The Pendleton Round-Up’s Tough Enough To Wear Pink (TETWP) campaign commemorates its 19th anniversary on September 11, 2024. This annual event encourages rodeo contestants and fans to wear pink in a unified effort to promote breast cancer awareness, honoring patients and survivors throughout Eastern Oregon.
Since its inception in 2007, TETWP has donated 100% of its proceeds to local initiatives that support breast cancer patients and survivors. Historically, funds were allocated to three organizations: CHI St. Anthony Hospital’s Cancer Clinic, Kickin’ Cancer New Beginnings, and the Eastern Oregon Cancer Network. Following the closure of the Eastern Oregon Cancer Network, which was the region’s only outpatient radiation therapy center, TETWP now directs its financial support solely to the hospital clinic and Kickin’ Cancer New Beginnings.
CHI St. Anthony Hospital’s Cancer Clinic provides an array of resources, including breast prosthetics, post-operative camisoles, wigs, and financial assistance. Meanwhile, Kickin’ Cancer New Beginnings offers services such as free massage therapy, personal training, and Pilates classes tailored for recovering patients. In 2024, TETWP raised an impressive $50,000, a record-breaking amount aimed at bolstering local support for those affected by breast cancer.
Celebrating Survivors and Community Support
This year, the arena tribute will highlight the bravery of local cancer survivors, as stated in a press release from TETWP. A video presentation will precede a poignant “Survivor Walk,” where survivors of all cancer types will join the Round-Up Court and Happy Canyon princesses in a procession across the arena, following the first Indian Relay Race. Participants are encouraged to gather in the south tunnel near sections J-K-L prior to the race.
TETWP has established bright pink tents on the Round-Up Grounds, where attendees can purchase commemorative merchandise, including a 2025 pin and T-shirt featuring the TETWP logo transitioning into an American flag, reflective of the day’s date. Proceeds from these sales will directly benefit TETWP’s beneficiary organizations. Additionally, raffle tickets will be available for items like a custom cowboy hat from Pendleton Hat Co., jewelry from Montana Silversmiths, and a custom mirror from Pendleton Whisky. Winners will be announced towards the end of the rodeo on September 11. Visitors will also receive free pink beads at the entrance, making it easy for everyone to display their support. Fans are encouraged to share their experiences on social media using the hashtag #leterbucktetwp.
Co-chair of the Round-Up’s TETWP campaign, Casey White-Zollman, emphasized the event’s significance for survivors and their families. “Nineteen years ago, our community embraced TETWP and it has only grown stronger,” she stated. “When the grandstands light up with pink, it shows survivors they’re not alone — that this entire rodeo family is behind them.”
Fellow co-chair Jill Gregg highlighted the crucial contributions of local sponsors and partners in sustaining the campaign’s success year after year. “This effort works because of the incredible support we receive from businesses, sponsors, and retailers throughout Pendleton,” Gregg remarked. “From selling pins to the Survivor Walk in the arena, our community makes sure TETWP has a lasting impact.”
The ongoing commitment of Pendleton’s community to the Tough Enough To Wear Pink campaign underscores the importance of solidarity in the fight against breast cancer, providing hope and resources to those affected in the region.