CT Challenge Rides FAQs


FAQs


Have questions? We've got answers.

Registration Questions

When is the 2024 Ride?

The CT Challenge is a two-day experience. The Keynote Cancer Survivor speaker and rider bib pick up will be Friday, July 26th. The 10-, 25-, 50- and 100-mile rides are on Saturday, July 27th.

Here is a breakdown of the weekend schedule:

Friday, July 26: Rider Bib Pick Up & Keynote Cancer Survivor Speaker
Saturday, July 27: All Saturday distances (10, 25, 50 and 100-mile rides).

I want to ride. Are there fundraising requirements?

*NEW FOR 2024
– Student Discount $250 fundraising requirement for all distances*

Yes, there is a fundraising minimum commitment for each distance. They are:

  1. 10 miles – I commit to raise $500
  2. 25 miles – I commit to raise $500
  3. 50 miles – I commit to raise $500
  4. 100 miles – I commit to raise $500

* Teams/families of four or more members may share funds by having their team captain contact us at info@ctchallenge.org by October 9th, one week prior to the fundraising deadline.

If a rider has not raised his/her minimum amount by October 16th, the balance of the minimum will automatically be charged to the credit card provided at registration.

Will I be charged for my fundraising minimum when I register?

No. You are charged only your registration fee when you register. You have until October 16th to raise your required fundraising minimum. After that date, any balance remaining will be automatically charged to the credit card that you provide at registration.

What is my personal fundraising page? How do I find it?

When you register for the ride, you automatically receive a personal fundraising page. You will see generic pictures and text appear. We encourage you to share your story–why you are riding and/or for whom–in your own words with your photos and/or videos. When you reach out to friends and family for donations, you direct them to your page by attaching a link to an email where they can make a donation. People who personalize their fundraising page typically raise 2x or more than people who do not. You access your page by clicking on “Login” in the top right of https://bike.ctchallenge.org and using the username and password you established during registration.

I’ve registered, but can’t figure out how to edit my profile.

To edit your profile (e.g., to change your username or password, email, phone #, etc.), sign on by clicking on “Login” in the top right corner of https://bike.ctchallenge.org. Enter the username and password you established when you registered. This will take you to your personal fundraising page. Next, click on the “Fundraising” tab on the left side of your screen. You can edit your profile through this link. If you have any problems, contact us at info@ctchallenge.org.

How do I change my personal information or my username and password?

You cannot change your username. You can change your password and update your personal information by logging on to your personal fundraising page. (Log in by clicking on “Login” in the top right corner of https://bike.ctchallenge.org.) Next, click “Profile” which you will see on the left side of your screen. Three links will appear beneath “Profile.” Click the desired action.

I want to ride but I am not sure I can raise the required minimum. What should I do?

Experience has shown that riders who put a good effort into their fundraising can raise their minimum easily. Rarely, if ever, has a rider made a serious attempt to meet the fundraising minimum and failed. In fact, most riders exceed their minimum by a meaningful margin. Take advantage of the fundraising toolkit on the website. Most importantly, start early and don’t be shy about asking for money. You are supporting game-changing programs and services for cancer survivors, a very worthy cause. Whether you’re having trouble getting started or need to re-engage in your campaign, we are here to help you meet, or exceed, your minimum. Simply send us an email at info@ctchallenge.org. Please be specific about what’s tripping you up so we can give you the best advice.

Returning Riders:

If you register for the CT Challenge Ride with the same email as in prior years, all your donor contacts and fundraising results will be available to you. If you have a new email address or need assistance retrieving donor history, please contact us at: info@ctchallenge.org

I’m having trouble uploading my picture. What is wrong?

Your picture must be either in JPG or PNG format. The website should automatically resize your photo if it is too large. If you still have questions, you can email info@ctchallenge.org.

How do I change my Fundraising Goal?

Log on to your personal fundraising page by clicking on “Login” in the top right corner of https://bike.ctchallenge.org. Next, click on “Fundraising” on the left side of your screen. Three links will appear beneath “Fundraising.” Click on “Manage Sponsors.” You will see “Fundraising Goal” in the table that appears in the middle of your screen. Click on the “change” link to the right of your current goal. Remember that your fundraising goal cannot be set lower than the minimum required for the ride distance you selected.

