The Tribune

Grab your tennis shoes and water bottles! The Rotaract Club of South East Nassau Centennial is calling all fun run/walk and health enthusiasts to take part in its sixth annual “Paint Da Streets Pink” race on Saturday, September 29.

The event serves as a major fundraising and community service initiative for the RSENC, whose goal it is to raise awareness of breast cancer in the Bahamas and beyond. The goal is to also do this in a way that is fun and encourages physical fitness, all the while raising money for local breast cancer organisations.

Kristel Moss, fundraising and international service director at RSENC, said as a part of the event’s mission each year, a beneficiary is chosen to receive part proceeds. This year’s recipient is the Sister Sister Breast Cancer Support Group.

“We are excited to partner with them once again, as we love their passion for life. Breast cancer is extremely prevalent in the Bahamas and therefore organisations like the Sister Sister Support Group that support it awareness, diagnosis and treatment are equally important and are always in need of our support,” said Ms Moss.

The fact that this walkathon is being held for the sixth year in a row, she said, shows this event has made an impact on the community. For Ms Moss, it is heartwarming to see that the event grows bigger and better each year due to the support of sponsors, partners and participants.

The route this year will start at the western end of Arawak Cay, proceeding to Goodman’s Bay, and concluding at the Arawak Cay finish line.

“We have arranged loads of fun surprises along the route as well as prizes for top finishers. Participants will also have the option of participating in a raffle as well as purchasing products and services from our on-site vendors,” said Ms Moss, who is looking forward to seeing participants come out in droves in support of a good cause.

She said it is the RSENC’s aim to address pertinent issues in the local community like breast cancer, and this year, Rotaract is doing so under the theme “Serving Beyond Stigmas.”

“I believe this event, no doubt, helps breaks down the barrier when it comes to the stigma of ‘death sentence’ attached to breast cancer. Hosting an event like Paint Da Streets Pink gives the satisfaction that we are indeed making a real, tangible difference in the life of at least one person,” said Ms Moss.

For all those interested in taking part, registration information is available on www.active.com by simply searching “6th Annual Paint Da Streets Pink “ or at one of the organisation’s sign-up locations: The Sports Centre Harbour Bay, Fresh Market Harbour Bay and Fresh Market Old Fort Bay.

“For those taking part for the first time, just enjoy yourself. If you’re not able to run, walk. If you’re unable to walk, have fun, and cheer those participants on,” said Ms Moss.