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Tops Friendly Markets joins forces with Roswell Park Cancer Institute and Team Cure Challenge to fight cancer

by jmaloni
Thu, Aug 23rd 2012 07:50 am

Fifth annual 5k/10k road race expected to draw more than 1,500 participants and raise more than $150,000

Tops Friendly Markets, a leading full-service grocery retailer in upstate New York and northern Pennsylvania, will hold the fifth annual Tops 5K/10K run/walk at Tops' corporate headquarters in Williamsville on Saturday, Aug. 25. Approximately 1,500 participants are expected to attend and Tops and Roswell hope to raise more than $150,000 at this year's event, which would more than triple the amount raised at this event since Tops teamed up with Roswell in 2009.

All proceeds from the race will benefit Roswell Park Cancer Institute.

"We are incredibly lucky to have a renowned cancer research hospital that offers state-of-the-art facilities and equipment, and employs some of the most talented medical and research professionals in the world right in our back yard," said Frank Curci, Tops president and CEO. "It is important to us that we help give back to fellow local organizations, and we will continue to support Roswell in any way we can."

In 2007, Tops' first road race drew just 100 participants and raised $1,000. In 2009, Tops teamed up with Roswell Park's Team Cure Challenge, and Roswell Park Cancer Institute became the beneficiary of proceeds raised at the annual event. In 2009 the race drew 485 participants and raised $32,000. In 2010, the race drew 925 participants and raised $81,000. And in 2011, the event grew to 1,300 participants and together Tops and Roswell raised $114,000.

"The life-saving cancer research and supportive patient programs that take place every day at Roswell Park would not be possible without the generous support of Tops Friendly Markets and the thousands of participants in the Tops 5K/10K," said Dr. Donald L. Trump, president and CEO of Roswell Park. "The growth of this event and the overwhelming enthusiasm demonstrated by the Tops family is truly inspiring, and I would like to share my continued gratitude on behalf of our faculty, staff and patients."

Cancer-charity running programs have gained popularity nationally and are leading the fight against this devastating disease. According to a July 2011 Runner's World article, the financial contribution runners and donors are making to fight cancer totals more than $650 million annually.

"The response from the community for this year's race has truly been overwhelming," said Kathleen Graim, race director and community relations specialist for Tops Markets. "We have a strong partnership with Roswell Park, and the kindness and generosity of our associates, local partners and neighbors will undoubtedly enable us to reach our goal of raising more than $150,000 at the event this year."

The race will be held on Saturday, Aug. 25, at Tops corporate headquarters at 6363 Main St., Williamsville. Individuals interested in participating can register on race day. Registration fee is $25. The race starts at 9:30 a.m. for both 5K and 10K participants and, immediately following the race, there will be refreshments and an awards ceremony.

Major sponsors for this year's race include: Pepsi, Michelob Ultra, WIVB/WNLO, Entercom Communications, National Fuel, Bank of America, Infusion Sales Group, The Buffalo News and Modern Disposal. Supporting sponsors include: The SKM Group, UFCW Local 1, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Western New York, Frito Lay, Bulls Eye Construction and Joe's Deli.

For more information about Tops Markets, visit the company's website atwww.topsmarkets.com.

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