More than $200,000 was raised for children with cancer at the recent 25th Anniversary Superhero 5K with Chet Buchanan, a record for the Candlelighters Childhood Cancer Foundation of Nevada. The event, at Exploration Park at the Mountain’s Edge Master Planned Community, also set records with more than 3,000 attendees, 2,300 race and walk participants, and 501 competitive 5K racers.
Marking its 25th year, the annual event has grown from 75 participants raising $1,000 in 1990 to the largest fundraiser for the nonprofit Candlelighters organization. It now encompasses a festival atmosphere with teams, 5K race and walk, one-mile stroll, kids activities, opening and award ceremonies, food and refreshments, raffle prizes, booths, Superhero costumes reflecting the strength of kids with cancer, and more. This year, $212,270 was raised with more contributions expected to come.
The competitive 5K run winners were Joseph Salvatore, first place at 17 minutes, 50 seconds; Mercy Ray, second place at 18 minutes and 39 seconds; and Shawn Tydlaska, third place at 18 minutes and 59 seconds. Ray also won first place in the female category. For a complete list of results, visit www.candlelighterssnv.org. Individuals and teams raising the most money also were recognized during the award ceremony. The Centennial Toyota team raised the most money, more than $26,000 through car dealership employees.
The 25th Anniversary Superhero 5K with Chet Buchanan raises critically needed funds for Candlelighters, which provides financial assistance for medical and prescription co-pays, mortgage/rent, utilities, local transportation and travel for treatment, scholarships and funerals; counseling; and other programs to lift the spirits of patients and family members.
The event was sponsored by Centennial Toyota, Mountain’s Edge Master Planned Community, 8 News Now, CBS Radio and Las Vegas Review Journal.
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