PMC Profile: Bruce Cohen's 'Christmas Card'

Name: Bruce Cohen

Profession: CEO of Auriga Microwave

Pan-Mass Challenge or biking experience: – This is Cohen's 11th year to ride in the Pan-Mass Challenge. Cohen has always been athletic, but didn't pick up cycling until 2001 when running began to take its toll on his joints. In 2002, he had both hips replaced and biking became his first form of exercise.

Reason for riding: Cohen began riding with a group called the Crack of Dawn Riders, a bicycling group that began 20 years ago to help people train for the Pan-Mass Challenge. Initially, Cohen rode in the PMC because his group did it. Now, he says he does it for the PMC itself.

"I find it to be an incredibly emotional ride," he said, mentioning the signs people hold up along the course that feature phrases such as, "I wouldn't be here without you."

"It's sort of my Christmas card," said Cohen.

Training tip: "Make sure your bike fits really well and get the miles in."

Donation page: http://www.pmc.org/profile/BC0080

Riding in this year's Pan-Mass Challenge? Wayland Patch wants to feature your a profile. of the info we need to get your profile featured on Patch. Email the details to brooklyn.lowery@patch.com.