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Blood Center, Super Jock ‘n Jill Team Up Again in Support of Lifesaving Programs

Super Jock ‘n Jill Half Marathon and Fun Run/Walk fundraiser to support the Blood Center’s Research, Medical and Blood and Tissue Services

AUGUST 16, 2004, SEATTLE — Runners and walkers from across the region have been training hard in anticipation of this year’s Super Jock ‘n Jill Half Marathon and Fun Run/Walk. Taking place on September 6, Labor Day, in Woodinville, proceeds from this fundraiser will benefit the myriad research, medical and blood and tissue programs of the Blood Center.

Many people in the community are not aware that Puget Sound Blood Center serves the community in more ways than providing a stable blood supply. The Blood Center is also an internationally recognized research and medical facility, pioneering medical breakthroughs in transfusion and transplantation medicine used throughout the world. The Blood Center’s research, medical and blood and tissue services offer hope for thousands of people with sickle cell anemia, diabetes, blood and bone cancers, hemophilia and autoimmune disorders among others. Those who participate in and support the Super Jock runners support the Blood Center’s programs. The fundraising goal for the event is to raise $20,000 for these programs.

“Every mile that participants walk, run or jog will support the Blood Center’s programs, and improve or even save the lives of thousands of people each year,” said Steve McLean, Public Information Manager with the Blood Center. “As Puget Sound Blood Center responds to the expanding needs of the community, fundraisers such as Super Jock ‘n Jill will be significant in our continued mission to provide blood and tissue services, research and medical care to those in the community who need it.”

Event Details
The event will take place at the Redhook Brewery, 14300 NE 145th Street and consists of two different components. The Half Marathon Walk, the first portion of the event, kicks off at 8 a.m., followed by the Half Marathon Run and 4 mile (+) run, which starts at 9 a.m. As last year, radio station STAR 101.5 FM will broadcast live from the event and give away prizes. Money is raised through team sponsorships, individual pledges and matching corporate donations.

Super Jock ‘n Jill and Redhook Brewery will also hold a post-event celebration on the brewery grounds that will include an award ceremony, give aways and live entertainment. To learn more about making donations or participating in the event, visit Puget Sound Blood Center online at www.psbc.org. For race information, course maps or online registration, go to Super Jock ‘n Jill’s site (www.superjocknjill.com).

According to Tom Anderson, the fitness retailer’s event manager, both organizations have a strong focus on community health, which lends itself to a strong and successful event.

“For years, Super Jock ‘n Jill has enjoyed its role as an active participant in supporting and promoting health in our community,” said Anderson. “Now entering our third year of supporting the Blood Center’s mission, we are pleased to contribute the organization’s continued success in finding cures for diabetes, hemophilia and other bleeding disorders, as well as offering hope to patients with sickle cell anemia, leukemia and other complications of the blood.”

About Super Jock ‘n Jill
Since 1975 Super Jock ‘n Jill has supported the fitness community not only by carrying the best shoes and clothing available, but also by sponsoring camps, clinics, races, clubs and fitness groups all around Puget Sound.

About Puget Sound Blood Center
Celebrating 60 years in the community, the Blood Center is internationally recognized for groundbreaking research in transfusion and transplantation medicine. The nonprofit Blood Center is the resource for patients in Western Washington who need blood, tissue and specialized laboratory services. Founded in 1944, the Blood Center has a long and unique tradition of blending community volunteerism, medical science and research to improve patients’ lives. The organization directly affects the lives of over half million patients annually in more than 70 hospitals and clinics in 14 counties of Washington State and provides tissue and transplantation support to 185 hospitals across the Northwest.

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