Dozens of volunteer teams plan to put cancer survivors in the winner's circle as they "race toward a cure" during Saturday's Relay for Life in Dawson County.

The American Cancer Society's signature fundraiser, Relay for Life will be held from 11 a.m.-11 p.m. at the Georgia Racing Hall of Fame. Unlike previous years, the event will not continue overnight.

As of Monday, 24 teams, made up of 203 volunteers, had raised more than $25,000 to support cancer research, patient programs, services and education efforts.

"This is Dawsonville's opportunity to come out to recognize, celebrate and support the Dawsonville survivors, caregivers, and those that we have lost to cancer," said Brooke VanBuskirk with the American Cancer Society.

The volunteer teams have already surpassed last year's fundraising effort.

"The American Cancer Society is the largest funder for cancer research and Relay for Life raises about 60 of that contribution each year," VanBuskirk said. "Because of our sponsors, volunteers and community members, the American Cancer Society has been able to fund 47 researchers that have gone on to win Nobel Prizes for their work within cancer research."

In addition to decorating booths to reflect the NASCAR theme, volunteers are also spending this week designing and decorating a team racecar from cardboard boxes they'll race.

Teams will also have activities for the all ages, like a dunk tank, face painting, snow cones, crazy hair and cake walks, planned throughout the daylong event.

A variety of tasty dishes from homemade candies, cotton candy and boiled peanuts, to pizza, burgers on the grill and treats from area restaurants will also be available to purchase.

The festivities kick off with a car show Saturday morning at the racing hall of fame.

Activities planned also include a ceremony that celebrates the lives of those who have battled cancer and the annual survivors lap to celebrate their personal victories against the disease.

There will also be live entertainment by Peyton Porter, the Synergy cloggers, the Coal Mountain Band and North Georgia Academy of Martial Arts, among others.

"Relay is a full day of family-friendly events," said Nicole Stewart, event coordinator. "Come out and enjoy the car show, food, Synergy cloggers, the Coal Mountain Band and tons more."

For more information, contact VanBuskirk at (770) 297-1220 or visit www.relayforlife.org.