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Author: Jocelyn McNamara

Meet the Roswell Park Employees Tackling Empire State Ride 2026

Posted on by Jocelyn McNamara

Meet the Roswell Park Employees Tackling Empire State Ride 2026

A collage of cyclists in helmets and cycling gear surrounds a central banner reading "Empire State Ride Team Roswell," featuring people posing with bikes, signs, and celebratory gestures outdoors.

Every summer, riders from across the globe come together for one powerful purpose: to support lifesaving cancer research through Empire State Ride. Among them is Team Roswell — a dedicated group of physicians, nurses, researchers, administrators and staff from Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center who take their commitment beyond the workplace and onto the road.

For these riders, the journey is personal. Some ride in honor of patients, loved ones or colleagues; others ride to advance the mission they help carry out every day at Roswell Park.

Meet the members of ESR Team Roswell 2026!

Julia Faller, DO, MS

Chief Medical Officer, Department of Anesthesiology

A smiling woman with gray hair stands outdoors wearing a navy blue "Empire State Ride to End Cancer" t-shirt. Green trees and a brick building are visible in the background.

“It’s like summer camp for adults! I’ve made some of the best friendships with fellow riders that I get to see every year when I go back to ride. I am inspired by all of the people who have been affected by cancer and who choose to ride to show their support. When they share their stories, it makes you realize how important this ride is to them. I also learn more and more each year about the incredible research going on at Roswell Park and the funds necessary to ensure that research continues.”

Ryan Grady

Chief Financial Officer

A cyclist in a white and blue jersey, helmet, and reflective sunglasses raises his arm in a triumphant gesture. He wears a medal and orange wristband, with a blurred crowd and trees in the background.

“The first time I did it, I wanted to challenge myself while giving back. Now in my third year, I still enjoy the challenge, but realized it’s much more meaningful than just that. It’s a surreal experience that’s hard to describe. Hearing the stories and speeches by patients, survivors and experts in cancer research and treatment with 350 other riders is an incredible experience you’ll never fully understand until you do it yourself.”

Charles Greenberg, PharmD

Pharmacy Manager at Scott Bieler Amherst Center

A man in a blue shirt and black cap kneels on a sidewalk, smiling and hugging a golden retriever wearing a name tag. Tents and trees are visible in the background on a sunny day.

“I originally signed up for Empire State Ride in 2025 because I saw a unique opportunity to raise funds for cancer research and patient programs at Roswell Park by doing something I enjoy. I’m coming back for year two because I loved the challenge of riding 570 miles across the state, and because it was such a meaningful and inspiring experience to be a part of the ESR community!”

Joyce Ohm, PhD

Chair of the Department of Cancer Genetics and Genomics

Two people in matching blue cycling jerseys smile inside an ice cream shop. Behind them are ice cream display freezers and large black-and-white menu boards on the blue walls.

“I did my first Empire State Ride as a physical challenge, and I rode that year in memory of my mom who died of a rare sarcoma, called clear cell sarcoma of the soft tissues, when I was ten years old. I continue to ride in memory of my mom, my husband’s mom, my dear friend’s son, Josiah, who lost his battle with osteosarcoma, Sophia the fierce who lost her battle with Ewing sarcoma, my friend and ESR alumni, David, who died recently after a 39-year battle with head and neck cancer, my friend Steve who continues to fight, and my cousin who was recently diagnosed with leukemia. I have seen the tremendous progress that we have made with targeted therapies during the course of my career, and Empire State Ride gives me hope that we will continue to find more effective, less toxic therapies for every patient who walks through our doors.”

Raymond Sroka, MD, PharmD

Anesthesiologist at Roswell Park and Department Chief

A smiling person wearing a bike helmet and a white cycling jersey with "Empire State Ride" and a bicycle logo stands outdoors at a cycling event, with bikes and trees visible in the background.

“I’ve been participating in Ride for Roswell for a number of years and was encouraged by my colleague (Dr. Julia Faller) to try Empire State Ride. I finally made the commitment last year and had a phenomenal time. Everyone involved in Empire State Ride was fantastic — the founder, Terry Bourgeois (and his wife, Maria!), the Alliance leadership who coordinated the week, the volunteers who gave their time and the riders who pushed through the long days.

I was shocked when I first arrived at Wagner College — the size of the event is really intimidating! Everyone I met along the way was welcoming and encouraging. They made it fun and easy. I made friends every day along the way and had an experience that I will never forget.

I initially signed up as a personal challenge, to be able to say that “I did it! I rode my bike across the state.” That’s not what brings me back. Meeting people, hearing the stories of why they are participating and working together every day as a team to get across the state was special. The nightly meetings stand out in my memory because they were always filled with hope and really inspirational.

I look forward to my shorter two-day ride this year and can’t wait to do the full week again in 2027!”

Gretchen Zimmerman, MS, RN

Sr. Clinical Informatics Specialist

Two cyclists wearing medals and matching jerseys stand side by side, smiling and holding a bicycle overhead. There is water and a cityscape in the background, suggesting they finished a race or event.

“I joined Empire State Ride because it brings together two things that matter to me — making an impact in the fight against cancer and pushing myself both physically and mentally. The mission to raise funds for Roswell’s cancer research really stuck with me, especially knowing that every mile actually contributes to something bigger. What keeps me coming back is the sense of purpose and the people. There’s something special about riding alongside others who are all there for a reason — whether it’s for loved ones, patients, or personal goals. It’s humbling, motivating and honestly just sticks with you long after it’s over, which makes it an easy choice to come back.”

David Newman

Executive Director of Capital Projects

Two smiling cyclists wearing "Empire State Ride to End Cancer" jerseys and sunglasses stand together outdoors, surrounded by other riders, with trees and blue sky in the background.

“My dear friend and riding partner, a Roswell Park patient and fundraiser, convinced me to ride. I am riding in honor and memory of my friend who lost his 39-year cancer battle in 2025.”

Brian Morreale, Ph.D.

Postdoctoral Fellow

Two cyclists ride on a forested trail. The person in front, wearing a helmet and glasses, smiles and gestures excitedly, while the second cyclist follows behind, also smiling. Both wear matching cycling jerseys. Lush green trees surround them.

“I was inspired by the riders and the cause to raise funds for cancer research. The comradery and immense support/love from the riders builds a lifelong community.”

Jennifer Queeno

Administrative Assistant for Individual Gifts

Two people ride bikes on a paved path through greenery. The woman in front, wearing a helmet and sunglasses, smiles at the camera. The man behind her, also in sunglasses, smiles as well. Both appear to be enjoying the outdoor ride.

“I found the hometown challenge to be a bit more approachable than the Empire State ride for this year. I can still ride and fundraise, but on my own schedule. The work that the researchers at Roswell do is very important in not only helping to prevent, but possibly even eradicate cancer, especially with the research in the genetics and genomics and the CAR T-cell therapies that are coming out. I want to help raise the funds to keep that research going.”

