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Frequently Asked Questions

Click the headings below for answers to your questions about:


Register by Sept. 4 before registration fees increase. Registration ends Sept. 8.

What are the registration fees and fundraising commitments?
 • 25 mile bike ride: Reg. fee: $50, Suggested Fundraising Minimum $100
 • 50 mile bike ride: Reg. fee: $50, Suggested Fundraising Minimum $100
 • 5K Run/Walk: Reg. fee: $40, Suggested Fundraising Minimum $100
 • Stair Challenge: Reg. fee: $40, Suggested Fundraising Minimum $100
 • Cub Pack 1K for ages 1-10: Reg. fee: $25, Suggested Fundraising Minimum $50

What do I get for my registration fee?
Registration includes logistical and safety support the day of the event, your route‘s finish line celebration, snacks, an official Lobo Cancer Challenge T-shirt and more! All registration fees are non-transferable and non-refundable.

Do participants have a fundraising commitment?
No. Each participant has a suggested fundraising minimum of $100, but don’t stop there. Raise more for the program of your choice and win great incentives in the process. We welcome over-achievement!

Please visit our Fundraising Incentives page to learn what you can earn by raising more than your minimum.

What do my fundraising dollars support?
As a registered participant, you can choose a program in cancer research, patient care, community outreach, or education and training for medical professionals at the UNM Comprehensive Cancer Center. 100% of your donation dollars go to your program of choice.

Does my registration fee count toward my fundraising commitment?
No. The registration fee covers a portion of the cost for a great experience on your route. Beyond that, our generous sponsors cover the remaining costs to produce the event, so that 100% of every dollar you raise goes directly to advanced research and world-class patient care at the UNM Comprehensive Cancer Center.

What kind of incentives do you offer for fundraising?
Individuals who raise at least $1,000 by midnight, September 25, 2023, will receive an official bike jersey (for bike riders) or official branded gear (for 5K and stair challenge participants).

What is the deadline to hit my fundraising goal for incentives?
September 25, 2023 by 11:59 pm to win incentive items.

Do you offer recognition for top fundraisers?
Yes, the Top Three Fundraising Teams and the Top Three Fundraising Individuals will be recognized for their efforts! They will be announced at the Kickoff Celebration held prior to the Challenge event day. Only the amounts raised as of noon on Tuesday, September 19, 2023 count towards this recognition. Please visit our Fundraising Incentives page for details.

Why is there a suggested fundraising minimum?
The Lobo Cancer Challenge is a community fundraising event to provide money needed for patient services, patient clinical care and advanced cancer research at the UNM Comprehensive Cancer Center. Funds raised by the Lobo Cancer Challenge support areas of patient services, patient care and cancer research that are not supported by federal, state, and private funding. Some examples include transportation for patients to get to and from their appointments, overnight stays for patients and their families in Albuquerque, and pilot research projects that help our cancer scientists secure larger research grants.

How do I get started on my fundraising?
We’ve compiled guidelines, tips and ideas on our Fundraising Tips and Tools page to help you get started and get it done. First, customize your Personal Page (your online fundraising web page). You may customize this page as part of registration, or at anytime after by logging in. Then, tell all your friends and family about your commitment to the Lobo Cancer Challenge!

Do I need a credit card to participate?
Yes. Your credit card is required at registration to pay your non-refundable registration fee. Register here.

Can I change my route after I register?
In general, routes cannot be changed. If you need to change your route after registering, please contact the Lobo Cancer Challenge staff directly at [email protected].

Is my registration fee refundable if I’m unable to participate for any reason?
No. Your registration fee is non-transferable and non-refundable.

What if my plans change or if I get injured and can no longer participate in Lobo Cancer Challenge?
Please contact the Lobo Cancer Challenge staff directly at [email protected]. We do not allow any cancellations; however, please contact us if you are unable to participate in the event for which you registered.

If I cancel my participation, what happens to my donations?
All donations will stay with the Lobo Cancer Challenge and be used to further the success of the UNM Comprehensive Cancer Center.

Can I roll over my registration fee and fundraising to next year if my plans change or if I get injured?
No. Registration fees and donations are non-transferable and non-refundable.

If you are unable to participate, send us an email at [email protected] by August 13, 2023, 11:59 pm to help us in our planning for event day.

Is my registration and fundraising transferrable to others?
No. Your registration fee and all donations are non-transferrable and non-refundable.


