A Father’s Day tradition was an overwhelming success.
The 13th annual Do It For Dad Run and Walk raised a record $31,800 for a resectoscope, used in the treatment of prostate cancer, and PSA testing Sunday.
“The money stays locally in our North Okanagan community,” said Andrea Egan, with the Vernon Jubilee Hospital Foundation.
“The event was also successful in creating awareness around the need for early detection of prostate cancer.”
About 400 people gathered at Coldstream Ranch for the event, which was organized by the VJH Foundation and the Vernon Prostate Cancer Support and Awareness Group.
The top individual fundraiser was Marnie MacKenzie, who collected $3,210. Doreen Hourie raised $1,325 and Sharon Joly brought in $1,200.
The Lumby Medical Clinic claimed the prize for the top fundraising team, raising $770 in pledges, while the Mitchell Family was close behind at $636 and Team Wally generated $450.
“Special thanks to Paul Jorimann who made a $3,000 donation to Do It For Dad prior to the event,” said Egan.
The top male results in the eight-kilometre run saw Bob Woodman covering the course in 30 minutes and six seconds, followed by Liam McGrath (30:42) in second and Murray Flock placing third with a time of 31:11.
Hannah Bennison placed first in the female division, covering the eight-kilometre course in 37 minutes and .02 seconds, with Anne Marie Bennison right behind her in second place at 37 minutes and .03 seconds and Suzanne Carose third at 42:41.
Everyone participating in the event was eligible to receive a voucher redeemable for one PSA (prostate-specific antigen) test.
The voucher will be honoured at the downtown lab (9-3100 35th St.) or at the Vernon Jubilee Hospital lab until the end of 2012.
For those who missed the event and wish to make a donation, go to www.vjhfoundation.org and click on the donate now button.
