Philadelphia Cycling Classic Announces 2026 Charity Ride for AACR to Support Lifesaving Cancer Research
- Philadelphia Cycling Classic
- Jan 16
- 3 min read
Community cyclists are invited to ride iconic 14-mile course to raise funds for cancer research
Want to test your mettle like a cycling pro while supporting a good cause? The 2026 Philadelphia Cycling Classic presented by AmeriGas® is teaming up with the American Association for Cancer Research® (AACR) to offer cycling fans the chance to tackle the race’s iconic route while also raising money for cancer research. Organizers announced today that race day, Aug. 30, 2026, will start with the Philadelphia Cycling Classic Charity Ride for AACR where riders of all levels are invited to take on a 14-mile loop of the legendary course.
As the Official Charity Partner for the 2026 Philadelphia Cycling Classic presented by AmeriGas®, AACR invites riders to join AACR Riders for Research. Each rider will commit to a $500 fundraising minimum, contributing to AACR’s goal of fueling meaningful impact toward ending cancer once and for all.
Charity ride participants will receive guaranteed entry, a personalized fundraising page, individualized fundraising support, and official AACR Riders for Research gear.
“Bringing the Philadelphia Cycling Classic back isn’t just about elite competition; it’s about reconnecting the race to the city and the people who love it,” said Eric Robbins of Race Street Partners, the event’s owner and organizers. “Incorporating a charity ride that benefits the American Association for Cancer Research gives riders of all levels a chance to be part of something bigger. It’s a powerful way to unite sport, community, and a cause that touches nearly every family.”
The partnership represents a powerful opportunity to rally the cycling community to help fund cancer research. AACR has awarded more than $545 million in research grants, contributing to advancements that have helped avert more than 4.5 million cancer deaths in the U.S. since 1991.
“We’re grateful to partner with the Philadelphia Cycling Classic on an event that brings people together with purpose,” said Samuel Rogers, AACR Senior Director of Philanthropy. “The dollars raised through the Charity Ride will directly support scientists who are driving the breakthroughs of tomorrow. Every rider is helping accelerate the progress we need to end cancer.”
A limited number of entries are available, and riders who do not reach the fundraising minimum by Aug. 30, 2026, will be required to donate the difference to participate.
About Philadelphia Cycling Classic Presented by AmeriGas®
The Philadelphia Cycling Classic is a premier cycling event that first debuted in 1985 and quickly grew into one of the most prestigious, professional road races for an international peloton in North America. In 2026, the Classic returns with AmeriGas® as title sponsor, supporting the relaunch of this iconic Philadelphia tradition, bringing together elite athletes and passionate fans from around the globe to celebrate the spirit of competition and community. The Philadelphia Cycling Classic is owned by Race Street Partners, composed of Carlos Rogers, Eric M. Robbins, and Michael A. Nutter, former mayor of Philadelphia.
About the American Association for Cancer Research
Founded in 1907, the American Association for Cancer Research (AACR) is the world’s first and largest professional organization dedicated to advancing cancer research and its mission to prevent and cure cancer. AACR membership includes more than 58,000 laboratory, translational, and clinical researchers; population scientists; other health care professionals; and patient advocates residing in 141 countries and territories around the world. Presently, 34% of members live outside the United States and 20% of AACR’s international members are located in countries building cancer research capacity. The AACR marshals the full spectrum of expertise of the cancer community to accelerate progress in the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of cancer by annually convening more than 30 conferences and educational workshops, the largest of which is the AACR Annual Meeting. The AACR publishes 10 prestigious, peer-reviewed scientific journals. Other AACR publications include Cancer Today, a magazine for cancer patients and caregivers; the annual AACR Cancer Progress Report; AACR Cancer Disparities Progress Report; AACR Annual Impact Report; Leading Discoveries, the AACR’s awareness and donor magazine; and the blog, Cancer Research Catalyst. In addition, the AACR funds meritorious research directly as well as in cooperation with numerous cancer organizations. As the Scientific Partner of Stand Up To Cancer, the AACR provides expert peer review, grants administration, and scientific oversight of team science and individual investigator grants in cancer research that have the potential for near-term patient benefit. The AACR actively communicates with legislators and other policymakers about the value of cancer research and related biomedical science in saving lives from cancer. For more information about the AACR, visit www.AACR.org.