Am I obligated to raise the amount I set as my Fundraising Goal?

No. The Fundraising Goal is your target, not an obligation. Set it high to motivate you and your donors, but you are obligated to raise only the required minimum for the distance you registered to ride. You may raise or lower your goal anytime you wish, though you may not set it lower than your required minimum. Most riders exceed their fundraising minimums. The average rider raises more than $750. You can do it too!

If I register to ride one distance, can I later change my mind and ride a different distance?

Yes. You can increase or decrease your ride distance at any time before the start of the ride on July 27th. Please email info@ctchallenge.org as soon as you can to change your registration to a different distance. The change will not be considered complete until you receive an email reply from CT Challenge.

How do I join a team?

At the beginning of the rider registration process, select from one of these options that appear on your screen:

  • Join a Team
  • Create a Team

We encourage all riders to join or create a team. Teams enjoy training and fundraising together, have more fun on the day of the ride and raise more money. A “Team” is four or more riders.

Can I form a team or join a team later, after I’ve registered to ride as an individual?

Yes. Contact the CT Challenge at info@ctchallenge.org.

What is a Virtual Rider?

Virtual Riders are individuals who choose to participate in CT Challenge fundraising campaign but may not be present at the ride. Some choose to ride or spin on their own at a later date or may not ride at all due to various reasons. Virtual Riders pay a non-refundable registration fee of $10 but do not have a minimum fundraising commitment. Many Virtual Riders run successful campaigns and enjoy experiencing this triumphant event even if circumstances prevent their participation on a bike or in person. We welcome Virtual Riders from all over the world on our mission to beat cancer!

How much is the Ride Weekend registration fee for Riders?

All Riders pay a registration fee to help cover the cost of the food, drink, event support, and swag they receive during Ride Weekend. This year’s registration fees are set for the following dates and participation:

01

Does my registration fee count towards my fundraising requirement?

No. Rider registration fees do not apply towards fundraising minimums. Registration fees help defray ride operating expenses.

Why do we ask for your credit card?

Every Rider pays a registration fee that does not count toward his or her minimum fundraising commitment. This is charged to your card when you register. If you do not reach your fundraising minimum by the October 16th fundraising deadline, your card will be charged for the remainder, if any, of your commitment.

What is the fundraising deadline?

Riders, Virtual Riders and Volunteers have until October 16th to raise funds for CT Challenge. After this date, Riders with a required fundraising minimum will be charged for the remainder, if any, of their commitment.

What happens if I don’t reach my required fundraising minimum?

If you don’t reach your fundraising minimum by the deadline of October 16th, the balance will automatically be charged to the credit card you provided at registration if you are a rider with a minimum fundraising commitment.

What is a Road Warrior?

Anyone who has maintained at least $3,000 in his/her fundraising account as of the October 16th fundraising deadline is a Road Warrior. Road Warriors receive special recognition for their incredible accomplishment.

To register to ride as a Road Warrior, click here.

How do I get the 2024 Cycling Jersey?

The 2024 CT Challenge Cycling Jersey (coming soon) will be available from the CT Challenge store: https://ct-challenge.myshopify.com. Sign up for our e-newsletter to ensure you are notified as soon as they are available!

How do I get copies of photos taken at the event?

Photos taken by CT Challenge photographers at the ride may be downloaded through our online photo albums. You may access these photos by clicking here.

Can I withdraw from the event?

We hope you don’t but you can cancel your participation as a rider in CT Challenge. Here is our Cancellation Policy.

If you want to cancel your registration, you MUST send an email to info@ctchallenge.org requesting a cancellation and you MUST receive a confirmation email from the CT Challenge acknowledging that your cancellation has been processed.

  • This cancellation policy applies to all distances.
  • Cancel prior to June 27th 2024 and you are released from the balance of your fundraising commitment.
  • Cancel at any time for any reason and you forfeit your registration fee.
  • If you cancel after June 27th, in addition to forfeiting your registration fee, you are responsible for fulfilling your fundraising commitment. Any remaining balance of a fundraising commitment on October 16th will be charged to the credit card used at the time of registration.
  • No donations will be refunded.

How To Cancel

Participants wishing to cancel their registration MUST send an email to info@ctchallenge.org requesting a cancellation and MUST receive a confirmation email from the CT Challenge that the cancellation has been processed. The cancellation is not valid until that confirmation email has been received.

