Cancer survivors, family, friends and total strangers braved the 95 degree heat on Saturday to kick off the 2015 Montezuma County Relay for Life. This year’s event was a record-breaker even before it began, as teams raised 20 percent more than its goal a week before the race.

“The goal was $24,000 and we reached and passed that goal last week,” said Sandi Corbett, event coordinator. “We’ve now upped the goal to $30,000.”

All told, 59 teams and 152 participants raised $29,209 on behalf of the American Cancer Society. The funds go to support cancer research, as well as other patient and caregiver-centric programs. Aside from research the American Cancer Society offers Hope Lodge facilities, which provide a free and comfortable place for patients and their caregivers to stay during treatment; a transportation program for cancer patients; a beauty program; and recovery support program.

Top fundraising teams include the 4th Street Girls of Dolores, coming in at $6,092.25; and A Walk in the Park raising $4,111.84.

Corbett, a cancer-survivor herself, said she was overwhelmed by the community and participant support for this year’s event.

One of the teams participating this year was the Dolores High School Dance Team.

“This year one of our teammates’ family members was diagnosed with leukemia; all of us have been affected by cancer in some way so it’s important to help,” said Krystle Hager, DHS sophomore and dance team member.

While the Relay might be over, Montezuma County Relay for Life still has until August 22 to meet their new, increased goal of $30,000.

For more information on the fundraising effort, contact Sandi Corbett at 970-317-4780.