The following was taken from a press release supplied by the Pan-Massachusetts Challenge. It has been lightly edited.

On August 4 and 5, 45 residents from Charlestown will pedal across the state as participants in the 33 annual Pan-Massachusetts Challenge (PMC).

They will be among 5,500 cyclists who will ride with the collective goal of raising $36 million to support adult and pediatric cancer research and treatment at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute through the Jimmy Fund.

In 2012, cyclists are required to raise between $500 and $4,300 to ride in the PMC. This commitment to the fundraising portion of the PMC is a testament to riders’ dedication to the cause and their belief in the PMC mission.

The average PMC cyclist trains for three months, solicits 40 sponsors, and raises more than $6,000. At the end of all that, they bike through 46 towns across Massachusetts.

To become a virtual rider, or make a financial contribution to a Charlestown rider, visit www.pmc.org, or call (800) WE-CYCLE. Checks can be made payable to PMC, 77 Fourth Ave., Needham, Mass. 02494.

Charlestown riders: