SATURDAY, APRIL 18, 2026
Event Kickoff: 7:30 p.m.
Race Start: 8:00 p.m.
Countdown to Race Day
Register Today!
Student 5k Participant
Nonstudent 5k Participant
Event Details
CALLING ALL RUNNERS, WALKERS, STROLLERS AND SUPPORTERS:
TAKE YOUR NEXT GIANT LEAP AT THE 5K CHALLENGE!
The 18th annual 5K Challenge is a race experience in Tippecanoe County that brings together the Boilermaker community and beyond to support innovative cancer research at the Purdue Institute for Cancer Research.
Since its start in 2008, the Challenge has had a powerful impact — generating more than $1 million to advance lifesaving science at the Purdue Institute for Cancer Research. The event brings real hope to survivors and their loved ones, proving that small steps lead to big change.
Early Packet Pickup
Friday, April 17
4:00 PM - 6:00 PM
Located on the north side of Ross-Ade stadium near Entry Gates F and G
Race Day Packet Pickup
Saturday, April 18
5:30 PM - 7:30 PM
Located on the north side of Ross-Ade stadium near Entry Gates F and G
Participant Count
Participants
CONTACT INFORMATION
Questions regarding the 5K
Office of Special Events
specialevents@purdueforlife.org
765-494-0900
Questions regarding cancer research
Purdue Institute for Cancer Research
cancerresearch@purdue.edu
765-494-9129
$9,092
Raised of $0
INTERESTED IN BECOMING A SPONSOR
Thanks to our generous sponsors, 100% of the money raised directly supports lifesaving cancer research at Purdue.
To learn more about how you or your company can be involved with the 2026 5K Challenge, visit our sponsorship registration page or contact Brandt Patz at BAPatz@purdueforlife.org.
Whether through an in-kind donation or sponsorship, there are many ways that you can be a part of the Purdue Institute for Cancer Research’s race for the cure!
Sneakers4Good
Give your sneakers a second life, while supporting cancer research!
This year, the Purdue Institute for Cancer Research is partnering with Sneakers4Good, an organization focused on funding local programs, community goals, and supporting the global reuse economy. There will be drop boxes onsite at the 2026 5K challenge to collect gently worn, used, and new athletic shoes. For each pair of sneakers donated, Sneakers4Good will contribute $1 to the Purdue Institute for Cancer Research.
Please join us in reducing waste and fighting against cancer! Drop boxes for sneakers will be located at all registration locations.
Please note we cannot accept:
- Single sneakers or mismatched pairs
- Wet or moldy shoes
- Athletic shoes with major structural damage, such as holes or tears
Race Location
Ross-Ade Stadium
John R Wooden Dr, West Lafayette, IN 47906
West Lafayette, IN 47906 US
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