Iconic Cycling Event Becomes First Athletic Fundraiser to Launch Under Unified Team In Training Program

WASHINGTON, Sept. 29, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Blood Cancer United^® is announcing the next chapter in the evolution of its athletic fundraising programs: Velo Palmetto will become the first event previously operated outside of Team In Training® (TNT) to officially launch under the organization’s iconic endurance fundraising program.

The transition reflects Blood Cancer United’s continued effort to bring more supporters together under one unified mission and community. The announcement follows the organization’s broader transformation to Blood Cancer United last year and mirrors the integration of the new brand across signature campaigns such as Light The Night.

Beginning with this year’s event, cyclists participating in Velo Palmetto will experience the same mission-driven community and connection that have defined TNT for more than three decades. The four-day cycling experience, set for October 22-25 through Greenville, South Carolina’s scenic upstate and blue ridge foothills, remains the organization’s premier cycle experience while becoming part of the world’s largest charity endurance training program.

“Just as Blood Cancer United was created to bring more people together in support of blood cancer patients and families, we’re now bringing more of our athletic fundraising experiences together under Team In Training,” said Coker Powell, EVP and Chief Revenue Officer, Blood Cancer United. “TNT has inspired generations of supporters to push beyond what they thought possible in service of something bigger than themselves. By welcoming Velo Palmetto into the TNT family, we’re strengthening that community and creating even more opportunities for participants to make a meaningful impact.”

The transition is part of a wider effort to unite Blood Cancer United’s athletic events under the TNT banner, welcoming more athletes, adventurers, and supporters into a single connected community while preserving the traditions and experiences participants value most. Additional athletic events, including Climb2Cure, Scenic Shore Bike Tour and Shred For Red, will join TNT, as well.

TNT was founded in 1988 when Bruce Cleland recruited 38 runners to train for the New York City Marathon in honor of his daughter, Georgia, a leukemia survivor. Since then, the program has grown into the world’s largest charity endurance training program and has inspired hundreds of thousands of participants.

“Our hearts are full seeing TNT grow and shine in ways that would have made my dad beam with pride,” said Samantha Cleland Manekin on behalf of the Cleland family. “We’re deeply grateful and excited for the next chapter of TNT, carried forward by the spirit of unity that defines this family. We hope you’ll join us, whether you train, volunteer, or cheer, because you’re what makes this movement unstoppable.”

TNT is one of several peer-to-peer fundraising programs helping Blood Cancer United reach its Bold Goal of giving patients more than one million additional years of life by 2040, which means more birthdays, more graduations, and more moments and memories for people impacted by blood cancer. Among those participating in this year’s Velo Palmetto is Blood Cancer United’s Chief Medical Officer Gwen Nichols, M.D., who will ride alongside other cyclists to raise funds and give more time to patients and their families.

“Every day, I see the urgent need for continued research, support, and advocacy on behalf of people facing blood cancer,” said Nichols. “That’s why I’m proud to ride alongside TNT participants who are turning their passion into action and impact for those we serve.”

Funds raised through Velo Palmetto help advance Blood Cancer United’s mission to cure blood cancer and improve the quality of life of all patients and their families. Since its founding in 1949, the organization has invested more than $2 billion in research, helped advance many of today’s breakthrough blood cancer treatments, and provides free education, support services, and advocacy for patients, families and caregivers.

About Blood Cancer United^®

Blood Cancer United^® (formerly The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society) is the largest global nonprofit focused on blood cancer patient support, research, and advocacy. Since their founding in 1949, the organization has consistently evolved to better serve people affected by all 100-plus types of blood cancer. Blood Cancer United funds innovative research, offers free resources and personalized support, and advocates at state and national levels for more accessible and affordable healthcare for all patients. To learn more, visit www.BloodCancerUnited.org.

About Team In Training^®

Team In Training^® (TNT) is Blood Cancer United’s endurance sports fundraising program, providing professional coaching and community support to help athletes of all levels complete world-class events. TNT connects the endurance community with the opportunity to fundraise for lifesaving blood cancer research, patient support, and healthcare advocacy. To explore our TNT events, visit Choose your event | Team In Training | Blood Cancer United.

Reporters who want additional information can send requests to mediarelations@bloodcancerunited.org. 

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SOURCE BLOOD CANCER UNITED, INC.