About The Race
Saturday, April 3, 2010
By Maria Pennisi, Race Director
I'll never forget the moment in August of 2001, when I learned my father was diagnosed with Leukemia. Knowing nothing about the illness at that time, I honestly remember my first thought foolishly being "he'll be ok; at least it's not cancer."
How wrong I was.
He spent the better part of the next six months in the hospital receiving treatments, and fighting ruthless infections. Driving to visit him each night, I vowed that when he got better, I would do everything within my means to help find a cure.
Hence the Sprint was created; and now after 7 years, we have raised approximately $50,000 for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. Our event has grown from a mere attempt at fundraising into an amazing annual event! With the backing of Ship Bottom Borough, the Ship Bottom Police Department, Long Beach Island PBA Local 175, and our generous sponsors, the Ship Bottom Sprint is now a day about hope and friendship; it's about bringing people together to celebrate life and take steps to help make a difference.
And the overwhelming turnout (over 525 participants) we had on April 4, 2009, at this past year's race, was even more significant and meaningful to me and my family. After 8 years of being "cancer free," we learned in November of 2008 that the Leukemia was back at work in my Dad's body. Although we were devastated, angry, and again overcome with that terrible feeling of vulnerability cancer brings, we honestly never imagined the Leukemia would win. My Father passed away Saturday night, March 14, 2009.
So with this in mind - together in the honor and memory of the countless other brave people I have met in the past few years battling or who have lost their battle with these illnesses - we will continue to hold the Sprint and raise money for research until there is a cure for blood related cancers.
Please join us for a memorable day. Whether you run or walk - come in 1st or 501st place - you'll be sure to leave feeling like a winner!
"Do not wait for extraordinary circumstances to do good; try to use ordinary situations."
Jean Paul Richter