10th Kayak Against Cancer looks to break $200,000 mark

FORT LAUDERDALE  —  This year marks the 10th anniversary of the Kayuba Dive Club of Florida’s annual fundraising event, KAYAK AGAINST CANCER.  The community event, which will be held at Fort Lauderdale’s South Beach Park on June 19, donates funds to the American Cancer Society of Broward County.  To date, the group has raised more than $179,000 to fight cancer, and aspires to exceed an overall goal of $200,000 this June.

Registration for Kayak Against Cancer begins at 6 a.m. at Fort Lauderdale’s South Beach Park.  A brief ceremony to remember those who have fallen victim to cancer will be held at 7:40, with the race begining at 8.  Following the event, an appreciation party will be held at Bahia Cabana, directly across the street on A1A.

“Whether they’re competitive, novice or recreational paddlers, Kayak Against Cancer is designed to appeal to all skill levels,” says Charles Noonan, President of Kayuba Dive Club.  “And, while some veteran paddlers will be competing for first-to-arrive prizes, everyone is encouraged to go as fast or as slowly as they like.”

In 2008, due to numerous requests from non-paddlers, the “Sea Shell Stroll by the Seashore” for walkers was added as part of the event.  The walk will start at the same location as the kayak race, but will take place along the beach. 

And, since Kayuba has partnered with the Broward County Historical Commission, Kayak Against Cancer walkers will have an added bonus this year: an informational guided walking tour highlighting several of Ft. Lauderdale’s historical beach sites.

"The group of individuals from Kayak Against Cancer have played a significant role in raising money to help in the fight against cancer,” says Jan Silverman of The American Cancer Society. “Their accomplishments and dedicated efforts over a ten-year period are nothing short of overwhelming. We are proud to be associated with such a compassionate and caring group."

A minimum of $35 in donations is required to paddle and a minimum of $15 in donations is required to walk.  If you don’t own a kayak, rentals are available from three different locations: Liquid Surf & Sail, Atlantic Coast Kayak and All American Kayak.  For more information regarding the event, please visit www.kayuba.org, email kayuba@hotmail.com or call 954-232-2109.