Annual High Speed Chase for the Cure 5K Run/3K Walk Takes Place Sept. 27

Rutgers University police officers started the High Speed Chase for the Cure in 2003 as a way to honor a colleague who had lost his battle with cancer. Since then it has grown into a communitywide event that continues to draw strong support from across the region.

This year, organizers of the seventh-annual High Speed Chase for the Cure 5K Run/3K Walk scheduled for Sept. 27 have unveiled an improved online registration Web site that will make it easier than ever to participate.

Proceeds will benefit The Cancer Institute of New Jersey (CINJ), which is a Center of Excellence of UMDNJ-Robert Wood Johnson Medical School.

The event, which will be held at the Louis Brown Athletic Center on the Livingston Campus, raises money to support cancer research, treatment and community outreach.  Proceeds are also used to assist cancer patients with financial needs they may have during treatment, including transportation and the purchase of medications, medical supplies and equipment. Since the event’s inception, nearly $70,000 has been raised to support these needs. 

This year’s goal is to raise $50,000, said Leanne Kochy, director of special events for the Cancer Institute of New Jersey Foundation.  Awards and amenities, including t-shirts and refreshments, will be given out.

“The new registration system affords greater ease to sign up and build a team,” she said. “We are extremely fortunate to have the support of past participants and the community who continue to be an amazing part of this event.”

The main sponsor is Morgan Stanley Smith Barney. The event is held in partnership with the Rutgers University Police Department; Boraie Development LLC and New Millennium Bank, both of New Brunswick; Road Runner Sports of North Brunswick; the Cancer Institute of New Jersey Foundation; The Daily Targum; and the Rutgers Interfraternity Council, Panhellenic Association and National Pan-Hellenic Council.  Media sponsors include Greater Media stations, Magic 98.3 FM and WCTC 1450 AM.

Check-in is from 8 to 9:15 a.m. with the race beginning at 9:30 a.m. on Sept. 27. The entry fee for the public is $20 before Aug. 25 and $25 afterward.  USA Track and Field members pay $18 before Sept. 5 and $25 thereafter.  Students pay $10.  To register individuals and teams or to make a donation in support of the event, visit the foundation's Web site or call 732-235-8614.