Beck’s holds second 5K to support cancer research

Participants, sponsors, and generous donors worked together to raise $28,784.70 for Beck’s 5K on June 5. (Photo provided)

American Institute for Cancer Research selected as 2021 beneficiary

Beck’s, the largest family-owned retail seed company in the United States, held its second annual 5K on June 5 at its headquarters in Atlanta. Beck’s 5K promotes health and wellness among Beck’s employees and their families, customers, seed dealers, and the community.

From a combination of in-person racers, virtual racers, and children racers, the 5K had a total of 378 participants. Through registrations, sponsorships, and generous donations, Beck’s 5K generated $28,784.70 to directly benefit the American Institute for Cancer Research (AICR).

AICR was selected by a vote from Beck’s employees. Because many have experienced the impact of cancer in some way, employees felt passionate about supporting an organization like AICR. AICR stays committed to preventing cancer and healthier survivorship through innovative research, community programs, and impactful partnerships.

“The collaboration between Beck’s and AICR’s annual Shred Cancer event with ProShred Security brings together the community to run, walk, and highlight the importance of physical activity, nutrition, and overall lifestyle habits in reducing cancer risk,” said Jodi Street, director of corporate relations at AICR. “Beck’s Hybrids is one of AICR’s important partners in this effort.”

Participants showed support for loved ones by purchasing Tributes that were displayed on the Shred Cancer Wall sponsored by ProShred Security. (Photo provided)

Participants showed their support for loved ones by purchasing Tributes that were displayed on the Shred Cancer Wall in honor of fighters and survivors and in memory of those who are no longer with us.

“We had a perfect day to bring together our family of employees and community to support cancer research,” said Bethany Gremel, director of culture and brand experience at Beck’s. “Cancer is no stranger to any of us, and this year’s event allowed us the opportunity to support our employees and give back to AICR.”

The event was open to all ages. In addition to the 5K run/walk, children ages 3 to 11 had the chance to participate in the first-ever Kids Fun Run. Emilio Leal, 14, Indianapolis, was the overall winner with a time of 16:57. Behind him was Ryan Murdoch, 33, Westfield, with a time of 17:46, and Tyler Cook, 22, Indianapolis, with a final time of 18:49. For a full list of finishers, visit runsignup.com/Race/IN/Atlanta/Becks5K.

(From left) The top three finishers were Ryan Murdoch, Tyler Cook, and Emilio Leal. (Photo provided)

The post-race party featured food trucks from For the Love of Food, Three Dolls & Co., and Eddie Joe’s Icehouse that also benefitted AICR. From PROSHRED Security’s Shred Cancer event, $2,000 was donated to AICR.

A special thanks to the generous sponsors who made this year’s event a success:

  • Platinum Sponsor: PROSHRED Security
  • Gold Sponsors: Best One of Tipton, Cintas, Cook Plumbing, Dan Young, IceMiller Legal Counsel, Indy Power Sports, KEEN Project Solutions, Master AVC, MJ Insurance, USI
  • Silver Sponsors: ADP, Century 21 (Lisa Stokes-Bear), FCFCU, First Wing Jet Center, Nyhart, Omni Electric, QBE-Insurance, Reynolds, Shepherd Financial, Symetra
  • Bronze Sponsors: Athletico, Big Dogs Smokehouse, Boathouse Kitchen and Swan Dive, CLA, D2, Darkside Roasters, Gaither Management Group, Jim Dandy, Nationwide, Ryan Fireprotection, Inc., VanDiest Supply Company, Verve Health
  • Additional Sponsors: Changing Footprints, DJ Godzillest, Dodd Technology, Fidelity Investments, FitAid Beverage Co., Good’s Candy Shop, HR PRO – People Solutions, McGavic Outdoor Power, Murray’s Body Shop, Needler’s Fresh Market, Nuun, On Site Services, Shoup’s Country Food, Wilsons Farm Market, State Farm – Lindsey Cuneo

For more information about AICR and their research efforts, visit aicr.org.