Benicia’s Relay for Life dates have been selected, said Terry Baldwin, chairperson of the event.

The annual 24-hour event that raises money for the American Cancer Society will begin at 9 a.m. Aug. 16 and conclude at 9 a.m. Aug. 17.

“This celebration of life brings numerous groups and individuals concerned about cancer together for a unified effort to fight back against the disease,” Baldwin said.

Benicia residents, their friends and supporters of those battling cancer will organize teams that meet at Benicia High School for the overnight relay, during which they will walk around the school’s track.

“Relay For Life is a unique fundraising event that allows participants from all walks of life, including patients, medical support staff, corporations, civic organizations, churches and community volunteers, to join together to celebrate the lives of those who have faced cancer, remember loved ones lost and fight back against the disease,” Baldwin said.

“Relay For Life reminds us that progress has been made in the fight against cancer, and that everyone who participates is making a difference.”

The Relay For Life will begin with cancer survivors — those who have been diagnosed with any form of the disease — walking or using their wheelchairs to make the first lap, Baldwin said.

“This is an emotional time and sets the stage for the importance of each participant’s contribution,” she said.

Most of the event is a celebration, she said, as team members continue the walk that last the 24 hours that signify that the battle against cancer goes on 24 hours a day.

Unlike some relays, this isn’t a speedy foot race, with one teammate handing a baton to another in hopes of defeating other teams.

Instead, teammates cover the track at their own pace, with the goal of raising money for the American Cancer Society and keeping at least one team member on the track at all times during the event’s 24-hour span.

“As you make new friends and spend time with old ones, the Relay heats up and the camp-out begins,” Baldwin said.

She said the event takes on a party atmosphere, with team members eating, entertaining and playing games in between taking turns walking the track.

But there is a somber time as well, Baldwin said. That comes during the Luminaria Ceremony.

That portion of the relay takes place in the dark, so the candles of the luminaria lights can be seen, she said.

It honors both cancer survivors as well as those who lost their battle against the disease.

“The luminaria line the track and are left burning throughout the night to remind participants of the incredible importance of their contributions,” Baldwin said.

“Relay For Life is as much an awareness raiser about the progress against cancer as it is a fundraiser,” she said.

“Many of the participants will be people who have dealt with cancer themselves. Their involvement is proof of the progress that has been made in reducing cancer death rates and in the quality of life following cancer treatment.”

She said the money raised for the relay is used by the American Cancer Society to fight the disease through the educational programs, research and service to patients.

Because of such corporate sponsors as Valero Benicia Refinery and Underground Construction, costs associated with the relay have been covered, she said, which means “the money raised by participants goes directly to the American Cancer Society’s life-saving programs,” Baldwin said.

“The American Cancer Society is dedicated to eliminating cancer as a major health problem by saving lives, diminishing suffering and preventing cancer through research, education, advocacy and service.

“The community is invited to build teams, and join our fight to reduce the burden of cancer across America.”

Those interested in forming a team or participating in the Benicia Relay for Life may call the American Cancer Society, 800-ACS-2345, or visit the website www.RelayForLife.org/BeniciaCA.