Dempsey Challenge 2023 Event Guide

Presented by

CELEBRATING 15 YEARS

VIRTUAL CHALLENGE

Take on the Virtual Dempsey Challenge, presented by Amgen Oncology, at any time... from anywhere! Whether you run in Florida, cycle in Italy, horseback ride in Presque Isle, or walk in Brazil, your participation is helping to make life better for people impacted by cancer.

Join us LIVE on Instagram and Facebook throughout the day on September 23rd as we share several different looks into Simard-Payne Park on event day. And don't forget to share your pictures with us on social media!

LIVE STREAM SCHEDULE

VIRTUAL INFORMATION

BIBS + PACKETS

Packets with your commemorative bib, patch, and t-shirt will be mailed to all Virtual Challengers beginning September 25th. You can print a downloadable version of the bib by visiting our website.

If you do not receive your packet with your t-shirt by November 30th, please email us info@dempseychallenge org

GLOBAL FINISHER FORM

After completing your Global event, share it with us! Throw on your bib, snap a picture, share it with us via social media! Then, complete the Global Finisher Form below!

FINISHER FORM

The Virtual Dempsey Challenge is proudly presented by

INCENTIVE DELIVERY

The fundraising deadline for Global Challengers is Saturday, September 23rd at 5:00pm ET. At that time, your fundraising level will be locked in Incentives will then be mailed beginning in October We will mail to the address provided upon registration If this needs to be updated, please email our team at info@dempseychallenge.org. If you live near Lewiston but are taking on the Challenge virtually, you can still pick up your incentives in the park! Visit the Incentive Tent within Simard-Payne Park and collect your hard-earned incentives. Your fundraising level will be locked in upon pick up.

WHERE TO FIND US ON SOCIAL MEDIA

Join us on Facebook or Instagram for all the latest from in the park Friday through Sunday. Tag us @dempsey center on Instagram for a chance to be in our stories throughout the weekend.

If you signed up to join us Virtually and are now planning to participate in-person in Lewiston this year, please email us at info@dempseychallenge org to make this change

Conversely, if you were orginally planning to join us in Lewiston and now need to switch to participate virtually, please email us at info@dempseychallenge.org.

PACKET PICK-UP + OPEN HOUSE

Thursday, September 21st | 4:00 - 7:00 PM

Friday, September 22nd | 10:00 AM - 7:00 PM

Due to traffic, volume, and efficiency, we are offering Packet Pick-Up on Thursday and Friday at our Lewiston location.

During Packet Pick-Up, Challengers who have met their fundraising minimum can pick up their packet containing their tshirt, bib, and water bottle. Additional donations and in-person registrations will also be accepted.

Not only can you pick up your bib and registration packets, tour the flagship Dempsey Center location and learn more about the services you supported through your fundraising efforts.

Tour our original Dempsey Center location in Lewiston and discover how your support is making life better for people impacted by cancer in Maine and beyond. Plus, if you visit each part of the tour, you'll be entered to win some great prizes!

Please note that the Dempsey Center is located on the 5th floor. While we do have stairs and elevators, if you have concerns about accesibility, please email us at info@dempseychallenge.org so we can make accommodations for you

Team Captains Team Packet Pick-Up is back and easier than ever! Details will be sent to you via email.

Please note that you must meet your fundraising minimum ($250 for most Challengers) prior to picking up your in-person bib and packet.

Dempsey Center - Lewiston | 29 Lowell St. 5th Floor

GOOD LUCK TO EVERYONE RALLYING TOGETHER TO MAKE LIFE BETTER FOR PEOPLE IMPACTED BY CANCER.

BIBS + BRACELETS

At packet pick-up, you will receive your official event bib and four wristbands one for your bike, run bag, cycling bag, and for your wrist. Please place each band on the corresponding piece of equipment and wear your wristband on event day The number on your bib will match the numbers on each band to keep your equipment organized. Bands must be placed on equipment prior to drop-off.

