Behind every mile, every dollar raised, and every participant is a story worth showing up for. Together, we rally, honor, and celebrate 18 years of supporting cancer patients, their loved ones, care partners, and survivors with comfort, connection, compassion, and choice—always at no cost.

IN PERSON EVENT

In-person event located in Lewiston, Maine featuring 5K/10K run/walk and ride events on Saturday, September 19th

Dempsey Challenge Registration Includes:

Participant t-shirt

Fundraising Incentives

Fundraising Guide to help you achieve your fundraising goals!

Beverage ticket to enjoy a Maine craft beer, mimosa or bloody Mary (or Colton + Levi’s Lemonade Stand!)

Maine-inspired finisher meal in the Food + Beverage Tent

VIRTUAL EVENT

Virtual event you complete on September 19th, anywhere and in any way you choose!

Virtual Dempsey Challenge Registration Includes:

Fundraising Guide to help you achieve your fundraising goals

Fundraising Incentives, shipped to you

Achieve $150 in fundraising and receive an official bib and Dempsey Challenge Finisher’s patch, shipped to you!

OPPORTUNITIES FOR EVERYONE

Register for the in-person Dempsey Challenge, join virtually from anywhere, or take part as a volunteer. For every story, there’s a way to show up. Together, as a global community, we challenge ourselves to rally around those impacted by cancer and help ensure everyone has access to the support they deserve.

CHALLENGE YOURSELF

Four easy steps to get in on the fun!

1. Choose Your Challenge

We offer different participation levels suited for all skill levels!

Walk/Run a  5K or Run a 10K

Ride a 25mi (Wendy’s Way), 50mi, or 65mi cyling road routes OR choose a 30-ish or advanced 55 mi gravel ride!

Virtual Participants can participate in any activity from anywhere in the world – and support people impacted by cancer.

2. Register

Registration is currently open. When registering as an adult participant, you’re committing to a fundraising minimum.

3. Choose a Team Type

Participate on your own, join a team, or create your own team.

About Teams

There is no limit to how many members can be on a team.

Teams can be a mix of walkers, runners, riders, and virtual participants.

Each team member is responsible for their own fundraising minimum for their chosen event.

4. Fundraise

Fundraising commitments vary by event but participants have until event day, September 19th, to meet or exceed their minimum.

Your commitment and generosity supports the Dempsey Center’s mission to make life better for people managing a cancer impact.

 Register

KEY DATES

Friday, September 11, 2026 5:00 PM ET Team Packet Pickup registration deadline; Registration change deadline

Thursday, September 17, 2026 12:00 PM ET Deadline to be recognized as Dempsey Challenge individual or team award winner*; Deadline for College Cup and High School Challenge*; Deadline to raise $3,000+ to receive A Night of Love + Light Champion event invitation*

September 19, 2026 5:00 PM ET Final incentive deadline *All funds must be received by the deadline date and time