After tabulating last-minute donations through the end of August, Freeborn County Relay for Life organizers announced Friday they exceeded their goal of $134,000 for the 2010 local fight against cancer.

Freeborn County Relay for Life Chairwoman Vicki Manges said area residents raised just over $135,000 during what was the local yearly signature event of the American Cancer Society. Money raised goes toward cancer research, raising awareness of cancer prevention and cancer treatment.

“We did exceptionally well,” Manges said. “It goes to show what kind of community support we have.”

The Freeborn County Relay for Life went from 6 p.m. to 6 a.m. Aug. 13 and 14 at the Freeborn County Fairgrounds.

Though organizers moved events indoors because of threats of severe storms, the weather held up with no rain and people seemed to enjoy the night.

“Even though we had to go into our rain play, it actually ended up being a good thing,” she said. “We got to experience a different set-up.”

Cancer fighters and survivors took their typical survivor lap through the Swine Building, and then at about dusk, luminarias were lit, starting in a pathway outside and then going inside at the North Pavilion.

For the remainder of the night, people socialized and fundraised.

There were 68 teams that participated.

Manges said the night of the event that the Freeborn County Relay for Life is more than just a fundraising event; it’s a night where the strength and determination of cancer survivors inspires the whole community.