Donation Questions

How do I make a donation?

You can make a donation by credit card or check by visiting the rider(s) or team page of the individual(s) you want to support. You may also make a general donation by clicking here: Donate. When you make your donation, you will also see that you can opt to cover the credit card and vendor processing fees to maximize the amount of support we are able to capture for the mission.

How do I make a donation by check?

If you would like to make a donation by check, please print, complete and include a Donor Form. Please make the check payable to “CT Challenge” and mail it to CT Challenge, P.O. Box 566, Southport, CT 06890. Be sure to include the name or team to which you are donating in the memo line of the check as well, particularly if you cannot access the donor form. Please note the above address accepts USPS mail only. If you do not want to send a check via the USPS, we do accept mail at: CT Challenge 1771 Post Rd East #316 Westport, CT 06880.

Will I receive a receipt for my donation?

All donors who provide their email address will receive a donation receipt via email that can be used for tax purposes. The CT Challenge does not share its email list with outside organizations. All donors who contribute $250 or more by check will receive a written acknowledgement of the donation from the CT Challenge by year end. This can act as a receipt for tax purposes. Donors who give an amount by check that is less than $250 should keep their canceled check as their receipt.

Can I go back and change the amount of my donation?

No. You cannot change the amount of a previous donation. You can make another, separate donation.

I made a donation to the wrong rider. Can I change it?

Contact us at info@ctchallenge.org and we can direct your donation to the correct rider.

Can I make a donation to my own ride?

Yes. When you register, you can make an initial donation to your ride to jump-start your fundraising efforts. You can also make additional donations to your ride at later dates by simply visiting your own fundraising page.

How can I see how much a rider has raised to date?

Click on “Find a Rider” which you will see at the top right of your screen at bike.ctchallenge.org. Follow the prompts to find the rider in which you are interested. Click on their name to go to their donation page. Their current fundraising results will be displayed there.

Can I make a donation in honor or memory of someone and have it recognized on the website?

Yes. Before you submit your donation for processing you will have the option to dedicate your donation In Memory, In Honor or In Support of someone.

Can I change the dedication for my donation?

You cannot change your dedication after you have submitted your donation for processing. Contact us at info@ctchallenge.org and we will change your dedication for you. Please include the following information: Rider name, donor name, date of donation and desired dedication name.

Why do you ask for so much donor information?

The data we collect is necessary to create accurate donor records and provide appropriate tax acknowledgement information. If you have any questions about the information that is being collected, please contact CT Challenge at info@ctchallenge.org.

How does CT Challenge handle tax acknowledgement receipts for cash donations?

If you would like a tax acknowledgment receipt, it is always best to make your donation by credit card or check. CT Challenge can issue tax acknowledgement receipts for cash donations only if they are brought directly to the CT Challenge office by the actual donor. Please do not send cash through the mail. If you are a Rider who has received a cash donation, there are two options for applying the cash donation to your ride: 1) Keep the cash and make an online credit card donation to yourself for the same amount. Please note, however, that if you use this option, you will become the official donor and you will receive a tax acknowledgement receipt at the email address that you provide. Please do not substitute the cash donor’s name or address for your own when you make the credit card donation on your card. 2) You may bring the cash donation to our office. In this scenario, CT Challenge cannot issue a tax acknowledgement receipt to the cash donor who is not present, but you can pick up a blank cash donation receipt that you can provide to your donor to fill out for his/her own record keeping. Please note, CT Challenge will not complete this receipt form for you as it must be completed by the donor.

Can I change how my donation or name shows up in the Honor Roll? Can I have my name and donation amount removed from the Honor Roll altogether?

Yes to both questions. Please contact the CT Challenge at info@ctchallenge.org with your desired change.

Is my donation tax deductible and if so, when will I receive a tax receipt?

All donations are 100% tax deductible in the United States. For foreign donors, please refer to your local tax laws to determine if your donation to CT Challenge is tax deductible. All donors who provide their email address will receive a donation receipt via email that can be used for tax purposes. The CT Challenge does not share its email list with outside organizations. All donors who contribute $250 or more by check will receive a written acknowledgement of the donation from the CT Challenge by year end. This can act as a receipt for tax purposes. Donors who give less than $250 by check should keep their canceled check as their receipt.

