The West Hartford-based Ron Foley Foundation will host its Kentucky Derby event on May 3, raising funds to fight pancreatic cancer.

Submitted

The Ron Foley Foundation is thrilled to announce the 16th Annual Ron’s Run for the Roses, a vibrant Derby Day gala, will take place on May 3, 2025 from 2:30 to 7:30 p.m. at the beautiful Farmington Polo Club. All proceeds from this event will directly benefit the Foundation’s mission to provide essential support to pancreatic cancer patients and their caregivers, fund critical medical research, and educate the public about this devastating disease.

Guests will enjoy an afternoon filled with southern-inspired cuisine, refreshing mint juleps, live music, and a range of exciting activities. The event will feature both live and silent auctions offering unique items and experiences, with the highlight being a live broadcast of the Kentucky Derby, adding to the excitement of the day.

“We are so excited to host our 16th Annual Ron’s Run for the Roses,” said Barbara Foley, founder and president of the Ron Foley Foundation. “This event is incredibly special as it allows us to remember my late husband, Ron, and continue our important work to support pancreatic cancer patients, a cause that is very close to our hearts.”

Joe Furey, co-chief meteorologist at News 8 WTNH and meteorologist at iHeart and WZBG Radio, will serve as the Master of Ceremonies for the event. This year’s presenting sponsors, New Country Mercedes-Benz and PeoplesBank, will be in attendance, along with Honorary Chairs Louanne Bengough Alibria and Rosanne Bengough, twin sisters who lost their mother to pancreatic cancer and have been steadfast supporters of the Foundation.

The Ron Foley Foundation was established by Barbara Foley in memory of her husband, Ron, who passed away from pancreatic cancer in 2005. A respected leader in the business community, Ron had recently retired from The Travelers Insurance Company. After his passing, Barbara and their loved ones were determined to create an organization that would make a lasting difference in the fight against pancreatic cancer. The Foundation, established in 2010, works tirelessly to raise awareness, fund research, and offer direct support to those affected by the disease.

Pancreatic cancer remains the third leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the United States. According to the American Cancer Society, in 2025, an estimated 67,440 Americans will be diagnosed with pancreatic cancer, and around 51,980 will lose their lives to it. With a survival rate of just 13% beyond five years, pancreatic cancer remains one of the most challenging forms of cancer to combat.

“We are deeply grateful for the unwavering support we receive from our sponsors, donors, and the entire community,” Foley remarked. “Together, we can help raise awareness, fund groundbreaking research, and ultimately make a difference in the fight against pancreatic cancer.”

To purchase tickets for Ron’s Run for the Roses or to donate to the Foundation, please visit the Ron Foley Foundation’s website at www.ronfoleyfoundation.org.    

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