As of Jan. 30, 2010. Subject to change
General Information
What is The Dempsey Challenge?
The Dempsey Challenge is a fundraising experience for The Patrick Dempsey Center for Cancer Hope & Healing at Central Maine Medical Center in Lewiston, Maine. Comprised of various cycling distances (10, 25, 50 and 100 miles), and a 5K (3.1 mile) and 10K (6.2 mile) run/walk, participants 18 and over are required to raise $150 (and encouraged to raise even more!) as they prepare for The Dempsey Challenge. The Dempsey Center provides high-quality education, support and wellness services to patients, survivors and caregivers. More information on Patrick's personal story and commitment, as well as services provided by the Dempsey Center, can be found at
www.dempseycenter.org
When and where is The Dempsey Challenge?
The Dempsey Challenge is Saturday, October 2 (5k and 10k run/walk) and Sunday, October 3 (cycling events), 2010 at Simard-Payne Police Memorial Park in Lewiston, Maine (Directions). Many other activities are scheduled throughout the weekend.
What is the weekend schedule of events for The Dempsey Challenge?
Please see the Event Info page for an updated schedule of events.
Will Patrick Dempsey participate in The Dempsey Challenge?
Yes. Patrick is proud to support and participate in The Dempsey Challenge and is scheduled to attend the event. Please note that Patrick Dempsey's participation is not 100-percent guaranteed should his Hollywood production schedule change.
How can I participate in The Dempsey Challenge?
A number of ways!
Cycle ($75 entry fee and $150 minimum fundraising requirement) - Participate in one of four cycling tours (10, 25, 50 and 100 miles).
Run/Walk ($35 entry fee and $150 minimum fundraising requirement) - Run or walk the 5K or 10K (3.1 or 10.2 mile) course covering areas of Lewiston-Auburn.
Virtual Rider (no entry fee) – If you can’t join us physically in Maine, raise funds as an individual or join a team and fundraise (virtually) alongside other cyclists, runners and walkers. Virtual Riders do not participate in a cycling event or run/walk event, but are welcome to raise funds as an individual or team member. Raise a minimum of $150 and receive an event T-shirt, water bottle and reusable grocery bag!
Volunteer - Plenty of opportunities to donate your valuable time to benefit a great cause. Registration opens March 1, 2010.
Will the Dempsey Challenge take place rain or shine?
Yes! The Dempsey Challenge will take place rain or shine. In the case of severe weather conditions, it may be necessary to modify events and activities. If there is a need to communicate changes, we will announce them on the home page of our website.
Can I bring my pet?
Due to a City of Lewiston ordinance, pets are NOT allowed.
Participants
Is there an age minimum to register for The Dempsey Challenge?
As a participant - No. We welcome participants of all ages. Minors (under 18 years old) must be accompanied during the event by a registered adult participant who also agrees to the required entry fee. We recommend only experienced cyclists who are at least 16 years old register for the 50- and 100-mile distance options.
As a volunteer – Yes. Volunteers must be 12 and over to register. Many volunteer positions are not appropriate for anyone under the age of 16. If you have any questions regarding volunteering, please email us at volunteers@dempseychallenge.org. Volunteer registration opens March 1.
Will there be food available to runners and walkers following the run/walk events?
Yes. All walkers and runners will have access (via your bib number) to the Brunch Tent following the event on Saturday. The Brunch Tent will feature such items as bagels, fruit, pizza and beverage. The Lobster Trap will be open on Sunday and all walkers/runners may purchase one ticket for the Lobster Trap at the discounted rate of $15 at the time of registration. No tickets for the Lobster Trap will be sold the day of the event.
Will there be food available to Cyclists following the cycling events?
Yes. All participating cyclists will have access to The Lobster Trap (via your bib ticket) following the rides on Sunday. You will have a choice of a lobster, chicken or
pizza/Italian sandwich, plus beverages. You will be asked to make your selection at the time of registration so we can plan accordingly. There will be a Food Court available to family members, friends and spectators at The Festival in the Park.
Is event participation capped?
Yes. We have currently set a cap of 4,000 total for the run/walks and 3,500 for the rides.
Can I change the distance that I signed up for?
It is very important that you sign up for the distance that you will be most comfortable completing at the time of the event. This allows us to plan the route accordingly and ensure a fun and safe event for all participants. It is possible that we may need to close registration for a particular distance. If you need to check or change your distance prior to the event, please e-mail
info@dempseychallenge.org
I want to run and ride on The Dempsey Challenge weekend. Is that possible?
Yes! Based on the event schedule for 2010, participating in more than one event is possible. You can participate in a run/walk event on Saturday and a cycling route on Sunday. Select the multi-event option when you register.
