Runners and walkers set the pace at the Race for Research 5K
Bernie, the Colorado Avalanche mascot, got the under 10-year-old participants ready with stretches and antics before the kid’s fun run.
Article and photos by Lynne Marsala Basche
August 20 was a gorgeous morning to welcome runners and walkers of both the human and canine variety to Washington Park in Denver for the Cancer League of Colorado 21st Annual Race for Research 5K. With more than 1,100 participants, excluding day-of sign ups, the event broke previous participation records.
The Race for Research is one of the fundraising events for the Cancer League of Colorado, which was founded in 1969 by five women whose lives were affected by cancer. The 100 percent volunteer-run organization funds programs and research in Colorado.
John, Stan and Lynne Basche represented The Castle Pines Connection at the 21st Annual Race for Research 5K where funds raised from the event stay in Colorado to support cancer programs and fund research.
While the spirit of the race remained positive, it was an emotional experience. Some participants wore “survivor” stickers, and others pinned pictures and “in honor of” placards to their shirts. The “Miracle Mile” segment displayed large photos of those who are currently fighting cancer, cancer survivors, and others who have lost their brave battle to the disease.
“We all have a personal connection to cancer,” said Castle Pines resident John Basche. “This particular event – especially the Miracle Mile – caused me to stop and reflect about those friends and family who are no longer with us.”
To learn more about the Cancer League of Colorado, visit www.cancerleague.org.
