Run, walk or sleep in, but take Purdue’s ‘Challenge’ for cancer research
March 31, 2014
WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind. — The seventh-annual Purdue Challenge, a 5K run/walk benefitting the Purdue University Center for Cancer Research, will be held on April 12.
The 3.1-mile race, which starts and ends at Ross-Ade Stadium after winding its way through the north edge of campus, begins at 8:30 a.m.
Head football coach and Challenge spokesman Darrell Hazell joined more than 2,000 participants in last year's event, making it the largest 5K race in Tippecanoe County. Since its beginning in 2008, the Challenge has raised more than $315,000 for cancer research. The proceeds are awarded annually through a competitive grant process to a Purdue researcher who presents the best new research project.
The race is open to the public, and participants may also "Sleep-in for the Challenge" and receive the same benefits as racers without running in the race. Registration is $30 for everyone and may be completed online at www.thepurduechallenge.com.
Individuals also can register as a fundraiser and have the option to create or join a team in competition. Participants also may fundraise and share their experiences leading up to the race through a personalized website with photographs, videos and testimonials.
Awards will be given to the individual, community team, faculty or staff team and student team that raise the most money. Each award will include a plaque and pizza party at Puccini's. Individuals do not have to be signed up for the race to participate as a team member in the fundraiser. More information about how to participate as a fundraiser is available at http://www.thepurduechallenge.com/fundraise.
The Purdue Center for Cancer Research was founded in 1978 and is designated as a National Cancer Institute Basic Cancer Center. The center studies cancer starting at the cellular level to discover how cancers develop, progress and respond to treatment. With the help of its researchers, the Purdue University Center for Cancer Research finds ways to detect cancer faster and treat it more effectively.
More about the Challenge is available at http://www.thepurduechallenge.com.
Writer: Elizabeth K. Gardner, 765-494-2081, ekgardner@purdue.edu
Source: Julie Hendon, manager of development operations and donor relations for the Purdue University Center for Cancer Research, 765-494-1109, julieh@purdue.edu
