Alison's Allies returns to Olathe, Kansas on October 3rd, a day marked by the community’s dedication to fighting breast cancer through collective action and support. This year marks another milestone in Alison Banikowski’s journey that began over a decade ago with a personal pledge to "pay it forward." The event is held at Memorial Park, where participants gather for an annual Walk for Breast Cancer along scenic routes lined with fall foliage.
As the crisp air of early October sets in and leaves begin their transition from green to gold, Olathe’s Memorial Park becomes a hub of activity. Runners and walkers alike converge on this familiar ground, creating a vibrant tapestry of community spirit that extends beyond just one day. The park is not only known for its natural beauty but also for the profound impact it has had in uniting individuals against breast cancer.
Since 2010, Alison's Allies have grown from a local initiative to a significant force within the Heartland, raising over $340,000 through various fundraising efforts. Each year sees an increase in participation, with hundreds of people joining together for this meaningful cause. The event is also supported by esteemed partners like the University of Kansas Cancer Center and the Masonic Cancer Alliance, ensuring that contributions go directly into life-changing projects aimed at improving breast cancer screening, care, and research.
The course itself winds through the picturesque paths of Memorial Park, offering a mix of flat terrain with gentle hills. The route covers two distinct loops: one for the Fun 2 Mile Walk and another slightly longer loop reserved for more competitive distances. Participants will experience a firm yet soft trail surface that provides a comfortable footing despite some uneven patches along the way. Notable features include scenic overlooks by the park's lake, where runners often take moments to pause and reflect.
Start times are staggered throughout the day with bib pickup available at Memorial Park’s main pavilion on race morning from 7:00 AM onwards. The event begins promptly at 9:30 AM for all registered participants. Aid stations are strategically placed every mile, providing water, snacks, and encouragement along the way.
Given October's typical weather in Olathe, runners can expect mild temperatures with an average feel of around 16.7°C (62°F), a moderate wind speed averaging at 13.5 km/h (8 mph) that may cause slight chill if moving briskly through open areas. Humidity levels hover around 60%, making the air comfortable but not overly damp, and trail conditions are firm with some soft spots underfoot due to recent rain showers totaling about 3 mm over the past week.
Fun 2 Mile Walk
2 Miles • Start: 08:00:00 • Fee: $25.00
- Fun 2 Mile Walk | 2 Miles | fee=$25.00
Participants can register for Alison's Allies at [https://runsignup.com/Race/KS/Olathe/AlisonsAllies](https://runsignup.com/Race/KS/Olathe/AlisonsAllies) with early bird pricing available until September 1st and regular registration continuing thereafter up to race day. Bib pickup is on October 3rd from 7:00 AM at Memorial Park's main pavilion, where all participants are encouraged to arrive a bit earlier for last-minute questions or adjustments.
The start location address is located within Memorial Park in Olathe, Kansas, accessible via South Ridge Road and East Santa Fe Street. Age requirements vary; however, the event welcomes families with strollers and young walkers who can participate comfortably over the 2-mile distance under adult supervision. For those new to Alison's Allies or first-time participants, coming early on race day allows for familiarizing oneself with the route layout and park amenities.
Alison’s Allies in Olathe, Kansas on October 3rd is more than just a walk; it’s an enduring commitment by individuals who believe that together we can make significant strides against breast cancer.