What distances are the routes?
We offer 25 mile and 50 mile routes for the bike rides.

What are the routes?
Visit our Bike Routes page to view interactive maps for each ride.

How old do I need to be to participate in the Lobo Cancer Challenge?
Minors must be at least 12 years old by Saturday, September 23, 2023, and obtain parental/guardian consent to participate in the 25-mile and 50-mile routes.

Can I ride my recumbent bicycle?
Yes, recumbent bicycles are welcome.

Can I ride my tandem bicycle?
Yes, tandem bicycles are welcome. Tandem riders must register individually, pay separate registration fees and fundraise separately, not as a combined total. Also, each rider must be at least 12 years old and one of the individuals on the tandem must be 18 years or older.

Can I ride with a bicycle trailer or handlebar bicycle seat?
No. Bicycle trailers and handlebar bicycle seats are not allowed. No passengers are allowed on any bicycles.

What kind of bicycles are allowed and not allowed?
Bicycles Allowed: Standard Bicycle, Recumbent, Tandem, Hand Cycle.
Bicycles NOT Allowed: Motorized vehicles (this includes EBikes), Bikes with training wheels, Wheel Chairs, Child’s Tricycle, Unicycle, Burley Kart, or Tag-A-Longs.

How do I know which route is best for me?
All routes are achievable with the proper amount of training and physical preparation. If you currently ride, use an online app to measure a route you can comfortably ride to give you an idea of which route you might prefer. Geodistance.com and other websites allow you to draw out a route and measure it online. You can also ask a local bike shop or friend who rides a fair amount to guide you.

Where can I find training tips so I’m prepared to tackle my route?
Consult with bike shops, bike clubs, and your friends who bike to get their suggestions for preparing for your bike ride. Connect with other Lobo Cancer Challenge participants on our Facebook page and train together. Another idea is to join a Lobo Cancer Challenge team and do regular training rides together.

What kind of support is provided on the route?
We’ll take good care of you out there! We’ll have rest stops about every 12 -15 miles where you can hydrate, grab a snack or seek mechanical or medical support. We’ll also have SAG (Support And Gear) vehicles on course if you need help or a lift back to home base for any reason.

Do I need to wear a helmet? What do I need to know about rider safety?
The Lobo Cancer Challenge is a “Rules of the Road” bike ride:
   • All participants must wear a helmet.
   • All participants must obey City of Albuquerque Bicycle Laws and Safety Tips while riding in the Lobo Cancer Challenge.
   • BE PREPARED to ride safely.

Why do I need a timing chip?
We use the timing chip to know where you are on your route. If you need help, we’ll be able to send help more quickly. Also, as you approach the finish line, we can prepare to announce your name as you complete your ride!


Are pets allowed on the course?
No. Due to safety concerns, pets are not permitted on the course or in the spectator area. Only service animals will be allowed to accompany runners and walkers.

Are strollers allowed on the course?
Yes, strollers are permitted on the course. The following rules apply to strollers:

  • strollers must start in the back,
  • strollers may not weave through packs of runners or walkers, and
  • strollers must yield the right of way to others on the course.

Is the event timed?
Yes. Runners will be timed; they will receive a bib with a chip.

If I don't pick up my shirt at packet pick-up, can I get one mailed?
No. Our purpose is to devote the maximum funding we can to cancer research and patient care, so unfortunately we cannot mail any shirts or packets.

What happens if it rains on the day of the 5K?
We will make every effort to conduct the event. However, if we judge the weather to be hazardous we will cancel it. Unfortunately, we cannot refund entry fees if the event is canceled.

What is the registration fee for the Lobo Cancer Challenge 5K?
The registration fee is $40 and the suggested fundraising minimum is $100. The registration fee includes your official Lobo Cancer Challenge T-shirt and a fully supported route to include directional signage, water stops and snacks when you finish.

Are children who join their family to run or walk the 5K required to register?
No. The 5K is a family-friendly event and children of all ages may take part. All children on the 5k route must be accompanied on the course by a parent or legal guardian at all times. The parent or legal guardian must complete and sign a waiver for the child. While registration for children is not required, we encourage registration for the perks in the packet and the fun of participating in fundraising. We will provide snacks and drinks at the stadium for all registered participants.
Registration for children:
Children 11 and older: a parent or legal guardian will be required to complete and sign a waiver at Packet Pickup; pay the registration fee of $40; and be responsible for fundraising. The child receives a T-shirt, bib with a timing chip and a participant packet.

