HB on the mark for Relay for Life

Huntington Beach will host its 14th annual Relay for Life event Saturday and Sunday at Huntington Central Park.

The event, organized by the American Cancer Society, will run about 24 hours between approximately 10 a.m. and 10 a.m. No minimum amount of money is necessary to participate; however, the American Cancer Society recommends that each participant set a goal of $100.

Individuals of all ages and walks of life are encouraged to attend, said Victoria Alberty, chair of this weekend’s event. Registration is $10 per participant, due at the time of registration.

Alberty expected 400 to 500 participants, between 60 and 80 of them cancer survivors. Participants can sign up in teams or individually, though typical teams have around 10 or 12 people to ensure that someone is on the track at all times. While those interested are encouraged to sign up in advance, registration is also available the morning of the event.

“People can just show up,” Alberty said.

Entertainment will be available throughout the day. Also, individuals can donate their hair — as little as six to eight inches — to women who have lost their hair through chemotherapy at the Cut-A-Thon sponsored by the organization “The Wig Fund,” between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. Saturday.

Teams hosting particular booths can camp overnight on-site. The event provides special treatment for cancer survivors, who receive, among other things, free food, purple shirts and goody bags.

Alberty had initially hoped to see $100,000 in funds raised, but since $53,000 was raised as of Monday, that goal was modified, she said. The new goal of $60,000 should be easily attainable, she added.

The Relay raised $115,000 last year, which came as a pleasant surprise to Alberty and others, considering that it raised $58,000 in 2007. This year, Alberty’s goal is “to have money fly in” at the last minute.

Early campsite setup begins 5 p.m. Friday. Opening ceremonies will take place at 10 a.m. Saturday.

To participate, form a team, or volunteer to help set up and decorate on Saturday morning, contact Alberty at (714) 231-4623 or online at info@thelocalhb.com.

Huntington Central Park is located at 18381 Goldenwest St.