Relaying for life

Published 1:00 pm Saturday, July 9, 2005

Anyone who has ever run hard for a distance can attest to a few things 1) it’s not an easy task 2) there’s an odd feeling of release at the end of the run, be it a sprint or a marathon. Those who have participated in track, specifically a relay, have a very interesting perspective on running. More often than not, competitive races are all about the individuals. The relay is all about teamwork. Everyone must perform well in order to win. If three runners are doing well and one isn’t, the entire team suffers.

What does that have to do with North Kitsap? Today and tomorrow, everything. North Kitsap’s Relay for Life leaves its starting blocks at the high school track at 10 a.m. today and doesn’t stop walking, jogging and running until that time tomorrow.

This particular relay isn’t a “race” but it is a competition, nonetheless. It pits the men and women of this area against an opponent that never seems to tire or lose its legs. Cancer. The disease still runs rampant throughout the community and chances are you are or you know someone who has run against it. Some have won. Others have lost.

Despite the fact that the odds are still favoring cancer, we are gaining on it and have made significant strides toward public education, diagnosis and treatment. Unfortunately, a cure is yet unattainable and the finish line is nowhere in sight.

That doesn’t mean the race is over — not by a long shot. For many, it’s just beginning. Relay for Life organizers and the American Cancer Society recognize this and that’s why supporting this event is so important. Both are in it for the long haul and while the run is tiring, our teamwork will eventually prevail and, one day, the baton will be able to be set down for good.