Charleston SC, September 25, 2025
News Summary
The MUSC Hollings Cancer Center is gearing up for the annual LOWVELO bike ride on November 1 to fund cancer research. With over 1,800 participants already registered, the event continues a tradition started in 2019, aiming to raise funds for clinical trials and research. This year’s Glow Blue Festival helped promote sign-ups, as participants gear up for cycling routes between 7 and 80 miles. Community involvement is crucial, as the event has raised $3 million to date, resulting in $24 million in NIH funding for further research efforts.
Charleston, SC – Annual LOWVELO Bike Ride Set to Raise Funds for Cancer Research at MUSC Hollings Cancer Center
The Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC) Hollings Cancer Center is inviting the community to participate in their annual bike ride, LOWVELO, scheduled for November 1, with the goal of raising funds to support cancer research. The initiative aims to further clinical trials and cancer research efforts at MUSC, continuing a fundraising tradition that began in 2019.
In preparation for the event, a recent gathering called the “Glow Blue Festival” was held. Attendees enjoyed a variety of activities including a dunk tank, snack sales, t-shirt purchases, and massage sessions, all aimed at encouraging sign-ups for the ride. As of now, more than 1,800 participants are registered for the upcoming LOWVELO bike ride.
Since its inception, LOWVELO has successfully raised approximately $3 million in funds. This financial support has contributed to the development of experimental therapies and has subsequently led to a substantial $24 million return from the National Institute of Health for further research funding. The director of LOWVELO emphasized the necessity of community involvement in supporting these crucial research initiatives, driven by his personal connections to cancer.
Participants have the option to choose from various cycling routes throughout Charleston County, ranging from 7 miles to 80 miles. For those not wishing to ride the full distances, spin classes are also available. The event highlights include a 10 and 20-mile “Island Ride” starting at 9 a.m. on the day of the bike ride.
In preparation for the event, local traffic will be impacted with road closures commencing on October 31 at 5 a.m. and continuing until November 3 at midnight. Ocean Boulevard will specifically be closed from 14th Avenue toward Pavilion Drive, prohibiting any parking along that segment. Police officers will be present throughout the event to manage traffic and ensure the safety of participants.
One of the riders, Aron Kuch, is participating in memory of his wife, Heather, who passed away from Stage IV cancer in March 2022. Kuch plans to tackle a 100-mile ride as a way to honor her memory and raise funds for cancer research. He expressed that the physical challenge of the ride serves as a therapeutic outlet for processing his grief, and he aims to raise significant funding to assist others affected by cancer.
Event Summary
- Event: LOWVELO Bike Ride
- Date: November 1
- Locations: Various routes in Charleston County
- Distance Options: 7 to 80 miles
- Participants Registered: Over 1,800
- Glow Blue Festival: Held to promote event sign-ups
- Funds Raised: Approximately $3 million since 2019
- NIH Funding Return: $24 million
- Road Closures: October 31 – November 3
- Local Traffic Management: Police presence for safety
Background on LOWVELO and Cancer Research Funding
The LOWVELO bike ride initiative was established in 2019 with the intent of directly supporting clinical trials and ground-breaking research at the MUSC Hollings Cancer Center. The funds collected through registration fees and donations have proven essential in fostering new experimental therapies. The return on investment from the National Institute of Health demonstrates the direct impact that community fundraising can have on enhancing research capabilities, ultimately benefiting patients and families facing cancer.
FAQ
What is the purpose of the LOWVELO Bike Ride?
The LOWVELO fundraising initiative aims to support clinical trials and cancer research at MUSC, with the goal of raising funds for these efforts.
When is the LOWVELO bike ride scheduled?
The main bike ride event is scheduled for November 1.
What cycling route options are available?
Participants can sign up for cycling routes ranging from 7 miles to 80 miles in Charleston County.
How much money has LOWVELO raised over the years?
LOWVELO has raised approximately $3 million since it began in 2019.
What are the expected road closures during the event?
Local traffic is expected to be impacted with road closures beginning on October 31 at 5 a.m. and lasting until November 3 at midnight, specifically on Ocean Boulevard.
Key Features of the LOWVELO Event
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Event Name | LOWVELO Bike Ride |
| Date | November 1 |
| Distance Options | 7 to 80 miles |
| Participants Registered | Over 1,800 |
| Funds Raised | Approximately $3 million |
| NIH Funding Return | $24 million |
| Road Closures | October 31 – November 3 |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- Live 5 News: MUSC Kicks Off Cancer Research Fundraiser LOWVELO Bike Ride
- ABC News 4: Woman Riding in LOWVELO in Memory of Parents
- ABC News 4: Record Number of Riders Sign Up for LOWVELO Race
- Wikipedia: Cancer Research
- Google Search: Cancer Research
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