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10th Annual race for Virginia & Friends to Benefit Pediatric Cancer Research

The Race for Virginia and Friends will celebrate our 10th year on July 4, 2011. This fun 5K run/walk has raised over $370,000 over the past 9 years for Pediatric Cancer Research at Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh.This will be the final year for the Race.

When the Race for Virginia was started, no one could have imagined that it would be more than a one- time event. Over the years, a core group of dedicated volunteers have worked tirelessly to maintain and grow the event into what it has become.

As a number of those individuals move on to other stages in their lives, it seems to be the appropriate time to bring the race to a close while it is still successful.

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Virginia would have graduated from high school this year and she and the other children who have been honored will always be remembered in our hearts and minds.

"Hopefully, through our efforts and those who have participated, we have made an impact on the battle against pediatric cancers,” said Bob Markovich, Race Director.

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Each year over 12,000 children are diagnosed with Cancer. The race is run by an all volunteer board with minimal expenses making it possible to proudly donate all proceeds to the Research Fund. Each year the Race honors a courageous child who has battle the disease.

This year we will honor the memory of all the special children of the past 9 years who have inspired us to raise funds to combat pediatric cancer. Sam McConahy, Kayla Sansone, Alex Poust, Elijah King, Elora Geier, Saxon Kieswetter, Danielle Wick , Riley Scheiller and, of course, Virginia Clark all displayed a zest for living and an unbelievable amount of courage during their brief lives.

The race will take place at Cranberry Township Park July 4th and starts at 8:30 a.m. Those interested can register for $20 online at www.raceforvirginia.org.

The entry fee entitles participants to refreshments, $10 Dicks gift card and a race packet. Race T-shirts are guaranteed to the first 750 registrants. All proceeds benefit pediatric cancer research at Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh of UPMC.

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