What isn't allowed on the Run/Walk course?
For safety purposes, roller-blades, skateboards, bicycles and pets will not be allowed on the run/walk course. Baby strollers are OK.
What isn’t allowed on the cycling routes?
For safety purposes, we cannot allow buggies, sidecars or child seats on the cycling routes.
What happens if I register for The Dempsey Challenge, but am unable to participate?
If you're unable to participate, your support will still be appreciated! Registration fees and donations are non-refundable and non-transferable. Qualified and applicable incentive items will be mailed post-event if you make arrangements ahead of time. Simply send us an email:
info@dempseychallenge.org
Will there be any support on the cycling routes?
Yes. We will have support vehicles roaming the routes and rest stops will be positioned approximately every 10 miles. There will be food and beverage, a bike mechanic and medical assistance at every rest stop. The most important element to your enjoyment of The Dempsey Challenge is your preparation.
Do I have to wear a helmet?
Yes, wearing a helmet is mandatory.
Do we follow rules of the road while we are cycling?
Yes. The Ride is a rules of the road ride, meaning that all traffic signs and operations must be followed. There will be traffic control marshals stationed at major intersections.
What are the cycling routes?
Detailed route information is forthcoming. The towns covered by the 100-mile route are Lewiston, Auburn, Poland, Raymond, Naples, Bridgton, Harrison, Casco, Otisfield Oxford and Mechanic Falls.
My kids and I want to participate in The Dempsey Challenge ride. Is this possible?
Absolutely! The Dempsey Challenge weekend is an opportunity for families to come out and unite in the fight against cancer. Although there is no age minimum, we want to be clear that certain Challenge ride routes will be physically demanding. Please carefully take into consideration your child's abilities when registering them.
Every child under the age of 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian who is registered for the same distance. Each participant must be registered and all cyclists will be required to meet the $75 entry fee and all runners/walkers the $35 entry fee. The minimum fundraising level is NOT a requirement for participants under 18 years of age. For those 18 and over, there is a $150 fundraising minimum requirement in order to participate.
All child participants must be able to pedal a bike, either their own, or riding tandem with their parent/guardian. Trail-A-Bikes are allowed. For safety reasons, we cannot allow buggies, sidecars or child seats on the cycle routes and no roller blades, bicycles or skateboards on the run/walk routes.
I'm participating in the Run/Walk. Can I bring my child in a stroller or carry him/her on my back?
Yes! The Dempsey Challenge is a family event and therefore baby strollers and baby carriers will be allowed on the 5K and 10K run/walk courses. There is NO registration fee required for children 8 and under as long as they are accompanied by a parent or guardian who is registered for the event. However, all minor participants must have a participant waiver signed by a parent or legal guardian at the time of Packet Pick-Up. Unfortunately, non-paying participants will not receive an event t-shirt.
Will official results be posted following the event?
Cycle Rides and Run/Walk Events - No. The Dempsey Challenge is a non-competitive fundraising event and our primary goal is to raise funds for The Patrick Dempsey Center for Cancer Hope & Healing. An event clock will be provided for those interested but no official results will be posted.
Teams
How do I register or join a team?
Teams must register via the website under Register then select Start a Team (for team captains) or Join a Team (for team members). A drop down menu will pop up and you choose the name of the team you want to join. It's that simple!
Do all team members have to participate in the same event?
No. Team members may participate in any of the selected activities or distances. Mix cyclists with runners and/or walkers and watch your team grow!
Can I join a team and volunteer?
Yes. You can join a team and fundraise as a Virtual Rider. Virtual Riders do not participate in a cycling event or a run/walk, but are welcome to raise funds as an individual or team member.
Are there incentive awards for teams and individuals?
Yes, The Dempsey Challenge will recognize outstanding fundraising efforts with special awards during the Saturday night Champions for Hope Banquet. Winning teams will be awarded 2 tickets each for the Champions for Hope Banquet.
Special recognition will be provided to:
• Individual Awards (Top fundraising individual, Most donors)
• Team Awards (Top fundraising team, Most team members)
• Central Maine Medical Family affiliate Awards (Top individual fundraiser, Top fundraising team)
Award winners will be selected based upon the fundraising status per the September 28th deadline. All award winners will be notified via e-mail and telephone by 5 p.m. EST on Thursday, September 30th.
Fundraising
What are the exclusive events for qualified individual fundraising participants on Saturday, October 2?
Three unique events are scheduled for qualified individual fundraisers.