Is CT Challenge a 501(c)(3)?

Yes, CT Challenge is a 501(c)(3). The Federal Tax ID is #20-2777748. Click here to download a pdf of our IRS Affirmation Letter

Does CT Challenge accept matching gift donations and if so, how do I apply?

Yes, CT Challenge accepts matching gifts. In order to apply for a matching gift, you will need to follow the process required by the individual company to which you are applying for the matching gift. Usually, you will be required to start the process using an online portal or paper forms that can be obtained from your HR or charitable giving office. Send completed matching gift forms to CT Challenge, PO Box 566 Southport, CT 06890 or email them to info@ctchallenge.org. To check whether or not your company participates in a matching gift program, click here.

What is a Matching Gift Donation?

Many companies will match donations made by their employees to qualifying organizations. After making your donation online or by check, you should mail or e-mail your company’s matching gift form to CT Challenge. We will take care of the rest. When the matching gift check arrives, the amount will be credited to the Rider you designated for your original donation. Matching gift programs are a simple way for donors to double the impact of their donation. You can view more information on the Matching Gifts page of our website under the “Donate” tab.

How do I know if my company has a matching gift program?

Visit Matching Gifts to determine if your company has a matching gift program.

How long will it take for a matching gift to be processed?

CT Challenge processes all matching gift requests as soon as they are received. Companies issue matching gift checks to CT Challenge on varying schedules so it may take weeks or even months for a matching gift to show up in a rider’s fundraising account.

How do I identify CT Challenge as the entity to which a matching gift should be sent?

Your company will require this information when you apply for the matching gift. All other information for the application, such as the CT Challenge EIN, can be found at Matching Gifts

Can I make a stock donation?

Yes. Click here for all the information you will need to make a stock donation to CT Challenge.

 

Fundraising Questions

Does my registration fee count towards my fundraising requirement?

No portion of a rider’s registration fee counts toward the fundraising minimum. Registration fees help defray event operating expenses. Riders may make a voluntary contribution to their ride at the time of registration or at any other time. This would count toward their fundraising minimum.

How much is the registration fee?

The registration fee varies depending on the distance you choose to ride. Fees are:

10 miles – $60
25 miles – $60
40 miles – $100
62.5 miles – $125
100 miles – $125

Road Warriors pay the registration fee associated with the distance they choose.

How do I fundraise?

CT Challenge provides many great tools to help you reach and surpass your minimum fundraising commitment. When you register, you automatically receive your own fundraising webpage, which you can customize with pictures and your message about why you are riding. Riders who personalize their fundraising webpage raise significantly more than those who do not. Click here for our fundraising toolkit.

How can people make an online donation to my ride?

When you register, you automatically receive a personal fundraising web page on the CT Challenge website. You can give people a link directly to your personal page where they can read about your ride and make a secure donation with a credit card. People can also get to your personal fundraising page by visiting and clicking on Rider Search. You may also include links to your fundraising page through your Facebook page and other social media platforms you use.

What is the minimum fundraising commitment?

*NEW FOR 2024
– Student Discount $250 fundraising requirement for all distances*

Yes, there is a fundraising minimum commitment for each distance. They are:

  1. 10 miles – I commit to raise $500
  2. 25 miles – I commit to raise $500
  3. 50 miles – I commit to raise $500
  4. 100 miles – I commit to raise $500

*Fundraising commitments for students are the same as adult commitments. However, teams/families of 2 or more members may share funds by having their team captain contact us at info@ctchallenge.org by October 9th.

If a rider has not raised his/her minimum amount by October 16th, the balance of the minimum will automatically be charged to the credit card provided at registration.

Important note: Teams/families of 2 or more members may share funds by having their team captain contact us at info@ctchallenge.org by October 9th, one week before the fundraising deadline. For example, if all 2 team members sign up for the 25 mile route ($500 minimum), each person will need to fundraise the minimum of $500 and the team must raise a total of $2,000. If one of your team members raises $400 and you raise $600, you can share your $100 to the other rider. Each teammate must average $500 in this example.

What is the fundraising deadline?

Riders, Virtual Riders, and Volunteers have until October 16th to raise funds for CT Challenge.

