New This Year for Running Enthusiasts: Gloria Gemma 10K

PAWTUCKET, RI –  This year, the Gloria Gemma Breast Cancer Resource Foundation will debut a 10K as part of its annual race series that takes place during National Breast Cancer Awareness Month on Columbus Day weekend. The inaugural Gloria Gemma 10K, is presented by Rejuvaderm MediSpa, a Cranston-based medical day spa. The new race will take off on Sunday, October 13 in Downtown Providence.

The Gloria Gemma 10K is equivalent to 6.21 miles in distance and will start and finish on Francis Street across from Providence Place Mall. The top three overall male and female finishers will receive awards.

“With 2013 marking the fifth year of our Gloria Gemma 5K,” said Run/Walk Series Coordinator Lynn Simon, “we wanted to offer participants something fresh and exciting with this year’s Run/Walk Series line-up.”

Another factor behind the decision is the scarcity of 10K races in Rhode Island, according to Simon. “In previous years, we have had walkers and runners in our 5K, which of course remains an option for participants this year,” she added.

“The Gloria Gemma 10K is another option meant to appeal specifically to runners, regardless of skill level or competiveness,” added Dr. Ellen Frankel, Medical Director of Rejuvaderm MediSpa.

The inaugural Gloria Gemma 10K and Gloria Gemma 5K are two of four races collectively known as the Flames of Hope Run/Walk Series, all scheduled for October 13:

·       Children 12 and under will have the opportunity to compete for prizes in the Kids Fun Run, presented by Macy’s and bronze sponsor Dr. Day Care.

·       In the Pink Pump Palooza, presented by The Walking Company—the official footwear sponsor of the Run/Walk Series—men and women will participate in a fifty-yard dash wearing heels.

Funds raised from the Flames of Hope Run/Walk Series will help support the Gloria Gemma Breast Cancer Resource Foundation’s breast health education and awareness outreach tailored to the specific needs of Rhode Island’s underserved communities.

“Proceeds from our Run/Walk Series will remain local and be used to help people affected by breast cancer right in our own communities,” said Maria Gemma, executive director of the Pawtucket-based nonprofit. “We greatly appreciate the continued support of our participants, as well as our race sponsors—including Gloria Gemma 10K Title Sponsor Rejuvaderm MediSpa—for their partnership and commitment to supporting our local cause.”

The Flames of Hope Run/Walk Series is part of Flames of Hope: A Celebration of Life, an annual three-day event organized by the Gloria Gemma Breast Cancer Resource Foundation to promote breast cancer awareness and education and to honor people living with breast cancer. Now in its eighth year, the event has grown into one of the largest of its kind in the Northeast and will take place this year on October 11-13 in Downtown Providence.

The Flames of Hope Run/Walk Series is positively supported by Alex and Ani, a Rhode Island-based lifestyle company that offers eco-friendly, positive energy products. To register for the Gloria Gemma 10K, Gloria Gemma 5K, Kids Fun Run, or Pink Pump Palooza, please visit www.flamesofhopeseries.org or call 401-861-HERO (4376).

About the Gloria Gemma Breast Cancer Resource Foundation

The Gloria Gemma Breast Cancer Resource Foundation was established in 2004 in loving memory of Gloria J. Gemma and to honor her courageous fight against breast cancer. The organization’s mission is to raise breast cancer awareness; increase breast health education; enhance the quality of life for breast cancer patients, as well as their families and friends; and generate funding for local breast health programs.

For more information, please visit www.gloriagemma.org or any of the social networks www.facebook.com/GloriaGemma , www.myspace.com/GloriaGemma, or twitter.com/GloriaGemma

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