On April 2, there was a Spin marathon to benefit the National Colorectal Cancer Research Alliance (NCCRA). The Alliance was formed by Katie Couric and others and is dedicated to the eradication of colorectal cancer by promoting the importance of early medical screening and funding research to develop better tests, treatments, and ultimately a cure.

The marathon, the first of its kind, traversed four different fitness centers throughout the North Shore of Long Island, including the Sid Jacobson JCC in Roslyn, and Equinox Fitness centers in Great Neck, Roslyn and Woodbury. Thirty entrants participated in a Spin class for 30 minutes at the first center. The cyclists were then transported as a group by bus to the next site for the second spin segment. This continued until all the segments were completed. For variety there were abdominal strengthening and stretch segments as well.

On the bus there was food, energy bars and drinks to keep the marathoners well nourished and energized. In addition two masseuses, from the Spa at Equinox in Great Neck, volunteered their services to keep the cyclists loose and flexible during the five-hour marathon.

The fitness centers donated their facilities for the day and the instructors volunteered their services to teach the classes. Participants donated food and drinks for the day.

The entry fee for each participant was $100. In addition many of the participants were sponsored with donations from friends and colleagues. Over $8,000 was raised during the event. All proceeds were donated to the NCCRA.

The Spinathon was the brainchild of Dr. Alan Sloyer, a practicing gastroenterologist in Great Neck (487-2444) and an avid Spin enthusiast. "I wanted to organize a charity event which would combine physical fitness with promoting awareness of colorectal cancer prevention. It was a fun day for all," Dr. Sloyer commented. "Colorectal cancer is one of the most deadly forms of cancer in the U.S. This year alone, it is estimated that 145,000 people will be diagnosed with the disease and 56,000 people will die from it. Second to lung cancer, colon cancer is the most common cause of cancer deaths for men and women. It affects people regardless of age, race or gender. But it is a cancer that is curable more than 90 percent of the time when detected early. I hope this marathon will bring attention to the fact that regular screenings are vital. Early detection is the surest defense against this devastating disease.

The best test to screen for colorectal cancer is a colonoscopy. Testing is recommended at age 50. For those with increased risk, such as a family history of colon cancer or polyps, screening should be initiated at an earlier age." Dr. Sloyer explained.

"I would like to thank everyone who contributed to this important cause," Dr. Sloyer said. "I hope to make the Spinathon a yearly event so as to spotlight this vital health issue."