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Lake Choctaw the setting for 2010 Run For Hope
(Posted July 28, 2010)
It can be difficult to possess hope when a disease has taken so many lives. Melissa Atkins, who spent five years as the chair of the Madison County Relay For Life, lost her stepfather to cancer which prompted her and her family to volunteer for the American Cancer Society.
The third annual “Run for Hope” 5K is a competitive race that benefits the American Cancer Society’s Relay For Life of Madison County. “Run for Hope” 5K will take place Aug. 21 at 9 a.m. at Lake Choctaw, off I-70 W at the State Route 56 exit. The starting line is at the lake lodge, 2875 Oneida Dr. NW.
“We encourage runners or walkers to come out and participate in honor and in memory of friends and family that have been touched by cancer,” Atkins said.
Relay For Life events fund local programs and services. Last year, the American Cancer Society responded to calls for help from 116 Madison County residents. Roughly 180 residents in Madison County were diagnosed last year with cancer.
“Race for Hope” registration begins at 7:30 a.m. on the day of the race and is available online at www.premierraces.com, where the finishing times will be posted. The $25 registration fee includes a t-shirt, race bag and refreshments. Kids under the age of 12 can participate for free, but do not receive t-shirts.
The race has attracted over 150 entrants the last two years.
Awards go to the top three male and three female finishers. Individuals do not have to run to participate. Wheelchairs, strollers and wagons are permitted. (Bikes, skates, dogs and scooters are not.)
“It’s a great family event that we encourage people to bring kids in strollers or wagons onsite, and of course we encourage our survivors to join in too; they are the inspiration for everyone who participates,” Atkins said.
For additional race information, send e-mail to mdowler101@aol.com.
Readers' Comments:
Great to see that someone is holding an annual race at Choctaw Lake to benefit a great cause. I was able to hold the very first 5K run at Choctaw Lake in 1986 to benefit Easter Seals. Dr. Jack Starr took the idea the following year and held a biathlon to benefit Hospice. Keep up the good work. --- David Matthews
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