3 Stamford Residents To Participate In 2026 Pan-Mass Challenge

STAMFORD, CT — Three Stamford residents are among more than 6,000 cyclists expected to participate in the Pan-Mass Challenge on Aug. 1-2, helping raise money for cancer research and patient care at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute.

The Stamford participants are:

• Benjamin Castle
• John Patterson
• Joshua Brener

The Pan-Mass Challenge, which organizers describe as the world's largest single athletic fundraiser for charity, has set a fundraising goal of more than $79 million this year.

Organizers said this year's event comes as federal research support declines, grant approval rates reach historic lows and cancer cases continue to rise.

For the 20th consecutive year, 100 percent of every dollar raised by riders will go directly to Dana-Farber, one of the nation's top three hospitals for cancer research and care.

"The theme for this year's PMC, which is 'now, more than ever,' underscores the paramount importance of every single dollar raised in fueling the search for a cure," said Billy Starr, founder and chairman of the Pan-Mass Challenge, in a news release. "We are endlessly grateful to every rider, volunteer, donor, and sponsor who makes the PMC possible. Because of their training miles, long hours of volunteering, generous support, and unwavering commitment, we are moving ever closer to a world without cancer."

Since it began in 1980, the Pan-Mass Challenge has raised $1.125 billion for Dana-Farber, making it the organization's largest single contributor and accounting for 67 percent of the annual revenue of The Jimmy Fund, Dana-Farber's community-driven fundraising arm.

Each year, thousands of cyclists and volunteers from 47 states and 12 countries participate in the event. Cyclists ride routes ranging from 25 to 177 miles.

The event also includes the PMC Living Proof community, made up of riders and volunteers who have undergone or are undergoing cancer treatment.

Registration remains open for this year's Pan-Mass Challenge. More information can be found here.