Can I rollerblade, skate or ride a bike on the course?
No. Due to safety concerns, rollerblades, skates, and bicycles are not permitted on the course.

Is the route accessible to people who use wheelchairs?
Yes, the event will be accessible to people using wheelchairs. Please note, however, that racing wheelchairs will not be permitted on the course.


Are pets allowed on the course?
No. Due to safety concerns, pets are not permitted on the course or in the spectator area. Only service animals will be allowed to accompany participants.

If I don't pick up my shirt at packet pick-up, can I get one mailed?
No. Our purpose is to devote the maximum funding we can to cancer research and patient care, so unfortunately we cannot mail any shirts or packets.

What happens if it rains on the day of the stair challenge event?
We will make every effort to conduct the event. However, if we judge the weather to be hazardous we will cancel it. Unfortunately, we cannot refund entry fees if the event is canceled.

What is the registration fee for the Lobo Cancer Challenge Stair Challenge?
The registration fee is $40 and the suggested fundraising minimum is $100. The registration fee includes your official Lobo Cancer Challenge T-shirt and a fully supported route to include directional signage, water stops and snacks when you finish.

Are children allowed to join their family on the Stair Challenge course?
No. Children younger than 12 are not allowed on the Stair Challenge route during the event.
However, children 12 and older may register to participate in the Stair Challenge. A parent or legal guardian will be required to complete and sign a waiver at Packet Pickup; pay the registration fee; and be responsible for fundraising. The child receives a T-shirt, bib and a participant packet. We will provide snacks and drinks at the stadium for all registered participants.


What is the registration fee for the Cub Pack 1K Run / Walk Challenge?
The registration fee is $25 and the suggested fundraising minimum is $50. The registration fee includes a Lobo Cancer Challenge T-shirt with artwork to color in, and also includes a Special Cub Pack Bib and water bottle.

What ages may register for the Cub Pack 1K Run / Walk?
The Cub Pack 1K is for ages 1-10, and a parent or legal guardian will be required to complete and sign a waiver at Packet Pickup; pay the registration fee of $25; and be responsible for fundraising.

Where is the route for the Cub Pack 1K Run / Walk?
The route is on the field at University Stadium. We will provide snacks and drinks at the stadium for all registered participants.

As a Cub Pack Challenger, how do I fundraise and what does it support?
Cub Pack Challengers receive a Personal Page (an online fundraising web page) upon registration like all of our other Challengers. We encourage our Cub Pack Challengers to personalize their fundraising page and then share it with their family and friends to invite them to donate to their fundraising efforts. When you register, you choose where 100% of your fundraising dollars go from among 19 programs in cancer research, patient care, community outreach, or education and training for medical professionals at The University of New Mexico Comprehensive Cancer Center.

Are pets allowed on the course?
No. Due to safety concerns, pets are not permitted on the course or in the spectator area. Only service animals will be allowed to accompany participants.

Are strollers allowed on the course?
Yes, strollers are permitted on the course. The following rules apply to strollers:

  • strollers must start in the back,
  • strollers may not weave through packs of runners or walkers, and
  • strollers must yield the right of way to others on the course.

Is the route accessible to people who use wheelchairs?
Yes, the event will be accessible to people using wheelchairs. Please note, however, that racing wheelchairs will not be permitted on the course.

If I don't pick up my shirt at packet pick-up, can I get one mailed?
No. Our purpose is to devote the maximum funding we can to cancer research and patient care, so unfortunately we cannot mail any shirts or packets.

What happens if it rains on the day of the Cub Pack 1K Run / Walk?
We will make every effort to conduct the event. However, if we judge the weather to be hazardous we will cancel it. Unfortunately, we cannot refund entry fees if the event is canceled.


How many people do we need to sign up as a team?
Anyone may start a Team when they register. Then, they can invite others to join! Two or more participants can be a team. Team members don’t have to choose the same route to be on the same team. Team members may participate in the Lobo Cancer Challenge as a Bike Rider, in the 5K Run/Walk, Stadium Stair Challenge, or as a Virtual Challenger.

How do I start a team?
To form a team, Team Captains choose “Create a Team” as their role when they Register. The role choices (Individual, Join a Team. Create a Team) appear on the page after someone selects their route or Participation Type. When they complete their registration, the Team is established and ready to go! The Team Captain has access to edit the Team Page where they can set the Team’s Fundraising Goal, send emails to team members, and more.