Renier Brentjens, MD, PhD

Deputy Director of Roswell Park

Three smiling adults wearing cycling jerseys stand together outdoors in front of a white event tent, with green grass and trees in the background. Two wear matching blue jerseys, and one wears a white "Excelsior" jersey.

“When I first started at Roswell I was absolutely struck by all the fundraising activities that the institution has, and I know how important it is for the research to come up with better ways to cure cancer. So I figured, if I can use the money for my research, I can see what it takes to raise the money.”

Emily Isenhart

Genetics, Genomics, and Bioinformatics Doctoral Candidate

A woman with two braids, wearing a helmet and colorful cycling jersey, rides a bike on a road, followed by two cyclists in similar attire. Lush greenery is in the background.

“I’m riding in memory of the loved ones I’ve lost to gynecological cancers, in honor of my grandmother — a cancer survivor — and to stand up for science. Breakthroughs in treatments and cures only happen through research, and Empire State Ride fuels that progress by funding cutting-edge cancer science at Roswell Park. I’m excited to be part of something bigger than myself, with a community of people who care deeply, show up for each other, and believe in the power of research to create a better future.”

Jennifer Tuttle

Manager, Employee Advocacy and Fairness

“I’m participating in the Empire State Ride because I believe in the power of community and the importance of supporting groundbreaking cancer research. This ride is a personal challenge and a way to honor loved ones affected by cancer. I’m looking forward to the camaraderie, the scenic routes and the sense of accomplishment that comes with every mile.

In high school, I dreamed of riding my bike across the country. Empire State Ride is an incredible opportunity to combine my love for the open road, my attraction to intense challenges and my desire to support our community. By participating, I can help provide services to individuals, families and friends during the most difficult times of their lives. 🚴‍♂️✨“

Noelle Linke, JD, MS, BS

Executive Director of Pathology

Want to get involved?

Join us at the finish line to cheer the 2026 road warriors on, Saturday, August 1, starting at 1 p.m. in Niagara Falls.

Finish line details

Turning Grief Into Hope: Why Kirk Olson Chose to Sign up for ESR

Posted on by Jocelyn McNamara

Turning Grief Into Hope: Why Kirk Olson Chose to Sign up for ESR

A person in a red jacket and bike helmet smiles for a selfie in front of a wooden fence, with a bicycle nearby and a green, sunny countryside landscape in the background.

While scrolling on social media one day, Kirk Olson came across an ad that stopped him mid-scroll: cyclists riding past the New York City skyline and the words “500+ Miles. One Mission.”

“I did an MS 100 here in New York City about 10 years ago, and I enjoyed that experience,” Kirk explained. “I was looking for something similar that would also help me feel like I’m honoring my sister and all the people that I know who’ve been impacted by cancer. And so, I thought, ‘Oh, I’ve got to look into this.”

That ad was for Empire State Ride, a seven-day, 500+ mile journey from New York City to Niagara Falls that raises funds for cancer research at Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center and across the globe. Each summer, riders take on the challenge with one shared goal: to fuel new cancer research and find better treatment options for patients.

For Kirk, the decision to sign up started with one person in particular: his big sister, Vicki.

A Legacy That Made an Impact

Kirk is the youngest in his family, and his sister Vicki Olson Anderson, being 13 years older, was like a second mother to him.

“She had that nurturing mother kind of spirit, but also like a big sister who was my friend. She was one of those people who you know you can call for advice, to just listen or get whatever support that you need.”

Kirk Olson

Vicki made a monumental impact on Kirk’s life, inspiring him to double major in French and English after watching her learn French growing up, to take up crochet — one of her favorite hobbies and a sentimental way of giving gifts — and to always try to help people whenever he could, just as she did.

That final lesson of compassion and generosity has stayed with Kirk always, motivating him to look for opportunities to make a difference and inspiring him to take part in events like Empire State Ride.

A teenage girl with long brown hair and glasses smiles while holding a baby in yellow pajamas. A decorated Christmas tree and wrapped gifts are visible in the background.
Four children stand outside a house. One girl in a white graduation gown stands behind three younger boys in dress clothes. The house number "7442" is visible on the wall behind them.

“The way I always describe it to people is the grief is still there and it’s always going to be there, but the edges aren't as sharp.”

Kirk Olson

A Cancer Diagnosis that Changed Everything

In 2012, Vicki was diagnosed with an aggressive form of vulvar cancer. No one in the family expected how quickly everything would change.

Her oncologist explained that vulvar cancers don’t usually migrate above the midline of the body, however, hers spread rapidly and unexpectedly to other areas of her body.

“It was an aggressive cancer,” Kirk recalled. “It moved from being localized to systematic and metastasizing. It was only about a year between her diagnosis and her passing.”

Learning to cope with the sudden loss of such a prominent figure in his life was extremely difficult and now, thirteen years later, that grief hasn’t gone away.

“The way I always describe it to people is the grief is still there and it’s always going to be there,” Kirk said. “But the edges aren’t as sharp.”

This year, as Kirk turns the same age as his sister when she passed – 54 – that perspective feels especially powerful.

Channeling Loss Into Action

For Kirk, Empire State Ride is a way to turn his grief into something hopeful.

“The Empire State Ride just felt like this thing I could do to help all the people who are impacted by cancer — whether facing a diagnosis, having a family member going through treatment or facing the absence of someone we’ve lost,” he said. “I want to help raise funds to make it better for everyone who has to go through this.”

But Kirk isn’t just riding for Vicki. He is riding for many other family and friends affected by this disease, including his husband who is also a cancer survivor. He also rides in memory of his husband’s cousin, Anders Larson-Toich, who was diagnosed with a rare glioblastoma at 17 and passed away at 23. Though Kirk never met him, he knows that for his husband – who never had a brother – losing Anders was like losing one.

“Cancer has been this looming presence in my life for probably 30 or 40 years. It’s like this dark, terrible thing that has taken lives and could take more lives. I just want to do something to help lessen the possibility of its terrible impact on other people.”

Kirk Olson
A person in a red jacket and bike helmet smiles for a selfie in front of a wooden fence, with a bicycle nearby and a green, sunny countryside landscape in the background.
Two men smiling and posing together indoors. One wears a red cycling jacket, a helmet with the number 10972, glasses, and medals. The other wears glasses and a black jacket. Industrial background with white walls and metal barriers.

Kirk has never ridden this far or taken on such an intense physical challenge, but he knows his purpose is far greater than any discomfort he’ll feel on the road. After witnessing the toll cancer takes on patients and the people who love them, he’s committed to fueling research that can spare others from the kind of loss and hardship he’s seen again and again.

In many ways, the ride is an extension of the lesson Vicki taught him years ago: when you have a chance to help someone, you do.

“This ride is going to be difficult for me,” Kirk said. “I’m going to have moments of struggle, discomfort or even pain. It’s nothing compared to what they went through.”

