Thousands of riders launched from Worcester's new Pan-Mass Challenge start line, and the Worcester Railers added new players to their 2026-27 roster.

WORCESTER --

COMMUNITY -- Thousands of cyclists gathered in Worcester for the Pan-Mass Challenge, the charity ride benefiting Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, which used the city as its start line for the first time this year, according to Patch. "Worcester is kind of nice. We're really enjoying being up on the hill," said Ken McLean of Landry's Bicycles. "There's a nice breeze," he said of the new starting location.

The Worcester Railers, the city's AHL hockey club, announced new forwards, defensemen and a goaltender for the 2026-27 season this week, according to Patch, continuing the team's offseason roster additions.

Compiled from team and league reports, reader submissions, and local coverage.