More than 61,500 people walked and ran Sunday in the 15th annual Komen Denver Race for the Cure.
Although forecasters had originally predicted a cold, rainy Sunday, the sun was out as 61,591 women, men and children participated in one of several events, including a women’s 5K run/walk; a coed 5K walk/run and a 1-mile family walk.
The top three female breast-cancer survivor finishers were Diane Groff, Susan Perrigo and Bev Veals. The top three overall female winners were Tanya Poel, Jena Pohle and Gwen Erffmeyer.
Race organizers say they believe that the Denver event will net more than $3 million for breast-cancer research, education, treatment and screening programs.
“What a great day to live in Colorado. I am so proud to be a part of this generous community,” said Wendy Lukazcek, the 2007 race chairwoman.
People wore pink T-shirts, wigs and even feather boas. The color is associated with breast-cancer awareness.
Joan Eberle of Loveland, who has taken part in the race for four years, told The Associated Press she got involved after two friends died from breast cancer.
“We’re out here today in their honor, to remember our friends,” Eberle said.
About 75 percent of the net money raised by the race is given back to the Denver metro area in the form of grants to area nonprofits that provide breast health and breast-cancer education and screening and treatment programs.
Since its inception, the race and funds generated by the Denver affiliate of Susan G. Komen for the Cure contributed more than $17 million to Denver-area nonprofits and $6 million into breast-cancer research.
For those unable to make this year’s race, contributions can be made in other ways, including:
Sleep in for the Cure, a program where participants sign up but don’t show up on race day. For a $30 registration fee, plus shipping, participants will receive a special Sleep-in Race T-shirt by going to and registering online.
A Pink Tie Affair at Invesco Field, featuring the Pink Flamingos. The annual dinner/dance, presented by Re/Max International, is scheduled for Nov. 10 at Invesco Field at Mile High.
Try It On for the Cure, Wednesday through Sunday. Coldwater Creek will donate $1 to Komen Denver for every shopper who tries on pants in the dressing room at Coldwater Creek’s stores at FlatIron Crossing, Aspen Grove, Belmar, The Southlands and Twenty-Ninth Street.
Howard Pankratz: 303-954-1939 or hpankratz@denverpost.com
