Runners Take to the Streets in Undies to Fight Colon Cancer

WASHINGTON, Oct. 26, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- The Undy 5000 5K Run/Walk to fight colon cancer is returning to Washington, DC for the second year in a row. This year's event will take place at 7:40 a.m. on Saturday, November 5 at West Potomac Park. Participants are encouraged to run in their underwear to bring attention to that area – the one affected by colon cancer.

"Last year was the first Undy 5000 we had in DC, which is our organization's headquarters," said Todd Setter, National Undy 5000 Event Director. "We are so excited to come back and run through our nation's capital in our undies!"

The Undy 5000 will be held in 12 cities across the country this year to educate the public about colon cancer, promote screenings and encourage people to talk about the disease. Instead of raceday T-shirts, all registered participants receive a commemorative pair of Undy 5000 boxers. It is a family friendly event open to all ages, and in addition to the 5K, there is a 1-mile fun run. The Colon Cancer Alliance (CCA), the nation's largest and oldest patient advocacy organization dedicated to ending the suffering caused by colon cancer, hosts the event.

Created by the CCA in 2008, the Undy 5000 stresses the importance of timely colon cancer screenings, early detection, and provides valuable information for those already affected by the disease. Event proceeds help fund the CCA's patient support and public awareness programs.

Boehringer Ingelheim, the maker of Dulcolax®* is the proud presenting sponsor of the 2011 Undy 5000 races. As the #1 doctor-recommended stimulant for constipation relief, Dulcolax ® reminds everyone over the age of 50 or with a family history of colon cancer, that a colonoscopy can save lives.

"DC was a great first-year event in 2010," said Andrew Spiegel, Chief Executive Officer of the Colon Cancer Alliance.  "This is our second race here, and I fully expect this year's DC Undy to shatter last year's participation and fundraising records!"

The Colon Cancer Alliance (CCA) is a community that provides hope and support to patients and their families, while saving lives through screening, access, awareness, advocacy and research.

SOURCE Colon Cancer Alliance