Thank you, National Capital Area!

Approximately 27,000 people gathered on the National Mall this past weekend for the 2012 Susan G. Komen Global Race for the Cure. Attendees enjoyed beautiful weather and joined with family, friends and colleagues to celebrate life and survivorship.

Opening ceremony kicked off with Sarah Charness playing a beautiful version of the National Anthem on her pink violin. Ambassador to Canada Gary Doer introduced our International parade led by International Race Team delegates and top fundraisers which was followed by our survivor’s parade led by our Founder and CEO Nancy G. Brinker and breast cancer survivor and advocate Bridget Spence. As survivors walked to their spotlight, country singer Colby Dee performed her song “I Will Fight On.” Bridget Spence told her heartfelt story which was followed by a special appearance from Komen Global Ambassador Gabrielle Union. Nancy Brinker reminded everyone why the event is so important with a moment of silence for all who have lost their battle to breast cancer. As the runners took off down the Race route, the Howard University Gospel Choir sang a medley of Hold On, Change is Coming and Oh Happy Day. Holly Perkins from New Balance led an upbeat and lively stretch to prepare the walkers for their 3.1 mile trek. At 8:20 a.m., the walkers took off to the tune of As the Saints Go Marching In by the Howard University Gospel Choir. The morning closed with another performance by Colby Dee, awards for top fundraisers, best dressed survivor and Kids for the Cure.

The Washington Post reports that passion (and pink!) were in no short supply at the event. A photographer for The Washington Post shared some great images from the event as well. Essence features Komen Global Ambassador Gabrielle Union, who was excited to lace up her running shoes for the Global Race on Saturday. The Washington Examiner, HipHollywood and GossipCenter also highlighted Gabrielle Union’s attendance. WJLA spoke with survivor and Race attendee Katherine Briggs who emphasized that even in a political town, “There is not a Democrat or Republican marching here. We are all marching for the same reason.” WUSA, WTOP, NBC4, KStreetKate, The Times Leader and many more also covered the Race day festivities.

Thank you so much to all of our participants, volunteers and partners who made this such an amazing event. We hope to see you next year at the 2013 Global Race for the Cure! Check out the photo slideshow and video recap of the event below.