Weymouth Residents Gear Up to Ride the 2021 Pan-Mass Challenge!

After a year of unprecedented challenges and change, three Weymouth cyclists are ready to participate in this year’s Pan Mass Challenge (PMC) in support of patients battling cancer.

On August 7 and 8, William Kehlbeck, Phil Melanson, and Ricky Torres will be back on the road – as part of Team South Shore Health - continuing their promise to fundraise for cancer care services and programs on the South Shore.

“This year’s ride will feel very different from last years’ experience, and I am fully committed to helping patients,” said Kehlbeck, who is joining the team for a third season. “We can beat cancer if we work together.”

“Cancer affects so many patients and families,” added Melanson “I’m delighted to have the opportunity to be part of this team and help patients, families, friends and neighbors who are battling cancer.”

“This is my second year riding for Team South Shore Health and I am thrilled to be raising money that will ultimately improve the lives of cancer patients living in my community,” said Torres.

In an effort to maintain COVID-19 safety measures, this year’s PMC reduced its in-person event capacity to almost 50-percent. The event will includes 15 pre-mapped, fully supported route options, ranging from 25 to 211 miles, with varying levels of fundraising goals. Cyclists also have the opportunity to chart their own route and conveniently customize the distance, location, and date of their ride. For those not ready to ride in-person, a virtual option with no fundraising minimum allows cyclists to create their own route, log miles over time, or not get on a bike at all!

Last year, Team South Shore Health raised nearly $160,000 for cancer care services and programs. To date, riders for South Shore Health have collectively raised more than $820,000 over the last five years.

“The funding we receive from Team South Shore Health is critical to the operations and to so many other programs at our Cancer Center,” said Jen Croes, Executive Director of the Dana-Farber/Brigham and Women’s Cancer Center in clinical affiliation with South Shore Hospital. “It is truly remarkable to have a team of dedicated cyclists willing to ride for us! We are incredibly grateful for their unwavering support!”

Support Team South Shore Health today or contact Angela Floro at (781) 624-8142, AFloro@southshorehealth.org to make a donation to the team.