FIGHT TO THE FINISH- Strides for Hope trainer Gloria Rios, right, stands with cancer survivor Fran McFadden at a recent Wellness Community race. It may have taken Lisa Tivens four hours and 38 minutes to complete her first Wellness Community halfmarathon, but she's motivated and ready for another race. Tivens, a cancer survivor, is getting ready to train for the upcoming Wellness Community Valley/ Ventura Strides for Hope Big Sur International Race on April 27.

"The races are a great way to combine raising money for a great cause with getting healthy," Tivens said. "The 2006 race in Phoenix was my first involvement with the Wellness Community Valley/Ventura. They do so much for the community and for people who have loved ones with cancer. I didn't know about them when I went through cancer in 2000, so now I'd like to get the word out to others who might not know what they have to offer."

The Big Sur International Race is the largest rural marathon in the world, winding through redwoods, paralleling ranches and offering views of the Pacific Ocean. The Wellness Community Valley/Ventura team is in training for the race. For more information or to sign up, call (805) 379-4777.

Participants receive a 13week personalized program with trainer Gloria Rios, the track and field and cross country coach at Westlake High School. Rios has coached professionally for 15 years.

"It's really important for everyone to train in an encouraging team environment," Rios said. "We all have a great time, get a chance to run and walk in some beautiful places and make a contribution."

Brandon Sokolosky, another Wellness race participant, said he is looking forward to the Big Sur Race.

"I took part in the Disneyland half-marathon, and it was amazing to set a goal of that magnitude and accomplish it."

Getting ready for the race itself was a long, rigorous process but well worth it, Sokolosky said. "I was honored to be a part of that and hope I can join the team again."

For the Big Sur Race, people can choose from three race options: a 21mile marathon, a 10mile race and a 5k.

The Wellness Community also provides hotel accommodations and transportation for those in the race. The staff is also available to help with questions about fundraising and travel plans.

Nationally, The Wellness Community provides support, education and hope for people affected by cancer at more than 100 locations worldwide, including online at the Virtual Wellness Community.

For more information, visit www.TwcVv.org.