Relay for Life: 5 Things to Know About Friday's Walk

Hundreds are expected to gather at Greer High School Friday night.

It's not football season, but there's a pretty tough competition brewing.

1. It's survivors and fundraisers against the enemy — Cancer.

After the opening ceremonies at 7 p.m., more than 230 survivors are expected to walk a "victory" lap, according to Gina Miller, the organizer for the event.

Then 51 teams will begin walking to remember those who have lost the battle, to support those who are still fighting and to cheer on those who have won. At least one member of each team will continue to walk until the closing ceremonies at midnight.

2. Greer needs help to raise $119,000 for the American Cancer Society.

At the time of this publication, $83,261.63 has been raised locally. And it's not to late to give. Donations will be accepted at the event. Can't give a donation right now? Miller said the fundraiser will end on Aug. 31. Donations can be made here.

3. Woman-less Pageant

There are expected to be some real "beauties" in this pageant. How will they hide their five o'clock shadow or that mustache? Guess you just have to be there.

4. Coconut Rolling Contest — No Hands Allowed

This is a game you don't want to miss! Some folks were selected to roll a coconut around the track with their noses. They'll have to raise some cash for the American Cancer Society in order to get out of this contest.

5. It's FREE to attend!

Miller says Relay for Life is a fun, family-friendly event. In addition to the contests mentioned before, they'll also be a flip-flop decorating contest and an award for the best "island-themed" tent. Face-painting, food, music and more.

Schedule for the evening:

• 6:45 p.m. — Southern Dance Connection
• 7 p.m. — Opening Ceremonies, Survivor Lap and Team parade
• 7:30 p.m. — Clemson-Carolina competition
• 7:45 p.m. — Dance competition
• 8:30 p.m. — Hula Hoop contest
• 9 p.m. — Luminary ceremony
• 9:45 p.m. — Woman-less Pageant
• 10:30 p.m. – Limbo contest
• 11 p.m. – Coconut push
• 11:30 p.m. – Awards ceremony
• Midnight – Closing ceremony

What else do you need to know:

You can purchase and decorate a luminary bag on site for $10, in memory of a friend or loved one. After the luminaries have been lit, participants will walk one lap in silence to remember those who lost the battle with cancer.

The monies raised at Relay for Life help to provide free patient services for those diagnosed with cancer.

And Greer is not the only Relay for Life happening this weekend in the Upstate. Greenville, Pickens, Anderson, Spartanburg and Walhalla also have events planned.