The 19th annual Tri for a Cure announced a record-breaking fundraising total of $2,312,353 on Sunday, July 12, 2026, organizers said, surpassing last year’s figure and marking the largest single-year haul in the event’s history.
Record fundraising announced before and on race day
Organizers reported the fundraising total set an early milestone: by 6:45 p.m. Friday, the event had already exceeded the 2025 mark with $2,164,852 raised — topping the previous record of $2,164,357. On Sunday morning the total had climbed to about $2.2 million, and the official final announcement of $2,312,353 was made later that day.
Tri for a Cure is an all-women’s triathlon that benefits the Maine Cancer Foundation and is held annually at Southern Maine Community College. The event combines athletic competition with community fundraising, and participants and donors together help underwrite cancer research, patient services and prevention programs across the state.
Voices from the event
“The goal is a number we pick in order to do the work we want to do next year, but the more we raise, the more we can do,”
Ray Ruby, executive director of the Maine Cancer Foundation, spoke Friday about the significance of the new fundraising level and the ongoing need for resources to support the organization’s mission.
Race founder Julie Marchese, participating in the full triathlon for the first time in 15 years, reflected on the event’s community atmosphere and longevity. “We had no idea what it would bring to the table. And I don't think anybody knows what it brings to the table unless you're here,” she said during early-morning race coverage.
Event details and how to help
- Date: Sunday, July 12, 2026
- Location: Southern Maine Community College
- Purpose: Fundraising for the Maine Cancer Foundation
- Notable: All-women’s triathlon; longtime community fundraiser
Even though race day has passed, organizers noted that donations continue to be accepted for the Maine Cancer Foundation. The funds raised through Tri for a Cure support the foundation’s programs for research, prevention and patient services across Maine.
| Year | Official fundraising total |
|---|---|
| 2025 | $2,164,357 |
| 2026 | $2,312,353 |
Local media partners also participated in coverage and community involvement: Maine’s Total Coverage noted that three of its employees — a reporter, a reporter/anchor and a videographer — took part in this year’s Tri for a Cure. The event’s combination of athletic challenge and fundraising remains a touchstone for many Mainers who have been affected by cancer.
As organizers and participants tally the year’s success, the larger takeaway for community members is clear: local events like Tri for a Cure continue to be an important source of financial support for cancer work in Maine, and donations remain open for those who want to contribute.
