Published October 22, 2026
Employees from throughout Yale New Haven Health joined nearly 2,000 cyclists for the 16th Annual Closer to Free (CTF) Ride Sept. 19, raising critical funds for cancer care and research at Smilow Cancer Hospital and Yale Cancer Center (YCC).
Employees were also among the many volunteers and cheering spectators who supported and motivated riders along the different routes.
Participants could ride in person on supported routes ranging from 10 to 100 miles; other riders participated remotely from communities across the country.
“The Closer to Free Ride is a powerful reminder of what is possible when a community unites around a common purpose,” said Eric Winer, MD, YCC director and president and physician-in-chief of Smilow Cancer Hospital. “Every rider, donor, volunteer and supporter plays a role in accelerating discoveries, expanding access to care and bringing hope to patients and families facing cancer.”
The Ride has become one of the region’s most inspiring events, bringing together individuals whose lives have been touched by cancer and reinforcing a shared mission to improve outcomes for patients today and in the future.
“The impact of the Closer to Free Ride extends well beyond a day of cycling. It is about a diverse community of people joining together to create an enduring legacy that offers all of us the opportunity to support and advance the highest-quality, cutting-edge care as we collectively fight cancer,” said Pamela Sutton-Wallace, YNHHS acting CEO.
Thank you to everyone who made this year’s Ride a huge success!
Scott Kudravy, Interventional Radiology, Bridgeport Hospital, wore a CTF jersey and a smile.
Pamela Sutton-Wallace, YNHHS acting CEO, welcomed riders.
YNHH’s MICU staff formed a cheering squad for colleagues participating in the Ride.
Jennifer Jennings, Foundations program, Bridgeport Hospital, enjoyed the Smilow Salute, sponsored by All American Waste.
