There aren’t many greater success stories in the Cape Region than the Dewey Goes Pink event at The Starboard in Dewey Beach.

Over the last 12 years, the event has raised more than $1.5 million for the Delaware Breast Cancer Coalition. The event was started by The Starboard owner Steve “Monty” Montgomery and The Body Shop Fitness Center owner Adam Howard as a way to honor their mothers. 

The first year featured a 5K race that attracted 483 runners. This year, the run/walk boasted more than 4,400 runners and walkers, and many other non-participants who stuck around for the post-race party in a sea of pink at The Starboard. 

The growth over the last decade can be attributed to the message, the purpose and The Starboard’s reputation for hosting a party. The event has resonated with many people in Delaware and beyond, attracting women battling breast cancer, survivors, families and friends of those lost to the disease, and others who recognize the importance of raising funds and awareness. 

Money donated to the Delaware Breast Cancer Coalition is used wisely, with a mission to raise awareness of breast health issues and increase access to care to facilitate early detection and treatment of breast cancer.  The coalition does this through various support programs, resources and outreach events. 

Breast cancer is the second most common cancer among women in the United States. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 126 in 100,000 women in Delaware were diagnosed with breast cancer in 2020, the most recent data available. Rates were slightly higher in neighboring states of Maryland and New Jersey. Countrywide, there were nearly 240,000 new cases of breast cancer in 2020, with more than 42,000 women dying of the disease. 

As Breast Cancer Awareness Month continues, it’s important to recognize the efforts of Steve Montgomery, Adam Howard and everyone else who works hard to put on the Dewey Goes Pink event. With an estimated $250,000 to $300,000 raised this year, it continues to exceed expectations and reach new levels. We hope the growth carries on for many years to come.