Cyclist who rides for pediatric cancer riding again, recognized in NY

Last year, Rio Ranchoan and cyclist Gabe Pacheco rode 460 miles and raised $7,500 for the Children's Cancer Research Fund. This year being the research fund's 10th annual Great Cycle Challenge USA, Pacheco is upping his game and plans to ride 500 miles and raise $10,000 during the month of September.

“This is the ninth time I have participated in Great Cycle Challenge,” he said. “During those years, I rode 2,987 miles and raised $15,732.66."

Pacheco's dedication isn't going unnoticed, either. He was featured on a billboard in times square this year, recognizing his continued support.

According to the website, Great Cycle Challenge USA has grown to become one of the biggest cycling events in the country. More than 500,000 riders from 50 states have ridden 33.8 million miles, raising more than $73 million for research and the development of better treatments and cures for childhood cancer in the past decade. This year, CCRF hopes more than 30,000 riders will help raise $9 million or more.

Kenna Dooley, chief development officer at Children’s Cancer Research Fund, says more than 15,000 American children are diagnosed with cancer every year and 38 children die every week.

“Thanks to riders like Gabe, we’re fueling groundbreaking research to save lives and give kids the brighter future they deserve,” Dooley added.

Pacheco works with G&M Medical Center in Rio Rancho to make his ride possible.

"Kids should be living life, not fighting for it," he said.

So far he has raised $1,842 out of the $10,000 he is aiming for.

Funds go to support research at leading pediatric cancer centers across America. People wanting to participate or donate can visit GABESCHARITY.com.