Cancer survivor Norman Pledger, aged 101, was one of dozens of people who inspired those taking part in the second Central Otago Relay for Life, at Cromwell, during the weekend.
The 24-hour event brought together more than 1000 people and raised more than $130,000 for the work of the Cancer Society in the wider Central Otago region, which includes Queenstown and Wanaka.
Relay committee chairwoman Lynn Manson was "blown away" by the provisional fundraising total.
"This weekend has completely exceeded my expectations. It's brought so many people together, who are all touched by cancer in some way, and the amount raised is amazing, " she said.
"People are buzzing about the event and they've enjoyed sharing the experience with others, honouring those affected by cancer and reflecting on those who have died from the disease."
Mr Pledger, a resident at Ripponburn Hospital and Home, at Cromwell, was asked to hold the ribbon which was cut to launch the opening lap of the event.
The first lap is for those affected by cancer and about 100 people took part, ranging in age from children through to senior citizens.
"I'd like everyone to be as healthy as me, or better," Mr Pledger said.
He had bowel cancer 20 years ago and credits his recovery and longevity to healthy eating "and no cigarettes".
Sixty-five teams took part in the Relay for Life, with some coming from as far as Dunedin.
The weather was fine on Saturday but turned windy that afternoon, upsetting tents of participants at Cromwell racecourse.
It was cloudy yesterday but the rain held off until the event was completed.
The bulk of the teams were from Queenstown, Central Otago and Wanaka, and were made up of workmates or friends.
Team "Tross," was captained by Tom Pedofsky (16), of Alexandra, and was mostly made up of Dunstan High School pupils aged 16 and 17.
"We participated in 2009 and it was a really rewarding experience and we all feel it's a good cause. We've all got family or friends affected by cancer."
Team-mate Abe Taucher (16) said: "It's nice for people to see a bunch of young people having fun without alcohol being involved."
Cancer Society Otago Southland division chairman Peter Hutchison said that all of the funds raised in the Central Otago region would be spent within that region, after consultation with people in the community and the money would be "put to the best possible use".
