A Labor of Love

Padres Pedal the Cause event unites USD community in the fight against cancer

One of the key mantras of the University of San Diego’s 75th Anniversary Anthem is “to lead with love.”

On a brilliantly blue Sunday morning, more than 130 members of the Torero Community put those inspiring words into action; donning their walking shoes and Torero Blue “Team USD” t-shirts and traversing the 5K (3.1 mile) course through downtown San Diego in an effort to raise funds for, and awareness of, cancer research at the 2024 Padres Pedal the Cause event.

“We’re so thrilled to partner with the Padres in the fight against cancer,” explained USD 75th Anniversary Co-Chair and Associate Vice President of University Events and Partnerships Coreen Petti. “This event aligns with many of the core values of USD’s Mission and Vision; values we’re proud to celebrate during USD’s 75th anniversary in 2024. Cancer has, in some way, touched everyones’ lives, and to be here and see the support of not only the USD community, but all of San Diego, is really inspiring.”

The event, which kicked off at Gallagher Square inside Petco Park, had something for everyone. In addition to the 5K walk/run, there were also bike rides, spin classes, and a “run the bases” event for kids on the Petco Park field.

Team USD contributed more than $15,000 in funds to help Curebound — the nonprofit cancer research organization that joined forces with the San Diego Padres a few years ago — in their efforts to find a cure. All told, the 2024 event has raised more than $2.4 million to-date, and more than $21.4 million since the first San Diego Pedal the Cause event, with every dollar raised going towards cancer research institutions based locally.

“Making a difference in our community, in our world, is what USD is all about,” said Petti. “An event like this helps shine a light on a disease that is truly a global challenge; one we’re all invested in conquering.”

One out of every three people are predicted to be diagnosed with cancer in their lifetime, according to the American Cancer Society. That is partly why Curebound has been at the forefront of fundraising for cancer research — to someday find a cure for this deadly disease.

"We really believe that in this lifetime, in the next 5-10 years, we're going to see significant breakthroughs in terms of new FDA approvals, new tools to prevent and diagnose cancers that early, or stages where, of course, you know, you have better outcomes," Anne Marbarger, the CEO for Curebound, said.

For the past 10 years, the organization has funded more than 115 research projects at all different stages of cancer discovery. Donations for Sunday's event are still going on for another month. Those interested in donating can do so by visiting the link provided.

— USD News Center

— Photos by Kelsey Grey