Fueling Hope Through Cancer Research

That desire to “lessen the possibility of the terrible impact on other people” comes down to one thing: funding better options.

Through Empire State Ride, the money raised supports Roswell Park’s clinical trials and early-stage research — especially for cancers and patient groups that don’t always receive enough attention or government funding. As someone who works in advertising, specifically in the research and insights sector, Kirk knows how easy it is to focus on the biggest numbers. But what drew him to fundraising for Roswell Park is the center’s commitment to the outliers: the rare cancers, the adolescents in between pediatric and adult care and the patients whose cases fall outside the norm.

A man wearing a bike helmet and a Columbia University shirt takes a selfie on a wooden bridge over a lake, with his blue bicycle beside him and leafless trees in the background.

Walking alongside his husband through the grief of losing his cousin as well as losing his own sister deepened Kirk’s understanding of how devastating outlier cancers can be and solidified his commitment to helping these often overlooked and understudied groups.

“In my work, I look at statistics all the time, but behind every number is a person. New effective treatments that help people with a diagnosis live longer or live better for whatever time they have left — that’s meaningful.”

Kirk Olson

Knowing that his miles can help spark new cancer treatments and give more families options and hope is what inspired Kirk to sign up for Empire State Ride. From here, he promises to keep pedaling forward — for Vicki, Anders and all cancer patients and survivors.

Current research happening at Roswell Park
Learn more about ESR
Cyclists at an outdoor event hold a large banner reading "Empire State Ride to End Cancer" with an illustrated bike symbol, surrounded by cheering people and city buildings in the background.

Join us at the finish line!

Posted on by Jocelyn McNamara

Join us at the finish line!

A large group of people in matching athletic attire pose for a group photo by a riverside, with trees and distant buildings visible across the water under a partly cloudy sky.

Celebrate Empire State Ride 2026

Saturday, August 1, from 2 p.m. – 6 p.m.

Watching more than 250 Empire State Ride cyclists cross the finish line on Old Falls Street is an experience unlike any other. In that moment, road warriors achieve their goal of riding 500+ miles across New York State while raising essential funds for cancer research. You can be a part of the unforgettable moment!

Join us in celebrating this monumental achievement by cheering riders on at the finish line!

There will be a plenty of music, excitement and celebration to honor the road warriors and congratulate them on completing their seven-day adventure. All ESR riders will cross the finish line around 4 p.m.

Here’s what you can expect:

  • DJ Pat Cray
  • Opportunity to purchase ESR gear
  • Awesome signs and plenty of cheering
  • Smiles as hundreds of road warriors embrace that finish line feeling

What to bring:

  • Enthusiasm
  • Inspiration and willingness to create a sign
  • Spending money and appropriate gear for the weather
A large, cheerful group of people pose together outdoors in summer clothes, some with raised arms and smiles. One person holds a sign that reads, "Niagara Falls but you didn't turn de richey." Trees and a building are in the background.
A smiling woman and young girl hold a poster with a photo of a man and the text "You're the BEST!! My Dad." They are outdoors at an event, surrounded by other people in the background.

Parking:

Discounted parking is available for family and friends in lots P1 – P2 – P3 on the map below. Bring your parking ticket from the machine to the Niagara Falls Convention Center, located at 101 Old Falls Street, for validation.

Map of Niagara Falls Convention Center area showing parking lots (Park Block, Middle Block, East Block), streets, and nearby locations like Sheraton, Quality Hotel & Suites, Casino, and Seneca Gaming Corp.
Cyclists in colorful jerseys ride past cheering spectators at a race event, with one cyclist in front smiling and waving. Banners, trees, and barriers line the street under a sunny sky.
A young woman stands by a white barricade at an outdoor event, holding a sign that reads "Woot! K-Dog & Jenn!" with a heart drawn on it. Other people line up nearby, watching the event on a sunny day.
Two cyclists in helmets and sunglasses hug each other in celebration at an outdoor event, surrounded by a large group of people in similar cycling gear on a sunny day.
Four smiling adults, three in cycling gear with medals, stand outdoors by bikes. A woman in a green shirt holds a sign reading "Way to ride the ESR Tom Joe." Trees and buildings appear in the background.
An older woman in cycling gear smiles and gives a thumbs up at a cycling event, surrounded by other cyclists and people in the background. She wears sunglasses and an orange lanyard.
Five people, including three adults and two children, pose and smile together by a metal railing overlooking a river or waterfall on a sunny day. City buildings and mist are visible in the background.
Three smiling men stand together at a cycling event. One wears a cycling outfit and helmet; the other two wear pink shirts and hats. They hold a sign that reads “WAY TO GO, GO, NED” with a bike leaning nearby.
An older man wearing sunglasses and a headset hugs a woman outdoors. He holds a water bottle, and she has her hand on his back. Other people are nearby, and trees line the sunny street in the background.
Two men stand on a cobblestone street; one is wearing a cycling outfit and holding a bike, the other holds a colorful sign reading "Go Luxiang." Trees and people are visible in the background.

Enjoying Niagara Falls USA!

After cheering on the ESR road warriors, make the most of your trip by enjoying this bucket-list destination.

Niagara Falls USA offers:

“The best part of the whole thing? Seeing that finish line moment."

Caitlin Pietz

RSVP to the finish line celebration

Research Matters: Your Ride Powers Critical Cancer Research

Posted on by Jocelyn McNamara
A person wearing protective gloves and a lab suit handles a vial with pink liquid, placing it in a rack with other vials and bottles on a sterile laboratory workbench.

Research Matters: Your Ride Powers Critical Cancer Research

Before the Victory Bell ringings, the celebrations and the breakthrough treatments — there’s been research. That’s where progress begins. And right there, at the start line, is Empire State Ride.

Since 2014, funds raised by ESR participants have helped drive advancements in cancer research, breakthroughs that are saving lives today. To help put that impact into perspective, Roswell Park experts share why Research Matters and how the dollars raised through ESR are shaping the future of how we understand and treat cancer.

Roswell Park Experts Weigh In

Four panelists sit on stage discussing in front of a screen displaying “WHY RESEARCH MATTERS” and photos of various people, at what appears to be a public lecture or conference event.

The theme of the discussion, Research Matters, ties into a larger campaign across Roswell Park, highlighting the significance of science in the fight against cancer.

  • Mukund Seshadri, Dean, Office of Cancer Education and Training; Chair, Department of Oral Oncology
  • Joyce Ohm, Chair of Cancer Genetics and Genomics
  • Kenan Onel, Chief, Clinical Genomics; Director, Center for Precision Oncology and Cancer Prevention

More Than a Decade of Progress

Dr. Ohm, who began her work in cancer research in 1997, had this answer to what has changed over the past decades when it comes to treating patients: everything.

