On July 16 at 8 a.m., hundreds of Jersey Shore residents will run brave through the city streets wearing boxers and briefs during the family-friendly Undy Run/Walk. Hosted by the Colon Cancer Alliance, this lighthearted event encourages participants to wear silly boxers, briefs or costumes in support of knocking colon cancer out of the top three cancer killers.
Money raised through this annual event benefits Monmouth Medical Center, as well as supports national prevention, research and patient support initiatives of the Colon Cancer Alliance.
Created to raise money and awareness for colon cancer, the Undy Run/Walk isn’t the everyday 5K. Instead of typical running gear, attendees sport a variety of eye-catching attire, including themed underwear or boxers, frilly tutus, superhero capes, or head-to-toe costumes. Included with the race registration is a pair of signature Undy Run/Walk boxers; however, participants are encouraged to get creative with their style choice and team spirit. A fun and clever twist on a serious topic, the Undy Run/Walk helps to spark much-needed conversations about the disease.
While it’s one of the most preventable cancers, colon cancer is still the second leading cause of cancer death in the United States. In 2014, nearly 140,000 Americans were diagnosed with colon cancer, and more than 50,000 died from the disease. In New Jersey alone, there have been 4,280 diagnoses and 1,510 colon cancer deaths in the past year.
Throughout the year the Colon Cancer Alliance hosts more than 19 Undy Run/Walks in major cities throughout the United States. Nationwide, the events raise more than $2 million annually.
“Colon cancer is not always an easy topic to discuss, and the Undy Run/Walk gives us a lighthearted forum to bring awareness to a serious disease,” says Adina Frazier, Colon Cancer Alliance’s special events director. “The more we can raise awareness, encourage screening, and promote prevention, the closer we get to knocking colon cancer out the top three cancer killers.”
A supportive community, at least 80 percent of those involved in the Undy Run/Walk has some tie to colon cancer. The event is an opportunity to encourage those currently battling the disease, remember those lost too soon, and celebrate those who have completed colon cancer treatment.
Undy Run/Walk participants can also stroll through a larger-than-life giant inflatable colon. This educational tool is a unique way for visitors to learn about this vital part of the body.
In addition to the 5K, the event also features an all-ages 1-mile fun run.
Registration fees:
5K Adult (14 and older) – $35 advance/$40 race day
5K Youth (6-13) – $30 advance/$35 race day
1 Mile Fun Run (all ages, Children 5 and younger are free) – $30 advance/$35 race day
The Undy Run/Walk is July 16 at the Great Lawn at Pier Village in Long Branch. Onsite registration begins at 7 a.m., and the run/walk begins at 8 a.m. The Undy Run/Walk starts at Beachfront North, Long Branch.
For more information or to register, visit www.undyrunwalk.org, and click on Jersey Shore, New Jersey.