FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
October 1, 2026
CONTACT:
Jessi Holleran, jholleran@maineadaptive.org
Maine Climbers Reach New Heights for Adaptive Sports at Second Annual Pete Sargent Vertical Challenge
Fundraising climbing endurance event to benefit Maine Adaptive – Sunday, October 18 at Salt Pump Climbing Company
Scarborough, ME — Maine Adaptive Sports & Recreation invites the community to join in an inspiring day of climbing, competition, and giving back at the Pete Sargent Vertical Challenge, hosted at Salt Pump Climbing Company in Scarborough on Sunday, November 2, 2025.
This community-driven event brings together climbers of all abilities to raise funds and awareness in support of Maine Adaptive’s year-round adaptive sports programs. Participants will form two-person teams, fundraise a minimum of $150, and compete to see how much vertical distance they can climb within a six-hour window (8 a.m. – 2 p.m.)
“Climbing is about perseverance, trust, and community—all values at the heart of Maine Adaptive,” said Co-Executive Director Amy Bannon. “The Vertical Challenge is a celebration of those values while raising essential support for our mission.”
The event, named in honor of longtime Maine Adaptive student, volunteer, veteran and friend, Pete Sargent, will feature top rope, lead, and adaptive categories. A live leaderboard will track cumulative climbing totals, and prizes will be awarded across multiple divisions.
As Maine Adaptive’s Co-Executive Director Lizz shared:
“Pete Sargent gave so much of himself — as a veteran, a volunteer, and a friend. For nearly three decades, he shared his love of sport and continually learned new skills to pass along to Maine Adaptive students. Pete’s kindness and unwavering dedication will forever be part of our community.”
Event Highlights:
- Date & Time: Sunday, October 18, 2026 | 8 a.m. – 2 p.m.
- Location: Salt Pump Climbing Company, Scarborough, ME
- Teams of two climbers; capped at 50 teams
- $50 team registration fee (not applied to fundraising minimum)
- Fundraising minimum: $150 per team
- Awards, raffle prizes, and an inclusive community celebration
Maine Adaptive’s goal is to raise at least $10,000 through registration fees, sponsorships, raffles, and team fundraising efforts. Funds will support adaptive climbing opportunities as well as the organization’s extensive year-round programming across Maine.
Registration & More Information
Teams can register online at maineadaptive.org/donate/pete-
About Maine Adaptive Sports & Recreation
Founded in 1982, Maine Adaptive is the largest year-round adaptive recreation program in the state, providing opportunities for individuals with disabilities to engage in sports. With the help of more than 400 dedicated volunteers, Maine Adaptive delivers over 3,500 lessons annually. Maine Adaptive Sports & Recreation promotes year-round education and training for individuals with disabilities in order to develop skills, enhance independence, and provide enjoyment through active recreation.