The history of Relay For Life


Survivors and Carers

Relay For Life began in the USA when, in 1985 Dr Gordy Klatt raised over $27,000 for his local cancer charity by running around an oval for 24 hours. Since then, thousands of events take place across the globe every year.

  • 1985

    One person beginnings

    Relay For Life has its origins in the US where, in 1985, Dr Gordy Klatt – a colorectal surgeon – spent a gruelling 24 hours running and walking around a local oval. He wanted to raise awareness about cancer, and raise money. From those beginnings, Relay For Life events are now held in more than 600 communities across 20 countries.

  • 1999

    Australia

    Relay For Life began in Australia in 1999, when the Victorian community of Murrumbeena raised over $75,000 for Cancer Council. Relay For Life is now run in every state and territory and raises over $14 million each year for the cancer fight.