Makita goes pink to support breast cancer

Makita, a worldwide manufacturer of technologically advanced power tools that are more compact with less weight yet deliver industrial strength power and results, donned pink at Saturday’s Supercross race at Angel Stadium in Anaheim, CA, in support for the battle against breast cancer.

Makita, the Official and Exclusive Power Tool of Supercross for 2011 and a primary sponsor of the Rockstar Makita Suzuki Team, decorated their 53’ Experience More with pink in honor of the second annual “Supercross Goes Pink” race event in support of finding a cure for breast cancer.

Rockstar Makita Suzuki team riders Ryan Dungey and Brett Metcalfe also donned pink gear during their races. In addition, volunteers from Susan G. Komen for the Cure were with Makita in the open pits area before the race to hand out literature and increase breast cancer awareness as part of the foundation’s effort to fight the disease.

Supercross fans waiting in line to meet team riders Ryan Dungey and Brett Metcalfe – or to try out demonstrations of Makita’s latest power tool solutions – were also greeted by Susan G. Komen for the Cure volunteers providing information and resources on breast cancer, including guidelines for self-exams.

“The Supercross fans have been great. They have been curious and generous, and people are thanking us for being here supporting the cause,” said Vernelle Blackwell, a volunteer with the Susan G. Komen for the Cure. “Makita has been extremely helpful. The first thing you notice from a distance are the pink ribbons, balloons, and banners on the Makita rig. I think it’s awesome that a tool company would take interest in this cause.”

For Makita, the “Supercross Goes Pink” event was an opportunity to get involved not only on the race track, but also in the open pits area where thousands of race fans converge several hours before the race.

“Rockstar Makita Suzuki Team Riders Ryan Dungey and Brett Metcalfe are wearing pink, and they are champions for using their status to promote this cause,” said Wayne Hart, Communications Manager, Makita USA. “But as a company, we wanted to do something more to support the efforts of Susan G. Komen for the Cure. We are happy to provide a platform to get in front of race fans and increase awareness, because the survivors and the volunteers who are fighting this disease are the true champions.”

Saturday was the second annual PINK themed race in support of finding a cure for breast cancer. The PINK Supercross race will help fund the Susan G. Komen 3-Day for the Cure 60-mile walk. For more information on Susan G. Komen for the Cure, go to www.komen.org.