Pirate party: 5K set for Saturday, Jan. 30

Ahoy, mateys! Thar be spoils ahead, but only for landlubbers who wander to Woodward Park for the 2nd Annual Pirates of the Cure-i-bbean 5K Booty Run at 9 a.m., Saturday, Jan. 30.

The Booty Run is a fundraising event for the Pirates of the Cure-i-bbean, an American Cancer Society Relay For Life team based in Chowchilla and comprised of members who reside in Chowchilla and Fresno.

The team, initially formed by co-workers at AgriLand Farming Company to participate in an RFL event, continues to participate in fundraisers together — donating proceeds to ACS.

Last year, the team raised $2,500 through the Booty Run, said co-captain Larissa Vossenkemper.

ACS provides cancer patients and their families with valuable resources and services, such as support groups and emergency lodging when traveling for treatment. It also helps fund cancer research.

Vossenkemper said she’s compelled to give back to ACS because of the support her family recieved throughout her stepfather, Jeffrey D. Webster’s, battle with cancer.

The pirate motif is a natural fit for the Booty Run because they already had the pirate-inspired name, said Vossenkemper.

Directed by Nancy Talley, whose Talley Timing provides chip timing technology and other services to running events throughout the Central Valley, the Booty Run will include unique swag and incentives.

“Participants get a pirate bandana and a pirate shirt with a map on the back,” Talley said.

The first three finishers in each age group will receive pirate-head trophies. Cancer survivors will receive a special, purple bandana to indicate their survivorship.

Vossenkemper said volunteers will be on hand to share how runners and walkers can become involved in other RFL events, which are “a great [way] to raise money to fight against this disease as well as bring the community together.”

This story was originally published January 28, 2016 at 10:00 AM with the headline "Pirate party: 5K set for Saturday, Jan. 30."