On Saturday, Oct. 10, the 2026 UC Irvine Anti-Cancer Challenge (ACC) will take place at the university's Aldrich Park, marking the 10^th year that cyclists, runners, walkers and volunteers of all ages turn out to raise funds and awareness for critical cancer research.

Register now to ride, run, walk or volunteer — in person or virtually — in this community event, which has raised more than $6 million for research by the scientists and clinicians with the UCI Health Chao Family Comprehensive Cancer Center since 2017.

The day-long event includes a wellness festival with food, awards and musical entertainment for friends and family to enjoy.

How you can get involved

• Ride: Choose from 14-, 35-, 60- and 100-mile bike routes throughout Orange County or a thrilling mountain bike trail.
• Run/Walk: Bring your friends and family to join a 5K run/walk around the beautiful UC Irvine campus.
• Volunteer: The UC Irvine Anti-Cancer Challenge relies on its amazing team of event day volunteers.
• Participate virtually: Create your own activity challenge to raise awareness about the importance of cancer research.
• Donate: When you give, 100% of participant-raised funds go directly to our cancer research.

Cyclists ride to raise funds for critical cancer research at the 2025 UC Irvine Anti-Cancer Challenge.

Register today at anti-cancerchallenge.org

Every dollar raised by participants supports Chao Family Comprehensive Cancer Center pilot projects and early-phase clinical trials aimed at advancing prevention efforts, innovative treatments and potential cures that save lives.

Pre-challenge events

The UC Irvine ACC extends far beyond a single day of action. Leading up to Challenge day, the public is invited to attend the following free events to learn more about the impact their support makes possible:

• June 4 — Kickoff and grant awards announcement: Dr. Richard Van Etten, director of the UCI Health Chao Family Comprehensive Cancer Center and ACC founder, will unveil new projects funded by last year's challenge. This event promises to showcase the tangible impact community support has in the fight against cancer.
• Aug. 13 — Research reception and lab tours: Join exclusive lab tours and meet the scientists and clinicians driving ACC-funded cancer research projects.
• Training rallies: In July and September, join our morning training sessions to prepare for race day, connect with other participants and help build excitement for the Oct. 10 main event. The training rides, runs and walks start at the UC Irvine campus.

These lead-up events offer community members unique opportunities to learn firsthand from researchers how their work translates into real progress in cancer treatments, cures and prevention.

Learn more at anti-cancerchallenge.org

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