Strong Westford Contingent to Ride in Pan-Mass Challenge

There will be plenty of towns represented during the Pan-Mass Challenge, which kicks off on Saturday. And when more 5,500 cyclists begin their quest to fund cancer research, Westford will be well represented.

A total of 50 Westford resident are riding in the 34th annual PMC, which aims to raise more than $38 million to support cancer research at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute through the Jimmy Fund.

“It’s a powerful and emotional weekend for everyone involved,” said Pan-Mass Challenge founder and executive director Billy Starr, according to a press release. “From the cyclists, to volunteers, staff and family and friends along the route, the PMC unifies 10,000 people for one weekend to make a difference and raise funds to eradicate cancer.”

According to an article in the Boston Globe, much of the support from Westford is in honor of a local teenager.

The newspaper reported that 25 local riders are signed up for the PMC as a part of Team Cycle for Colby’s Ride. The group is honoring 17-year-old Westford resident Colby Schofield, who is in remission from Stage 4 Hodgkin’s lymphona. The Globe reported that the team has already raised more than $85,000.

“What I tried to emphasize is how we were riding in her name, but we’re all affected by cancer,” said Tess Pellegrini, according to the Globe.

For more information about the Pan-Mass Challenge, visit www.pmc.org. Residents interested in donating can also call (800) WE-CYCLE or send checks to PMC, 77 Fourth Ave., Needham, Mass., 02494.