Komen run hits the pavement in Austin

AUSTIN (KXAN) - The annual Komen Race for the Cure hit the pavement in Austin on Sunday morning, the event brought together 14,516 participants including 989 breast cancer survivors.

This afternoon Koman said, they had 52 percent of what was raised by this time last year. This year's race raised $323,221.07.

After Komen Austin announced in September that its fund-raising numbers were down, they said registration for the annual Austin Race for the Cure would be ramped up.

“Our Race provides the two-thirds of funds that we use for free community health services provided by our grantees every year,” said Christy Casey-Moore, executive director of Komen Austin. “Some programs could find funding elsewhere, but many will be forced to cut back on life-saving services to women who truly need them.”

Sunday was Komen's 14th annual race in Austin supporting the fight against breast cancer. It is estimated, one out of every eight women will have to fight breast cancer in their lifetime. 

Last year the local affiliate was able to grant more than 1 million dollars to local non-profits for free breast health services around Central Texas. Funds also went to finding a cure.

“We encourage the Austin area to continue donating through the end of November, so that we can continue to fund the programs that thousands of Austinites rely on," said Casey-Moore.

Donations received before Nov. 30 will count for next year.