Pro Tip: It‘s a good idea to be ready with your Team Name before a Team Captain begins their registration.

How do I join a team?
You sign up with your team when you register by choosing the “Join a Team” role on the Registration page.

Or, you may choose to begin your registration directly from the Team Page. Find the Team page by using our “Fundraiser Search” feature at the top of every page. Click on the Team Name in the search results returned, which takes you to the Team Page. Click on the “Join Team” link on the Team Page to begin your registration.

Another option is to click on "Change Team Membership" on your own Personal Page at any time after your registration has been completed.

Can I invite people to join my team if I am not a Team Captain?
Yes! Invitees may use the link on your Personal Page, “Join (my name’s) Team” to begin their registration.

For more information on Teams, visit our Teams page.


What is a Virtual Challenger?
A Virtual Challenger is anyone interested in raising funds in the spirit of the Lobo Cancer Challenge. Virtual Challenger registration is available for those who are not participating at University Stadium on the day of the event, but are able to raise funds in support of the UNM Comprehensive Cancer Center.

Who may participate?
Anyone! We encourage people from around the globe to participate virtually with us on Saturday, September 23, 2023.

When may I complete my virtual route?
The 2023 Lobo Cancer Challenge takes place on Saturday, September 23rd. We encourage you to ride, run, walk or climb your chosen route at your location on that day. Stay safe by following the stated health guidelines for your area. Participate from wherever you are! Free websites such as us.mapometer.comgeodistance.com and others allow you to draw out a route and measure it online. Use caution if you are participating outside. And, please watch for pedestrian and vehicle traffic.

You may also “choose a Challenge.” Do you want to dedicate volunteer service as your Challenge? Or, you could take a hike outdoors in nature. Do you enjoy arts and crafts? What about producing crafts to sell for donations to your chosen fund? Do you have other favorite activities that could be ideas for fundraising? These may be completed on or before September 23, 2023 if needed. 

How can Virtual Challengers keep up with the latest news from the Lobo Cancer Challenge?
We encourage all participants and community members to follow us on social media: Facebook and Instagram. We will provide the latest updates there. We will also be sending out emails to registered participants with fundraising ideas and more! We also encourage you to share your training progress and Event-day Challenges at our Strava Club, or by tagging us on social media with #LoboCancerChallenge and #UniteAgainstCancer, or by emailing us your photos and videos at [email protected].

What is the registration fee and fundraising commitment for a Virtual Challenger?
The registration fee is $40 and the suggested fundraising minimum is $100. The registration fee includes your online fundraising page, official Lobo Cancer Challenge T-shirt and bib.

As a Virtual Challenger, how do I fundraise and what does it support?
Virtual Challengers receive a Personal Page (an online fundraising web page) upon registration like our other Challengers. We encourage our Virtual Challengers to personalize their fundraising page and then share it with their friends, family members and co-workers to invite them to donate to their fundraising efforts. When you register, you choose where 100% of your fundraising dollars go from among 19 programs in cancer research, patient care, community outreach, or education and training for medical professionals at The University of New Mexico Comprehensive Cancer Center.

Do I need a credit card to participate?
Yes. Your credit card is required at registration to pay your non-refundable registration fee. Register here.

How do I register to become a Virtual Challenger?
Select the Virtual Challenger participant type during the registration process.

When will I receive my participant packet?
We are only mailing participant packets to virtual participants who live out of town. The packets will be mailed two weeks prior to the event. If you want your packet for event day, please register by Friday, September 8, 2023.

Virtual Challengers who live in the Albuquerque metro area must pick up their packets. Packet Pickup times and locations will be posted on the Schedule page.

What do Virtual Challengers receive in their packet?
The packet includes an official Lobo Cancer Challenge t-shirt and race bib.


How do I donate online?
Donations can be made by credit card on our website. Select "Donate" from navigation to take you to our Donation page, where you can search for your Challenger or Team. (Or, you may use the "Fundraiser Search" feature at the top of every page to locate your Challenger or Team’s page.)

May I donate by check? Where do I send checks from my donors?
Make your check out to Lobo Cancer Challenge and be sure to include the name of the participant you are supporting on the MEMO line of the check.

If you do not include the participant’s name, your check will go to the General Research Fund, and your participant will not be credited with a donation.

