Closer to Free Ride ready to roll again September 12

New Haven, CT – September 5,  2015 – After raising an incredible $1.2 million last year, the 2015 Closer to Free Ride, presented by Bank of America to benefit Smilow Cancer Hospital at Yale New Haven and Yale Cancer Center is set to once again break records on Saturday, September 12.  One hundred percent of the funds raised by riders and volunteers will be put toward research and care at New England’s premier cancer center. Known as “Connecticut’s Best Organized Ride”, the event attracts both experienced cyclists and everyday people who haven’t ridden a bike since childhood..

“What started out as a small, local event has grown in five years into a fundraising powerhouse with state-wide recognition and wide-spread appreciation that has helped hundreds of patients and their families,” said Kevin Walsh, vice president, development, Yale New Haven Hospital.

After a stirring opening ceremony that will be broadcast live to patient rooms at Smilow,, riders have the option to ride 25, 62.5 or 100 miles.  About a mile into the route, riders will be greeted by cheering patients and staff at Smilow Cancer Hospital who will line Park Street shortly after the 7am start time. Upon their return to the Yale Bowl, riders enjoy the Finish Line Festival complete with live music, a beer garden, food trucks, games for kids and more. 

The generous support of local sponsors ensures that 100% of participant fundraising can go toward research and care.  The Closer to Free Ride community thanks Platinum Sponsors  A full list of sponsors, event photos and more information can be found at www.rideclosertofree.org

The 2015 Closer to Free Ride will take place on Saturday, September 12.

Greenwich Hospital is a member of Yale New Haven Health. Greenwich is a 206-bed (includes 32 isolettes) community hospital serving lower Fairfield County, Connecticut and Westchester County, New York. It is a academic affiliate of Yale School of Medicine. Since opening in 1903, Greenwich Hospital has evolved into a progressive medical center and teaching institution representing all medical specialties and offering a wide range of medical, surgical, diagnostic and wellness programs. Greenwich Hospital is recognized throughout the healthcare industry as a leader in service and patient satisfaction excellence. Greenwich Hospital has the prestigious Magnet designation from the American Nurses Credentialing Center, the nation’s highest honor of nursing excellence. www.greenwichhospital.org