BAG + BIKE DROP-OFF

After receiving your registration packet and you have placed your bands on your equipment, please bring your bags and bike to Geiger's Headquarters in Lewiston where you will make the switch from running to cycling on event day Your gear will be stored safely here until event day Drop-off times can be found below

REST STOP/TRANSITION

The Dempsey Duathlon, presented by Geiger, consists of an approximately 4.5 mile run, followed by an approxmiately 21 mile ride. Duathletes will complete their transition from runner to rider at Geiger's Headquarters. On Event Day, volunteers will set up your bikes + bags according to bib number for easy accessibility. Once you've completed your run, you can grab your bags and head inside Geiger to one of their locker rooms to change, if needed, and hydrate/refuel for your ride! Your bags can be left with the bag valet before you embark on the remainder of your Challenge and will be available for pick-up in Simard-Payne Park at Bag + Bike Valet upon your arrival.

EVENT

Friday, September 22nd | 10:00 AM - 7:00 PM

Saturday, September 23rd | 6:00 AM - 7:00 AM

D U A T H L O N R O U T E

Your safety is important to us while out on the road. Please note that all roads will be open along all bike routes. All Challengers, volunteers, and spectators should take extra caution while near the venue and routes.

Duathlon Ambassadors will be on all ride routes during the day on Saturday to help out with any situation that may arise. They are there to direct riders, act as first responders and mechanics, or to just encourage you to keep going! Ambassadors will be clearly identified with bibs.

Please be safe and mindful of other Challengers + traffic while on any route!

SAFETY TIPS

Wear a helmet at all times

Stop at stop signs and lights and obey all traffic laws and posted speed limits.

Ride on the RIGHT, Pass on the LEFT

Use hand signals and call our turns, obstacles, and debris on the road. Ride single file or two abreast. Stay on the marked route.

Give right-of-way to emergency vehicles

Never cross the center line. Watch for railroad tracks and cross them at right angles with extreme caution.

Stay hydrated throughout the ride. Watch for potholes as they could damange your bicycle, or worse, injure you. Check for cars and other cyclists before riding around them.

Always cooperate with Dempsey Challenge Staff and law enforcement

CYCLING EVENT INFORMATION

BIKE SAFETY + INSPECTION

Your safety is important to us while out on the road. Please note that all roads will be open along all bike routes. All Challengers, volunteers, and spectators should take extra caution while near the venue and routes. Our partners at Specialized will be in the park and available to assist with any pre-ride bike adjustments. Bike mechanics will also be available on Oxford Street near the Start Line.

Cycling Ambassadors will be on all ride routes during the day on Sunday to help out with any situation that may arise. They are there to direct riders, act as first responders and mechanics, or to just encourage you to keep going! Cycling Ambassadors will be clearly identified by yellow bibs.

Please be safe and mindful of other Challengers + traffic while on any route!

BAG + BIKE

Free Bag + Bike Valet will be available for Challengers on Saturday. Stop by to drop off your bag, bike, keys, and other items you'd like stored while you are in the park. This tent is located next to the finish line. Participants will get a wrist band that will match the bag and/or bike tag to ensure secure and easy identification upon pick-up. No items may be left overnight, please collect all items left before leaving the park.

STAGING + START TIMES

Please be sure to review your start time for your event. Because we are holding all events in one day this year, it is crucial that staging for events is done in a timely and organized fashion. Staging will begin 15 minutes prior to event start. We suggest that you arrive in Simard-Payne Park at least 45 minutes prior to event start time for a smooth start.

Staging will begin 15 minutes before your event start time

Your safety is important to us while out on the road. Please note that all roads will be open along all bike routes. All Challengers, volunteers, and spectators should take extra caution while near the venue and routes.

Cycling Ambassadors will be on all ride routes during the day on Saturday to help out with any situation that may arise. They are there to direct riders, act as first responders and mechanics, or to just encourage you to keep going! Ambassadors will be clearly identified with bibs.