1. For those who raise at least $10,000: a private ride and reception with Patrick Dempsey and pro cyclists.
2. Fundraisers of $3,000 or more: the Champions for Hope Banquet, hosted by Patrick Dempsey. Individuals qualifying for this event will receive an additional ticket to bring a guest! A silent auction is also scheduled for the event.
3. Fundraisers of $5,000 or more: a VIP Reception hosted by Patrick Dempsey will take place prior to the Champions for Hope Banquet. Individuals qualifying for this event will receive an additional ticket to bring a guest!
Is fundraising a requirement in order to participate in The Dempsey Challenge?
Yes. Our primary goal is to raise funds to help cancer patients and their families through The Patrick Dempsey Center for Cancer Hope & Healing. Therefore we have set a minimum fundraising requirement of $150 by participants 18 years of age and older in order to participate. You will have up until the time you pick up your packet to turn in your donations to meet this requirement. Please note: your entry fee does not count toward the fundraising minimum or fundraising incentives.
Do you have any information on ways I can fundraise?
Yes! Our 2010 Fundraising Ambassador, Shannon Gilmartin (2009 Dempsey Challenge Top Fundraiser), will provide weekly tips on how you can boost your fundraising. She will also provide a
live chat session via the website.
We will also provide a Fundraising Toolkit on our website. The Toolkit includes a sample letter and postcard for you to personalize and distribute to family and friends.
When I registered, a personal web page was set up for me. How do I access it?
From the homepage, click on Login then input your username and password to access your page.
How do I submit the donations that I receive?
Click on the Fundraising tab and scroll down and click the "Donation Form" link to download and print the form. You can use the form to record all of your donations. Please use the address at the bottom of the form to mail the form and checks to us.
You can also record your donations on your personal web page. Your donations will show up as pending after you record them on your
web page. Once we receive the donations, they will be confirmed and added to your fundraising total.
How do I apply the donations I receive toward my fundraising goal?
Log on to your personal web page and click "Tools". You can enter all of your donations here. Once we receive the donation, it becomes confirmed and will be added to your fundraising total.
What if I want to fundraise but I don't want to participate in the Dempsey Challenge?
You can be a Virtual Rider! Even though it is understood that you do not wish to cycle or run/walk in the 5K or 10K, your fundraising efforts will afford you the same incentives as cycle and 5K/10K participants. Virtual riders may join a team and are not required to pay an entry fee. If you raise a minimum of $150 as a Virtual Rider, you will receive a t-shirt, water bottle and an exclusive Specialized reusable bag!
Will reaching certain fundraising levels qualify participants to receive incentives?
Yes! There are various incentive levels for all Dempsey Challenge participants and Virtual Riders: View the Incentive Chart to learn more. The fundraising deadline will be announced at a later date. Registration fees do not count toward fundraising totals.
In order to be eligible for the fundraising incentives, do I have to turn my money in by a certain time?
Any monies turned in after the fundraising deadline will be included in the overall monies raised for The Patrick Dempsey Center for Cancer Hope & Healing but will NOT count toward incentives. The minimum fundraising requirement of $150 can be turned in up until the time you pick up your packet.
Are there any special awards provided over and above the fundraising incentive items?
Yes, Dempsey Challenge will recognize outstanding fundraising efforts with special awards during the Saturday night Champions for Hope Banquet. Special recognition will be provided to:
• Individual Awards (Top fundraising individual, Most donors)
• Team Awards (Top fundraising team, Most team members)
• Central Maine Medical Family affiliate Awards (Top fundraising team, Top fundraising individual)
How do team members qualify for the individual fundraising incentives?
Each individual team member will qualify for incentives based on the amount of money they raise individually.
Do I have to claim awards received for my fundraising efforts on my tax return?
The IRS considers all prizes and awards associated with The Dempsey Challenge as income. This income is calculated by taking the fair market value of the awards you receive and subtracting any monies you personally donate to The Dempsey Challenge. In keeping with IRS regulations, should the income be greater than $600, The Dempsey Challenge will provide you with a Form 1099. Note that expenses you incur during your fundraising are tax deductible, however, they do not relate to the amount considered income. For additional information on IRS requirements, please contact The CMMC Development Office at 207.795.2950.
Are the fundraising award levels for walkers/runners the same as the rider levels?
Yes, fundraising award levels are the same for all participants.
Volunteers
I have registered to be a volunteer, what is the next step in the process?
Before the big day, you will be contacted by our Volunteer Director or Local Organizing Committee member with more details for your volunteer job and the weekend's events.
Will The Dempsey Challenge staff provide transportation to and from the event venue for volunteers?
We are sorry but we are unable to provide transportation to the event. We will provide volunteer parking and suggest leaving plenty of time for potential traffic and parking delays before your assigned shift. More information will be sent to you prior to event day.
