The seventh annual Comcast NBC Connecticut Jim Calhoun Cancer Challenge Ride and Walk to benefit the UConn Health Center’s cancer program will be held on Saturday, June 8 in Simsbury.
The event has raised more than $1 million since 2007 for UConn’s Carole and Ray Neag Comprehensive Cancer Center. The money has made it possible for the cancer center to recruit over 800 patients to clinical trials while supporting pilot research projects studying precursors to colon cancer, immunologic responses to proteins, and to study tumor sequencing. Additionally, the funds have enabled breast screening for the uninsured, support groups for new patients, and allowed for community outreach to educate the public on cancer prevention.
There are non-competitive rides of 10, 25, 50 and 75 miles open to cyclists 14 and older. The 5K walk is open to all ages. The start and finish line is at the Performing Arts Center at Simsbury Meadows.
The Health Center has four teams that are looking for members:
1. The Rosenkrantz Riders – captain Ted Rosenkrantz
2. Calhoun Cardiology Center – captain Michael Azrin
3. UConn Fritz Free Riders – captain Joyce Fritz
4. Mohs Movers – captain Eileen Crawfort
The day includes great food and live music by the band “Cover Story.” The UConn Health Center is also offering free skin cancer screenings from 8 a.m. to noon. There are prizes for top fundraisers and participants who raise $1,000 or more by August 1 will be invited to a private party with Hall of Fame coach Jim Calhoun to be held this fall. Participants who raise $5,000 or more will be recognized on court during a men’s basketball game during the 2013-14 season.
New this year, Wild Horse Wines is teaming up for the cause by donating $1 for every bottle of Wild Horse wine sold in Connecticut between April 30 and September 30, 2013.
This year’s event is presented by Cigna and the Hartford law firm of RisCassi & Davis.
The Wall of Honor at the event provides a memorial to loved ones and tribute to survivors and those battling cancer today. Send your photo (labeled with the person’s name and your reason for acknowledgement) by May 31 to christy_deep@goldorluk.com or Christy Deep, c/o Calhoun Cancer Challenge Ride and Walk, PO Box 846, Avon, CT 06001.
Learn more or join a team at http://calhounride.uchc.edu.
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