For 14 years, cancer survivors and supporters have participated in the American Cancer Society's Relay for Life, which celebrates survivors and raises money to save lives.
Last year, Relay for Life did a climb. This year, Relay for Life has returned to its traditional overnight track event, which will begin at 7 p.m. Friday, Aug. 14, and will continue through the morning of Saturday, Aug. 15, until 9 a.m.
"I am mad at the disease," said Relay for Life event organizer Sandy Kelly. "I will do anything to find a cure and support locals to help find a cure."
This year's teams include: Blaine County, Castle Clan, city of Hailey, city of Ketchum, Mountain West Bank in Hailey, Power Engineers walking team, Power Engineers running team, Team Joey, The Chantrelle's and One Survivor, The Community School, Wood River Middle School and St. Luke's.
Raffle items for the event range from Sun Valley Co. one-day lift tickets and a Quigley Nordic ski pass to several area restaurant gift certificates and tickets from the Company of Fools theater troupe.
Event participants set up tents and supplies and create a mini cancer-fighting community while taking part in a fun walking or running track event. This year, the relay has introduced "Toastfest '09," which includes art vendors and live music to give the fundraising event a festival feel. Live music will be provided by the Sam Funk Crew, Connor Zaft with Izzy Taylor, Dos Amigos and Toast. "Toastfest '09" will take place from 6-10 p.m. Event sponsor Zen Matcha tea will have free samples available.
Relay for Life will take place at the Wood River High School football field. Admission is "Pay What You Feel" and donations will be accepted.
Sabina Dana Plasse: splasse@mtexpress.com
____________________________________________________
Event schedule
· 9 a.m. Setup will begin at the track.
· 12 p.m. Teams can begin to set up tent areas.
· 5 p.m.-8:30 a.m. Luminaria and raffle ticket sales.
· 6-7 p.m. Rice bowl dinners (free to cancer survivors and $5 donations from public).
· 7 p.m. Opening ceremony and survivor lap.
· 7:30 p.m. Parade of teams.
· 5:30-10 p.m. Music with several bands.
· 10 p.m. Luminaria ceremony and candle lighting.
· 10:30 p.m. Teams resume walking with soft music throughout night.
· 12 a.m.- 6 a.m. Prizes to teams that continue to walk through the night.
· 8:30 a.m. Final lap.
· 9 a.m. Closing ceremony and raffle prizes awarded.
