drive to eliminate cancer’s grip on humanity by unlocking its secrets through personalized approaches and unleashing the healing power of hope. Founded by Dr. Roswell Park in 1898, it is the only National Cancer Institute-designated comprehensive cancer center in Upstate New York. Learn more at www.roswellpark.org, or contact us at 1-800-ROSWELL (1-800-767-9355) or ASKRoswell@roswellpark.org.

Media Contact

Michelle Ostrander, Director, Development Marketing and Communications
716-845-1038; michelle.ostrander@roswellpark.org