Get in the pink in support of National Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Races sponsored by Susan G. Komen for the Cure are one of the initiatives that have helped this grassroots organization provide more than $1.3 billion for the cause to end breast cancer. Stefan Strickland, director of Komen's Race for the Cure series, shares with Kathy Baruffi for USA TODAY her list of places to join in the action.
Komen Tidewater Race for the Cure
Virginia Beach, Va.
"On Oct. 17, start your day off with the race, then watch Navy planes do incredible stunts over the ocean at the 2009 Naval Air Station Oceana Show," Strickland says. Take in the ocean views along the boardwalk as you race. There is a lot happening in town, including the Oktober Brewfest, featuring an oompah band. Dine on the bounty from Eastern Shore farms and the Chesapeake Bay at local restaurants. 800-822-3224; vbfun.com
Egypt Race for the Cure
Cairo
"Walk like an Egyptian among the Pyramids of Giza at the first-ever Egypt Race for the Cure on Oct. 24," Strickland says. Step back into ancient history along the race route past pyramids and the Great Sphinx. Ambassador Nancy Brinker, founder of the Susan G. Komen organization named for her sister, will be attending the delegation trip. This event is co-sponsored by the Breast Cancer Foundation of Egypt (BCFE), under the patronage of Suzanne Mubarak, Egypt's first lady. bcfe.org/en
NASCAR Banking 500
Charlotte
On Oct. 16, watch three race cars with pink paint schemes at the Dollar General 300 nationwide race at Lowe's Motor Speedway, and meet Indy driver Sarah Fisher, Strickland says. "On Oct. 17, join the Pink Ribbon Walk. Later, head to the NASCAR Banking 500 to watch five pink race cars fly by. You also can check out a performance by country singer/songwriter Candy Coburn." 800-455-3267; foundation.nascar.com
Komen Greater Nashville Race for the Cure
Nashville
The race in the country music capital takes place Saturday. Check out the many other genres of music, from jazz and classical concerts at the Schermerhorn Symphony Center to the lively strumming on the streets. Save time for the multi-genre music festival Next Big Nashville and celebrate its final day. 800-657-6910; visitmusiccity.com
Komen New Orleans Race for the Cure
New Orleans
"Take in the rich culture, great music and food of New Orleans" on Oct. 25, Strickland says. The race starts in City Park, goes along the bayou, past trees draped in Spanish moss, through city streets and historic Bayou St. John before finishing back in the park. Brass bands along the route join in this family-friendly event. 800-672-6124; neworleanscvb.com
Komen Puerto Rico Race for the Cure
San Juan, Puerto Rico
"Take a vacation on tropical Puerto Rico and enjoy the sights and sounds of this island" after this Sunday's race, Strickland says. At the InterContinental San Juan, the exterior lights go pink throughout the month as a reminder to stay vigilant in the fight for a cure. The hotel has a special strawberry drink, the Pink Ribbon, as well. komenpr.org
Homestead-Miami Speedway
Miami
In Miami, Indy race-car driver Sarah Fisher will zip around the track in her pink race car Saturday to help raise awareness for breast cancer at the Firestone Indy 300 championship race, Strickland says. "Pick up a pink hat and tee shirt to show your support!" 866-409-7223; homesteadmiamispeedway.com
Komen Inland Empire Race for the Cure
Temecula, Calif.
The Oct. 18 race here allows participants to "relax among the beautiful views of the Temecula Valley Southern California Wine Country," Strickland says. Within a 5-minute drive from the race, there are 36 wineries to enjoy. Or, stay in historic Old Town Temecula and walk along the wooden boardwalk, sample local olive oils, shop and dine. 888-363-2852; temeculacvb.com
Komen Phoenix Race for the Cure
Phoenix
"You can hike Camelback Mountain, golf and recuperate at one of the city's many resorts and spas" after Sunday's race, which runs through the State Capitol District, Strickland says. Ride the nation's newest light-rail system through downtown's central corridor and stop along the way to visit restaurants and shops. Local bands often perform for free on the trains. 877-225-5749; visitphoenix.com
Komen Louisville Race for the Cure
Louisville
Known for horse racing and baseball (the official bat of Major League Baseball is a Louisville Slugger), this city's race takes place Saturday. The event, held at Waterfront Park against a backdrop of fall foliage, is within walking distance to downtown. The 85-acre park also is less than a mile from Museum Row. The Muhammad Ali Center, a museum dedicated to the life and principles of this Louisville native, and the Louisville Science Center are among the nine museums there. 800-626-5646; gotolouisville.com
No comments:
Post a Comment