Joshua Boyd jboyd@wickedlocal.com

The Pan-Mass Challenge hits the roads across Massachusetts for its 38th year beginning on Saturday morning, Aug. 5, and running right through Sunday, Aug. 6.

Riders of ages spanning many generations will get on their bicycles with one mission make it to the end; and one motivation every mile means money raised for the Jimmy Fund and the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute.

The PMC is the largest athletic fundraiser in the United States, providing $547 million to the Jimmy Fund since the PMCs inception in 1980. Each years PMC accounts for 52 percent of the Jimmy Funds annual fundraising. This years goal is $48 million.

The Record caught up with Georgetowns three Pan-Mass Challenge riders for some comments and information about how often, where and why they ride.

How many PMCs will this be for you?

James Smith: This will be my 11th PMC.

Jennifer Stanley: It is the second time for me.

Chris Geberth: This is my first PMC and I will be riding with a team from the company I work for, Cynosure. Cynosure is proud to support such a wonderful program. Last year, the team raised over $60K.

What route will you take this weekend?

Chris Geberth: Since this is my first year, I decided to ride from Wellesley to Patriot Place. I am just getting into cycling and believe that this is a great way to explore the sport, while also raising money to support cancer treatment and research.

Jennifer Stanley: Im doing the two-day ride.

James Smith: I am riding from Wellesley with my son-in-law for the second time.

What are your favorite memories of prior years PMCs, or any cycling memory that stands out?

Jennifer Stanley: It's the best workout of my life. I love when the kids lining the ride spray you with hoses to cool you down.

James Smith: My favorite PMC memory was seeing a long-time rider and cancer survivor return to the ride after going through her third bout with cancer. I look for her every year and continue to be inspired by her courage. It is always a thrill to cross the Bourne Bridge at sunrise with thousands of riders!

Chris Geberth: As a family, we rode our bikes in Acadia National Park in August 2012. The carriage trails and the scenery were amazing. We covered a lot of ground and enjoyed cycling together. I enjoy cycling because I can challenge myself, get in shape, and relieve some stress.

What advice do you have for someone considering doing the PMC in the future?

James Smith: Make the commitment, train as best you can and be a part of something truly special that will affect others forever. Each year that I train, I think it will maybe be my last, but when the ride is complete and I cross that finish line, I know that I will be back next year.

Chris Geberth: First of all, this is a great cause and also a great way to stay in shape. I didnt realize that there were various route options until the Cynosure team began to explore the PMC. Dont be intimidated by the challenge or the route you chose.

Jennifer Stanley: If you like to cycle this event is awesome. Theres great support. Ride at your own pace. Its not a race, just finish.

What are your thoughts on the PMC, and the Jimmy Fund in particular?

Jennifer Stanley: It is the biggest and best fundraiser out there for cancer research.

James Smith: The Jimmy Fund is an amazing organization and, when you see the pictures of all of the children that you are helping along the way, you cannot help but feel humble and proud to be a part of it all.

Chris Geberth: We all know people and families who have been affected by cancer. I believe that we can beat cancer through continued research, diagnosis, treatment and support. The Jimmy Fund provides the fundraising to fight this battle.

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Georgetown's PMC riders share motivation, memories and advice - Wicked Local Georgetown