Calhoun Cancer Challenge Ride
There were a few leg cramps, but lots of smiles as nearly 350 cyclists from across the Northeast turned out on Saturday, June 9, to enjoy a day of camaraderie, exercise and good cheer—and to raise money to help save lives—in support of the inaugural BigY Jim Calhoun Cancer Challenge Ride. The event was presented by Comcast and benefited The Carole and Ray Neag Comprehensive Cancer Center and Coaches vs. Cancer, a program of the American Cancer Society.
Jim Calhoun, coach of the UConn men's basketball program, led a group of riders on a 50-mile trek, the event's longest course, through the rolling northwestern hills of Connecticut and into western Massachusetts on a cloudy, rain-soaked a hearty contingent from the Health Center as well as the morning. Additional rides of 10 and 25 miles also were included in the day's festivities, which generated more than $150,000 for the Neag Comprehensive Cancer Center. Teams included a hearty contingent from the Health Center as well as Foundation Flyers, who enthusiastically represented the UConn Foundation. More than 100 volunteers were on hand to make sure the event was a complete success.
"We are extremely grateful to everyone who participated, and would like to especially recognize Coach Calhoun and all the people who worked so hard to organize this event and make it happen," says Carolyn D. Runowicz, M.D., director of the Neag Comprehensive Cancer Center and a cancer survivor.
"Private philanthropy is absolutely essential to the work we do. Great strides have been made in fighting cancer over the last several years, but we need to continue to build on that success. There is still a long way to go! The funds generated by an event like this help to keep us moving in the right direction—in support of research toward a cure."
Participants paid a registration fee and were encouraged to meet certain personal fundraising minimums relative to their age. All riders who raised more than $2,000 will be presented with special riding shirts from Calhoun.
"As a cancer survivor, I know firsthand the value of the important work being done at the Neag Comprehensive Cancer Center," notes Calhoun. "The research they are doing there on a daily basis is crucial to the fight against cancer. I received exceptional treatment when I was a patient at the Health Center, and I really want to make sure that others have access to the same high-quality care. This is about finding a cure for cancer and saving lives, and I'm happy to do anything I can to help."
In addition to Big Y, major sponsors of the Cancer Challenge Ride included Comcast, CIGNA, McPhee, Mohegan Sun, RisCassi & Davis, NE Computer Solutions,Team Nerac Pro Cycling, the University of Connecticut Alumni Association, Coke of New England, Webster Bank, Phoenix Companies and Ski Market.
