AAU SUPPORTS OLYMPIAN'S CANCER BENEFIT

Written by: Amanda Szylin  

Next month, Running 4 the People, a non-profit organization that uses “running as a gift to encourage, inspire, motivate and uplift while also providing assistance to people in need,” will be hosting its first benefit in Atlanta, Georgia. Gifted Locks Relay and Cancer Benefit will be in honor of women fighting the battle against cancer. 

AAU Track & Field will be supporting this event by donating AAU tee shirts to all registrants.

Charles Oliver, the AAU Track & Field National Chair, is happy to support its members in activities outside the competitive arena.

“One of the goals of the AAU is to develop the total individual via community activities and health and wellness programs,” explained Oliver. “We are very excited to have the opportunity to support this event.”

Founder and CEO of Running 4 the People DeeDee Trotter is a three-time Olympian and two time gold medalist. She plans on using a unique track & field style 4x100m relay to launch Running 4 the People. According to their website, each member of the support team will run, jog or walk 100 meters, passing the baton around the track to complete a 4x100m relay in honor of their loved one. At the finish line, they will pass the baton one final time, to their honoree, who will then complete the final stretch of the relay, placing the baton at the Running 4 the People “Bobbie Faye Fighter Torch.” The Fighter Torch will be lit symbolizing “unity, support and optimism for a future that burns brightly ahead for our honored recipients.”

“It is so wonderful to have the support of the AAU at our Gifted Locks Relay & Cancer Benefit,” Trotter said. “The generous in-kind donations and support that the AAU has shown our organization's event, truly demonstrates how the AAU believes in community, health, and wellness! We are very thankful for their support."

At the Gifted Locks Relay & Cancer Benefit, fifty women that are battling cancer will receive a custom fit hair piece created by Gajarah Virgin Hair Boutique.