Second annual Dog Dash for DeeDee canceled

The Valley Women's Running Team announced the cancellation of the "Dog Dash for DeeDee."

"With a heavy heart we announce the cancellation of this year's Dog Dash for DeeDee," VWRT coach and event organizer Michael Janecek said in a press release. "Due to conditions beyond our control, and after conferring with DeeDee, we will not proceed with this year's event."

The 2003 Dog Dash was scheduled for Oct. 4. The event would have been the second annual Dog Dash.

The Dog Dash is a fund-raising fun run for well-known Iditarod musher DeeDee Jonrowe.

Jonrowe, an Iditarod favorite from Willow, announced last year she was battling breast cancer, and underwent treatment and chemotherapy. A running event was organized to help her cover the costs of chemotherapy.

The inaugural event included a 5-kilometer run, a 5-kilometer run with dogs and a 5-kilometer fun walk.

"With all due respect to those that participated and contributed last year, please understand that it is our intention to continue with the Dog Dash in the future," Janecek added. "It is a wonderful opportunity to raise funds for breast cancer research and for victims of breast cancer."