The Smilow Salute presented by Bank of America is always a CTF highlight, with staff and patients cheering, high-fiving (and often hugging) riders in front of the cancer hospital. 

Smiles, salutes and survivors make Closer to Free Bike Ride extra special

No matter where or how far they rode, the nearly 2,000 riders who participated in this year’s Closer to Free (CTF) Bike Ride were pedaling for the same purpose: to help save lives by supporting research and treatment at Smilow Cancer Hospital and Yale Cancer Center. 

Many riders joined the Sept. 9 event in-person, pedaling routes that ranged from 10 to 100 miles. Other participants joined virtually, riding their own routes at times and locations of their choosing.

As always, Yale New Haven Health System employees were well represented, joining the event as riders, volunteers, organizers and supporters. Thanks to everyone who participated!

YNHHS CEO and President Christopher O’Connor, who has ridden in CTF nine times, welcomed everyone during the opening ceremony at Yale Bowl. 

Rosangely Cruz, Smilow ambulatory clinical practice manager, was one of many Yale New Haven Health employees who participated in the ride. One hundred percent of the funds raised from the event support research and treatment at Smilow and Yale Cancer Center.

Madison Quirk, who completed treatment for Hodgkin’s lymphoma in June, was one of 300 cancer survivors who participated in this year’s CTF Ride, as riders or volunteers.  

There are so many amazing stories at the Closer to Free Bike Ride – some of them pinned to the riders’ jerseys.

 

 

Thanks to the many CTF volunteers, including this crew at the North Branford Town Hall rest stop, who provided refreshments, assistance and plenty of cheers to riders.