Relay for Life Ashtabula County, Patsy’s Run teaming up

JEFFERSON – Relay for Life Ashtabula County and Patsy’s Run are teaming up in 2026 in the fight against cancer.
To honor their efforts, the Ashtabula County commissioners presented the organizations with a proclamation on Tuesday, Jan. 6.
Relay For Life is the signature fundraiser for the American Cancer Society.
“The American Cancer Society’s Relay for Life is a nationwide movement that unites communities to celebrate cancer survivors, remember those lost to the disease and empower individuals to fight back through education, advocacy and fundraising,” Commissioner J.P. Ducro IV read from the proclamation.
The main event may not take place until June 27, but local fundraising for the American Cancer Society event has already begun, with a “first lap” Chili Cook Off taking place Saturday, Jan. 10, at the Jefferson Community Center.
This year, Relay for Life is partnering throughout the year with Patsy’s Run, which is a bike run that takes place each year during the Relay for Life.
The run is in memory of Patsy Hurst and dedicated to everyone fighting cancer.
“They have raised so much money that we want to unite in the fight from here on out,” Lori Jean Shinkle said of Relay for Life forming a stronger partnership with Patsy’s Run.
Patsy’s Run holds an honor lap each year during Relay for Life, Ken Hurst, a founder, said.
The 15th annual run will take place this June.
“Granted, we’re just a motorcycle run, but just this last year, in a one-day event, we raised $29,000,” Hurst said.
Other winter events include the Burrr for the Cure on Feb. 14, 2026. It will take place at Pymatuning Lake State Park in Jamestown, Pa., during the Winter Fun Days.
In the spring, the American Cancer Society Relay for Life of Ashtabula County 5K Run is tentatively scheduled for May 3 in Jefferson.
People can register for Relay for Life of Ashtabula County now on the website at https://tinyurl.com/yux6zzek, or find them on Facebook.
Relay for Life and the Ashtabula County Cancer Awareness Day on Saturday, June 27, in Jefferson will include a new survivor celebration brunch, followed by Pasty’s Run and the Relay’s opening ceremony.