Philadelphia Cycling Classic Charity Ride to Benefit the American Association for Cancer Research

Cycling fans can ride the iconic Philadelphia Cycling Classic course before the professional bicycle race starts on August 30 while raising money for cancer research

The Philadelphia-based AACR will also receive all proceeds from a fine art auction on August 27 featuring two unique artist-designed bicycles

PHILADELPHIA – The Philadelphia Cycling Classic Charity Ride for AACR will take place on Sunday, August 30, at 6:30 a.m. ET, before the start of the relaunched Philadelphia Cycling Classic presented by AmeriGas. The 14.4-mile charity ride will provide cycling fans with the opportunity to ride a loop of the same iconic course the professional cyclists ride while supporting lifesaving cancer research through the American Association for Cancer Research (AACR).

Headquartered in Philadelphia, AACR is the world’s first and largest cancer research organization dedicated to accelerating the conquest of cancer. With more than 65,000 members in 143 countries and territories around the world, AACR’s mission is to prevent and cure cancer through research, education, communication, collaboration, science policy and advocacy, and funding for cancer research. AACR has given over $551 million in grants to fund cutting-edge cancer science since 1993.

AACR is the official charity partner of the Philadelphia Cycling Classic. Individuals interested in participating in the charity ride can join AACR Riders for Research to gain entry and to raise awareness and funds for cancer research. Participants who raise $500 will receive an AACR cycling jersey and access to a VIP tent before and after the ride. Donations to AACR will help advance scientific discoveries that improve, extend, and save lives.

After the charity ride, the Philadelphia Cycling Classic professional women’s race will start at 8:35 a.m. ET, followed by the men’s race at noon. This premier cycling event debuted in 1985 and quickly became one of the most prestigious professional road races in North America. The race returns this year for the first time since 2016—and with it, a longtime and treasured Philadelphia tradition that brings together elite athletes, passionate fans, and global media to celebrate the spirit of competition and community. 

Earlier in the week, Philadelphia Cycling Classic organizers and AACR will collaborate on another charitable event in support of cancer research. Hosted by storied auction house Freeman’s, “Cycles of Change” is a fine art auction that will feature two elite bicycles provided by Cannondale and Parlee Composites, each with one-of-a-kind designs created by internationally recognized artists Odili Donald Odita (David Kordansky Gallery) and Charles Hascoët (Perrotin Gallery).

AACR will receive 100% of the auction proceeds. This unique event will take place at Freeman’s Philadelphia on Thursday, August 27, from 5-7 p.m. ET, and was planned in coordination with ArtMatic, The Fine Art Group, Race Street Partners, Joan Shepp, and 74th Arts. Images of the bicycles and more information about the artists and the event are available on Freeman’s website.

Media interested in attending the auction or interviewing AACR leadership about the charity ride and importance of supporting cancer research can contact Kathleen Medora at [email protected]. Media interested in attending the Philadelphia Cycling Classic Charity Ride for AACR and the Philadelphia Cycling Classic can request credentials on the Philadelphia Cycling Classic website.