“When I first started, we had literally three treatments: surgery, chemotherapy, radiation. And those are still the mainstream treatments by which we treat our patients, and they work and they do wonderful things,” said Dr. Ohm. “But many [fundraisers] are patients, survivors or have family members who’ve been treated here. They started to hear a lot of different words in the hospital. Things like immunotherapy, targeted therapy, biologics, antibody-based therapy, small molecule inhibitors.”

She explained that, today, when patients come in, they get not generic treatments, but targeted options that are meant to treat their individual cancers in the best possible way.

Every one of these new approaches started in a lab. Many of them were funded by dollars raised through Empire State Ride.

A woman with short brown hair, wearing a white lab coat and light blue top, stands smiling in a bright hallway with large windows. The lab coat displays the Roswell Park logo and a name badge.
A group of cyclists in matching blue "Empire State Ride" jerseys and helmets smile at the camera, with two people in the center posing closely, outdoors on a sunny day.

An Idea -> A Breakthrough

A man with glasses, gray hair, and a beard is wearing a dark suit, blue shirt, and tie. He is smiling and standing in a brightly lit indoor setting with blurred windows in the background.
A large group of people wearing matching white and yellow shirts pose together outdoors on grass, with trees and blue sky in the background, smiling at the camera.

Mukund Seshadri leads Roswell Park’s Scientific Advisory Committee (SAC), which oversees the competitive review process used to award research grants through the Roswell Park Alliance Foundation. These grants are what researchers call seed funding.

“Literally true to the word, it’s seed funding. It’s an idea that, at the stage of the seed, your donor dollars give it the water and fertilizer and everything else that’s needed for that seed to grow into a plant and hopefully a big tree that lasts,” said Dr. Seshadri.

Each year, Roswell Park scientists apply for these grants, which help launch new research initiatives that may one day lead to new treatments, diagnostics or prevention strategies. Philanthropic dollars, from events like Empire State Ride, help make this research possible. Top Empire State Ride fundraisers, who raise $20,000 or more, known as Excelsior Riders, even have the opportunity to designate a SAC grant to support a specific research project.

Check out what 2025 excelsior riders funded

Dr. Seshadri reflected on receiving one of these grants early in his career when he was an assistant professor.

“When someone asks you what’s their return on investment, I’m the return on their investment.” Dr. Seshadri added, “So [the ESR Community], has literally provided that seed funding to countless projects across our cancer center that have gone from the whole spectrum of a simple idea in the laboratory to a clinical trial. You name it in the whole gamut. You have made it possible.”

World-Class Research at Roswell Park

From its inception in 1898, Roswell Park identified cancer research as a core element of its mission. Since then, groundbreaking research by Roswell scientists has led to greater understanding of the nature of cancer and to major advances in cancer diagnosis and treatment.

Roswell Park has been designated by the National Cancer Institute (NCI) as a comprehensive cancer center for more than four decades. That means when you raise funds for Roswell Park, you’re supporting some of the top cancer care and research in the country … if not the world.

Dr. Onel is a physician scientist, so he sees the impact of the dollars raised on both the bench and the bedside.

“My department is called clinical genomics, and we take care of people and families that are increased risk for cancer because of their genes or because of their family history. We perform genetic testing and then we do something that actually doesn’t exist anywhere else in the country,” said Dr. Onel. “We actually created the world’s first medical home for people and families that are increased risk for cancer because of their genes or family history. It’s baffling to me why it’s not everywhere, but it’s not. We’re the first and the only one.”

By making new discoveries about cancer every day — how it grows, how to detect it, how to stop it — and using these discoveries to set the global standards for how to treat it, we not only save the lives of patients who walk through our doors, we help to save lives across the world.

A smiling older man with gray hair and glasses, wearing a white lab coat and red patterned tie, stands with arms crossed in a bright hallway with large windows.
A smiling cyclist raises her fist in celebration while riding in a race with other cyclists on a city street, cheered on by spectators behind barricades. A “Go Mom!” sign is attached to her bike.

Why Fundraise? Why Now?

A woman speaks to a group of four adults standing beside white refrigerators in a lab or storage room. The group listens attentively, and some wear jackets and hats. The setting appears to be an educational or informational tour.
Two cyclists in matching jerseys smile and hold their bikes above their heads in celebration near a railing, with a river and misty waterfall in the background. Both wear medals around their necks.

Cancer research has always been imperative, but in today’s climate, that sentiment is especially true. The need for philanthropic funds to fill the gap in federal funding is urgent.

The National Institutes of Health (NIH) and the NCI fund most of the cancer research across the world; that’s the big money pool. However, right now, only about 4% of grants are being funded. So how does a researcher make sure their project doesn’t fall in the other 96% percent that goes unfunded?

“What you have to do is you have to have a great idea. You have to have an amazing team. You have to have a lot of preliminary data. While the NCI funds most of our research, the most important research dollars that we get come from you riding a bike. I ride my bike, too,” emphasized Dr. Ohm. “Those dollars fund the pilot projects. They fund the new idea. They let us ask a new question. They let us take a new direction. They let us get that missing piece of data that I need to convince those reviewers at the NCI that idea is really, really good, and it’s going to work.”

Funds raised by Empire State Ride participants like you are the change agent. Your efforts are what will bridge that gap, and your passion for this cause is what will save lives. There are patients today still searching for one more option — and Roswell Park researchers, hand in hand with the ESR community, are committed to bringing those innovations to the people who need them most.

The Mission to End Cancer

The word “cure” is one seldom used in talking about cancer. But, after 12 years and more than $12 million raised, its meaning has evolved.

“There probably is not going to be one cure for cancer, but I can tell you that we are curing individual patients’ cancers today,” said Dr. Ohm. “And we’re doing that with increasing frequency. There are more and more survivors every day that walk out of here, and they live long, happy lives, and they get to spend time with their families. And it’s amazing.”

That transition is because of you. And it’s also because of you that we believe ending cancer as we know it is within reach, but we can’t stop now. In fact, now is the time we need to pick up the pace, with our sights locked on the finish line.

Thank you for making a difference through Empire State Ride, and thank you for believing what we know to be true: Research Matters.

Learn more about your impact

From Doctor to Patient Advocate

Posted on by Jocelyn McNamara
A cyclist wearing a colorful jersey and red helmet stands on a wooden dock by the water, smiling and holding a road bike. Wooden posts and a clear blue sky are in the background.

From Doctor to Patient Advocate

How Steven Wilkins Turned His Cancer Journey Into Action on Empire State Ride

For decades, Steven Wilkins helped patients navigate some of the most difficult moments of their lives. As a surgeon, he was used to explaining diagnoses, outlining treatment plans and guiding families through uncertainty.

About a year and a half ago, Steven found himself on the other side of that conversation, hearing the words he had delivered to others so many times before: 

You have cancer.

A smiling man in cycling attire stands in a bike shop, giving a thumbs up next to a gray Cannondale bicycle. Several other bikes are displayed in the background.

