The 17th 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.
SATURDAY, APRIL 12, 2025 7:30 P.M. |
CALLING ALL RUNNERS, WALKERS, STROLLERS AND SUPPORTERS: TAKE YOUR NEXT GIANT LEAP AT THE 5K CHALLENGE!
This year, we're lighting the way forward with an electrifying new experience!
More fun. More impact. More than just a 5K.
| RACE ROUTE |
T-SHIRTS |
*Registering by Monday, March 24 guarantee's your shirt size.
Every step brings us closer to finishing cancer. |
Refunds are available up to one week before the event. Please note that refunds apply only to registration fees; processing fees are non-refundable.
Event schedule
- Fri, April 11, 2025 4:00 PM - Friday Packet pickup begins (Dauch Alumni Center - 403 W. Wood Street, W. Lafayette, IN 47906)
- Fri, April 11, 2025 6:30 PM - Friday Packet pickup closes
- Sat, April 12, 2025 6:00 PM - Packet pickup/registration next to the CoRec Parking Lot (Stadium Ave)
- Sat, April 12, 2025 6:45 PM - Yoga Warm-Up: "Stretch, Breathe, Focus" 🧘♀️🏃♂️
- Sat, April 12, 2025 7:00 PM - Runners and walkers line up
- Sat, April 12, 2025 7:05 PM - Welcome and warm-up
- Sat, April 12, 2025 7:15 PM - Packet pickup and registration close
- Sat, April 12, 2025 7:30 PM - Race starts
- Sat, April 12, 2025 7:45 PM - Post Race Celebration Begins
- Sat, April 12, 2025 8:30 PM - Awards Ceremony Begins (approx.)
Cross the finish line and treat yourself! Beverly Ann's Cookie Truck will be on-site after the race, serving up sweet rewards for your hard work!
Beverly Ann's will be serving up fresh, hot cookies on-site, but supplies will be limited. Secure your favorites by pre-ordering by 11:30 p.m. on Friday, April 11th!
Plus, 10% of all sales will be generously donated to the Purdue Institute for Cancer Research!
 |  |
We couldn't do it without the generous in-kind donations from: |
 |  |
You do not have to be registered for the race to participate as a team member for fundraising! |
We invite you to participate in our quest for effective treatments and cures.
Join us by creating a personalized individual fundraising page, or join a team and share it with family and friends for a chance to win one of the 2025 Challenge 5K awards!
Use this social media toolkit to let all your followers know about the Challenge 5K.
Questions regarding the 5K |
Office of Special Events
specialevents@purdueforlife.org
765-494-0900
Questions regarding cancer research |
Purdue Institute for Cancer Research
765-494-9129
Registration fees
Student
Registration closes in 16 days 14 hours-
Join us for the 5K race as a student participant. Children under 12 participate for free and do not need to register unless they want a bib/t-shirt.
-
$30.00
Early bird pricing
Jan 13 – Mar 11 -
Register for Student$35.00Now registering Mar 12 – Apr 11
-
Nonstudent
Registration closes in 16 days 14 hours-
Join us for the 5K race.
-
$40.00
Early bird pricing
Jan 13 – Mar 11 -
Register for Nonstudent$45.00Now registering Mar 12 – Apr 11
-
Fundraise Only
Is running not for you? Sign up to create a personalized fundraising page to share with family and friends!
-
Register for Fundraise OnlyFreeJan 13 - Apr 11
Top donors
| No. | Name | Amount |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Jane Miller | $1,000.00 |
| 2 | Dave Hetrick | $374.45 |
| 3 | Maria Brown | $267.10 |
| 4 | Anonymous | $214.70 |
| 5 | Edward Howell | $213.85 |
Top teams
| 1 |
|
Brothers in ArmsRaised:$1,040.85 |
|
| 2 |
|
Evonik and FriendsRaised:$822.92 |
|
| 3 |
|
Emma’s TeamRaised:$669.75 |
Top fundraisers
| 1 |
View fundraiser page for Kylee
|
Kylee Brown$656.46 Raised$200.00 Goal |
|
| 2 |
View fundraiser page for Will
|
Will King$591.92 Raised$1,000.00 Goal |
|
| 3 |
View fundraiser page for Emma
|
Emma Goodman$588.17 Raised$2,000.00 Goal |
|
| 4 |
View fundraiser page for Grant
|
Grant Bell$537.73 Raised$500.00 Goal |
|
| 5 |
View fundraiser page for Tricia
|
Tricia Harlow$431.96 Raised$500.00 Goal |
