After losing her husband to cancer, Bow resident Sue Robinson decided to get involved with the Ocean National Rock ’N Race, which raises money to support Concord Hospital’s Payson Center for Cancer Care.

Her husband, Brian, was an avid runner and was frequently seen running in Concord. He died in December 2002, and Robinson started a team in her husband’s memory for the first Rock ’N Race in 2003. The team, named “Friends of Brian Robinson,” started with about 70 members and has grown to more th an 150 members.

“The event seemed like the perfect way to remember him and honor his memory as he was always a great runner and many people remember him in his perfect stride running down the streets of Concord,” said Robinson.

This year’s Rock ’N Race, a 5-kilometer run/walk, will take place Wednesday, May 16, at 6 p.m., on the State House lawn. Ten bands will perform along the route.

“The Rock ’N Race provides an activity in which my children can also participate and feel their father’s presence in those gathered around us,” said Robinson. “By participating in the Rock ’N Race, we raise money, hope and awareness about cancer and its effect on each and every one of us.”

Robinson and Barbara Meighan serve as the co-captains for “Friends of Brian Robinson.”

Meighan worked with Brian Robinson at Jefferson-Pilot Financial (now known as Lincoln Financial Group). Meighan recruits fellow employees and friends, and Robinson gathers friends, family, neighbors and co-workers. In 2006, “Friends of Brian Robinson” was the top fundraising team, raising more than $10,000. The team has also received recognition for having the largest number of team members.

“This is with many thanks to Barbara Meighan and her colleagues and Jefferson Pilot Financial as they have provided matching funds for the past four years,” said Robinson.

This year, Robinson said she would like to continue the tradition of being the largest team and the largest fundraising team.