When the Doctor Becomes the Patient

A diagnosis of thyroid cancer, followed soon after by prostate cancer, placed him in an unfamiliar role: the patient.

As a surgeon, Steven had spent his career helping others. Suddenly finding himself on the other side of care was an adjustment and he knew he didn’t want to be passive in the process.

“As a surgeon who doesn’t really like to sit still, I wanted to do something besides just be a patient,” Steven said. “I’ve spent my life taking care of cancer, and now that I have it myself, I felt like at least something good could come from it.”

He kept coming back to that thought: “something good.”

A group of nine cyclists wearing colorful cycling gear and helmets poses with their bikes on a sunny day near the ocean. The sky is clear and blue, and the sea is visible in the background.

“As a surgeon who doesn’t really like to sit still, I wanted to do something besides just be a patient. I’ve spent my life taking care of cancer, and now that I have it myself, I felt like at least something good could come from it.”

Steven Wilkins

Finding Purpose After a Cancer Diagnosis

Cancer had already left its mark on his family. When his mother passed away from non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma, Steven and his three children ran a marathon in her honor.

“It gave us something to do as a family, and it meant something,” he said. “Twenty years later, I had to think of another thing I could do of that magnitude. I can’t run a marathon anymore, but I’m a biker, so this feels like something I can do.”

That “something” is Empire State Ride — 500 miles across New York State to fuel lifesaving cancer research.

Five cyclists pose for a group selfie in a parking lot near the beach on a sunny day, all wearing helmets and brightly colored cycling gear, with bikes and parked cars visible in the background.

Riding 500 Miles to Advance Cancer Research

Exercise has long been part of Steven’s life. He plays daily tennis matches, ran a marathon and even made it a tradition to complete long-distance rides with his family while growing up. Movement has always been how he challenges himself. But this ride carries a different weight.

He had heard about Empire State Ride through Suffolk Bicycle Riders Association, a local cycling club. What he hadn’t fully realized was the magnitude of the ride’s impact.

“What I wasn’t aware of beforehand was what a high fraction of the research was funded by fundraisers like this,” Steven explained. “And once I found that out, it added to why I wanted to assist in fundraising.”

For Steven, research isn’t an abstract concept. He’s seen what it makes possible. He’s watched treatments improve. He’s also seen what happens when options run out.

Two cyclists in matching colorful jerseys and red helmets smile for the camera while standing with their bikes at an outdoor cycling event, with other cyclists and bikes in the background on a sunny day.

Seeing the Impact of Cancer Research Firsthand

Now, as he prepares for his first Empire State Ride, every mile feels personal. He rides thinking about the patients he once treated, about his mother, about his own children and about the families who will face diagnoses in the future.

Five hundred miles won’t erase a diagnosis. But it can help fuel the research that changes what a diagnosis means and gives patients more options. And that keeps Steven riding strong.

Ride stronger with Steven. Join him for two days from Weedsport to Niagara Falls, tackle the 500+ Mile Hometown Challenge or join the Priority Registration List for 2027.

Two-Day Ride

500+ Mile Hometown Challenge

Priority Registration 2027

2026 Empire State Ride Mentors

Posted on by Jocelyn McNamara

2026 Empire State Ride Mentors

A man in cycling gear kneels and holds up a ring to a smiling woman in matching attire, while other cyclists watch and smile in the background. The scene appears joyful and celebratory outdoors.

Being a first-time rider in the Empire State Rider can feel overwhelming. The what-ifs come fast: 

“What if I’m not ready?”

“What if I can’t keep up?”

“What if I don’t belong?” 

That’s exactly why the ESR mentors are here to help. Our mentors are seasoned riders who were once standing in your shoes, carrying the same nerves and questions. They’re here to answer anything you’re wondering about, share training and fundraising tips and ride beside you during those hard miles. For ESR 2026, we’re lucky to have 12 incredible mentors. We spoke with each of them to hear how their ESR journey began, what they wish they’d known as new riders and how they help their mentees feel confident and prepared for a week on the road.

Maritza Torres-Rivera

4th Year Riding

A smiling woman with long brown hair wears a gray "Empire State Ride to End Cancer" T-shirt, standing outside in front of a blurred green, leafy background.

I found Empire State Ride at a turning point when a friend’s cancer returned and our plans to walk El Camino de Santiago changed. I saw an ESR ad and knew I could ride for her. What started as one emotional finish line became a mission. I started Team Borikén, became an Excelsior rider and have gained a second family.

You don’t have to be the fastest or strongest to belong, just show up, pedal and remember your why. Lean on the community, start fundraising early and have fun. You’ll be amazed how far support (and snacks) can take you.

As a mentor, my goal is simple: No one feels alone. I help new riders find their why, share it confidently and feel empowered every step of the way — from fundraising tips to pep talks to what to pack.

Tom Flynn

9th Year Riding

A smiling older man with gray hair stands outdoors on grass, wearing a red and white checkered short-sleeve shirt and gray pants. Trees and a brick building are visible in the blurred background.

I got involved with Empire State Ride when a friend’s wife was diagnosed with colon cancer — he encouraged me to join, so I bought a bike and started riding. I really enjoy the camaraderie and mission. 

Be prepared with an elevator pitch that tells the ride story and your story.  Cancer is connectable with most people. Bonus: Start riding as much as you can.

This is my first year as a mentor, but I will make sure to help in whatever way I can.

Jane Eshbaugh

7th Year Riding

A smiling older woman with gray hair wears a black cap, sunglasses on top, and a white t-shirt with a colorful graphic, standing outdoors with greenery in the background.

In 2022, I became a patient at Roswell Park, so everything we supported at Roswell suddenly became even more important to me! I know firsthand how hard everyone at Roswell works to give patients excellent care and even more importantly, how hard the researchers work to come up with new treatments and ultimately cures.

Look around at all the riders and volunteers to see how dedicated everyone is to funding research! We’re all in this together for a common cause.

As a mentor, I communicate with my mentees mostly via email and just try to encourage them, reassure them and give them ideas for fundraising.

Jason Maher

8th Year Riding

I’ve often said if you don’t laugh, sweat and cry a little each of the seven days, you missed the full experience. I found ESR after losing my mom to cancer, and it’s been a journey of healing, growth, mentorship and leaving the world better than I found it.

Prioritize sleep and gear. A 35L Sea to Summit eVac Dry Bag keeps a queen pillow, sheet, sleeping bag and liner dry and cozy — no trash bags or tiny camp pillows needed after 90 miles!

As a mentor, I host Zoom calls, send daily tips via group text leading up to orientation and ride with any mentee who wants it, always matching their pace.

Christine Standish

4th Year Riding

A woman with long gray hair and glasses on her head stands outside. She wears a navy "Empire State Ride to End Cancer" T-shirt and blue jeans, with a green, tree-filled background.

