OCEAN CITY — The Susan G. Komen Maryland Ocean City Race for the Cure is inviting the participation of volunteers from Somerset, Wicomico and Worcester County to join the fight to end breast cancer.

The 4^th Annual Komen Maryland Ocean City Race for the Cure® is coming once again to the Boardwalk on Sunday, April 19. The event includes a 5K (3.1 miles) competitive run (timed), a 5K recreational run, a 5K walk and a family fun one-mile walk.

The Race Village In the inlet parking lot opens at 7 a.m. with music, food, sponsor booths and a Survivor Parade, and the starting whistle for the race blows at 9 a.m.  New for 2015 — a “Beachwear Dash” theme, so don’t forget your coolest beachwear — maybe some flashy shades, a fun inner tube or a pair of neon flip flops — and show off your best Ocean City look for a chance to win prizes.

Volunteer positions for the OC Race are varied and there is something for everyone’s interests. Some positions are involved with pre-registration and other activities taking place on the days leading up to the race, while most occur on race day. From helping along the race route, at the start and finish line, food and water distribution, information, registration, kids area and the Survivor Tent, many hands are needed to make this event a success for the 3,000-plus attendees who are expected to participate.

Lori Yates, Eastern Shore Community Health Manager for Komen Maryland believes the race is an important aspect of raising community breast cancer awareness on the Eastern Shore.

“Race for the Cure is all about our community uniting with our Komen Maryland team and supporting its efforts to end breast cancer and provide funding for community grant programs and research,” said Yates. “Our volunteers inspire us with their dedication and enthusiasm for the cause. Many of them have been touched by breast cancer in their own families, and this is a way for them to make a difference and be involved in a meaningful way with our event.”

Since 1998, Komen Maryland has awarded more than $3.3 million to Eastern Shore-based programs and programs providing services on the Eastern Shore. The funds raised through the 2014 race enabled the organization to grant more than $230,000 to five Eastern Shore-based programs or programs providing services to the Eastern Shore. Volunteers are a huge part of what makes these efforts possible, Komen believes.

If you would like to join the Komen Maryland Ocean City Race for the Cure as a volunteer or team participant, please send an email to info@komenmd.org or visit www.komenmd.org/OC.