Bike, Run or Walk for Cancer Research

Hosted at UW Health Eastpark Medical Center, the Badger Challenge invites participants of all ages and abilities to be part of something bigger than themselves. From seasoned cyclists tackling the 100-mile route to families walking a 5K together, every step and pedal stroke contributes to advancing groundbreaking cancer research at the University of Wisconsin.

The Badger Challenge is driven by a single, powerful mission: to accelerate cancer research and improve patient care by funding the brightest minds, ideas, and technologies at UW. Each year, the event brings the community together in the fight against cancer—uniting survivors, families, researchers, physicians and supporters in a shared effort to increase cure rates.

What makes the Badger Challenge especially impactful is its commitment to local fundraising and impact. Every dollar raised by participants goes directly to cancer research—100% raised, 100% stays at the University of Wisconsin. These funds support innovative studies in areas such as immunotherapy, personalized medicine, and radiation treatment, helping accelerate discoveries from the lab to the clinic.

Since its founding in 2016, the Badger Challenge has raised over $5.5 million for cancer research and supported dozens of clinical programs. Each Badger Challenge participant brings their own “why,” honoring loved ones, celebrating survivorship, or growing hope for future cures.  

The Badger Challenge is accessible and inclusive to all, offering a wide range of participation options. Cyclists can choose from routes of 100 miles, 100K, 50K, 25K, or a shorter 5K ride. Runners and walkers can participate in the half marathon, 5K run, or 5K walk. There is also an option to participate from anywhere as a Global Runner, Walker or Biker.

Beyond the event’s races, the Badger Challenge offers a full day experience with a post-race party that includes a lunch buffer, beverages and kids’ zone.

While the event day is inspiring, the heart of the Badger Challenge lies in fundraising. Each participant is encouraged to raise funds that directly impact cancer research.

Upon registration, participants receive a personalized fundraising page to share their story, photos, and rally support from friends, family, and colleagues. Participants can also form teams and utilize social media to ask for donations leading up to event day. To encourage participation and fundraising, the Badger Challenge offers incentives to those who raise $500 or more. New this year, participants who raise $500 can earn a refund of their entire registration fee. 

Every donation—large or small—directly fuels cancer research breakthroughs at the University of Wisconsin. Funds help launch new studies, generate critical data, and compete for national grants, accelerating the pace of discovery and bringing new treatments to patients faster. 

Whether you ride, run, walk, volunteer, or donate, your involvement helps push cancer research forward and brings hope to countless families.

Register, fundraise, and join the movement. Because every mile matters—and every dollar brings us closer to ending cancer.

For more information, go to badgerchallenge.org or email hello@badgerchallenge.org.

Photos by Focal Flame Photography