I look forward to ESR for so many reasons. I get to support Roswell and the incredible work being done to cure cancer (a cause that means a lot to me) while training and riding alongside the most supportive, passionate people. I first got involved after Ride for Roswell, with encouragement from ESR alumni like my brother-in-law, Geoff.

The ride can feel daunting, but start early with fundraising, training and bike prep. Once the ride begins, the support will absolutely blow you away.

As a mentor, I check in before, during and after the ride — answering questions, riding when I can and offering support. It’s mentally and physically challenging, but with the right planning, it becomes the hardest ride you’ll ever love. Welcome to the family. 😊

Harold Bolton

7th Year Riding

I found Empire State Ride on social media, loved the challenge and signed up with my wife’s support. I knew by the second water stop this would be something I’d do for as long as I could. ESR 2026 will be my 7th ride and being part of Terry’s vision (especially riding alongside cancer survivors and patients) is truly life-changing.

Don’t overthink it. Each day is just four 25-mile segments.

As a mentor, I help new riders understand what to expect, encourage them not to overthink it, connect them with veteran riders and remind them it’s a ride, not a race.

Phil Zodda

9th Year Riding

A man with a gray beard and glasses stands outdoors on grass, wearing an orange "Empire State Ride" T-shirt that reads "7 Days, 500 Miles, One Mission to End Cancer." Trees and a path are visible in the background.

I got involved after a chance meeting with Steve Mars and later dedicated my ride to my niece who passed from breast cancer. Over the years, I’ve watched ESR grow from a small group to an incredible community, and I started the Dragon Slayers team to help keep that spirit strong.

Try camping instead of staying in hotels, at least once. There’s so much you gain socially and emotionally by being at the campsites with other riders.

As a mentor, I focus on real conversations — phone calls, Zooms and riding together when possible. On the road, I make sure no one feels left behind and remind riders that most limits are mental, not physical. My goal is to help every new rider feel confident, prepared and part of the ESR family.

Jim Cairns

4th Year Riding

A man stands outdoors on green grass, wearing glasses, a black "Empire State Ride to End Cancer" t-shirt, white shorts, a blue wristband, and a smart watch, smiling at the camera with trees in the background.

I first saw ESR on social media and thought, that would be cool to do, but I waited a year to prepare. Once I committed, I went all in, and now I can’t imagine not riding. The friendships and camaraderie make it the best week of the year. What started as a personal challenge became something bigger; by year three, I was focused less on myself and more on supporting others. Truly life-changing.

Pack each day’s kit in ziplock bags, including post-ride clothes, so everything is easy to grab. Bring binder clips to hang your gear to air out, simple tricks that make life on the road much easier.

As a mentor, I focus on listening to riders’ concerns and reminding them they’re not alone. Whatever they’re nervous about, there are resources and people ready to help long before the ride begins.

Harvey Bondar

& Button 🐶

4th Year Riding

An older man in an orange "Empire State Ride" t-shirt and black cap holds a small, gray dog outdoors, standing near a brick building with greenery in the background.

After completing the Arthritis Foundation’s California Coastal Challenge, I was looking for something similar in a different location. As a native New Yorker (Brooklyn) and alumnus of Buffalo State and UB, riding in my home state was especially meaningful. It’s become a ritual for my partner, Patty, and me. Along the way, I reconnect with family and old friends and over the years, we’ve also built lasting friendships within the ESR community.

Bring earplugs, particularly on the first night when we are sleeping on Saturday Night Fever Boulevard. 🙂

As a mentor, I first like to know each rider’s story. I then listen and answer their questions about the ride. After that I check off the few things I think were not covered including: Charging, terrain, training basics, food, weather variability/ preparations and social milieu of the ride.

Juliette Reashor

3rd Year Riding

A woman with curly brown hair wearing a sleeveless blue top, peace sign necklace, and smartwatch smiles outdoors with trees and a building in the background.

I can’t say enough positive things about ESR. From the moment my sister, Janice, and I set foot on the Wagner College campus for our first ride in 2024, we could feel how special this community and mission were. The week was lifechanging in so many ways and we were hooked!

ESR is incredibly well organized, staffed and supported by a thoughtful team. Whatever you need along the way, they’ve already thought of it — so leave your worries behind and enjoy the ride.

As a mentor, I like to help put riders’ minds at ease by addressing any questions or concerns they may have. It’s been fun talking with them and hearing their personal stories about why they’re riding. I like to remind them that we’re all in this together, to ride at their own pace and to soak up every mile of this fulfilling journey.  

Steve Wasserman

4th Year Riding

I first signed up to celebrate a milestone birthday and challenge myself in a meaningful way. Training with Steve Mars and other alumni is when I truly went all in. What began as a personal goal quickly became something much bigger, impacting me physically, mentally and emotionally. Beyond pushing my limits and meeting incredible people, it’s the mission of funding cancer research and giving real hope to patients that keeps me coming back year after year.

Remember this isn’t a race—it’s a journey. Take in the scenery, the camaraderie and the shared purpose of funding cancer research.

As a mentor, I start with a welcome message and a call to answer questions, then stay connected through training rides, check-ins and encouragement. Building community and confidence is my top priority.

Colleen Regan-Kreuz

4th Year Riding

A smiling woman wearing glasses, a black cap, a white "I want to ride my bike 2022 to end cancer" T-shirt, and an orange tutu stands outdoors with green trees in the background.

I first heard about ESR from rider Lynn DiMarco, who planted the first seed. After losing my brother, Larry, to cancer in 2021, my family and I did the Ride for Roswell in his memory, where we met another ESR rider who shared how special this event is. That planted the next seed, and soon after, a chance meeting with ESR founder Terry Bourgeois and Maria Coccia-Bourgeois sealed the deal. What started as a “one and done” turned into something so meaningful that our whole group is now coming back for year four.

Don’t stress about the ride itself — just follow your training and remember support is always available. The Boost Bus is there at the start, and there’s a ride at the end if you need it. Just be prepared to spend time with what might be the BEST GROUP OF PEOPLE you’ve ever been with! 

As a mentor, I want to make myself available to answer questions, offer support and connect my mentees with other new riders with other amazing people in the ESR family. If possible, I’d love the chance to ride with them ahead of time. 

Learn more about the ride

Coach Charlie Livermore: Winter Training Tips

Posted on by Jocelyn McNamara
A man with gray hair and a beard speaks to a seated audience in a gym. He wears a gray "Empire State FP 2025" shirt and a backpack. Green bleachers and people wearing hats are visible in the background.

Winter Training Tips:

By Coach Charlie Livermore

Ready to kickstart your training for Empire State Ride this summer? Here are some winter training tips from Coach Charlie Livermore that will help get your body prepared for the challenge of riding 500+ miles! As Coach Charlie would say, “Winter miles = summer smiles!”

