2025 Pan-Mass Challenge Draws Thousands of Cyclists to Fuel Next Era of Cancer Research

This weekend, the Pan-Mass Challenge (PMC) unites more than 6,500 riders and 3,500 volunteers for its 46th ride, with the common goal of raising $76 million to support lifesaving cancer research and treatment at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute. Last year, the PMC raised a record $75 million and surpassed $1 billion in cumulative donations toward the fight against cancer since its founding in 1980.

The PMC donates 100 percent of every rider-raised dollar directly to Dana-Farber, enabling doctors and researchers to make tangible progress towards cures and treatments for cancer. More than 160 Dana-Farber employees ride, fundraise, or volunteer in the event themselves, often to seed-fund their own work, having witnessed firsthand the impact PMC funding makes.

Toni Choueiri, MD, Director Lank Center for Genitourinary Oncology, Dana-Farber, an 8-year PMC rider who has raised nearly $700,000 for his groundbreaking work in genitourinary cancers, is advancing a promising new vaccine for stage III and IV kidney cancer, and Allison O'Neill, MD, Clinical Director, Solid Tumor Program, Dana-Farber, a 10-year rider, is preparing to launch an innovative immunotherapy clinical trial targeting pediatric solid tumors, both advancements made possible in part by PMC funding.

"As a 7-year rider, I've seen firsthand the passion, purpose, and power that fuel the PMC," said Benjamin L. Ebert, MD, PhD, president and CEO of Dana-Farber. “The funds raised by this special community allow our researchers and clinicians to invest in research that is opening new frontiers in cancer treatment. I'm honored to ride alongside so many who are determined to make a difference, and I'm excited to see what we'll accomplish together on the road to the next billion.”

PMC 2025 spans 14 routes across Massachusetts, ranging from 25 to 186 miles, designed to accommodate all cycling and fundraising levels. Many ride in honor of a loved one affected by cancer, and more than 1,100 participants are cancer survivors or current patients themselves, known as the PMC Living Proof® community. The PMC is the single most successful athletic fundraising event in the world and is Dana-Farber's single largest donor, accounting for 66 percent of the Jimmy Fund's annual revenue.

"For 46 years, the PMC has been defined by grit, generosity, and a relentless commitment to funding cancer breakthroughs," said Billy Starr, founder and chairman of the PMC and a Dana-Farber trustee. “We crossed the $1 billion threshold last year – and now we're focused on what's next. With the continued support of our riders, volunteers, donors and sponsors, I know this community will lead us toward our next billion and the next generation of progress.”