TEMPLE OWLS "HOOT IT UP" FOR KOMEN RACE FOR THE CURE PARTICIPANTS

Owls for the Cure^TM debut at Philadelphia's largest 5K event

The nearly 40,000 runners and walkers crossing the finish line at the 18th annual Susan G. Komen Philadelphia Race for the Cure were greeted by a pleasant surprise: cheers, encouragement and ice-cold water from members of the Temple University football team and Diamond Gems spirit squad.

"It was such a perfect ending for everyone who just invested all that energy in walking and running the 5K," said Elaine I. Grobman, Executive Director of the Komen Philadelphia Affiliate.  "To see those handsome men in their cherry-and-white uniforms, handing out water and congratulating all the finishers gave everyone a second wind and an extra sense of accomplishment."

In addition to water and congratulations, the Temple group at the Race, which also included Coach Golden and his wife Kelly, handed out fliers promoting the "Pink Out" game against Ohio University on October 21st at Lincoln Financial Field.  Proceeds of ticket sales for the game, which airs on ESPN 2, merchandise sales and other fundraisers will benefit Susan G. Komen for the Cure. 

"Our goals for the Owls for the Cure Game are simple," said Golden.  "Our aim is to raise a minimum of $25,000 for Susan G. Komen for the Cure, increase breast cancer awareness and awareness of the mission of Susan G. Komen for the Cure.  We also aim to generate and contribute additional revenue by selling merchandise, raffles, etc. leading up to and at the game itself.  And most importantly, we want to set the precedent and establish a protocol that can be used throughout NCAA college football, and create an annual fundraising venue for Susan G. Komen here at Temple University and in the city of Philadelphia."

"Al, Kelly and the Temple team have a tremendous passion for partnering with us to generate breast cancer awareness and donations to help bring the cure to our community," said Grobman.  "Their support is invaluable because Temple is a vital conduit to the men and women who will carry on the fight against breast cancer for the next generation."

Temple U's mascot, "Hooter" also made an appearance, and had quite a following, especially when he greeted a large number of the 6,000+ breast cancer survivors after they proudly took part in the "parade of pink" down the steps of the Philadelphia Museum of Art.

"We're still receiving feedback from Race goers of all ages about how polite and helpful the players and Diamond Gems were," said Grobman.  From transporting cases of water to posing for photos, anything and everything we needed help with, they did with incredible enthusiasm and appreciation for being part of this Delaware Valley Mother's Day tradition."

For information on the "Pink Out" game and other Owls for the Cure opportunities, visit www.owlsforthecure.com and view the video http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GmbaKT7hjh0.