
Lobo Cancer Challenge is a running and road cycling race on September 26, 2026 in Albuquerque, NM, with entry fees from $25 to $55.
From the Organizer
The University of New Mexico
Comprehensive Cancer Center
Albuquerque, New Mexico
The annual Lobo Cancer Challenge community fundraiser helps the UNM Comprehensive Cancer Center to deliver the best cancer care in the world right here in New Mexico. Our generous Event Sponsors make it possible for 100% of every single fundraising dollar raised by our Challengers to go directly to their choice of program in cancer patient treatment and support, advanced cancer research, community outreach, or education and training — because no one should have to face cancer alone.
The Lobo Cancer Challenge event day, held at the UNM Lobo Football Stadium in September, features a 25 Mile Bike Ride, a 50 Mile Bike Ride, a 5K Run / Walk, a Stadium Stair Challenge, and a Cub Pack Fun Run for children ages 1-10, as well as a Virtual Challenger option. Sponsor booths populate a Participant Village, and games and activities are offered on the festive field in a celebration of community support.
The UNM Comprehensive Cancer Center is the only one in the New Mexico region designated by the National Cancer Institute as a Comprehensive Cancer Center — in the top 3% of the nation’s elite cancer centers! This fundraising event helps us to deliver the best cancer care in the world. We are deeply grateful to our community for their tremendous support in helping all New Mexicans facing cancer.
2025 Event Photography from NM Photos
Free to view and download for personal use.
A One-of-a-Kind Event
“I hope that people, when they come to the Lobo Cancer Challenge, feel that they are part of our family. They are part of our team. That the discoveries we make at the UNM Comprehensive Cancer Center, the people that we help, the lives that we save are all because of them.” — Yolanda Sanchez, PhD, CEO
What Inspires our Sponsors?
Hear personally from a few of our generous Event Sponsors as they share about the meaning of their connection to the Lobo Cancer Challenge. We are proud of our sponsors and their support for the community. They make a difference, and play a part in bringing world-class cancer care to New Mexico.
Connect with us
The Lobo Cancer Challenge is Presented By
Events
Weather
It's too far out for a forecast, so here's what weather on this date is normally like in the area. A race day forecast will replace this as race week approaches.
Typical High
79°
Typical Low
54°
Chance of Rain
17%
Based on US Climate Normals data from Albuquerque Intl Ap, 3 mi from the venue.
Host City
Population
562,488
as of 2023
City Elevation
4,979 ft
Nearest Airport
ABQ
Albuquerque International Sunport · 3 mi
Time Zone
Mountain Time
From Endurance Grid
A big city race. Expect multiple lodging options and plenty to do the day before.
Race Location
Your Next Start Line
Every finish line starts with a single decision. Claim your spot at Lobo Cancer Challenge, put it on the calendar, and turn “someday” into a start date.
65
Days to train
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From Endurance Grid
This race spans more than one sport — here’s a guide to each, so you can understand what’s involved and decide if it’s the right fit. For course distances, logistics, and race-day specifics, always defer to the race organizer’s event page.
From 5K to marathon, running races are an accessible entry point into endurance sport. There's a distance for every fitness level and a community at every start line.
Built around sustained effort on a bike, exploring cities on the open road. Beginner distances create a great entry point into endurance sports.
Coming Up
Hella Fresh 5k
3 miles away
JT 5000
2 miles away
ABQ MUSEUM DASH
3 miles away
Talk Pirate to Me 5K/10K/Half - Albuquerque
2 miles away
Plan your trip
Coming from out of town? There's more to Albuquerque than race day. We'll help you line up nearby lodging, flights, a rental car, and things to do so you can make the most of your racecation.
Plan your trip to AlbuquerqueFrequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Lobo Cancer Challenge
Sep 26, 2026