Every year in Provo, runners come from all over the country and lace up their shoes not just to cross a finish line, but to support cancer research.
"The purpose of this event is to raise funds in honor of people who have had cancer or are currently battling cancer," Peytin Knebel, president of the Cougs vs. Cancer Club, said.
This year's race had more than 1,700 participants.
"It just is a way that everybody can help support, and it really is just amazing," Alexa Hall, race director for the Cougs vs. Cancer Run, said.
Steven Castle, director of the Simmons Center for Cancer Research, noticed how many people cancer has affected.
"Cancer is a disease that touches everyone. Everyone has a friend or a loved one who's been affected by cancer," Castle said.
The event raised more than $30,000, all of which will support cancer research at the BYU Simmons Center.
"There's a need, and there always will be a need for more research into fighting cancer, and here at BYU in the Simmons Center, we are training the next generation of cancer fighters," Castle said.
Organizers, volunteers, and participants found community in supporting this effort.
"It just makes me so happy to see everyone here supporting a cause that impacts so many people," Knebel said.
Caitlyn Richey, a BYU student and race participant, said this service opportunity helped her feel like she is making a difference.
"I love BYU, and one of the things I love about it is that we support our community and represent Jesus Christ by serving others, and I feel like this has really encapsulated that," Richey said.
This year marked the 31st annual race, and the event continues to grow in impact and participation.
"It just gets bigger and better every year," Castle said.
"Every March, the first Saturday, put it in your calendars like a recurring event for the following years. We'll be here," Hall said.
For many here today, Saturday's race was more than just a run. It was a reminder that no one fights cancer alone.