Dear Friends:

We at The Foundation are acutely aware that events like this would not happen without tremendous support from countless people. We salute the tireless Classic volunteers, our generous event sponsors, the dedicated staff of Brier Creek Country Club and all participants, parents and supporters.

Most gratifying is the fact that for the sixth consecutive year, proceeds from the event will fund the V Foundation Post-Doctoral Fellowship in Pediatric Cancer Research at Duke University Medical Center.

An estimated 9,200 new cases of cancer are anticipated among children aged 14 and younger in 2004 and more than 1500 children will die from cancer this year. Cancer is the leading cause of death among children in this age group.

The good news is that mortality rates for childhood cancers have declined by almost 49 percent since 1975. Research will cure cancer!

Enjoy this wonderful event and thank you again. Children right here in our hometown will benefit from your efforts today and in the future.

Warm regards,

Nick Valvano
Chief Executive Officer