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.

 
FAQ
How do I participate?
Make a donation of at least $35, then run, walk, or move on your own schedule throughout October. Join in on the weekly fitness challenges to feel connected to the community.

How do I share my photos?
You can share your photos directly via Messenger to our Crush Cancer 5K Facebook or Instagram pages.

Where does the money go?
100% of donations benefit the Mecklenburg County Cancer Association, which provides financial support to local families facing cancer.

Do I have to complete every weekly challenge?
Not at all! You can join in as many—or as few—as you’d like. Every step, photo, and donation helps.

Will I receive race swag?
No. Since 100% of proceeds are going directly to the Mecklenburg County Cancer Association, we’re keeping this year’s event simple and won’t be providing swag.

Can I create a team to raise funds?
Absolutely! Gather your colleagues, church group, local running club, neighbors, or friends to form a team. It’s a great way to raise funds together and build community spirit.

Can I share my race time?
We love to see it. There’s no set distance this year, so you can log whatever distance you choose—5K, 10K, half marathon, full marathon, even an ultra—along with your time. Your results will appear on the RunSignup leaderboard. There are no official prizes, but plenty of bragging rights and imaginary gold stars!