[NEW YORK CITY, NY] October 3, 2026 — Miss America Regan Hutsell joined the Best Buddies community in New York City for the second annual Best Buddies Challenge: New York, presented by Jersey Mike’s Subs and Wells Fargo. The event brought together athletes, advocates and supporters to advance inclusion for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD).
The day’s activities offered participants of varying ages and abilities multiple ways to get involved, including three cycling routes spanning 33, 72 and 100 miles. The signature 100-mile ride began in New York City, taking cyclists across the George Washington Bridge and north through the Hudson River Valley toward Bear Mountain State Park. Riders then continued through Harriman State Park before reaching the finish line at Glenmere Mansion in the Ramapo Mountains. Cycling legends Chris Froome and Alberto Contador joined the ride, helping lead the day’s events. With approximately 750 people in attendance, the Challenge was projected to raise $4 million for Best Buddies International and its programs supporting friendship, employment, leadership development and independent living for individuals with IDD.
Miss America joined Best Buddies Founder, Chairman and CEO Anthony Kennedy Shriver, who kicked off the event. Throughout the day, she connected with participants and volunteers, celebrating the community members who help bring Best Buddies’ mission of inclusion and opportunity to life.
Best Buddies International advances its mission through five core program areas: One-to-One Friendships, Integrated Employment, Leadership Development, Inclusive Living and Family Support. Through these initiatives, the organization fosters meaningful relationships, expands access to employment and empowers individuals with IDD to pursue greater independence.
Miss America and Best Buddies continue their alliance through a shared commitment to inclusion, leadership and service. Together, the organizations support greater opportunities for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities and work to build more inclusive communities nationwide.
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About Miss America’s Scholarship Foundation Inc. (MASF):
Miss America is the nation’s leading empowerment and service platform for young women, supporting their personal and professional growth while inspiring them to serve as positive role models in their communities. Since 1921, Miss America has been dedicated to its mission of
“Empowering Women to Lead,” engaging thousands of young women nationwide, ages 14-28, as local and state brand ambassadors committed to community service.
Through the Miss America’s Scholarship Foundation Inc., a 501(c)(3), the program awards the largest amount of scholarships to women in America.