Please be safe and mindful of other Challengers + traffic while on any route!

SAFETY TIPS

Wear a helmet at all times

Stop at stop signs and lights and obey all traffic laws and posted speed limits.

Ride on the RIGHT, Pass on the LEFT

Use hand signals and call our turns, obstacles, and debris on the road.

Ride single file or two abreast.

Stay on the marked route.

Give right-of-way to emergency vehicles

Never cross the center line. Watch for railroad tracks and cross them at right angles with extreme caution.

Stay hydrated throughout the ride. Watch for potholes as they could damange your bicycle, or worse, injure you. Check for cars and other cyclists before riding around them.

Always cooperate with Dempsey Challenge Staff and law enforcement

Click Route Map to Enlarge

RUN/WALK INFORMATION

STAGING + START TIMES

Please be sure to review your start time for your event. Because we are holding all events in one day this year, it is crucial that staging for events is done in a timely and organized fashion. Staging will begin 15 minutes prior to event start. We suggest that you arrive in Simard-Payne Park at least 45 minutes prior to event start time for a smooth start.

SAFETY

This year, the 5k Walk event will start immediately following the 5k Run start. Please be mindful of those around you, especially if you are a walker please do not impede runners on the course. The course will be marked with cones and as not all roads will be closed, please stay within the cones at all times on the route. Also, remember to stay hydrated!

5k RUNNERS | 8:15 AM

5k WALKERS | approx. 8:18 AM

Staging for both the run and walk events will begin at 8:00 AM.

REST STOP

Our Rest Stop teams have gone ALL OUT this year for a chance to win some fun prizes and make the routes the best they can be!

Be sure to stop by the rest stops on your routes to enjoy some fun themes like “Celebrating Maine,” “YMCA,” and so much more for the 2023 Rest Stop Showdown presented by Renys! You can even vote for your favorite on social media!

DOWNLOAD RACEJOY

Safety is our #1 priority in the Dempsey Challenge and, as part of that, we are asking that all in-person Challengers download the app, RaceJoy. This will help us track where you are on the route and will give you your time at the end of the event. Have your family and friends download the app to follow you along the route and send cheers of support!

DON'T FORGET YOUR BIB!

Please bring your bib with you and pin to your shirt on your event day! If you have an issue with your bib, please visit the Customer Service tent located near the Start Line inside Simard-Payne Park.

SHARE YOUR PICTURES WITH US!

We want to see your pictures from Challenge Weekend! Upload them to social using the hashtag 15yearsofDempseyChallenge, #DempseyChallenge, #RallyTogether, (and tag us @dempsey center while you're in the park!

TRAVELING TO LEWISTON?

Coming from away? We've put together a list of lodging, places to eat, cycling shops, and other things to do! Visit our website and find restaurants, hotels, bike shops, and community activities listed under "About."

FESTIVAL IN THE PARK

OFFICIAL MERCHANDISE

Dempsey Goods, our official Dempsey Challenge merchandise will be for sale throughout the weekend. Cashless pay options will be available.

MAIN STAGE ENTERTAINMENT

Saturday, September 23rd

9:15 - 10:15A - Camp of Rock

10:30 - 11:30A - Continental Shakedown

11:45A - 12:45P - The Smith Collaboration

2:00 - 3:00P - Bazinga!

TEAM PHOTO WALL

Again this year, team photos will be available in the park on Saturday, presented by Dirigo Federal Credit Union. Teams can register for a time slot on our website.

KIDS FUN RUN

Registration for the Kids Fun Run will begin at 10:00AM at the Oxford Street Hydration Tent. There, we will have Mascot Meet + Greets and an opportunity to hang out with the Maine Nordiques hockey team! The run will begin promptly at 11:00AM in the Event Start Chute on Oxford Street.

