Country2Country4Cancer: Bristol Myers Squibb employees cycle together for cancer research

In September 2026, 96 Bristol Myers Squibb employees will be cycling for 18 days across Europe for the 11th edition of the Country2Country4Cancer (C2C4C) ride, a charity initiative organized by Bristol Myers Squibb. Six colleagues from the Benelux region will cycle more than 300 kilometers in three days, pushing their physical limits while riding for an even greater purpose.

From September 19 to 21, six riders from Benelux will team up with their colleagues from Ireland and the United Kingdom. Together, they will cycle three consecutive days, from the Bristol Myers Squibb office in Paris (France) to the office in Uxbridge (UK). They will do on average 110 kilometers per day with more than 1,000 meters of altitude, demonstrating resilience, teamwork and commitment, values that lie at the heart of Bristol Myers Squibb.

Meet the Benelux Team

The Benelux team consists of six enthusiastic riders. Five of them are joining for the first time: Aline Poliart, Aymeric Lannoy, Roel Wilting, William d’Almeida and Tom De Foer. Together, they embody the spirit of collaboration and purpose that defines the BMS community.

The team captain, Peggy Somers, joins the ride for the second time, returning to C2C4C ten years after her first participation. Peggy explains why she wanted to join for a second time: “10 years ago, I just recovered from cancer and joining C2C4C was a great way to officially close that period. In the meantime, one of my relatives has been diagnosed with cancer, and I want to support him in this way. I’m very much looking forward to getting to know the other participants better and sharing this intense but fun experience with them.”

Preparing for the challenge: training and fundraising

The months leading up to the ride will be intense training for them. At the end of March, they first attended a safety clinic, where they were introduced to their bikes and learned the most important basics of cycling. Next months will be filled with training and fundraising. Peggy continues: “Building endurance and strength will be key, but we will be supported by professional coaches to prepare safely and effectively for the challenge ahead.”  Through a range of initiatives and activities, the team will raise funds to support cancer research, turning every kilometer ridden into meaningful impact for patients.

Karen Costello, General Manager of Bristol Myers Squibb Benelux, cheers for the team: “Country2Country4Cancer is more than a sporting challenge. It reflects our shared commitment to improving the lives of people living with cancer and advancing research that makes a difference.”