They came. They walked. They raised $120,333. Last Saturday’s Relay for Life, though not quite as lucrative or populated as those of years past, still managed to do its part for the fight against cancer.

Co-chair Marissa Moniz said that though numbers were down from last year, the fundraiser didn’t take as big a hit as she had feared. Last year, Saint Louis University’s relay had about 1,700 participants. This year, about 1,500 turned out. Moniz said she suspected that the number of sorority and fraternity formals that were held the same weekend played a role in the decreased involvement; a large number of teams are often Greek.

The amount of money raised was also down from last year’s $170,000. Moniz said that this was a trend being felt by most charities and fundraisers around the country as a result of an unfavorable economic climate.

“Even though our numbers were lower, I think we were still happy with what we did have and the amount we did raise,” said Accounting Chair Stephen Moehle.

The money raised will go to the American Cancer Society.

During the night, participants took part in dodge ball, twister, the Mr. Relay contest, Relay Olympics, karaoke, root beer pong and root beer flip cup. Moniz said, however, that her favorite part of the night was the Survivor Lap though.

“They give us the hope to continue the fight,” she said. “It’s really inspirational to see them all coming out, and it gives us a chance to honor them and their fight.”

The fund will remain open to donations through August. To make a contribution, go to www.slurelay.org or donate directly to ACS.

ACS’ Relay for Life happens across the country every year. Moniz said that she hoped those who participated in SLU’s this year would walk away from it wanting to continue the Relay fight against cancer in years to come.