Press Releases

September 19, 2011

Runners Take to the Streets in Undies to Fight Colon Cancer

Cincinnati, OH (September 19, 2011) – The Undy 5000 5K Run/Walk to fight colon cancer is returning to Cincinnati for the second consecutive year. This year’s event will take place at 9:00 a.m. on Saturday, October 8 at Reds Stadium, the Great American Ballpark. Participants are encouraged to run in their underwear to bring attention to that area – the one affected by colon cancer.

“Last year, we had 300 people participate in the first-ever Cincinnati Undy 5000, including 13 fantastic colon cancer survivors,” said Todd Setter, National Undy 5000 Event Director. “We hope this year to have twice as many participants and survivors – that’s what this event is all about, after all – early detection and surviving!”

The Undy 5000 will be held in 12 cities across the country this year to educate the public about colon cancer, promote screenings and encourage people to talk about the disease. Instead of raceday T-shirts, all registered participants receive a commemorative pair of Undy 5000 boxers. It is a family friendly event open to all ages, and in addition to the 5K, there is a 1-mile fun run. The Colon Cancer Alliance (CCA), the nation’s largest and oldest patient advocacy organization dedicated to ending the suffering caused by colon cancer, hosts the event.

Created by the CCA in 2008, the Undy 5000 stresses the importance of timely colon cancer screenings, early detection, and provides valuable information for those already affected by the disease. Event proceeds help fund the CCA’s patient support and public awareness programs. Part of the proceeds will also be left behind to help fund colon cancer support services at The Wellness Community of Greater Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky.

Boehringer Ingelheim, the maker of Dulcolax®* is the proud presenting sponsor of the 2011 Undy 5000 races. As the #1 doctor-recommended stimulant for constipation relief, Dulcolax ® reminds everyone over the age of 50 or with a family history of colon cancer, that a colonoscopy can save lives.

“We are so excited to be returning to Cincinnati” said Andrew Spiegel, Chief Executive Officer of the Colon Cancer Alliance.  “The teams, costumes and camaraderie from last year were great, but I know the event will be even bigger and better this year!” 

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The Colon Cancer Alliance (CCA) is a community that provides hope and support to patients and their families, while saving lives through screening, access, awareness, advocacy and research.

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