KEARNEY - We live here, we race here, we save lives here.

"That's exactly what we're trying to accomplish," said Sara Malzacher, co-chair for the second-annual Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure.

The event, which benefits breast cancer research, will be Sept. 29 at the Health and Sports Center at the University of Nebraska at Kearney.

"We want to teach our community about how to reduce their risk of developing breast cancer as well as how to be active in their health care by participating in screenings and early detection programs," Malzacher said.

Susan G. Komen's promise is "to save lives and end breast cancer forever by empowering people, ensuring quality care for all and energizing science to find cures," according to the organization's website.

"The purpose of the rally before the race is about all of those things," Malzacher said of the survivor rally. "Celebrating breast cancer survivors, educating folks about breast cancer and raising awareness."

Registration begins at 6:30 a.m. A competitive 5K run starts at 7:15 a.m. A 5K run and walk and a one-mile walk will begin at 8:30 a.m. An awards ceremony and refreshments will follow.

The goal is $40,000. Seventy-five percent of funds raised will be used for education and more in the Kearney area.

Last year, the inaugural race raised $65,750 and attracted 1,640 participants.

The tax-deductible entry fee is $20 for adults and $10 for ages 3-12, but participants are encouraged to collect additional donations. Cancer survivors may participate at no charge. They will receive a pink T-shirt and cap, but donations will be accepted.

The deadline for team registration is Friday. People can enter until the race begins.

For more information, go to www.komennebraska.org or call 865-7223.

email to:

sara.giboney@kearneyhub.com