13th annual GO Run goes virtual
Because the event is virtual, participants can design their race to be a 1-mile fun run, a 5K, 10K or a half-marathon.
Runners and walkers can choose how to participate in the 13th annual GO Run, set for Sept. 17-20, to support academic cancer research. Because the event is virtual, participants can design their race to be a 1-mile fun run, a 5K, 10K or a half-marathon. They can also choose a treadmill, indoor track or outdoor route as the location.
“This year’s GO Run will enable walkers and runners to participate from wherever they are,” said Caroline Smith, director of development for the USA Health Mitchell Cancer Institute. “The new format is already generating a lot of enthusiasm both in our community and beyond.”
Proceeds from the GO Run, presented by the Catranis Family Charitable Foundation, benefit gynecologic cancer research led by physician-scientists at the Mitchell Cancer Institute. The American Cancer Society estimates that an estimated 113,520 cases of gynecologic cancers will be diagnosed in the U.S. this year and that approximately 33,620 women will die from these cancers, which include cervical, ovarian, uterine, vaginal and vulvar malignancies.
The entry fee for the GO Run ranges from $15 for the 1-mile fun run to $75 for the “weekend warrior,” which includes a 5K, 10K and half-marathon spread over four days. Registration is online through runsignup.com. In addition, participants may sign up for a GO Run Beginner 5K Coaching Program, developed by Brooks Running, at no cost.
“Maybe this will be your first 5K or your first run in a while,” Smith said. “Whatever your circumstances, we want you to feel fit and strong, and this nine-week course will get you ready to complete the GO Run in September.”
Since the event’s inception, teams have been a popular way to show support for gynecologic cancer survivors. “It’s no secret that our beloved teams are what make the GO Run so special,” she said. “Even though this is a virtual event this year, we hope that runners and walkers will still participate as a team.”
Prizes will be awarded to top finishers, the largest team, highest fundraising team, best social networking team and team with most creative costume. Participants may also honor a loved one by purchasing a GO Run ribbon-shaped magnet for $10.
More information can be found on the GO Run webpage. For questions regarding sponsorships, email Casey Hitson, assistant director of MCI development, at caseyhitson@southalabama.edu.
