River Valley Bank Hope Starts Here Challenge raises $30k for brain tumor research

MARQUETTE — Over 600 people gathered on a sunny morning on Saturday, for the  River Valley Bank Hope Starts Here Challenge.

Now in its 14th year, the Hope Starts Here Challenge had several events, to raise money for the Upper Michigan Brain Tumor Center.

“People are coming out because they’re athletes, but more importantly people are coming out because they probably have a loved one, a friend a family member that’s been affected by cancer, and specifically brain cancer,” said Shane Kentala, race director. “But the weather has been beautiful today, and people are out there getting muddy, getting sweaty, having fun, and raising money for a good cause.”

Racers participated in a 5k, a 10k, a half marathon, a kid’s fun run, and a duathalon, which includes a 5k run, a 10 mile mountain bike ride, and another 5k.

Proceeds from the event went to the Upper Michigan Brain Tumor Center, which is a collaboration effort between UPHS-Marquette, and Northern Michigan University.

The lab conducts research with both graduate and undergraduate students, along with professionals in the field.