Honoring Johnny Hoey and Tony Cipullo Through the 2025 Pan-Mass Challenge
Our 2025 Pan-Mass Challenge will be a tribute to two extraordinary individuals: John Hoey and Tony Cipullo. While the ride is undeniably a physical feat, its deeper purpose is what draws us together—hope, unity, and the enduring spirit of those we ride for.
Every year, we ride to support loved ones battling cancer, to honor the strength of survivors, and to carry forward the memory of those we’ve lost. This year, we ride in memory of Johnny and Tony—two men who embodied generosity, grit, and heart, not to mention the dozens of PMC rides they completed between them.
John Hoey, affectionately known as Johnny, passed away in October 2024. A devoted Pan-Mass Challenge rider, Johnny was always the first to register and poured his energy into training. On ride day, he started with his signature big breakfast—bacon and eggs—a simple ritual that fueled him for the miles ahead. Beyond the ride, Johnny was known for his unwavering compassion. He volunteered at local food pantries, prioritized his family, and had sense of humor that brightened every room. His kindness and spirit continue to inspire us.
Tony Cipullo, who passed in July 2023, was a Pan-Mass Challenge legend. Riding in honor of his mother, Tony completed 27 rides and was training for his 28th. He was a pillar of strength for his family and friends—a man with a booming laugh, a generous soul, and a gift for making everyone feel seen. Tony’s legacy lives on in every rider who pushes forward with heart and determination.
This ride is for them—for their courage, their love, and their legacy. It is our honor to keep their memories alive by doing something that brings people together for good.
