CHARLOTTE, N.C.- For the third year in a row, the Queens University of Charlotte Royals Cheerleaders have put on their walking shoes for the Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure. The annual race benefits breast cancer research, and proceeds go towards local initiatives to provide both preventative care and assistance with treatments for the uninsured and the underprivileged. This year the Royals team of 17 filled the streets of Uptown Charlotte in a sea of 14,000 other participants. The Royals proudly displayed the Queens name on their shirts adding pink shorts, bows, and pom pons to show support for the fighters and survivors of breast cancer. 

"It is important to our team to continue this tradition of being a part of this race because each of us either have firsthand experience with family members, friends and co-workers or acquaintances who are fighting this disease," said Coach Lori Townsend. "Breast cancer is something that transcends race, gender, and age and we should all be aware of the preventative care that is available and necessary." 

Upon the completion of the race the squad headed to the Team Village where they were fortunate enough to be asked to take part in the Survivor and Awards Ceremony. There, the team led the crowd of thousands in congratulatory cheers as men and women who have survived this disease were recognized by the number of years that they have been cancer free. All survivors were given pink balloons and at the conclusion of the ceremony they were released as a symbol of the hopes raised and the spirits lifted by incredible outpouring of love and support by the thousands of participants. 

"This event gives our team a true sense of what compassion, love, understanding, and true strength are all about. It is wonderful spending time together doing something for others, especially when it has such a significant impact on the local community like this race does." 

The Royals cheerleading squad encourages other teams to join them next year!