The Breast Cancer Research Foundation (BCRF) raised $650,000 at its eighth annual Hamptons Paddle for Pink at Havens Beach in Sag Harbor. The signature summer fundraiser was hosted by author, food critic and co-host of The Food Network’s “The Kitchen,” Katie Lee. The morning’s WPA sanctioned paddle board race supported BCRF’s mission to be the end of breast cancer by advancing the world's most promising research. Over the past eight years, the Hamptons community and the Paddle for Pink event have raised more than $11 million for lifesaving breast cancer research.
The race at Havens Beach kicked off with 125 paddlers and special guests, including Gina Bradley, Jennifer Levene Bruno, Pat and Dawn Kiernan, and Sandra Ripert. In addition to the 3-Mile (Recreational) and 6-Mile (Elite) races, there was a special kids race (1/4-Mile) hosted by Paddle Diva and even several “virtual paddlers” who registered to fundraise for the cause online. The community spirit was palpable as hundreds of spectators turned out in support, enjoying a delicious beach-side breakfast as they cheered on the legion of dedicated paddlers and breast cancer survivors.
Event co-chairs included founders Maria & Larry Baum as well as Lisa Pevaroff-Cohn & Gary Cohn and Jackie & Bippy Siegal.