Five hundred people can do a lot of good for others, as was the case when an estimated $35k was raised for cancer patients during the fifth annual Chemo Noir 1 Mile and Wine Tasting event on June 26.
The participants ran along Jacksonville Beach and the feeling of sand between their toes was such a vast difference from last year’s event, which was held virtually due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
“It was hands down the best event we’ve ever had,” Founder and chairman Katrin Casey said. “I’m still decompressing from how incredible it was.”
According to Casey, what made it the best event was the enthusiasm radiating in the air during the event, which she believed stemmed from the fact that people were just happy to be socializing once again.
Although the uncertainty of the pandemic forced the event to cap the registration at 500, it did not dampen the mood, or the amount of money raised to help cancer patients in their fight.
“Last year was a challenging one on so many levels,” Casey said. “It’s always good when you sell an event out and it’s all going to a good cause.”
Another factor that made it “the best event” was that in its fifth year, it is starting to establish itself within the community and build very valuable date equity.
“It’s become kind of a signature June event,” Casey said. “Everything just ran so smoothly.”
Establishing its place on the calendar is one of the reasons last year’s event remained in June even though it was held virtually.
“We’ve got people that have been to every race and then you’ve got new faces and people there for the first time,” Casey said.
According to Casey, every new face she sees means that the mission of the event is taking hold because it is building the awareness and bringing to light the struggles people with cancer are going through daily.
“I try really hard to make it fun, but we’re also here for a purpose,” Casey said.
