"To have 60 teams registered so far and all these groups working at all kinds of projects to raise funds for the Cancer Society is absolutely amazing, " Mrs Manson said yesterday.
The 24-hour event, being held at the Cromwell Racecourse on March 17 and 18, has attracted teams from all over Central Otago, Queenstown, Wanaka and Glenorchy.
"At this stage of proceedings, it's already exceeded my expectations, especially in this economic environment and considering all the other events that are on in Central Otago in the coming weeks," she said.
Many of those involved in the inaugural Central Otago relay in 2009 were returning to take part again and one notable feature of this year's teams was the size of them. Some had up to 35 members.
"That's been something we've noticed this time, that groups have joined forces."
The event was much more than just a fundraiser. It offered a chance to reflect and be inspired as well, she said. The opening lap of honour for cancer survivors and the candlelight ceremony later that evening gave everyone a chance to "celebrate the lives of those who had battled cancer, and to remember loved ones lost".
The $201,130 raised in the inaugural Central Otago relay was used to develop support service and health promotion resources in the region, and this year's proceeds will continue to develop those services and make them accessible.
The money will also go towards funding cancer research and maintaining Kowhai House, the accommodation for people outside Dunedin who are undergoing cancer treatment at Dunedin Hospital.
Teams can still register for the event, by contacting relay event manager Tammy Jackman at relaycentral@cansoc.org.nz or at 0800 233-345.
