Strategy for a Cure

The idea of strategizing is a familiar concept in our daily lives. Different occupations demand different strategies, all based on getting the job done in the quickest and most efficient way.

Contestants invented numerous strategies as they competed in the “30” Big One Pizza Challenge” at on Epps Bridge Parkway on Feb. 22.

When asked what measures were taken to prepare for such a challenge, contestants said they skipped lunch to save up room, and some came in spacious attire -- sans belt -- ready to consume the maximum amount in a short period of time.

But as the eight teams of six gathered around the enormous pizzas eager to demolish the beast, their eyes weren’t set on a prize of money, a new car, or any other materialistic reward.

Participants, although on opposing teams and ultimately competing for the title of eating the “biggest pizza in town” the fastest, all shared a common goal of raising money for cancer research with the hope of one day eliminating a disease that affects so many.

From the $5 each participant donated as an entry fee plus 10 percent of the night’s overall sales that Fox’s Pizza Den chipped in, the event raised between $300 and $500 for the University of Georgia's Relay for Life -- the largest student organization at the university and the largest non-profit in the Southeast that raises funds and awareness for the American Cancer Society.

UGA's Relay for Life holds many fundraisers throughout the year, but the main one will be on April 15-16 from 7 p.m. to 7 a.m. at the Intramural Complex off of College Station. Nearly 4,000 people come out to show support during the 12-hour event each year. Hundreds of campsites are set up, each with their own fundraiser, along with dozens of local businesses that sell food or other products. Music and other entertainment are also provided throughout the night.

Relay for Life fundraisers worldwide raise over $450 million each year and all of the money raised goes directly to cancer research and patient aide.

Fox’s Pizza Den has supported UGA’s Relay for several years through fund-raising efforts like the 30" Big One pizza challenge.

Just 11 minutes after last week's competition commenced, Justin Westbrooks, Bryce Helsel, Hunter Hodge, Mark Johnson, Austin Hodge, and Mathieu van Asten were announced the winners.

Aside from bragging rights, the winning team scored free dessert, compliments of , a limousine ride from Avalon Limousine, and flower arrangements from Athens Florists.

But the real winners are all of the cancer patients and their families along with the many doctors and researchers who benefit from monies raised through this and similar events.