By Brandy Volovecky
Kayak for a Cure promises both fun and philanthropy to participants in Gulf Breeze’s third annual benefit for cancer research and prevention.
Danny Goldman started the local chapter of Kayak for a Cure after reading about the event and flying to Portland, Ore. to meet that region’s local organizer. Having seen family members and close friends battle with cancer, Goldman said he and his wife know firsthand the devastation it can cause.
“It seemed like a good fit being that we were avid kayakers and this was something that was close to us from a family perspective,†he said.
Last year’s event had to be postponed more than two months after the initial June date was rained out. Despite the delay, 147 of the 181 registered paddlers participated in the event.
Goldman said the actual kayak trip set for June 8 is about 3 miles total and that all ages are encouraged to participate.
“Last year, our youngest participant was 7 years old and our oldest participant was 78 years old,†he said.
Wes Dannreuther, one of the event’s organizers, said there will be plenty of entertainment and activities for participants.
“We’re going to have great food, great live music,†Dannreuther said. “It’s just going to be a really fun event and a good time. It’s a good chance to get out on the water and meet new people and enjoy this beautiful environment that we have.â€
Participants will be served breakfast and lunch and Goldman said there will be group relay races and a silent auction at this year’s event.
Registration is $35 per person and all proceeds are donated to the American Cancer Society.
The next sign-up event is scheduled June 1 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Intracoastal Outfitters, 701 E. Gregory Street in Pensacola, for anyone who wants to sign up in person and meet the organizers
For more information or to register, go to Kayakforacure.org and click on Pensacola. Donations can also be made through the website or checks can be sent to P.O. Box 1194 Gulf Breeze, FL 32561.