Mail checks to:
UNM Comprehensive Cancer Center
Attn: Development Office
4th Floor
1201 Camino de Salud, NE
Albuquerque, NM 87131

Please contact us to set up a date and time at [email protected] if you prefer to drop off your checks in person.

What do I do if a donor gives me cash?
Cash donations can only be accepted in person at the Lobo Cancer Challenge office. Please email us at [email protected] to set up a date and time for drop-off.


Is my donation tax-deductible?
Yes, all donations are 100 percent tax-deductible, but your registration fee is not tax deductible. Please consult your tax advisor if you have any tax questions.

Will I receive a tax receipt?
Yes, all donations made payable to and received by Lobo Cancer Challenge will receive an acknowledgement for tax purposes. If you donate online you will receive your tax receipt instantly via email — please keep it for your records. If you donate via check, the name and address appearing on the check will receive a thank you and tax acknowledgment. If you donate cash, we will send you a thank you and tax acknowledgement at the address you provide to us. If the Lobo Cancer Challenge does not receive a cash donation directly from the donor, we cannot provide a tax acknowledgement.

When will I receive my tax receipt?
Online donations are acknowledged immediately via email. Please keep this email for your tax purposes. Donations received via check or cash will be acknowledged via US mail no later than the end of January 2024.


Does your employer match gifts?
For us to process your employer’s matching gift, you must start by making your donation by check, not by credit card online. Please follow our process to make a donation by check (instructions above, or click here).

Then, please request matching funds for your check by contacting:
Arlene Armijo, Director of Development at [email protected] or 505-272-4609;
or Leigh Rowland, Senior Director of Development at [email protected] or 505-925-0471.


What volunteer jobs can I do to support the Lobo Cancer Challenge?
Volunteer positions include Rest Stop Assistant, Vehicle Set Up, Check In, Hospitality, and many, many more! When you register to volunteer, you can review the list of available shifts. You may review the duties for a shift on another page, to see what is involved and the time commitment before you choose your shift. For example, a Set Up shift may involve more physical effort than another position. The major requirement for a Spirit Club volunteer is enthusiasm!

How do I register to volunteer for the Lobo Cancer Challenge?
Click the “Sign Up for your Volunteer Shift” button on the Volunteer page to register for a shift or two! (or more)

Where along the route can I help out?
Our routes cover a large area in and out of the Albuquerque area. We’ll need volunteers throughout. Check out the 5K Route and Bike Routes pages for Rest Stop locations. The Stair Challenge and the Cub Pack 1K for ages 1-10 are held at University Stadium.

When will I receive confirmation of my volunteer job, date, time and location?
During the volunteer registration process, you will choose your volunteer position, day, date and shift time. A confirmation of your choices will be emailed to you.

What if my plans change and I need to switch jobs or cancel?
Please email us at [email protected] or call 505-385-3479.

What should I wear for my shift?
You will receive an official Lobo Cancer Challenge T-shirt when you check in for your shift. Please wear your T-shirt throughout your volunteer shift. You should also wear comfortable shoes, be prepared for changing and inclement weather, and wear sunscreen!

Do I need to bring my own snacks and meals during my volunteer shift?
We’ll aim to keep you fed and hydrated throughout your shift. If you have food allergies or dietary restrictions, please plan accordingly.

Is there a registration fee to volunteer?
No.

Is there a fundraising minimum to volunteer?
No. We’re grateful for your time, effort and energy. But, you’re more than welcome to volunteer AND fundraise.

How can I volunteer and raise funds too?
In addition to signing up for your volunteer shift(s), you may also register for the Lobo Cancer Challenge. If your volunteer shift is on the day of the event, you may need to register as a Virtual Challenger to complete your Challenge before September 23, 2023. There is a suggested fundraising minimum, although we encourage you to set your own fundraising goal. Upon registration, you will have access to your own Fundraising Page to personalize!

How old do I need to be to volunteer?
You must be 18 years or older to volunteer. Volunteers younger than 18 (ages 14 - 17) must have parental or legal guardian consent, and must remain with their parent or guardian at all times. The parent or legal guardian will sign a waiver on the minor volunteer's behalf upon check-in.

I want to share the importance of volunteerism with my children; can they join me during my shift?
We encourage families to volunteer together as long as everyone is at least 14 years old. Children under 14 years old are not eligible to volunteer.


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