CROC was founded by Dr. Tom Eanelli, who for years funded most of the programs until it grew large enough for the members to conduct fundraising activities to meet the needs of helping many cancer patients and survivors with expenses. It's a group with no administrative or overhead expenses.

The members are like family, and their outings are well-attended and enjoyable. It's a group where no one is a stranger and the doors are always open to new members.

Kathleen Rifkin, one of the organizers, drew the map of the course with Steve Hombraker. The course was certified by Brian Cavanagh, race consultant. Rifkin and Myriam Loor are the race directors.

There's a 9:30 a.m. early runner start, although the official start is at 10 a.m. All early starters will be eligible for awards; times will be adjusted.

Rifkin said trophies are given to cancer survivors as well as to age-group race winners.

In preparation for the half-marathon, the race directors and volunteers seek sponsors, and many participants seek pledges as a way to raise money to further CROC's service to cancer patients.

Preregistration is $25. On race day it is $30. A registration form is available by writing to Marathon, 27 Brewster Drive, Middletown 10940. To register through the mail, make the check payable to Celebrate Life Half Marathon and send it to the same address.

For information call Loor at 866-1345 or e-mail her at myriamloor@hvc.rr.com, or call Rifkin at 527-3825 or e-mail her at Krifkin@citlink.net.