Bill and Cathi Alden, competitors in last year’s Amazing Race, number 19, will be the grand marshals of the Fourth Annual Sweet Home Walk for the Cause event.
The Aldens were the oldest couple competing during Amazing Race No. 19, with a combined age doubling that of any other contestants. In spite of low expectations based upon their age, the Aldens proved to be formidable competitors and remained in the race until they arrived at the race’s 10th pit stop at the Atomium structure in Belgium.
Bill, a retired teacher and current farmer/rancher and Cathi, a retired high school principal and current college instructor, live in the Albany area.
“We have a strong connection to breast cancer and cancer in general,” Cathi said. “Bill’s mother passed away in 1977 from breast cancer. His older sister is a breast cancer survivor. His oldest sister also had breast cancer and survived but passed away from liver disease. Bill’s aunt and sister-in-law died from cancers, and his niece has survived colon cancer at 30. So we are supporters of all associations that benefit cancer research.”
Wendy Younger, coordinator of the Sweet Home event, said organizers are “thrilled” to have the Aldens lead the walk.
“Bill and Cathi showed grit and determination during a tough competition. They are an inspirational couple,” she said.
The Sweet Home event is hosted by the City of Sweet Home in coordination with the Sweet Home Harvest Festival and the Soroptimist Club of Albany.
Registration begins at 9 a.m. on Saturday, Oct. 13 at the Weddle Bridge in Sankey Park.
Pre-registration is strongly recommended. For more information and registration information please call (541) 367-8969 or email [email protected].
Registration for participants 13 or older is $20.
Walkers are encouraged to form teams and raise pledges from non-participants.
A route map will be provided for the 1.8 mile course, including shorter alternate routes for those who prefer.
Dogs on leashes are welcome to join the walk. Water and light snacks will be available to participants.