Jeff Nelson, City Real Estate Advisor’s (CREA) assistant vice president of acquisitions, is no stranger to long distance cycling events. Most summers, he races in a biking event that runs from Seattle to Portland. By participating in the Pelotonia, Jeff is able to combine two of his passions: bike riding and raising money for cancer research.
The Pelotonia is a three day bike racing event that takes place in Columbus, Ohio, and consists of cycling, entertainment and raising funds for cancer research. This year, the ride will take place from August 7–9. Riders can participate in one of four routes that range from 25 to 180 miles. What sets this race apart from others like it is that 100% of funds donated are given directly to The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center and are used to fund cancer research. Last year’s 2,500 volunteers and 7,270 riders from 41 states and 5 countries raised a record breaking $21,049,621.
Cancer research is especially close to Nelson’s heart. Not only did his cousin pass away from liver cancer when she was just 13, he himself suffered from throat and mouth cancer. After undergoing radiation, chemotherapy and surgery, Nelson has been cancer free for eight years. This year, he will be biking in his third Pelotonia race.
“The most rewarding part is watching the riders,” said Jeff. “I also like how supportive the people of Columbus are to us. They will make signs and cheer us along as we go.”
Working out of CREA’s Boston office, Jeff also enjoys being able to come to Indianapolis – the headquarters’ location – before going to the race. “I like flying into Indianapolis every year because I like seeing everyone from the Indy office and keeping up relationships with them.”
Jeff became involved through and is on a team with one of CREA’s investors, Huntington Bank, who have been involved in this race for four years. Alongside Jeff, Paul Cardamon – AVP, Syndication Senior Analyst, will be riding and raising funds.