By Sarah Klein
It’s pretty soggy outside, but that won’t deter the 9th annual Relay For Life from going ahead later tonight at Canwest Park.
About 1,200 people will gather at 7 p.m. for a non-competitive 12-hour overnight walk in support of the Canadian Cancer Society.
Participants in teams of 10 will take turns walking the track all night, as others enjoy plenty of entertainment, games, and themed laps to keep everyone motivated and energized.
The inaugural Survivors’ Victory Lap will be completed by cancer survivors in yellow T-shirts. “Seeing the sea of yellow walking around the track is really encouraging to all participants” said Sharon Rubel, Survivor Chair for the event. “Tonight they’ll be walking even if it’s pouring; after all they’re cancer survivors and have been through much worse.”
The Luminary Ceremony occurs at 10 p.m., where candles placed inside luminary bags will outline the track. They each bear the name of someone who has passed away to cancer or the name of a survivor. Their light guides participants around the track all night, reminding them why they are there.
Handout photo