NORWICH – Freshman twin sisters have opted to take on the challenge of bringing something special to them to Norwich, the first ever Pan-Mass Challenge (PMC) Kids Ride in New York State.

The girls, Hannah and Brenna Baker, have participated in the PMC in Rhode Island for many years.

The PMC is an adult bike ride across Massachusetts and it is a major fundraiser for the Dana Farber Cancer Institute in Boston.

In 2005, PMC Kids Rides began as a way to allow children to participate in fund raising to help fight cancer. There are 35 Kids Rides currently scheduled to take place throughout New England, yet the ride the twins are planning will be the first in New York.

“When we started participating in the PMC Kids Ride in Rhode Island in 2009, it was because our close friend Liz had been treated at Dana Farber. She was one of the first women in the United States to be treated for cancer while she was pregnant more than 18 years ago,” said the girls. “Liz has been in remission since that time and both she and her 18-year-old daughter Beth are in good health today. During our first rides, we rode in memory of our nana, Brigid Campbell. She lost her battle to ovarian cancer in 2002. While we continue to ride in memory of her, we also ride in memory of other loved ones including our dear friend Eddie Caputo, who lost his battle with cancer. We want to help find a cure for this terrible disease and decided to bring the first PMC Kids Ride in New York State to Norwich.”

The ride is set for 2-5 p.m., June 12, 2016 at the Chenango County Fairgrounds. There is a $10 registration fee for those who would like to ride, and a $25 fundraising minimum.

Each rider will receive a free t-shirt.

Eligible riders are between the ages of 2 and 15. Each rider must have their own bicycle.

In addition to riders, the girls are in need of volunteers for the event, which could be ride marshals, those to help with registration, and site beautification following the event.

“The younger kids will ride the smaller loop, where Blues Fest is held,” said Hannah. “The older kids will ride around the horse track.”

Brenna said, “It’s not about how many laps you do, you can do as many as you want. It’s more about raising the money for Dana Farber and to raise awareness about cancer.”

In addition to the ride, there will be activities including face painting, can jam, corn hole, as well as others. Music and entertainment will additionally be on site.

Prizes and recognition will be given to the children who raise the most funds.