Lobo Cancer Challenge 2026 — Albuquerque, NM

Date
September 26, 2026
Location
Albuquerque, NM
Venue
University Stadium
Start Time
7:00 AM
Sunrise
6:56 AM
Entry Fee
$22.50 – $55.00
Events
5K Run / Walk, Stair Challenge, Cub Pack Fun Run for children ages 1-10, 25 Mile Bike Ride, 50 Mile Bike Ride - NEW ROUTE!
Includes
T-Shirt
Register NowRegistration Open

The Lobo Cancer Challenge starts at 7:00 AM at University Stadium in Albuquerque, New Mexico, giving traveling athletes an early morning logistics window to navigate. The event offers multiple formats across running and cycling disciplines: 1K, 1 mile, 5K, 5 mile, and a 50 mile ultra. Entry fees range from $22.50 to $55.00 depending on distance selected. If your race schedule shifts or travel plans change, a virtual participation option is available. For runners and cyclists planning to compete in person, arriving the night before allows time to handle registration and warm-up routines without rushing from the airport.

From the Race Organizer
What Can You Do When You Support The Lobo Cancer Challenge? Bring People Together Support New Mexicans Fighting Cancer Provide Training for Future Scientists And More! 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. Your Fundraising Supports: 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

Course & Travel Notes

The Lobo Cancer Challenge kicks off at 7:00 AM in Albuquerque, so you'll want to arrive with plenty of time to acclimate to the 5,105-foot elevation—the altitude can definitely catch you off guard if you're coming from sea level. You'll have just a couple minutes of pre-dawn darkness since sunrise is at 6:57 AM, which means bring a headlamp or plan to start as it's getting light. Flying in is super convenient; Albuquerque International Sunport is only 2.2 miles from the venue, making it an easy trip from the airport. Pack layers for late September weather—expect highs around 82°F but cool mornings in the upper 50s, and while rain is unlikely (only hitting about 20% of days), it's worth throwing a light rain jacket in your bag just in case.

⛰️ 5,105 ft elevation☀️ Typically 82°F / 58°F · 20% chance of rain✈️ Albuquerque International Sunport (ABQ) — 2.2 mi

Hotels Near This Race

Find accommodation close to the start line in Albuquerque, NM. Sorted by distance from the race venue. Book early — race weekend hotels fill fast.

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Lobo Cancer Challenge 2026 — Albuquerque, NM

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Race Travel Insurance

Don't forget travel insurance for September 26.

You've trained for months and booked a trip to Albuquerque, NM. A pre-race injury, a delayed flight, or a family emergency can derail the whole thing. Travel insurance can help cover your race entry fee, hotel, and flights if you can't make it, and may cover medical costs if something goes wrong on the course. Plans typically only run 5-7% of your total trip cost — and running events are covered under standard plans with no additional coverage needed.

  • Trip cancellation up to 100% of prepaid costs
  • Running events covered under standard plans — no add-ons needed
  • Trip interruption up to 150% of non-refundable costs
  • Emergency medical up to $250,000
  • Cancel For Any Reason add-on available
  • 24/7 real-time support
Get a Quote — Faye Travel Insurance

Affiliate links — we may earn a commission at no cost to you. Coverage terms vary by state and plan. Review policy details before purchase.

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Frequently Asked Questions

When is Lobo Cancer Challenge 2026 — Albuquerque, NM?

Lobo Cancer Challenge 2026 — Albuquerque, NM takes place on September 26, 2026. The race is held in Albuquerque, New Mexico.

Where is Lobo Cancer Challenge 2026 — Albuquerque, NM held?

Lobo Cancer Challenge 2026 — Albuquerque, NM is held at University Stadium in Albuquerque, New Mexico.

Where can I find hotels near Lobo Cancer Challenge 2026 — Albuquerque, NM?

RaceHotelFinder shows hotels sorted by distance from the race venue in Albuquerque. Use the map or list view on this page to compare options and book race weekend accommodation.