You don’t have to work in a research lab to help find a cure for cancer. At 9 a.m. Saturday, May 8, hundreds of runners and walkers will take to the streets of Columbia for the eighth annual Jay Dix Challenge to Cure Race benefiting cancer research and treatment at Ellis Fischel Cancer Center.
The race schedule includes a 5K walk or run and a 10K run that will start together from Flat Branch Park at the corner of Fourth and Cherry streets. Children who aren’t participating in the race can play in a supervised fun area at Flat Branch Park.
First held in 2003, the race has grown in size and stature, while raising $109,000 to find a cure for cancer. The Jay Dix Challenge to Cure drew more than 600 runners and walkers last year, with 100 percent of the proceeds staying local to support Ellis Fischel Cancer Center.
The race was established in memory of Jay Dix, an MU pathologist who fought his own battle with cancer. Dix was medical examiner for Boone and Callaway counties and was involved in several medical and research organizations. He also enjoyed competing as a triathlete. More information and online registration for the race is at challengetocure.com.