Riders renew commitment to end cancer in 17th annual Pelotonia

COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH) -- More than 7,000 cyclists took the challenge to raise awareness and funds towards ending cancer. The 17th annual Pelotonia ride got started on Saturday morning in Downtown Columbus and New Albany Schools. Over the next two days, riders are embarking on a journey ranging from 24 to 190 miles.

“This is my first ride. I’ve heard about the energy and the power that’s in this group and feeling it is just incredible,” CEO at OSU James Cancer Hospital Dr. W Kimryn Rathmell said.

Whether they’ve had a diagnosis themselves or know a loved one that has, each rider has been impacted by cancer.

“I had colon cancer. It was an early stage. So I wanted to give back,” cancer survivor and rider Larry Levinson said.

“My brother and sister have cancer. They’re both okay right now but they’re part of my flags. They’re part of the people that we’re celebrating and honoring,” fellow rider Paul Westrick said.

He has dozens of flags on the back of his bike with all the names of the people he’s riding for. He committed to all 190 miles and said it’s a tough feat but the community is what keeps him coming back.

“Even when you say 'I’m done with this. I’m not doing it this year, I’m going to take a break.' Then you hear another story and you’re like 'I’m back in',” Westrick said.

Larry Levinson was diagnosed with cancer 20 years ago and has been riding in Pelotonia for 17 years.

“I cry every time I ride. It’s so many emotions especially with me being a survivor,” he said.

Each rider raised more than $1,000 and all proceeds go to the research done at OSU’s James Cancer Hospital.

“Cancer research is essential today and we are seeing great strides," Dr. Rathmell said. "We have to have a way to support it. It’s financial and this is a big part of how we support it.”