The Empire State Ride Long Island, an annual charity cycling event, is returning to Oyster Bay for its fifth year on June 14. The event brings together community members and cyclists to support cancer research while participants get to enjoy scenic bike routes and a post-ride street fair.
Proceeds from the ride will raise funds for clinical research trials at six Catholic Health Center Cancer Institutes, in partnership with Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center.
“We are thrilled to once again partner with Catholic Health on Long Island and Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center to raise this important funding to support cancer research and clinical trials,” said Oyster Bay Town Supervisor Joe Saladino. “Ride to better health while cycling through beautiful beaches, woodlands, and historic destinations — in and around the Town of Oyster Bay’s exquisite north shore.”
“Catholic Health is committed to providing cancer patients on Long Island access to groundbreaking new therapies to help lengthen and strengthen lives,” said Gary Havican, executive vice president and COO of Catholic Health. “We proudly partner with Empire State Ride Long Island to raise funds for research, which is pushing the boundaries of cancer care.”
The event will begin in downtown Oyster Bay, where participants will gather for an early breakfast at 7 a.m., followed by staggered start times. Cyclists can choose from a variety of scenic routes that are accessible to all ages and abilities, including 8, 25, 37, or 62-mile routes.
“The Empire State Ride Long Island success is driven by the overwhelming community support from riders, volunteers and our partners, including Nassau Financial Federal Credit Union, Man Cave Health, Optimum, the Town of Oyster Bay, the Oyster Bay-East Norwich Chamber of Commerce and so many more,” said Steve Mars, co-founder of Empire State Ride Long Island.
“On Saturday, June 14, we will all rally together to celebrate life and spread hope for cancer patients on Long Island and across New York State thanks to this unique collaboration between Catholic Health and Roswell Park.”
Registration is open for all ages with a $25 entry fee. Adult cyclists are required to raise a minimum of $100 while participants under 18 must raise at least $50.
To wrap up the day’s festivities following the bike ride, the town will also be hosting the Oyster Bay Street Fair from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., offering family-friendly activities, food trucks, live music from the band Crisis, and even a free prostate cancer screening that’s done from a quick blood draw, provided by the nonprofit Man Cave Health.
“The Milana family has always been deeply committed to the mission of Man Cave Health — ensuring that men take charge of their health through early detection and life-saving screenings,” said Tom Milana, Jr., founder and chairman of Man Cave Health. Milana himself is a prostate cancer survivor.
“Prostate cancer is a battle we can fight with awareness and action, and there’s nothing more important than encouraging men to get tested. That’s why it’s incredibly special for us to partner with outstanding organizations and events like Empire State Ride Long Island, right here in our backyard of Oyster Bay.
“Together, we’re making a real impact, bringing communities together, and saving lives.”
Registration is now open at esrlongisland.com.
Read also: Oyster Bay Students Produce TV Segments About Empire State Ride Long Island
