The Dempsey Challenge, Specialized Bicycles and Gorham Bike and Ski donated two Specialized Rockhopper Pro bicycles, valued over $1,000 each, plus helmets and complimentary maintenance packages, to the Lewiston and Auburn Police Departments.

Bicycle donations: (l. to r.) Tim Corcoran, co-owner of Gorham Bike and Ski; Thomas C. Murphy, Lewiston PD Community Resource Officer; Wendy Tardif, Dempsey Challenge Event Manager; Jason Moen, Auburn PD Deputy Chie;f and Auburn PD Lt. Kevin Mulherin.

Auburn Deputy Chief Jason Moen and Lieutenant Kevin Mulherin joined Lewiston Community Resource Officer Thomas Murphy on Tuesday to accept the donation.

“We appreciate this gesture,” said Moen. “The Dempsey Challenge is a positive experience, and we’re glad to help out in any way we can.”

Each department has employed bicycle patrol in the downtown area for over 10 years. The added mobility provides officers the opportunity to respond quickly to calls and maintain close communication with members of their respective communities. They are also used for evening quiet patrols.

Gorham Bike and Ski of Portland donated a Specialized bicycle helmet to each department, along with complimentary 30-day check-ups and deluxe tune-ups.

The third annual Dempsey Challenge is scheduled for Oct. 8 and 9, 2011. The run/walk and cycling event will take place at Simard-Payne Police Memorial Park in Lewiston. Discounted registration is available through Dec. 31, and registration will reopen at regular pricing on March 1.

Funds raised through the event benefit The Patrick Dempsey Center for Cancer Hope & Healing. For more information, log on to www.dempseychallenge.org.