RUN/WALK + RIDE PHOTOS

Action shots will be taken on course and at the finish line. Photos will be uploaded to CrowdPic which uses number recognition to sort photos by Challenger. Riders you will receive both a branded number bib for your back and a bike plate to attach to your bars for number recognition. The link to access these images will be sent after Challenge Weekend.

FOOD + BEVERAGE

Food is available to all Dempsey Challengers in a variety of ways,

For early morning fuel, we will have a "Grab n' Go" station open featuring muffins, coffee, fruit, and other quick options to get you ready for event. Grab n' Go options are $5 and are available while supplies last.

The Food Tent will begin serving a Maine-Made Breakfast from 9:0010:30AM, featuring pancakes, Maine maple syrup, fruit, locally-sourced sausage, and beverages (gluten-free options available!). Breakfast is included for all Runners, Walkers, Duathletes, and Riders. Challenge guests can purchase tickets for $15 and also includes a ticket to the Maine Craft Beer + Wine Garden. Pre-sale begins Sept. 1st and ends Sept. 15th.

Lunch will open for service at 11:00AM until the last rider enters the park. This year, we are featuring Maine lobster rolls, vegetarian burritos, locally-sourced potato chips, whoopie pies, fruit, and more! Lunch is included for Duathletes and Riders ONLY. Runners, Walkers, and Challenge guests can purchase tickets for lunch for $25, which also includes a ticket to the Maine Craft Beer + Wine Garden. Pre-sale begins Sept. 1st and ends Sept 15th

MAINE CRAFT BEER + WINE GARDEN

This year's Beer + Wine Garden will feature Maine Craft Brews, Seltzers, Wine, Bloody Marys, and Blueberry Mimosas. Tickets can be purchased for $5 per ticket/beverage. Cash and credit/debit cards accepted. Must present a valid ID to enter.

ACCESSING THE MAINE CRAFT BEER + WINE GARDEN

To enter the Maine Craft Beer + Wine Garden Tent, you will need a bracelet. Bracelets can be picked up following an ID check at the entrance to the tent or at any ID check station.

Tickets are $5 per ticket/beverage and can be purchased at ID check near the finish line, as well as just outside the Maine Craft Beer + Wine Garden. Challengers will receive one ticket for a complimentary beverage, attached to your bib.

COLTON + LEVIS'S LEMONADE STAND

NEW this year is a family-friendly lemonade stand, staffed by the Daniels Family—longtime Dempsey Challenge volunteers Lemonade is free to everyone in the park!

E N U E M A P

PARKING INFORMATION

Simard-Payne Park | 46 Beech St. Lewiston, Maine 04240

PARKING LOTS + HOURS

Please park in any of the goldshaded areas below ADA Accessible parking can be found in the marked areas. Please do not park in the Hampton Inn parking lot unless you are a guest of the hotel. The Lincoln St. Garage and the Chesnut St. Garage are free to park on Challenge day.

NEED HELP?

After parking, please head into Simard-Payne Memorial Park Here, you can fill up your water bottles, meet up with your team, pin on your bibs, and get ready to start your Challenge event! Have a problem with your bib or question about your event? Please visit the Customer Service Tent near the entrance of the park.

OTHER INFORMATION

DAY-OF REGISTRATION

Online registration ends on September 19th at 11:59 PM ET, but you can still register at packet pick-up! For the smoothest experience possible, we ask that folks do not register on Challenge day. Please note that you still need to meet the fundraising minimum to participate in person.

STAGING + START TIMES

Please be sure to review your start time for your event. Because we are holding all events in one day this year, it is crucial that staging for events is done in a timely and organized fashion. Staging will begin 15 minutes prior to event start. We suggest that you arrive in Simard-Payne Park at least 45 minutes prior to event start time for a smooth start Thank you for your cooperation!

ATM

We will have an ATM on site this year. Cashless options will also be available for payment in the Maine Craft Beer + Wine Tent and Merch Tent.

ROUTE MAPS

Full route maps for all Local Challenge events can be found on our website under the "Rally" tab. Please review before your event and stay safe!

