The Captain Catches Up With Patrick Dempsey At Dempsey Challenge

It was perfect Fall Maine weather for the 10th annual Dempsey Challenge today. Over 300 teams, thousands and riders, runners and walkers and over 900 volunteers got things going at 8 am with the 10k run. The 5k went off not long after that and the always-inspirational Survivor's Walk ended the morning. Bikers are going today and tomorrow. The Dempsey Challenge has raised over 10 million dollars since 2009. it all goes to the Dempsey Centers, where all services are free,

According to the Centers:

"The Dempsey Centers are leaders in Quality of Life care for individuals and families impacted by cancer. Founded in Lewiston, Maine by actor Patrick Dempsey, the Dempsey Centers provide a personalized, holistic and integrated approach to cancer prevention, education and support. All services are provided at no cost to anyone impacted by cancer regardless of their socioeconomic circumstances or where they receive their medical treatment."

The Captain was broadcasting live for the Blimp and caught up with Patrick Dempsey. There also was a small issue of the Blimpmobile blocking in Patrick's Porche. Oops!

Congrats to Patrick and everyone at the Dempsey Centers for a great day! Thanks for having the Blimp along.

Here's Sunday's Schedule of Events:

6:00 am – 7:15 am: Packet Pick-Up for cyclists

7 am: Opening ceremonies led by Patrick Dempsey

7:30 am: Fundraising Rides presented by Specialized, cyclists released in waves: 100-, 70-, 50-, 25-, and 10-mile groups

7:30 am: Short Folks For Hope Foundation’s Vivian St. Onge Memorial Rickshaw Team riders depart (immediately following release of 10 mile riders)

8 am – 5 pm Festival in the Park, continues

9:30 am: Lobster Trap opens

4 pm: Closing ceremonies led by Patrick Dempsey, Entertainment Stage

4:15 pm: After Party with live music in the Gritty’s & Baxter Brewing Finish Line Beer Garden to cheer on the last finishers!