This year's Relay for Life looks to be another record-breaking event. With a goal of $225,000 in mind, participants across McDuffie County have been raising money for the American Cancer Society most of the year.
The fundraising walk, set to begin at 6 p.m. Friday evening at the Thomson High School track, is often referred to as the largest single event in the county. This year there are 2,500 people signed up to participate on 57 teams, increases over last year's numbers.
"For several months, relay teams across McDuffie County have held huge fundraisers - from chili suppers to pancake suppers, from bake sales to yard sales, from trail rides to motorcycle rides - all in the name of 'a community that takes up the fight' against cancer," said Relay Co-Chair Peggy Willis. "We are so proud of all of our team captains and team members and everyone in the community for supporting these many fundraisers."
So far, teams and sponsorships have brought in $130,000, and much more is expected just prior to and during the event.
"Bank night is Thursday night, so I'm sure we'll be getting a nice big slug then," said Relay Co-Chair and Thomson Mayor Bob Knox.
After the opening ceremonies, the annual Survivors' Lap, along with a balloon release, is scheduled for 6:15 p.m. Also, a solemn luminary ceremony is set for about 30 minutes after sunset. Closing ceremonies are scheduled for the following morning at 9 a.m.
According to Ms. Willis, teams may begin setting up campsites after noon on Friday. During the event, teams will be selling hot dogs, hamburgers, snacks, drinks, and toys, and activities are scheduled throughout the night to keep participants entertained.
A silent auction will take place under the main tent from 6 to 7:30 p.m. Auctions and raffles of televisions, lawn mowers, gas grills, golf carts, autographed memorabilia, tickets to the Augusta Futurity and several other items will also occur throughout the evening. A schedule of events is available online at www.acsevents.org/mcduffie.
"I think everything is going very well," Mayor Knox said. "It looks like a lot of good fundraisers are happening, and a lot of people are involved. I think it's going to be real good."