SAFETY PRECAUTIONS

Please be sure to wash and/or sanitize your hands often, maintain social distance where you are able, and consider fist and elbow bumps in lieu of high fives. Additionally, we hope that all those who join us in the park respect the decisions regarding masking made by fellow Challengers, staff, volunteers, and attendees.

RECYCLING + COMPOSTING

Please join us in reducing our impact on the environment by composting food scraps and recycling other materials by placing waste in their designated bins. Our Green Team, presented in conjunction with our partner, Casella, thank you in advance!

NO SMOKING

Per City of Lewiston ordinance, smoking is prohibited in Simard-Payne Memorial Park We ask that you do not smoke on the course or at any Dempsey Challenge-related functions.

DOG POLICY

Friendly, leashed dogs are welcome to join us in Simard-Payne Park. Please be courteous and respectful of others and clean up after your furry friend.

OTHER INFORMATION

WEATHER SAFETY

Barring severe weather conditions, the Dempsey Challenge will proceed despite poor weather. Runners, walkers, and riders should be prepared for high winds, a wide range of temperatures, heavy rainfall, or even snow.

Given that weather can change during the events, weather-related announcements may need to be issued after your event begins. Please continue to check social media, alert signs at Rest Stops, or in RaceJoy.

Dempsey Challenge reserves the right to postpone event start times, reduce ride length, restrict ride options, or cancel the ride to ensure the safety of its participants. We will do everything we can to communicate any changes promptly. In all cases, Challengers are responsible for their own safety and should use their best judgement when deciding whether or not to continue if severe weather conditions exist SAG Drivers will be on hand should you need to stop participating and need to get back to Simard-Payne Park.

The best Dempsey Challenge incentive is knowing you're helping to make life better for people living with the impact of cancer but a little recognition never hurts!

Incentives will be distributed in the park in the Incentive Tent. We encourage all participants to pick up their earned items after completing your event. Your fundraising level will be locked in after picking up your incentive items. So get those donations in before you pick up your items!

Virtual Participant incentives will begin shipping in October. If you are participating virtually, but live near Lewiston-Auburn, you are welcome to pick up your items in the park, too! Stop by the Incentive Tent and pick them up at any time on September 23.

Thank you to our Incentive Partners!

EVENT T-SHIRT

THANK YOU!

The very first Dempsey Challenge was held in 2008, welcoming walkers, runners, and cyclists to Lewiston, Maine all with the goal of making life better for people impacted by cancer. 15 years later, while the event has grown and morphed over the yeras, the mission has remained the same.

Dempsey Challenge is the flagship fundraising event for the Dempsey Center, allowing us to provide no-cost support services to cancer patients, survivors, care partners, and their loved ones. Every dollar raised by you, our Challengers, directly benefits the Dempsey Center and, in turn, helps to make life better for thousands of people impacted by cancer in Maine and beyond.

We are so grateful for all of you who have taken on the Challenge for all 15 years, to all of you who are taking the Challenge on for the first time, and to everyone in between. Because of you, people are able to access services such as oncology counseling, support groups, education, nutrition consultations, movement + fitness classes, massages, and so much more while on their cancer journey. And they get to do so all at no cost.

Thank you for Celebrating, Honoring, and Rallying Together with us for the past 15 years. We wouldn't be where we are today without your support.

Thank you,

#DempseyChallenge

#RallyTogether

#15YearsofDempseyChallenge

L u m i n a r y T e n t o n C h a l l e n g e D a y t o e n j o y p r i v a t e f o o d , d r i n k s , a n d s e a t i n g .

C h a l l e n g e r s w h o r a i s e d o v e r $ 1 0 , 0 0 0 a n d S p o n s o r s a r e w e l c o m e t o j o i n u s i n t h e

L U M I N A R Y T E N T S P O N S O R

GOOD LUCK, CHALLENGERS!

FROM ALL OUR SPONSORS + PARTNERS