Our community
When you become part of the Team Challenge family, you’re supported by coaches, mentors, and friends who understand the impact of IBD. We are a community, united to help each other and everyone impacted by Crohn’s & colitis.
Featured Participants & Coaches
Brannen P.
Brannen was diagnosed with Crohn’s disease in January 2022. Just two months after being diagnosed, he underwent surgery to have about 95% of his colon removed. His doctors agreed it was quite literally a life-saving procedure. He now lives with an ileostomy and wears an ostomy bag, but it hasn’t slowed him down. Brannen began training just two months after his surgery and ran his first half marathon with Team Challenge in January 2023.
“I couldn’t be happier. I am home with my wife and boys, I am healthy, I can eat mostly unrestricted, and I can exercise. Now I can show my boys that setbacks in life don’t define who you are and what you are capable of doing!”
~ Brannen P.
Holly C.
Holly was diagnosed with Crohn's disease in 2018. She knew she needed to shift her mindset to overcome her fear and regain hope, so she started triathlon training in the spring of 2021 and joined Team Challenge in 2022.
“This is not about just my story but how much impact I can make with others. My hope is to encourage the IBD community and many others to keep on moving forward.”
~ Holly C.
Ken S.
Ken participates as a Team Challenge coach in honor of his nephew, who is living with Crohn’s disease. A long-time Team Challenge volunteer, Ken continues to be inspired by the incredible people he meets through Team Challenge who have battled IBD.
“What started as a volunteer opportunity at work to run the Napa Wine Country 1/2 marathon in 2016 has introduced me to some of the most fantastic people united with one goal: a cure!”
~ Ken S.
Alumni: The Blue Crew
Team Challenge alumni — participants and coaches who come back year after year — are known as the Blue Crew!
The Blue Crew is the heart & soul of our Team Challenge family! It is because of you that we have come so far in the fight against IBD over the last 15 years. But, the race isn't over yet. We need your help to reach that ultimate finish line: cures for Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis!
As a special thank you for all our alumni have done, and continue to do, we have created some must-have Team Challenge Blue Crew gear that can be earned for each event completed!
3+ Crew:
Team Challenge Blue Crew dri-fit running hat by Boco Gear
5+ Crew:
Team Challenge Blue Crew track jacket
*Men's and Women's sizes available
10+ Crew:
Invitation to the Champions Club reception for life (+guest) to any TC event you fundraiser for
15+ Crew:
Hotel room reimbursement for your 15th Team Challenge event at the team hotel
30+ Crew:
A recognition plaque to celebrate your impact and all-time funds raised!
Connect with us!
Join us on social media to connect with our community of dedicated participants and coaches.
. 
Ready to learn more? Let us know and we'll follow up with you!
