Earlier this week sombrero clad grand master Michael Esposito lead the final training session, ahead of the annual Cancer Council relay which begins on Friday.

The Warrnambool-based social fitness group has entered a team of 20, and is headed to the Deakin University Oval for the sixth consecutive year.

Harriers' religious advisor Peter Cooper said the team was keen to get into southern American character.

"We're getting into the theme with the sombrero hats," he said.

"The hats are also good for sun awareness."

But underneath the novelty millinery, Mr Cooper said each team member had serious reasons for participating in the relay.

He said the event was embraced because of its hope of funding medical breakthroughs.

"You don't have to look to far to find a person who has a family member or friend who has suffered or lost the battle to cancer," Mr Cooper said.

"Everyone hopes for a cure, and certainly awareness. For most members in the team, the main reason we do it is because of a personal connection."

However, the Harrier's also have happy tales to share, as some team members are survivors of cancer.

Mr Cooper said the survivors would step onto the relay track first after the candlelight ceremony.

"The celebration is especially for people who have been given the all-clear or are in remission," he said.

"The candle-lit ceremony is very moving and humbling ? it's hard to put it in words."

The Harriers have organised a rough schedule for the relay, but Mr Cooper said the focus was primarily on support and "togetherness".

"In a serious world where there are a lot of bad things happening, it is good that you can be a support to people going through difficulties," he said.

"It brings the community together."