Two Months Until Pedaling for Payson: Community Invited to Ride in Support of Local Cancer Care

Two Months Until Pedaling for Payson: Community Invited to Ride in Support of Local Cancer Care

With just two months remaining until the 21st annual Pedaling for Payson, Concord Hospital Trust is encouraging cyclists of all ages and abilities to register for one of New Hampshire's premier charity cycling events and help make a lasting difference for local cancer patients.

The ride will take place Saturday, September 19, 2026, at Elm Brook Park in Hopkinton. Presented by Concord Orthopaedics, Pedaling for Payson raises money for the Pedaling for HOPE Fund, which supports the Nurse Navigator program at Concord Hospital Payson Center for Cancer Care.

"Today, Concord Hospital is able to extend survival and cure cancers that were not possible even a few years ago. However, the level of complexity has increased geometrically," said Dr. Doug Ewing, chair of the Pedaling for Payson Committee. "There are many more subspecialists, treatment options, medicines, and diagnostic tests. There are way too many details for patients dealing with a new cancer diagnosis to keep up with. At the center of this process for the patient is the nurse navigator, who ensures nothing falls through the cracks, provides logistical support, and offers emotional support. Unfortunately, much of what they do is not reimbursed by insurance."

For more than two decades, Pedaling for Payson has united riders, volunteers, donors, and sponsors in support of cancer care. Together, the event has raised more than $2.5 million to help ensure patients have access to nurse navigators who guide them through diagnosis, treatment, appointments, and the many questions that arise throughout their cancer journey.

"We need more nurse navigators, not less," said Ewing. "Pedaling for Payson raises needed funds to fill this gap. Don't think twice. Ride."

Participants can choose from a variety of scenic road, gravel, mountain, and family-friendly routes, making the event accessible for experienced cyclists and first-time riders alike. Participants can also choose to sign up for a stationary spin ride, hosted by Megan Farmer from the indoor spin studio Ride It Like You Stole It. The stationary spin ride will be held at NH Climbing and Fitness, 10 Langdon Ave, Concord, NH. Following all ride events, participants will enjoy a post-ride barbecue, refreshments, music, and the opportunity to celebrate alongside fellow riders, volunteers, and supporters.

The success of the event is made possible through the generosity of community partners. Concord Hospital Trust extends its sincere appreciation to presenting sponsor Concord Orthopaedics, as well as the event host, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. Additional thanks go to our Major Sponsors: Ragged Mountain, S&W Sports, Concord Imaging Center, The Common Man, Harvey Construction, Radiation Oncology Associates, New Hampshire Distributors, and the media sponsor, FinThrive.

To register, donate, volunteer, or learn more about sponsorship opportunities, visit https://www.PedalingForPayson.org