Hamilton Relay for Life stirs interest

Registrations are open for the 2010 Relay for Life, with organisers confident of a record-breaking turnout.

Hamilton Relay for Life coordinator Cat-riona Findlay said there was high interest in the event which aims to raise awareness about cancer in the community.

"We've already had a fantastic response from some of our previous teams and we encourage businesses, schools, clubs, organisations, friends and families to get behind us," Ms Findlay said.

More than five million people worldwide take part in Relay for Life. Teams walk or run continuously around an athletic track for 22 hours.

"It really is an opportunity to celebrate the lives of those who have overcome cancer, remember those who have lost their lives to cancer and fight back against this disease which affects one in three New Zealanders," Ms Findlay said.

Last year more than 1516 people competed locally, raising more than $220,000 for the fight against cancer.

* To register see relayforlife.org.nz