Thousands gather Sunday at Milwaukee's lakefront for Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure

Thousands gathered at Milwaukee's lakefront Sunday morning, defying unusually hot late-September weather to help raise money in the fight against breast cancer.

More than 7,000 people registered for the 19th annual Southeast Wisconsin Race for the Cure, according to the organization Susan G. Komen Wisconsin. In all, more than 10,000 people, including volunteers, exhibitors and participants, were on the race grounds at the Milwaukee Art Museum.

To cope with the heat, volunteers on golf carts went along the race route handing out cold water to runners and walkers, the organization said.

“We were humbled by all the support we received from volunteers, presenting sponsor Kohl’s and other area businesses, and all those who participated in the race,” said Nikki Panico, Komen Wisconsin executive director. “We honored many breast cancer survivors, remembered those lost to the disease and raised funds to help those in Wisconsin who are affected by breast cancer. It was an amazing day.”

The total amount raised by the race won't be known until the fundraising period concludes at the end of October.