FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE     

Contact:
Lance Armstrong Foundation 
(512) 279-8417; media@livstrongchallenge.org

LANCE ARMSTRONG FOUNDATION ANNOUNCES
2007 LIVESTRONG CHALLENGE SERIES
Supporters champion cancer cause by walking, running or riding a bike
 
AUSTIN - March 15, 2007 - The Lance Armstrong Foundation (LAF) today officially launched the 2007 LIVESTRONG Challenge presented by Nike.  The LIVESTRONG Challenge is a series of three fundraising events through which participants can walk, run or ride to support the LAF's mission to inspire and empower people affected by cancer. Last year, Challenge participants raised a combined total of $10 million to support the more than 10 million American cancer survivors.  The goal for 2007 is to raise even more money while generating awareness for cancer issues.

The LIVESTRONG Challenge will kick off in Philadelphia, Pa., Aug. 25-26, and then head to Portland, Ore., on Sept. 29-30.  The series will culminate with a joint Challenge and Ride for the Roses celebration in Austin, Texas, Oct. 12-14. 

"We have made significant improvements to the event series, now in its second year," said Doug Ulman, Foundation president.  "We reduced the number of Challenge locations to better provide participants with a truly transformational experience, one that leaves them energized, inspired and empowered." Sites were selected based on accessibility and geographic location, not on previous participation or fundraising levels. 

"In addition, Lance Armstrong, who recently assumed the role of chairman of our board of directors and announced a $5 million gift to the Foundation, plans to attend all Challenge events," Ulman added. 

LIVESTRONG Challenge riders may select from a variety of distance options, while walkers and runners will team up for a Community 5K.  The combined community walk/run enables athletes of all skill levels - including those undergoing cancer treatment - to participate.

As in 2006, all LIVESTRONG Challenge participants must pay a one-time $50 event registration fee. However, the minimum fundraising level for cyclists was lowered from $500 to $250.  Although walkers and runners have no minimum fundraising level, the LAF encourages all participants to set high fundraising goals that are equally challenging and rewarding.  The Challenge also offers numerous volunteer opportunities and welcomes each community to come out and cheer for all participants.   

Previous participants in the LIVESTRONG Challenge were invited to register and begin raising funds in late-January.  Registration is now open to both previous participants and those who are new to the Challenge.   To register, visit www.livestrongchallenge.org for more information.
 
# # #

About the Lance Armstrong Foundation
The Lance Armstrong Foundation (LAF) inspires and empowers people affected by cancer. We help people with cancer focus on living; we believe that unity is strength, knowledge is power and attitude is everything. From the moment of diagnosis, the LAF provides the practical information and tools people with cancer need to live life on their own terms. The LAF serves its mission through advocacy, public health and research. Founded in 1997 by cancer survivor and champion cyclist Lance Armstrong, the LAF is located in Austin, Texas. For more information, visit livestrong