Firefighters hit the slopes for breast cancer

BRIDGTON — Mary’s Firemen for a Cure™ is pleased to announce Shawnee Peak Ski Area in Bridgton will again host the organization’s annual breast cancer awareness fundraiser on March 2.

Over the past 10 years, Mary’s Firemen has raised nearly $100,000 for the Maine affiliate of Susan G. Komen for the Cure.

Aimed at raising awareness for breast cancer and donations for the Maine affiliate of Susan G. Komen for the Cure, this ski event features races between fire departments from all over northern New England.

During the race, teams of five firefighters race down a slalom course in full turnout gear while carrying a 50-foot length of hose. The more money a team raises, the more time comes off the clock.

For instance, if a team raises $1000, ten seconds will be deducted from their final race time. The team with the best time overall time wins bragging rights and a trophy.

“The funds received from Mary's Firemen for a Cure go towards fighting breast cancer in Maine communities and national research to find the cures,” said Becky Kash of the Maine affiliate of Susan G. Komen. “We are sincerely appreciative and grateful for their generosity and belief in our mission.”

In 2004, Mary and Wayne Allen started “Firemen for a Cure” to give firefighters the opportunity to raise awareness about breast cancer. Mary was a long-time employee at Shawnee Peak and had successfully fought breast cancer for nearly 10 years.

Wayne is a volunteer firefighter in North Bridgton. Mary and Wayne wanted to create a fun event for firefighters while fighting for a cause that was all too personal for them.

Unfortunately, Mary lost her courageous battle in 2005, but Wayne and her three adult children, Christine Suau, David and Ryan Soutter decided to keep the race going renaming it, “Mary’s Firemen for a Cure” in 2006.

“My mom started something special, and we honor her by continuing to raise awareness and money to fight this terrible disease,” said Mary’s son David, a Major in the Army Reserves. “We are hoping the 10th Annual will be the best yet!”

Registration for the event will begin at 8:30 a.m. on March 2, with the race beginning at 10 a.m. The entry fee is $125 per team which includes five lift tickets at Shawnee Peak for the day of the race and a chili lunch.

Competitors may also rents skis for only $15. $25 lift tickets and $15 rentals are also available for family members of competitors. There is no limit to the number of teams a fire department may enter.

There will also be raffles, prizes, and more! All proceeds benefit the Maine affiliate of the Susan G. Komen for the Cure.

To register a team or learn more about this event please email MarysFiremenforaCure@yahoo.com or visit the organization’s Facebook page at www.facebook.com/MarysFiremenforaCure where donations are also accepted.