An estimated 3,500 turned out for the Lowndes County Relay For Life, which began at 6 p.m. Friday and continued until 5 a.m. Saturday.
There were 61 teams participating, exceeding the goal of 60 teams. More than $28,500 was raised during the event making the total amount raised so far $131,897.91, just short of the $160,000 goal. The Relay committee is hopeful the goal may still be reached due to some upcoming fund-raisers. The deadline to reach the goal is Aug. 1.
Team Beersheba Cumberland Presbyterian Church raised the most money among the participating groups. Team Lindsey took home the award for the first-time team to raise the most money. In addition to its fund-raising award, Beersheba Cumberland Presbyterian Church was awarded Best Campsite as well as the Spirit Stick for having the most team spirit. They also won first place for having the most points in the team activities competition, followed by Team New Hope and Columbus High School ROTC.
Cancer survivors voted on the campsite they felt best reflected the theme of “Relaying through a Century: 100 Years of the American Cancer Society.” That honor goes to The Commercial Dispatch team which used a 1960s theme. During the 1960s, the American Cancer Society launched its campaign against smoking after tobacco smoke was linked to causing cancer. The American Cancer Society will celebrate 100 years of service next month.
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