28 million people worldwide are affected by cancer. Hundreds of thousands, if not millions, of runners, triathletes, and cyclists worldwide participant in events that raise money for research and treatment to fight cancer. According to the American Cancer Society, more than 577,000 people in the U.S. are predicted to succumb to cancer this year. Many of those deaths – about 30 percent – will be attributable to behavioral and dietary risks like high body mass index, low fruit and vegetable intake, lack of physical activity, tobacco use, and alcohol use. Simply training to participate in triathlons and running, cycling, and swimming events helps people reduce their risk of cancer. Couple that with funds for research generated from their entry fees and it’s easy to see how endurance sports play a vital role in helping end cancer.
Events like the 24 Hours of Booty, founded by Spencer Lueders, an entrepreneur and thought leader with a passion for bikes and changing the conversation about cancer, have caught fire in the community and grown nationwide. The 24 Hours of Booty is the Official 24-Hour Cycling Event of LIVESTRONG™ and now hosts events in Columbia, Md., Atlanta, and Indianapolis, bringing together cyclists of all abilities and uniting people who are passionate about fighting cancer.
Following on these pages are profiles of people in our endurance sports community – patients, survivors, caregivers, families, and fundraisers – who have been affected by cancer and, in their own personal ways, have inspired Hope Through Endurance.
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