Weightlifting for a great cause? That sounds amazing to us. USA Weightlifting isn’t just about winning medals and breaking records; they’re also on a mission to destroy cancer. Through the American Cancer Society’s Coaches vs. Cancer program, RWL Weightlifting and USA Weightlifting will take part in the third annual Kilos for a Cure national fundraiser for the month of October, which is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. In the first two years alone, the event raised a mighty $20,000.

All the money raised goes to cancer research and programs that help patients — and athletes don’t take it lightly: “The competition is both friendly and fierce for these weightlifters,” says Brian Casalinova, Coaches vs. Cancer Community Manager. “They take their sport and this cause seriously. And we are so grateful for that.” The weightlifting community might be a small one, but they’re powerful regardless — passionate about the sport and about giving back by doing what they do best: lift.

And there’s no better program to collaborate with than Coaches vs. Cancer. This nationwide effort between the American Cancer Society and the National Association of Basketball Coaches aims to empower coaches, teams, and communities across all sports to join the fight against cancer. While this specific event is for the month of October only, Coaches vs. Cancer operates year round, bringing communities together, increasing awareness and raising money.

Any USA Weightlifting club in the country can participate in the online competition and fundraiser by visiting the Kilos for a Cure event page and signing up. The full workout will be released on October 1 and results must be submitted by October 31. The top teams for both the lifting portion and the fundraising side will be recognized by USAW and the American Cancer Society.

If you’re a part of a weightlifting club in any capacity, consider joining the efforts of Kilos for a Cure!

Main image: Kilos for a Cure/Facebook