53,000 reasons to relay

LEWISPORTE -

All the dedication of volunteers and team members culminated on Sept. 12 as the Relay For Life was held for the sixth year in a row in Lewisporte.

A total of 19 teams representing 190 to 200 people came together to raise a total of over $53,000.

Canadian Cancer Society community resource coordinator Penny Pardy said while the rain put a little damper on the event at one point, there were still people walking the Relay track at every point of the event that ran from 2 p.m.-2 a.m.

Ms. Pardy complimented the event organizers for their efforts in making the event an enjoyable one for the teams.

"It seems like everyone was a little bit busier this year with more events and activities," she said. "There was so much positive energy throughout the day that I think brought people together and everyone just had such a wonderful time.

"The organizing committee, I can't say enough about them because they have been doing this for so long it's just like clockwork, they do such a wonderful job and we'd never be able to do it without them."

Lewisporte Relay committee chairperson Ray Dawe felt the 2009 event was a success even with a decrease in the number of teams from 2008 when there were 27 registered teams.

"The number of teams were down a bit this year but $53,000 plus is a great effort for the cancer cause," said Mr. Dawe. "There was great spirit and a lot of participation on the field."

Mr. Dawe said there were a number of moments that day where he felt especially honoured to be a part of the Relay For Life.

"The luminary ceremony that evening was really emotional - I was really proud to see people out," he said. "Also, when the survivors came onto the field. It was a great feeling to see them, knowing that our little bit of work with the Relay and the funds that's raised will help the cause.

"Whatever we're doing is helping out, whether it be with Daffodil Place or whether it be in research to find a cure."

Mr. Dawe thanked everyone on the committee, all the volunteers and everybody who participated in the Relay in any way.

He said, "We were one team fighting for one cause."

Following are the team awards presented at the Lewisporte Relay:

Relay Idol winners - Freake's Lifesavers

Most spirited team - Budden Bunch

Best decorated site - Shopper's Health Watch Team

Best theme - Cancer Warriors

Highest fundraisers with over $17,000 - Cancer Warriors