The 2024 Ballin’ on Belrose by 68 Ventures was a success despite weather woes over the weekend.
“We ended up having to delay it a little bit because of the weather and started out in the rain and ended up in the sunshine,” 68 Ventures CEO Nathan Cox told 1819 News. “It was a good day.”
The event in Olde Towne Daphne raised a record $155,000 for the Baller Dream Foundation.
More than 133 participants walked or ran a distance of 29,029 feet uphill on Belrose Avenue, not to mention the downhill walk between each climb. The distance represents Mount Everest, which is 29,029 feet tall. Ballin’ on Belrose is a total of 10.5 miles.
Baller Dream Foundation offers once-in-a-lifetime experiences to children and young adults battling cancer.
“The Baller Foundation is more of a long-term relationship and they also support young adults,” Cox explained. “The Baller community goes up to age 29 … But once you're a baller, you're a baller for life and it's got an ongoing support network that's so meaningful.”
The organization operates in Alabama, Arizona, California, Nevada, New Jersey and New York. A new location in Birmingham will open this summer.
The Honorary Baller, Dr. Matt Mosteller, a 17-year cancer survivor, said the weather Saturday morning was symbolic of what cancer patients go through: dark and scary but overcome with determination, courage and support of friends.
The Eastern Shore Repertory Theatre was awarded $10,000 for completing the most aggregate laps throughout the day.
"As always, a big thanks to the City of Daphne that's so supportive with everything that we do on the charitable and community front,” Cox added. “But really just a big thanks to the team for pulling it off in some really challenging conditions on Saturday.”
To connect with the author of this story or to comment, email erica.thomas@1819news.com.
Don’t miss out! Subscribe to our newsletter and get our top stories every weekday morning or become a member to gain access to exclusive content and 1819 News merch.
