St. John’s, Antigua, October 21, 2011 – More than one hundred participants turned out for the MSJMC Zumbathon and fundraiser held on Thursday. The event rose over $2500 for the Breast Friends organization through donations, surpassing the event organizers goal of $2000.

All participants were automatically entered into a raffle with prizes from Xtreme Health & Fitness and Bike Plus; participants were also treated to goodie bags.

"Zumba is the most fun you’ll ever have while working out and is a fantastic fundraising event for the hospital. It not only supports our recommendation that people live healthy lifestyles to reduce the risk of breast cancer, but also the Party in Pink Zumbathon campaign raises much-needed funds which will support the ongoing work of Breast Friends," said Salma Crump, Head of Marketing & Communications at MSJMC. "I think we’ve managed to reach many people who may otherwise not have paid any attention to the message - get screened."

Continued Crump; “We’re already thinking about ideas for next year.”

Three instructors volunteered to conduct the Zumba class which was co-ordinated by one of our partners in the event, Sumita Balooja of Mindful Movement.

The event also featured a Pink Bar with everything pink donated by sponsors.

Strawberry and Raspberry Alpen bars: Sponsored by Frank B. Armstrong

Strawberry and Raspberry Ensure and Glucerna shake: Sponsored by Abbotts Nutrition International

Watermelon Gatorade: Sponsored by Anjo Wholesale

Cupcakes decorated with the breast cancer symbol (pink ribbon): Sponsored by The Little Bean Company

Other sponsors included:

Bike Plus: Goodie Bags and Raffle Prizes

Chef2U Events: Refreshments

Mindful Movement: Coordinated Zumba instruction

Myst Carnival: Water

Occasions Party Rentals: Staging for instructors

Observer Media Group: Media

Photogenesis: Keepsake Buttons (to commemorate event)

Rodanne’s (Candace Hill-White): Decorations

Visual Echo: Radio Ad

Xtreme Health & Fitness: Raffle Prize