Sign Up Now for the Gary Papa Father’s Day 5K

Run the Gary Papa 5K this Father's Day, June 19, to thank Dad for all he's done.

How old will your dad be this Father’s Day? Men between the ages of 45 and 74 received 66 percent of all prostate cancer diagnosis between 2004 and 2008. In fact, prostate cancer is the most common cancer among men, afflicting 223,307 in the U.S. in 2007 alone. Every year, Philadelphians come together at the annual Gary Papa Run to fight for all of our dads—and our brothers, husbands, friends and boyfriends. Papa, a former ABC sportscaster, served as the run’s co-chairman since 2005, promoting prostate cancer awareness and research before losing his life to the disease in 2009. Proceeds from the race will support Prostate Health International’s continuing efforts to educate men about early detection and cancer treatment. “Our mission is to raise funds so we can educate people about prostate cancer and hold screenings for men,” says founding chairman Shelley Schwartz.

This year race’s, which will take place on Sunday, June 19, should not disappoint. Schwartz says registration is up about 30 percent from last year’s 3,198 participants. “We’re set for our biggest race yet, which we’re very pleased about.” The rain-or-shine event will begin at Eakins Oval at the Philadelphia Museum of Art with an opening ceremony at 8AM, with the race commencing at 8:30AM. Not a runner? You can still join in the 1-Mile Fun Walk at 8:45AM.

Before dashing out to that Father’s Day brunch, stick around and enjoy some of the post-race festivities. “We’ll have music, and the ABC crew will be there,” says Schwartz. No matter what, you’ll burn some calories and leave with the satisfaction of contributing to a cause that helps to ensure many happy Father’s Days to come. For more information or to register for the event, visit garypaparun.kintera.org. — Kathryn Siegel

$25 registration ($30 on-site), June 19th, 8AM, Eakins Oval, Philadelphia Museum of Art, 2600 Benjamin Franklin Parkway, garypaparun.kintera.org