Crush Cancer 2025: Virtual Challenge

Crush Cancer 2025: Virtual Challenge

For the past several years, the Crush Cancer 5K & Costume Contest has brought our community together each October to honor loved ones, celebrate survivorship, and raise vital funds (over $50,000!) for the Mecklenburg County Cancer Association (MCCA). This year, our race director is stepping back from hosting the in-person event to focus on her own battle with cancer. While we won’t gather on race day as in the past, the mission—and the spirit—of Crush Cancer remain strong. Instead, we invite you to join us for the Crush Cancer 2025: Virtual Challenge.

How It Works

• Donate: Instead of registering, participants are encouraged to donate at least $35—the typical race entry fee—to support the MCCA.
• Move for a Cause: Run, walk, or get active anytime during October, wherever you are.
• Weekly Fitness Challenges: Stay motivated all month long with themed activities (see below).
• Share Your Story: Snap a photo of yourself completing a challenge and send it to us. We’ll celebrate your participation by sharing it on our social media pages.

Weekly Fitness Challenges

• Week 1 (Sept. 28–Oct. 4): Wear Teal Week Teal represents ovarian cancer—the cancer Debbie Blue Winn battled and the reason Crush Cancer was created. Show your teal as you walk, run, or move.
• Week 2 (Oct. 5–11): Who Do You Crush Cancer For? Hold up a sign with the name of a person you’re running or walking for—in honor, in memory, or even for yourself.
• Week 3 (Oct. 12–18): Family Walk/Run Week Get the whole family moving! Share a group photo of your walk or run together.
• Week 4 (Oct. 19–25): Wear Pink Week October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Lace up in pink to honor and support those facing breast cancer.
• Week 5 (Oct. 26–31): Costume Run Week Keep the tradition alive! End the month with a fun costume walk or run and show off your creativity.

Why It Matters

Your donations directly support local cancer patients in Mecklenburg County, helping provide financial assistance for treatment, travel, and other urgent needs. Together, even apart, we can make a difference. Thank you for continuing to rally with us in honor, in memory, and in hope.