What happens if I don’t reach my required fundraising minimum?

If you don’t reach your fundraising minimum by the October 16th deadline, the balance will automatically be charged to the credit card you provided at registration.

Can I use CT Challenge marketing materials for my personal fundraising efforts?

Yes, you are able to use CT Challenge logos for your personal fundraising efforts. Please send any final designs that use CT Challenge assets to info@ctchallenge.org for approval before publication or production. Please click here to access the CT Challenge fundraising toolkit.

How do I find who donated to me in previous years?

If you would like a list of your donors from prior years and do not see a way to access this information in your fundraising dashboard, please contact info@ctchallenge.org and we will send it to you.

What do I do if a donor hands me a check?

Please mail the check to CT Challenge, P.O. Box 566, Southport, CT 06890. Please print, complete and include a Donor Form. If they did not give you a Donor Form, please include your name and team name (if applicable). If the donor made the check out to your name, you are able to sign the check over to CT Challenge prior to mailing it in by endorsing the check and writing “Pay to the order of CT Challenge” beneath your signature in the endorsement area on the back of the check.

What happens to donations made after the October 16th deadline?

They are credited to the rider’s account and count toward their fundraising goal.

Is CT Challenge a 501(c)(3)?

Yes, CT Challenge is a 501(c)(3). The Federal Tax ID is #20-2777748. Click here to download a pdf of our IRS Affirmation Letter

Does CT Challenge accept matching gift donations and if so, how do I apply?

Yes, CT Challenge accepts matching gifts. In order to apply for a matching gift, you will need to follow the process required by the individual company to which you are applying for the matching gift. Usually, you will be required to start the process using an online portal or paper forms that can be obtained from your HR or charitable giving office. Send completed matching gift forms to CT Challenge, PO Box 566, Southport, CT 06890 or email them to info@ctchallenge.org. To check whether or not your company participates in a matching gift program, click here.

What is a Matching Gift Donation?

Many companies will match donations made by their employees to qualifying organizations. After making your donation online or by check, you should mail or e-mail your company’s matching gift form to CT Challenge. We will take care of the rest. When the matching gift check arrives, the amount will be credited to the Rider you designated for your original donation. Matching gift programs are a simple way for donors to double the impact of their donation. You can view more information on the matching gifts. page of our website under the “Donate” tab.

What if CT Challenge does not receive a matching gift on my behalf before the fundraising deadline?

The CT Challenge tracks matching gifts closely and takes them into account when reviewing rider fundraising results. If we know that there are outstanding matching gifts in a rider’s name, those amounts will be taken into consideration before credit cards are charged.

 

Team Questions

Can teams share funds?

Teams/families of four or more members may share funds by having their team captain contact us at info@ctchallenge.org by October 9th, one week prior to the fundraising deadline.

Important note: Teams/families of four or more members may share funds by having their team captain contact us at info@ctchallenge.org by October 9th, one week before the fundraising deadline. For example, if all 4 team members sign up for the 25 mile route ($500 minimum), each person will need to fundraise the minimum of $500 and the team must raise a total of $2,000. If one of your team members raises $400 and you raise $600, you can share your $100 to the other rider. Each teammate must average $500 in this example.

Who creates the team?

Each team selects a team captain who will create the team. The team can be created when the captain registers or at any later time on the captain’s personal web page. Team members should each register individually as a part of their team. Team members do not have to ride the same distance.

How do registration fees work for team members?

Each team member must register as an individual and pay the registration fee that matches the distance he/she is riding. There is no other registration fee for teams.

How are donations credited to individual team members and the team?

All money raised by team members, including matching gifts, is credited to their personal accounts and, automatically, to the overall team account.

How do fundraising minimums work for team members?

Each team member is responsible for raising his/her own required fundraising minimum. However, teams of four or more may share funds (see above).

 

Rider Questions

How far do we have to ride at once?

There will be a rest stop every 12 to 15 miles for water, food, mechanical and medical attention. Support vehicles will also patrol the route to provide assistance, if necessary.

What are the routes?

Please visit the Course Maps page for detailed route information. Any changes to the routes will be updated there.

When does the ride start?

NEW THIS YEAR: Staging begins for the 100 and 75 mile routes at 6:15am. The 100 and 75 mile ride will begin at 6:30am.

