About the Keystone State Ride
Our Mission
The Keystone State Ride (KSR) organization supports our riders as they cycle from Pittsburgh to Philadelphia in September (or Pittsburgh to Washington DC). In our first two years we have raised over $80K for cancer research. This critical funding supports cancer research at Penn Medicine’s Abramson Cancer Center (ACC), and hopes to achieve major breakthroughs in cancer therapeutics and care that will ultimately benefit cancer patients globally. The KSR is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization (EIN 33-2398245) and all donations are 100% tax deductible. The KSR strives to build community among its participants, encourage diversity, and maintain an environment free from discrimination where participants treat each other with respect, dignity, and courtesy.
"Dealing with cancer is like cycling up a steep hill. You just have to put it in a low gear and keep moving forward" - Dave Wellborn, five time cancer survivor.
How to Get Involved
- Join Our Ride: See "Our Ride" below for details on what is included in the registration fee and fundraising requirements. Registration closed 6/15/26, but contact us and will try to squeeze you in.
- Support Team KSR: KSR helps fund the rider's expenses including transportation and lodging. Donate here: KSR Fundraiser
- Sponsor a specific rider: The KSR has partnered with the Breakthrough Bike Challenge so we can utilize their fundraising infrastructure. 100% of all donations to the rider's fundraising page benefits the Abramson Cancer Center. Find your KSR rider here: Breakthrough Challenge
- Volunteer: We are always looking for volunteers who might like to ride part-time and/or drive our support van. Contact us!
Our Ride
The KSR will be held every September. Registration includes transportation to Pittsburgh, hotels, luggage transfers, and van support. Meals are expected to be paid for by the rider, although some breakfasts will be provided by the hotel.
- Fundraising: There is a matching challenge in July and August to help our riders reach their fundraising goals. We will set-up a fundraising page starting in April for each participant.
- Pittsburgh to Philly: This six-day van supported road bike tour averages 70 miles a day, begins in Pittsburgh, and finishes in Philadelphia after completing 400+ miles. Each participant is required to raise $2500 for this 6 day ride (6 hotel nights are included). Commercial companies charge $3-4K for a ride like this!
- Pittsburgh to Williamsport MD: This ride utilizes the GAP trail and part of the C&O Canal Trail. Each participant is required to raise $1500 for the 4 day ride (4 hotel nights are included).
- Washington DC to Williamsport MD: coming in 2027.
The KSR culminates with the Breakthrough Bike Challenge Ride at the Daniel Boone Homestead where we celebrate the success of both fundraisers for cancer research.
Refer to the "Ride Description" below for daily mileage, elevation details, and rest stops. Select this link to see the route: Ride with GPS Routes
