In six weeks' time, hundreds of people, united by a common cause, will take it in turns to run, walk, or even dance around a track at the Cromwell Racecourse for 24 hours.
The occasion is the third Central Otago Relay for Life, and the event begins at noon on Saturday, March 15.
About 40 teams have already registered to take part in the Cancer Society fundraiser and relay chairwoman Lynn Manson is urging others to register soon to become involved. The event entails teams raising funds to support the work of the Cancer Society and then joining in the relay with teams from throughout the wider Central Otago district.
As well as celebrating cancer survivors and their caregivers, the relay also provides time for reflection, during a candlelight ceremony, to remember loved ones lost to cancer. Individuals as well as teams are welcome to take part and entertainment is provided throughout the 24 hours.
Relay committee member Marie Wales said anyone interested, who did not want to form a team of their own, could be added to an existing team or placed in a special composite team.
Proceeds from the last relay, about $164,000, have been used within the Central Otago and Queenstown Lakes district to support people affected by cancer and their families. Some has also been used for health promotion activities.
More information about this year's relay is available on www.relayforlife.org.nz or by phoning 0800 735-299, during the day.
