Cancer research, treatment and patient care got a big boost on Saturday with the 16th annual Closer to Free Ride.
Riders showed up as daylight broke across New Haven, to celebrate and honor those in the fight against cancer.
“Seeing people coming in, seeing all the different names on signs, it’s just unbelievable,” said NBC Connecticut reporter Kevin Gaiss.
Members of NBC Connecticut were among 2,000 riders, all raising money for Smilow Cancer Hospital and Yale Cancer Center.
“Our physicians, our scientists can really have dollars to start up new innovative programs. Rare cancers, cancer for children, things that generally don’t get funded and also to support those that don’t have resources so that they can receive care,” said Interim President and CEO of Yale New Haven Health Pamela Sutton-Wallace.
Outside of Smilow Cancer Hospital, patients, staff members and riders all came together in a moment that shed light on the reason for the ride.
“This is so moving to see the riders come through, stop here and then the employers come out, it’s really such a community event for a great cause,” New Haven Promise President and rider Patricia Melton.
“One of our team members, her name is Molly, she’s one of our medics, she was diagnosed earlier this year with breast cancer, and our team right now is going to be riding for her,” Pediatric Critical Care Transport Lizzy Davila.
There is always a point on the ride where people take a moment to reflect.
“It’s pretty emotional. It’s just great to have the support and see so many people come out and ride,” said Larissa Hall.
We spoke to Hall’s husband, survivor Dan Franko, earlier this month. She saw him ride by in the crowd.
“It was nice to give him a hug. I mean a lot of people have been stopping and taking pictures together,” Hall said.
Back at the Yale Bowl, as riders finished, kids got to play in the fun zone sponsored by the Tommy Fund. It helps children with cancer and their families.
“We’re so happy to shine a light on pediatric cancer,” said Asst. Director of the Tommy Fund For Childhood Cancer Michele Kraznai.
Jacqueline Santacroce and her son were both one of our survivor stories this year. Two years from their diagnosis, she says the ride is a great way for them to start giving back to other patients and families.
“Both my boys said it was easier than expected so we had a good time,” she said.
Continuing coverage
In 2025, there were 2,674 participants and $4 million was raised. In total, Closer to Free officials say they have raised more than $37 million since 2011.
NBC Connecticut and Telemundo Connecticut are the proud media sponsor of the Closer to Free Ride.