Embrace Indoor Training

Make Zwift or TrainingPeaks Virtual your best friend. Structured workouts (sweet spot, VO2 max intervals, endurance rides) are far more effective than just spinning. Join virtual group rides or races to keep the social/motivational side alive.

A woman in athletic wear smiles while riding a stationary bike in a group spin class held indoors under bright, colorful lights. Other participants ride bikes behind her.

Build a Solid Strength Routine (2–3x/week)

Winter is the perfect time for strength training. Focus on:

Core: (planks, dead bugs, bird dogs)

Single-leg exercises: (lunges, step-ups, Bulgarian split squats)

Posterior chain: (glute bridges, Romanian deadlifts)
These prevent imbalances and make you stronger when spring hits. Cross-train to stay fresh

Yoga or mobility work: improve flexibility and reduce tightness from indoor riding.

Focus on Cadence and Pedal Stroke Drills

On the trainer, do single-leg drills, high-cadence spins (100–120 rpm) and low-cadence strength intervals. These improve efficiency and smoothness for next season.

Work on Weaknesses

Winter is for fixing limiters:

  • Poor threshold? → More sweet-spot intervals
  • Bad climbing legs? → Over-under intervals or low-cadence work
  • Sprint weakness? → Add microbursts and 10–15 second max efforts
A group of cyclists in matching orange jerseys ride along a paved path beside trees. The lead cyclist, wearing a yellow helmet, smiles and extends an arm out playfully.
Two people are stretching on yoga mats indoors, leaning forward with their forearms on the floor and heads bowed, seemingly focused and relaxed during a fitness or yoga class.

Prioritize Recovery and Sleep

Cold weather + hard training = higher stress. Get 8+ hours of sleep, eat plenty of protein/carbs and consider a foam roller or massage gun routine.

Have Fun!

Mix in silly trainer challenges (Zwift Everest, virtual tours) or indoor bike games. Staying consistent is easier when you’re not miserable.

Don’t just survive the off-season!

-Coach Charlie

A smiling cyclist rides through floating bubbles on a paved path, wearing a helmet and colorful outfit. People sit and cheer in the background, some with bright clothes and raised arms. Trees and greenery surround the scene.
2026 ESR Training Plan
More Training Tips

From riders to advocates: How the Suttons found deeper purpose on Empire State Ride

Posted on by Jocelyn McNamara
Two older adults, a man and a woman, stand outdoors smiling, wearing matching cycling jerseys and medals around their necks. Green trees and grass are in the background on a sunny day.

From riders to advocates: How the Suttons found deeper purpose on Empire State Ride

The sun had barely risen when Linda Szal Sutton and Barry Sutton clipped into their bikes for their first Empire State Ride in 2023. The morning air buzzed with excitement as hundreds of riders prepared to take on the challenge of riding 500+ miles across New York State, united by one mission: to end cancer.

For Linda and Barry, Empire State Ride started as an adventure, a way to combine their love of cycling and their drive to give back. They never imagined how personal ESR’s mission would become.

Riding for a Cause Close to Their Hearts

Before Empire State Ride, the Suttons rode every summer in Ride for Roswell, where they honored their nephew, PJ, who passed away from cancer when he was just eight years old, and Linda’s father, Marty Szal, who passed away from acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL).

“PJ was four when my sister felt something behind his ear. He had rhabdomyosarcoma and went to Boston Children's and had a 23 hour long surgery. He was beautiful and truly a perfect child who had a smile that lit up the world.”

Linda Szal Sutton

That smile, and the fight it represented, became their why.

A young child with short brown hair smiles brightly, wearing a dark sweater with a white collar, in front of a blurred green background.
Two people with white and red hair stand hand in hand, wearing matching blue “Riding Memory” shirts. They face away from the camera, looking at tents set up on a grassy area with a large building in the background.
Cyclists at an outdoor event hold a large banner reading "Empire State Ride to End Cancer" with an illustrated bike symbol, surrounded by cheering people and city buildings in the background.

“They were having a fundraiser and we saw how many people were there and the energy. We met the Dragon Slayers and other groups of people along the way and they were so inviting. So to me that was the catalyst.”

Barry Sutton

Discovering Empire State Ride

When friends from Ride for Roswell told them about Empire State Ride, the idea immediately sparked excitement. A seven-day, 500+ mile journey across New York State sounded like the perfect mix of challenge, purpose and adventure.

As avid cyclists who met on their bikes, the idea of tackling a weeklong ride together felt like the next fun adventure. But it wasn’t until they attended a fundraiser hosted by an Empire State rider that the idea truly came to life. The moment they walked in, they were surrounded by laughter and comradery.

It wasn’t just a group of cyclists; it was an instant sense of belonging that led Linda and Barry to know they had found something special. They were ready to ride.

How the Mission to End Cancer Became Personal

On the road during their first Empire State Ride, Linda and Barry learned how rider donations were fueling cutting-edge cancer research at Roswell Park. They listened intently as one of the doctors spoke during the evening program about SurVaxM, an immunotherapy treatment for glioblastoma, an aggressive and devastating type of brain tumor. SurVaxM is currently in a phase 2B adult clinical trial at Roswell Park.

At the time, this was just another medical term for Linda and Barry. Six weeks later, it became heartbreakingly real.

“The first year Joyce Ohm had spoken about SurVaxM for glioblastoma but I didn't know anyone with it at the time. Literally six weeks later, my sister Patty was diagnosed with stage four glioblastoma.”

Linda Szal Sutton

Suddenly, the cause they were riding for wasn’t just about hope in a broad sense. It was about her. “It doesn’t get any closer than that,” said Linda. “So, it became really, really personal at that point.”

A man in a navy "Empire State Ride to End Cancer" shirt and cap speaks into a microphone while standing in a rustic, wooden room; people seated around him listen attentively.
A smiling woman with short white hair, wearing a bright pink jacket, stands in a colorful flower garden holding a pot with orange and magenta flowers.

500+ Miles for Patty

Patty began treatment at Roswell Park and enrolled in a clinical trial funded, in part, by Empire State Ride donations. “There’s a study supported by Roswell funds that was able to develop a vaccine that my sister was able to participate in,” Linda explained.

Patty passed away in March of 2025, but her strength continues to inspire Linda and Barry each time they ride, knowing that the funds being raised could help others like her.

 

Two smiling people wearing matching blue "PJ's Dream Team" shirts stand together outdoors in front of rows of tents on a grassy area, with a large brick building and trees in the background.
A smiling older man with short white hair, wearing a light-colored, striped button-up shirt, is seen in a framed photograph.
Six smiling cyclists wearing matching jerseys and medals stand in a row outdoors on grass, with trees in the background, celebrating their achievement together.

Riding in Memory and in Hope

Three years later, the couple’s commitment to the ESR mission only grows stronger. What began as an adventure has become a defining part of their lives.

Barry reflected on what keeps them coming back each year.

