Cancer Society expects 3,000 climbers
Published: August 16, 2005
It’s a good idea to be prepared, physically and mentally, for the annual Climb to Conquer Cancer — lose some weight, dress lightly (with rain poncho for possible weather shifts), bring sun protection (lotion and hat), clean the mind of doubts and worries, bring plenty of drinking water and wear sensible, sturdy shoes (don’t wear new, untried shoes).
Saturday from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m., more than 3,000 climbers are expected to gamely trudge up Snowbowl Road to the lodge at the end of the road during the 17th staging of this fund-raising event.
The seven-mile hike leaves most climbers more than a little winded, but just about everyone feels they made a difference by just showing up and giving it their best shot in the effort to eliminate cancer.
Many of the climbers had been touched by the scary fingers of cancer, surviving it themselves or acting as loving support for family and friends who have been diagnosed.
“It’s a great event for the community,” says Meg Kondrich, office manager at the local office of the American Cancer Society, sponsors of the climb. “Flagstaff really embraces the Climb to Conquer Cancer.”
About 100 local volunteers will be working Saturday to make things run smoothly. A committee has met all year to iron out details in advance.
Nine water stops will be set up to provide lots of hydration possibilities for climbers. Frequent shuttle buses will take hikers up the hill if they are too tired to continue.
Although the climb is a team-based effort, individuals can still sign up to climb. Advance registration is $35 and is available until end of day Wednesday. On-site registration on climb day is still possible with a fee of $40.
The registration fee includes a climb T-shirt (supplies are running low) and a free lunch at the top, provided by Outback Steakhouse.
Climbers must start between 7 and 9 a.m., and no pets are allowed
Organizers advise climbers to carpool as parking is limited. Snowbowl crews will be on hand to direct traffic and parking at the bottom of the road.
“This is a fund-raising event and any fund-raising efforts people can do would be appreciated,” Kondrich adds. “Ask friends and family from out-of-state to donate. The American Cancer Society is helping cancer patients and their families here in our community every day because of events like the climb.”
All checks should be made payable to American Cancer Society
The average time to climb the hill is about two hours, but it’s OK to take longer. The important thing is to not overextend and to have fun.
For more information about the climb, call the local office at 526-3800.
Founded in 1913, the American Cancer Society is dedicated to eliminating cancer as a major health problem by saving lives, diminishing suffering and preventing cancer through research, education, advocacy and service.
For more information anytime, call toll free (800) ACS-2345 or visit www.cancer.org.
Hotel/motel blockwatch meeting tonight
Hotel and motel owners and staff and all interested parties are invited to attend a blockwatch meeting today from 1 to 5 p.m. in the LEAF Auditorium at the Flagstaff Police Department, 911 E. Sawmill Road.
The meeting is presented by the Northern Arizona Street Crimes Task Force “METRO” and the Flagstaff Police Department. Several topics will be discussed during the meeting in order to assist hotel and motel owners and employees improve the quality of life at their establishments, as well as the quality of life within the city of Flagstaff.
The goal is to create a partnership and working relationship between the police and lodging owners and staff to help deter illegal activity in the city and at local hotels and motels.
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