See the race day report on the 2004 Washington DC PACE Race 5K.

The 2004 PACE Race Series, to raise awareness of prostate cancer, came to a successful close over the weekend with events in Atlanta, GA and Tampa, FL. The tandem of events concluded the 19-city series of prostate cancer races across the country.

"The Atlanta and Tampa events were a great way to end the 2004 campaign," said Mandy Deas, National PACE (Prostate Awareness and Cancer Education) Race Director. "Planning is underway for next year as we look to build on the successes of 2004."

Overall, approximately 500 people participated in two weekend events with Amare Grure winning the Atlanta PACE Race in 16:01 and Lee Stephens winning the Tampa PACE Race in a time of 16:28.

"The outlook for 2005 is bright with a new national Web site due to launch early in 2005 and the opportunity to build on an existing base of participants," said Deas.

More than 190,000 men are diagnosed with prostate cancer every year, second only to skin cancer among males. When caught early, prostate cancer is among the most treatable forms of the disease. That is why screening is crucial - and why PACE is looking to reach people nationwide.

Thanks to heightened public awareness and early detection efforts, most cases that are discovered this year will be localized and potentially curable. With no warning signs or symptoms, the only way to catch the disease early is with regular screenings that include a simple blood test and physical exam.

The PACE Race series kicked off June 20 in Pittsburgh, PA. The Second Annual Washington PACE Race 5K was held on Saturday, October 30. The PACE Race Series is presented by Aventis and supported by the Prostate Cancer Education Council, PowerBar, Propel, Madhava, and Kettle Chips. For more information, visit www.pcaw.com or call (303) 316-4685.

See the Washington, DC event Web site