The seventh annual Putnam City Cancer Classic run is scheduled for Saturday, Nov. 1. The event includes both a 1-mile “fun run” and a full 5-kilometer run and benefits cancer research at OMRF.
For nearly 40 years, Putnam City’s annual Cancer Drive has spurred friendly competition among schools and taught invaluable lessons in philanthropy.
“People get involved in events like this, because almost everyone is affected by cancer in some way during their lifetime,” said run organizer Jason Hasty, who manages Putnam City’s Carol M. White Physical Education Program and serves as district chair for physical education. “It’s a way to make a real difference for a good cause and have some fun at the same time.”
The venue for this year’s run is Wheeler Park on the Oklahoma River just south of I-40 and Western. Hasty expects more than 1,100 runners and walkers to participate in this year’s event.
The run also will celebrate Putnam City Schools’ 100th anniversary. Organizers have challenged each school in the district to register 100 participants in the Cancer Classic events.
Mascots from Putnam City’s three high schools will be on hand for the run, and district ROTC volunteers will sponsor a rock-climbing wall. Food vendors will include Big Truck Tacos and a snow cone truck.
To date, Putnam City Schools have donated more than $3.2 million to OMRF. In addition to purchasing laboratory equipment and supplies, the cancer drive established the Putnam City Schools Distinguished Chair in Cancer Research at OMRF, which is held by Linda Thompson, Ph.D.
“Until we find a cure for cancer, it’s important to keep plugging away by supporting research,” Hasty said. “Our Cancer Classic has raised more than $75,000 for OMRF and provides a great family-friendly event for our community. We want to see it grow larger every year.”
The 5k run starts at 8:30 a.m. and the one-mile Fun Run/Walk starts at 10 a.m. To register or find additional information, please visit www.pccancerclassic.com.
