Thousands run, walk downtown in Race for the Cure — PHOTOS
Women, men, kids and babies decked out in various shades of pink turned out Saturday morning for the 21st Annual Susan G. Komen Las Vegas Race for the Cure in downtown Las Vegas.
During the event, which included a 5K and a 1-mile fun walk, runners and walkers wended their way through downtown streets to cross the finish line at the intersection of Fremont East and Sixth Street.
After the race, they could continue to help support breast cancer research by riding the Fremont Street Experience’s SlotZilla zip line during SlotZilla Charity Challenge from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. with all ticket sale proceeds going to Susan G. Komen Nevada.
A variety of performers, including singers, drummers and members of the cast of Rock of Ages entertained participants.
Children also had plenty to celebrate after crossing the finish line. Kids for the Cure, sponsored by MGM Resorts International, offered an activity area featuring carnival games, live stage entertainment, snacks and raffle prizes.
Officials estimated 12,000 people participated in the race, said Tom Bruny, marketing director for the Fremont Street Experience, the host venue. The race raises funds and awareness for the breast cancer movement, celebrates breast cancer survivors and honors those who have lost their battle with the disease.
“There were a lot of families. It’s great to see the community involved and turn out the way they did,” Bruny said. “We like to be involved in these community events to give back to the community.”
As for race winners, John Santana of Las Vegas crossed the finish line first with the top overall time of 15:26, while Henderson resident JennaRae Ripley, who came in 10th overall, topped the women’s field with a time of 20:13.
But even those who didn’t or couldn’t get up in time to run or walk in the race had an opportunity to help raise awareness and funding for the cause. They could simply register for Sleep in for the Cure and snooze away the morning in a special Sleep in T-shirt.
