Friday marked the end of an era for a traditionally popular cancer fundraiser.
It was the 17th and final year for Victoria’s Relay For Life, which took place at University of Victoria’s Centennial Stadium on Friday.
This year’s theme was ‘Outlaw Cancer.’
People spent hours walking laps, but there was also music, dancing and even a pie eating contest.
The event raises money for cancer research, prevention initiatives and support programs for those diagnosed with cancer.
Organizers say the number of people coming out for the event has been dwindling over the past few years, so it’s time for a change.
“My understanding is probably 10 years ago this relay was making close to $200,000 a year. This isn’t just the Victoria relay, the relays across Canada are actually way down,” Jan Buehler with the Canadian Cancer Society said. “We’re experiencing it everywhere, even on the island a lot of the relay numbers are down, so I think it’s indicative of just the changing society.”
Participants brought in more than $30,000 Friday, bringing Victoria’s total over the years to almost $2 million.
