Thousands of people from all over Pasco County are expected to converge on The Shops at Wiregrass on Saturday to lend their support to the American Cancer Society’s Making Strides Against Breast Cancer event.

“We are very excited about the potential of walkers and teams that will participate,” said Robyn Liska, the unit executive director for the American Cancer Society in Pasco. “We have exceeded our goals.”

There are 160 teams of participants already signed up for the Oct. 22 event, Liska said, adding that there’s still time to get involved. Last year, Making Strides drew 103 teams with more than 2,000 participants each helping to raise money in the battle against breast cancer.

“We are looking forward to a very large turnout this year,” Liska said. She estimates about 3,000 people should be involved this year.

In 2010, more than 100,000 walkers across Florida raised $6 million for the American Cancer Society. The Making Strides Against Breast Cancer walks take place across the country, with volunteers and walkers joining efforts to raise money for research and early screening programs, as well as support services for cancer patients such as transportation and lodging during treatments.

The Pasco "Put On Your Pink Bra"-themed walk is sponsored by Hyundai and Mazda of Wesley Chapel.

Earlier this week, Pasco County Commissioners issued a proclamation recognizing the walk and its supporters. The county’s involvement doesn’t stop there either.

Pasco County Clerk and Comptroller Paula O'Neil is at the helm of the event, serving as the chairwoman for a second consecutive year.

While Liska anticipates a record-breaking turnout for Pasco, she said more supporters are welcome to take part.

“We take registration of participants and teams right up to the day of the walk,” she said.

The walk begins at 9 a.m. at The Shops at Wiregrass. On-site registration begins at 8 a.m. Walkers also can pre-register on the event website.