Thousands attend the Race for the Cure at DBAP

Thousands met at the Durham Bulls Athletic Park (DBAP) Saturday morning for the 30th annual Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure, one of the country's largest fundraisers for breast cancer.

The event celebrates survivors, honors those who have lost their battles with breast cancer and foster community support while raising money for treatment. 

Participants began arriving before 7 a.m., and the event kicked off with the survivors' Parade of Hope, followed by the race which began 9 a.m. Celebration contiuned after the race until noon.

WRAL News was a proud sponsor for the race. Meteorologist Mike Maze and anchor Lora Lavigne served as hosts and emcees.

For many attendees, they said this race is personal for them. Travis Bowles told WRAL News his grandmother is a few years removed from her battle with the disease.

“Breast cancer affects not only her, but it’s also taking the life of one of her sisters, and it just means a lot for me to see her here, being with other people that are affected by this illness, knowing I can have an effort to put an end to it.”

The DBAP was flooded with a sea of pink as participants hit the pavement for the powerful movement. The race is not only about fighting breast cancer, but preventing it too. 

"It takes a toll on a person, and being out here and supporting them is definitely, it means a lot for them," said William Alexander, whose aunt is a 50 year breast cancer survivor. 

Financial support from donors helps to fund breast cancer research, provides financial assistance to patients, and supports education and screening programs.

During Saturday’s race, Bank of America officials announced the company donated over $14 million to Race for the Cure.

“This affects our communities, our associates, so we are extremely happy to be here with you today and continue to the fight,” Wendy Artis said.

In North Carolina, nearly 12,000 women are expected to be diagnosed with breast cancer. 

It’s why the race is not only about fighting the disease, but preventing it. 

“The ACR recommends mammography beginning at age 40 or earlier if you have a family history of breast cancer,” said Brent Townsend with Wake Radiology.

Whether they walked, jogged, secured first place, or cheered on the sidelines, Saturday’s participants say the goal was the same.

“Even if you're someone who doesn't affect who isn't affected by breast cancer, even if, even if your family is well off, I still think it means a lot to come here and see the survivors and see the efforts being made to put an end to this disease,” Bowles said.

Through April 20, more than 36,000 participants had raised more than $1.3 million to fund research and provide care for those facing breast cancer. 

You can make a donation to the Race for the Cure.