“We’ve pledged to do this as long as we possibly can,” he said. “If you want to do something in life that you’re going to remember forever, this is the one. Not only because of the physicality of cycling seven days, but the wonderful people that you meet, how well organized the event is and how what we are doing touches so many.”

Barry Sutton

For Barry and Linda, those words aren’t just a reflection of their own journey; they capture the very heart of Empire State Ride. It’s more than a week on the road; it’s an experience that leaves a mark long after the finish line.

When Linda and Barry ride each summer, they are reminded that they’re a part of something extraordinary. Surrounded by riders who share their passion and purpose, they feel the power of a community united by hope.

“I think it’s important to remind everybody that when we go through life, we can go through life and do things for ourselves. And we do,” Linda said. “But this is one thing that we can do for the community that truly we have seen firsthand how it changes people in our community.”

They ride not only for Patty but for PJ, Linda’s father Marty and for everyone whose life has been touched by cancer. With every mile, they hold onto the hope that one day, there won’t be stories like theirs, only stories of survival, discovery and healing.

Join the Movement: Ride for Cancer Research

Join riders like Linda and Barry in fueling lifesaving research at Roswell Park. Sign up for the 2026 Empire State Ride and turn your miles into something bigger.

Ride Stronger Together

SIGN UP FOR ESR 2026

Go the Extra Mile: How to Become an Excelsior Rider

Posted on by Jocelyn McNamara
A large group of people wearing matching white and yellow shirts pose together outdoors on grass, with trees and blue sky in the background, smiling at the camera.

Go the Extra Mile: How to Become an Excelsior Rider

It takes determination to ride 500+ miles across New York State. It takes grit and unshakeable purpose to become an Excelsior rider.

Excelsior riders are the heart of Empire State Ride, the small but committed group of riders who go above and beyond by raising $10,000 or more for cancer research at Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center. Their dedication fuels discoveries, gives patients more options and brings hope to families touched by cancer.

What It Means to be an Excelsior Rider

Every Empire State rider commits to raising $3,500 to take part in the weeklong adventure from New York City to Niagara Falls. But those who raise $10,000 or more earn the distinguished Excelsior rider title, a badge of honor that represents more than just fundraising success. It’s a symbol of determination, compassion and belief in Roswell Park’s mission to end cancer.

All Excelsior riders also receive custom jerseys.

Check out our exclusive Excelsior jerseys!

White cycling jersey with blue and gold accents, featuring a large gold bike logo and "EXCELSIOR" text on the front and back. The jersey also displays sponsors and "One Mission to End Cancer" on the lower back.

There is opportunity to go beyond this, as well. Riders who fundraise $20,000 or more have the opportunity to designate their funds toward a specific research project, approved by the Scientific Advisory Committee (SAC) at Roswell Park Cancer Center. Check out the most recent SAC grant awarded!

Last year, 53 Empire State riders reached Excelsior status, each with their own story of why they ride and who they ride for. Some started planning months ahead, while others find creative ways to bring their communities together through events, challenges or heartfelt storytelling. No matter how they got there, they shared one thing: a drive to make a lasting difference.

And that difference is powerful. Every dollar raised through Empire State Ride supports innovative cancer research and clinical trials at Roswell Park. Even more incredible — for every dollar donated, Roswell Park secures an additional $23 in external funding. That’s real impact.

“We all have stories — friends, family go through this process — and you never know when someone you love is going to need the research. So, the work that Roswell Park does, if we keep funding that research and the clinical trials, it will benefit us, our friends and our family.”

Richard Noll, Excelsior Rider
A middle-aged man stands outdoors with trees in the background, wearing a navy blue T-shirt that reads "BE THE EXCEPTION." He is smiling slightly with his hands behind his back.

How to Go the Extra Mile for Empire State Ride

A smiling older man with short white hair and a bright pink beard wears a navy blue "BAY AREA FLYWHEEL" t-shirt, standing outdoors in front of green foliage.

At first, $10,000 might sound like a huge number. But many riders who’ve reached that milestone will tell you it’s achievable with a little planning, passion and creativity.

“I never like asking for the money, but for the right cause, it makes it that much easier. People are more prone to help when it’s a cause that’s dear to their heart. And, unfortunately, a cause like this … everyone’s had an experience with cancer. And it does make fundraising easier.”

Ed Quick, Excelsior Rider

Here are a few tips to help you go the extra mile:

Start early. The earlier you start, the more time you’ll have to build momentum and connect with potential donors. Setting your goals high from the beginning helps you stay motivated and inspires others to give big, too.

Use your resources. Empire State Ride offers plenty of tools to help, from fundraising guides and printable materials to social media badges and the Roswell Park Alliance Foundation app, which helps track progress and share updates.

Resources Here

Get personal. The most successful fundraisers tell their story. Share why you’re riding, who inspires you and how donations make a difference. Authentic stories create emotional connections that move people to give.

Offer small incentives. A small ‘thank you’ can go a long way. A handwritten note, baked treats or even a quick message to donors makes them feel appreciated. 

“Our most effective campaigns offer donors something in return, even small gestures like a doughnut or cookie, which show gratitude for their generosity.”

Maritza Torres Rivera, Excelsior Rider

Stay consistent. Fundraising doesn’t happen overnight. Keep sharing your story, post updates about your training and remind people why you ride. Every conversation and social post counts.

A group of smiling cyclists wearing matching jerseys and medals ride past cheering spectators on a sunny, tree-lined street during a cycling event.
A smiling woman with long brown hair wears a gray "Empire State Ride to End Cancer" T-shirt, standing outside in front of a blurred green, leafy background.
A smiling older woman with gray hair wears a black cap, sunglasses on top, and a white t-shirt with a colorful graphic, standing outdoors with greenery in the background.

The Impact: Turning Donations into Discoveries

Behind every dollar raised through Empire State Ride is a ripple effect of hope and progress. Excelsior riders help fuel some of Roswell Park’s most impactful research — from studies on triple negative breast cancer to groundbreaking work in immunotherapy and gene therapy.

“To end cancer is optimistic but doable. And every day, we get closer. Empire State Ride is one of the things helping us get there.”

Jane Eshbaugh, Excelsior Rider​ & Cancer Survivor

Thanks to the funds raised by riders, Roswell Park is pushing cancer research forward with new technology, expanded treatment programs and facilities designed to bring the next generation of cancer care to life.

When an Excelsior rider crosses that $10,000 milestone, it’s more than just a jersey — it’s about fueling discoveries, helping patients and bringing us one step closer to a world without cancer.

Join the Movement. Become an Excelsior Rider

If you’re already part of this incredible community, challenge yourself to reach new heights. Start early, share your story and set your sights on becoming an Excelsior Rider. Not part of the ride yet? Sign up today and start your journey.

More Fundraising Tips

More about ESR's Impact

Two cyclists in matching jerseys and medals stand side by side, holding their bicycles triumphantly over their heads. A river and city skyline are visible in the background.