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Relay for Life Passes Baton to San Clemente

American Cancer Society camp-out at San Clemente High raises money and awareness. Nearly $30,000 is pledged, organizers say.

Dunk tanks, decorated bras and a sea of tents dotted this weekend's anti-cancer camp-out at San Clemente High School's Thalassa Stadium.

Nearly 500 volunteers signed up for the 24-hour fundraiser, taking turns walking or running around the track and operating game booths as part of the American Cancer Society's Relay for Life.

“Relay for Life’s purpose is to not only raise awareness, but also to make sure people have more birthdays,” said Master of Ceremonies Mike Hurlbut. “And, in typical San Clemente fashion, the community has once again stepped up.”

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Hula Hooping, videogame contests and live violin music were among the activities at the event, which wraps up Sunday morning.

At one booth, Jessica Forino showed off a collection of colorful undergarments. “We decorated all the bras,” she said. “It’s become a team tradition.”

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Another booth collected cheek swabs to help find matches for cancer victims who need bone-marrow transplants.

“Thirty percent can find a match within their family,” said Mackenzie Koepsell, a San Clemente High School freshman. “But the other 70 percent have to look to the [transplant] registry.”

Another popular booth, team Pwn Cancer, offered videogame contests.

“A few guys started it three years ago,” said Ryan Steel, a San Clemente High School student. “We set up these games, people pay to play and we donate to Relay for Life.”

Elsewhere, a stage was set up for live music performances by adults and children.

Sunday update: More than $29,000 was raised, according to the event's website.

For more information, visit San Clemente's Relay for Life web page

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