Taking It Off for Charity: Cupid’s Undie Run (photos)

A steady downpour and chilly temperatures did not deter hundreds from stripping down for charity for the ninth annual Cupid’s Undie Run in Washington, D.C., on Saturday, Feb. 10.

The event, which started in the District in 2010 and takes place around Valentine’s Day, has expanded to 30 cities across the U.S. and another 17 in Australia. Proceeds support the Children’s Tumor Foundation’s fight against neurofibromatosis, also known as NF, a rough cancer that affects the nervous systems of small children. The genetic disease can cause blindness, deafness, learning disabilities and severe chronic pain.

Before and after the race, runners were able to loosen up at the Park at 14th nightclub and restaurant near Franklin Square.

Brendan Hanrahan, Bobby Gill and Chad Leathers came up with the idea for the run, which was first held on Capitol Hill. Leathers’s brother Drew was affected by NF, and the founders wanted to do something to raise money for research on the disorder. They expected about 100 racers that first year, but more than 600 showed up, raising $10,000. In 2012, Cupid’s Charity became a recognized 501(c)(3) nonprofit and since its inception has raised over $14,500,000. Hanrahan, Chad Bartlett and Ashley Casper were on hand to direct the 2018 event.

Those interested in learning more about and donating to the Children’s Tumor Foundation should click here.

View Jeff Malet’s photos from the 2018 Cupid’s Undie Run in D.C. by clicking on the photo icons below.

tagsBobby GillBrendan HanrahanChad BartlettChad LeathersCupid's Undie RunneurofibromatosisNF