Where do I check-in the day of my shift?
All volunteers need to check-in at the Volunteer Check-in booth location unless otherwise directed. We will forward check-in location information before the event. It is recommended that volunteers arrive at least 45 minutes prior to their assigned time to allow for check-in, potential traffic and parking delays and further instruction.
Will I be provided lunch?
Many shifts will receive lunch. Lunch information will be provided at check-in. Course Marshals, Medical Support, SAG, Bike Mechanics and Rest Stops will be delivered a box lunch while they are out on the ride course. It is suggested that you bring additional food and water, if needed.
What should I wear/bring?
We ask that all volunteers be prepared for all types of weather by bringing raingear, sun block, hat, jacket and comfortable clothes and shoes. If you are on the ride course as a ride marshal, you may want to bring a folding chair. You will be provided with a volunteer t-shirt, so please wear something that you may wear under your t-shirt.
I registered online but now I have a problem with the day/time I signed up for. How can I change my volunteer time?
Please email volunteers@dempseychallenge.org
with changes.
I am volunteering for The Dempsey Challenge and my spouse/friend is riding in the event, will I be able to see them cross the finish line?
In most cases we can make arrangements for you to meet your loved one at the finish line. You will need to check with your volunteer captain in advance.
I am serving as a course marshal or in another position out on the route. Will there be restrooms available and will I have the opportunity to take a break?
The closest restrooms will be Port-o-Lets at the nearest rest stop. You will be given that nearest location at the time of course assignment. In many cases you will not be able to leave your post. We will make every effort to accommodate you in any way with this situation. You will also be provided with the cell phone number of the volunteer captain should you need assistance while on the course.
As a volunteer, can I raise money for The Dempsey Challenge and The Patrick Dempsey Center for Cancer Hope & Healing?
Yes! Register as a Virtual Rider and you can raise funds and qualify for incentives just like the participants. Visit the Registration page and, when prompted, select Virtual Rider.
Can I ride my bike to my rest stop or course marshal location?
If you want to ride your bike to the course marshal location you are assigned to, that is fine. However, please note you may not know the distance you need to travel until the day of the event. This could cause certain delays in getting you to and from your location.
What if there is an emergency while I am volunteering? Who should I call?
You will receive all emergency information at your check-in prior to your shift. Please call 911 in case of a medical emergency on the course.
If my shift is over and I can continue to volunteer, where do I go?
Please check in with your team captain or go to the Volunteer Check-in booth for another assignment.
Can I just show up and register to volunteer, or if I'm already registered, can I bring a friend?
Yes! You can sign up and register at Volunteer Check-In and encourage other people to sign up as well.
Can I bring my kids?
We encourage youth 12 and up to sign up as a volunteer but hey must be accompanied by a parent or guardian who is also signed up as a volunteer for the same position. There are many jobs inappropriate for a younger person so please be careful when selecting your position. There are also opportunities for your kids to participate in the Kids' Fun Run and KidZone area. The Dempsey Challenge weekend is an opportunity for families to come out and unite
for the cause.
Sponsorship
What are the sponsorship opportunities?
There are several exclusive opportunities and levels for companies and organizations to sponsor The Dempsey Challenge and support The Patrick Dempsey Center for Cancer Hope & Healing. Companies and organizations are encouraged to become a sponsor (cash or in-kind donations) in order to help us reach this goal. Integrated packages will be created and fulfilled which include on-site branding, hospitality and media exposure. Please contact Wendy Tardif for more information: 207.795.5546,
tardifw@cmhc.org.
I would like to set up an exhibit/table on site the day of the event to promote a product or service. Is this possible?
Yes. We have two options available. One is the Health & Wellness Expo, available to non-profits with interactive displays related to
cancer prevention & early detection. A Vendor Expo area is available to all for profits and other non-profits not related to the Health & Wellness theme.
I don't need exposure for a business but I would like to be a donor. Can you tell me more about being a donor?
Yes. Individuals are also encouraged to support The Dempsey Challenge. Individual Patron packages are available and will include incentives from the
incentive chart and integration of other appreciation opportunities. Fore more information, please contact Wendy Tardif at 207.795.5546 or
tardifw@cmhc.org.
I am not participating but I would like to donate under my friend who will be participating. Can you tell me what I need to do?
Ask your friend for their personal web page address or search for your friend on our homepage. Click here to get started!
I do not know anyone that is participating but I would like to make a donation toward the overall goal of the Dempsey Challenge. How do I do this?
Visit the Donate page for more information.
Can I donate to the Dempsey Center separate from The Dempsey Challenge?
Yes! Please visit www.dempseycenter.org
for more information. |