39 Teams to Participate in Relay for Life of Winchester

Charlene Arsenault, Patch Staff contributed to this report.

WINCHESTER, MA — Dr. Gordy Klatt walked and ran for 24 hours around a track in Tacoma, WA, in 1985 and raised $27,000 for the American Cancer Society, assisting in its mission to fight cancer across the country.

The following year, 340 supporters joined in that effort. Now called the Relay for Life, this national movement and event has raised nearly $5 billion to fight cancer.

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Relay for Life is an organized, overnight community fundraising walk where teams of people camp out around a track, each of the members taking turns walking. Usually, this family friendly event is surrounded by games, entertainment and food.

Communities hold Relay for Life events across the country, and throughout the year - in New England starting in April and continuing through the fall.

39 teams accounting for 189 participants are taking part in Relay for Life of Winchester on May 25-26 at Manchester Field. The event starts at 5 p.m.

Benign Forever is leading the team fundraising with $1,400 raised; followed closely by Commonwealth Crusader with $1,000 and Irrelephant with $495.

To donate, click here.

Photo via Relay for Life