ROME – Over 70,000 people took part in the “Race for the Cure” on Sunday. The event, which is now in its sixteenth year, sees participants run, walk or stroll around a five kilometre long course, to raise awareness and money for the fight against breast cancer.

 The race, which sees runners bypass some of Rome’s most famous monuments, including Piazza Venezia, the Colosseum and the Terme di Caracalla, is organised by Susan G. Komen, Italy; a non-profit association designed to educate and support the public about the dangers of breast cancer, and also help funding to find a cure for the disease.

 In terms of the race itself, first place overall belonged to Elias Embaye who finished with a time of 14 minutes and 51 seconds and the top finisher amongst the women was Annalisa Gabriele, who finished in 17 minutes and 19 seconds.

 However, the three-day event comprised so much more than just Sunday’s race. The Eternal City’s Circo Massimo was transformed into a mini-village, which was dedicated to informative talks and also screening tests designed to highlight the importance of an early diagnosis.

 “Women who have had cancer should not hide, to help others understand that the battle can be won,” said the President of Italy’s Chamber of Deputies, Laura Boldrini before the start of the race. “This event focuses on women who won the battle against a disease that can be deadly. This story teaches us that prevention saves lives. We must not hide from the disease.”