Staging for the 50, 25, and 10 mile routes will begin at 7:30am. Riders will be sent out in waves starting at 7:45am.

Which route should I select?

We encourage you to register for a route that you are physically comfortable riding.

If I register to ride one distance, can I later change my mind and ride a different distance?

Yes. You can increase your ride distance at any time before the start of the ride on July 30th. If you make the change prior to July 30th, you must email info@ctchallenge.org. The change will not be considered complete until you receive an email reply from CT Challenge. Important note: If changing your ride distance bumps you to a different fundraising requirement, you will be obligated to raise this new amount by the October 16th fundraising deadline

You can decrease your ride distance at any time before the start of the ride on July 30th. If you make the change prior to July 30th, you must email info@ctchallenge.org. The change will not be considered complete until you receive an email reply from CT Challenge. You will then be responsible for the fundraising commitment associated with the new ride distance by the October 16th fundraising deadline.

How much training should I do?

Please visit the Training Tips page on our site.

What can I expect on the ride?

We’ve selected very scenic routes, keeping in mind that riders of all levels will be participating. For more specific information about each route, please visit the Course Maps page.

Do I have to follow rules of the road?

Yes, all roads are open to car traffic. Please observe all traffic signs and lights. Your safety is important to us and please visit the Safety page under “The Ride: Safety” for a complete description of the rules of the road.

Is there a minimum age to ride in CT Challenge?

There is no minimum age to ride in the CT Challenge, but riders under the age of 14 must be accompanied by a registered rider adult for the entire ride. All riders must meet their fundraising commitment regardless of age.

Can I ride a tandem bicycle in the CT Challenge?

Yes, but each Rider on the tandem bicycle must register separately and each Rider must meet his/her own individual fundraising commitment for the route that is chosen.

Can I ride with my infant or child?

No, under no circumstances may you ride with an infant or child attached to your bicycle or any other riding apparatus at anytime.

Can I allow someone else to ride in my place in the CT Challenge?

No. Your registration as a Rider in the CT Challenge is never transferable, even if you do not or cannot ride in the CT Challenge for any reason whatsoever, including any illness or injury that may limit or preclude your participation. You are not permitted to grant another person the right to ride in the CT Challenge in your place under any circumstances.

What is the difference between registering as an individual, creating a team or joining a team?

Create a Team: If you want to be a team captain and haven’t already registered, you can register as a rider and sign up your team at the same time.

Join a Team: If you know the name of the team you want to join and haven’t already registered, you can sign up as a team member and register as a rider at the same time.

Join as an Individual: If you want to register as an individual rider, click here. If you decide later to form or join a team, you can easily do so by contacting us at info@ctchallenge.org

How do I create a Team?

If you want to be a team captain and haven’t already registered, you can register as a rider and sign up your team at the same time. If you have already registered as an individual rider and decide later to form a team, you can easily do so by contacting us at info@ctchallenge.org.

How many people do you need to form a team?

A team consists of four or more riders. Teams may share funds by having their team captain contact us at info@ctchallenge.org by October 9th. If a rider has not raised his/her minimum amount by October 16th, the balance of the minimum will automatically be charged to the credit card provided at registration.

Can I form a team later, after I’ve registered to ride as an individual?

Yes. Contact us at info@ctchallenge.org.

If I am a member of a team riding in the CT Challenge, can my team cover my fundraising requirement?

Yes. Teams of four or more are allowed to share funds among their members. There are two ways this can be done:
1) A team’s general funds may be shared among individual team riders who still need additional funds to reach their minimum fundraising commitment.
2) An individual team member’s funds in excess of his/her minimum fundraising commitment may be distributed to another team member who still needs additional funds to reach his/her minimum fundraising commitment.

*All requests to share funds in either of these scenarios MUST be communicated to CT Challenge at info@ctchallenge.org by the team captain by October 9th, a week prior to the October 16th fundraising deadline.

Can I change the name of my Team?

Yes, the Team Captain can change the name of your team by contacting CT Challenge at info@ctchallenge.org.

What is the CT Challenge and CT Century Ride?

The CT Challenge is an annual grass roots charity bike tour that is committed to funding programs for cancer survivors through a one-of-a-kind weekend cycling experience. It is also home to one of the best CT Century Rides, a 100 mile bike ride through beautiful Connecticut.

