While a thunder, lightning and rain storm dampened carefully mapped plans for official opening ceremonies, the spirits of some 500 team members at the 2007 Relay for Life were not.

Officials estimate $150,000 was raised as a result of the 22-hour event for cancer research, education, service and advocacy, beating the previous year's total once again.

Top fundraising teams and individuals were honored at a Saturday afternoon awards ceremony held under sunny skies.

Gail Ludwig of Team Chevy took top honors for individual fundraising for the sixth time, followed by Scott Buckingham and Chelse DePaolo.

The Five Trails Rotary team received the traveling trophy for top team fundraising, followed by Team Chevy and CYPN Rotaract. Youth winners were Tiffany Nash, Justin Petrossi, Dina Betts and Jillian Beck.

The Hope Award, a new traveling trophy for the cancer survivor who raises the most funds, was earned by Scott Buckingham. The award was presented this year by Rod Kinskey of the Kinskey Foundation.

Other team awards were presented to Waste Connections for Team Spirit, High Country Orthotics & Prosthetics for Best Fundraising On-site Idea and Rocky Mountain Line Systems for Best Decorated Site.

The rain also cancelled the annual Survivors' lap around Harry Geldien Stadium on Friday evening, but about 200 survivors and caregivers enjoyed a dinner and reception before the rains came.

Although the luminaria were too soggy to light, names of those for whom they were purchased were read aloud after dark.

Next year's event with the theme Racing for Relay is set for Aug. 1-2, 2008.

For more information, call Jerre Jones at 234-8625.