Registration for the third annual Dempsey Challenge presented by Amgen will open Tuesday, March 1 at 9 a.m. through the event website: www.dempseychallenge.org.

The run, walk and cycling event is scheduled for October 8 and 9 in Lewiston, Maine.

Registration fees remain unchanged from 2010: the 5K or 10K run/walk is $35; cycling is $75; and $100 for participants wishing to take part in both events.

The 5K and 10K run/walk will take place on October 8, followed by cycling rides on October 9. Cyclists will have a choice between five distances consisting of 10-, 25-, 50-, 100- and a new 70-mile ride. Participation will be capped at 6,500 for the weekend: 4,000 on October 8 and 2,500 for October 9.

The $150 fundraising minimum will remain intact for participants 18 years and over. There will be no fundraising requirement for participants under 18.

The Challenge serves as the primary fundraising vehicle for The Patrick Dempsey Center for Cancer Hope & Healing at Central Maine Medical Center. The Dempsey Center, founded by actor Patrick Dempsey in 2008, provides free support, education and wellness services to cancer patients, survivors and their families.

The 2010 Dempsey Challenge attracted 4,177 participants from 38 states and five countries, employed over 1,000 volunteers and raised over $1.1 million for the Dempsey Center. Patrick Dempsey was a major part of the weekend festivities and participated in the 50-mile ride alongside professional cyclists Levi Leipheimer, Chris Horner and Kevin Livingston.

For more information, log on to www.dempseychallenge.org.