When is the CT Challenge and CT Century Bike Ride?

The CT Challenge and CT century ride is traditionally held every year on the last weekend of July. In 2024, that’s July 27th.

Where does the CT Challenge’s fundraising go?

The programs funded by the CT Challenge Bike Event, CT Century Ride, and the generous support we receive throughout the year were renamed Mission to better position us to reach more survivors. We remain committed to equipping cancer survivors with the exercise, nutrition and mind-body knowledge, tools and community needed to live. life. vibrantly. For more information about Mission, click here

How can I participate in the CT Challenge this year?

There are a number of ways you can participate in the CT Challenge.

  • Register to ride CT Challenge and CT Century Ride weekend – July 27th, 2024. Routes range from 10 to 100 miles.
  • Register as a virtual rider – Virtual riders do not ride the routes on CT Challenge weekend but still fundraise to support Mission and programs for cancer survivors.
  • Volunteer on CT Challenge weekend. CT Challenge 2024 volunteer registration will open in the spring. Volunteers are needed before, during, and after CT Challenge weekend.

Who can I contact at the CT Challenge with more questions?

Please visit our contact form page here to get in touch with us.

 

Volunteer Questions

Do Volunteers pay a registration fee?

There is no fee to register as a volunteer.

Do Volunteers have a minimum fundraising commitment?

There is no fundraising requirement for volunteers but we offer volunteers the option to fundraise in support of the mission. Everyone has a personal reason for participating in the CT Challenge – as a volunteer or cyclist. If you communicate your reason to your friends and family and ask them to support a cause that motivates you – helping cancer survivors – you will be pleasantly surprised by how much money you can raise for a great cause. When you register as a volunteer you will automatically get a fundraising webpage that you can customize with your message. You can send a link to your friends and family and ask for their support. If you have questions about how to do this, you can email info@ctchallenge.org.

Do I have to register in order to volunteer?

Yes, all volunteers must register online. More than 300 plus volunteers help us run the event. During the registration process you will choose the job(s) you are interested in doing.

Can I request to be assigned to work with my friend(s)?

We will do our best to accommodate specific requests. The sooner you register, the better the chances are for success. After you and your friend(s) register on the website, send an email to our volunteer coordinator at info@ctchallenge.org

What happens if it rains on the day of the event?

The Ride goes on rain or shine. Cyclists will ride in the rain and the weather can change quickly. We need all our volunteers to report for their assigned jobs regardless of the weather. We will have cyclists on the road and we will need our volunteers to ensure their safe, smooth and enjoyable ride.

What should I wear when volunteering?

All volunteers will receive a brightly colored volunteer t-shirt upon check-in which must be worn during their shift. Please dress casually and comfortably according to the weather conditions. Shorts and sneakers are definitely acceptable.

What should I bring when volunteering?

Volunteers are encouraged to bring sunscreen, water bottles, and snacks, especially if you have any special dietary requirements. A small cooler with cold refreshments can be invigorating if the weather is particularly hot or humid.

When and where should I report on the day of the event?

With the exception of volunteers who are working at rest stops and in SAG vehicles, all volunteers will report first to Volunteer Check-In at the Greenfield Hill Church, 1045 Old Academy Rd. Fairfield, CT 06824. This is where you will check in, receive your t-shirt and any additional instructions you will need to do your job. There is plenty of parking on-site at the Hunt Club. All volunteers should be at their assigned post no less than 15 minutes before their shift is scheduled to start.

Can my children accompany me while I volunteer?

All Volunteers must be registered and the minimum age for Volunteers is 12 years old. Please refrain from bringing small children with you during your Volunteer Activity. If you would like to have your family join you at the start, rest stop or finish line, we encourage them to come and cheer on Riders but please arrange for another adult to monitor your children during your shift so that you are able to focus on your Volunteer responsibilities.

What do I do if my plans change and I can no longer volunteer at the event?

Because we assign specific people to specific roles, it is absolutely critical that you notify us as soon as possible if you discover you cannot fulfill your role. We cannot risk having your position go unfilled. Make sure to contact our volunteer coordinator at info@ctchallenge.org so we can find a replacement for you.

What is the minimum age to volunteer?

You must be at least 12 years old to volunteer.