5K Pirate run in Woodward Park raises cancer awareness

FRESNo, Calif. (KFSN) -- Pirates invaded Northeast Fresno Saturday, for the Pirates of the Cure-I-bbean 5-k Booty Run.

Hundreds of runners made their way around Woodward Park in pirates costumes. Organizers launched the run to raise awareness about blood cancers like leukemia, lymphoma, and myeloma.

They chose the pirate theme just for fun and organizers say it's been a hit.

Organizer of the Pirate Run, Mike Herman said, "First year we had about 200 participants. The second year we had 450. And the third year we have over 1,000, so it's grown pretty significantly. So apparently the pirate theme seems to be working quite well."

Finishers got medallions with a mystery map, and one random winner got a $1,200 treasure.

Organizers also gave out an award for best costume, and they hoped to raise about $10,000 for the American Cancer Society.