Huge fundraiser enourages Scots of all abilities to raise vital cash for cancer research
Scots are being offered half price entry to one of country’s biggest fundraisers if they sign up this month.
Cancer Research UK’s Race for Life has become vital in raising funds to help beat cancer and, as such, is one of the nation’s most popular mass participation events.
Race for Life events are open to all ages and abilities with 3k, 5k and 10k events to choose from.
There is also a chance to take part in Pretty Muddy, a 5k mud-splattered obstacle course as well as a Pretty Muddy Kids option.
Scotland’s first Race for Life events of the year kick off in Stirling and South Queensferry on Sunday May 5, closely followed this spring with events everywhere from Edinburgh to Aberdeen, Falkirk to Fife. Scotland’s biggest Race for Life is on Sunday May 19 at Glasgow Green.
Entrants can use the code RACE24NY to recieve the early bird discount.
Lisa Adams, Cancer Research UK’s spokeswoman in Scotland, said: “No matter how cancer affects us, life is worth racing for.
“Sadly nearly one in two of us will get cancer in our lifetime but Race for Life has the power not only to transform lives, but to save them. We’re proud that Race for Life has already helped double survival rates in the UK.
“We’d love for as many people as possible across Scotland to join us at Race for Life. There is a race for everyone and we mean everyone. Walk, jog, run or take on the course however it suits best. It’s a chance to feel the power of moving together with fellow Race for Lifers and have fun with it.
“January is the perfect time to commit to getting a little more active. Whether people are living with cancer, taking part in honour of or in memory of a loved one with cancer, in it for the medals or just for the fun of fundraising, there is a place for everyone.”
Since it began in 1994, more than 10 million people have taken part in Race for Life, funding 30 years of hope and progress.
Money raised has helped develop radiotherapy which benefits more than 130,000 people with cancer in the UK every year.
Cancer Research UK funded scientists led the development of the Human Papillomavirus Virus vaccine, which is expected to prevent almost 90% of cervical cancers in the UK.
The charity also funded many large clinical trials looking at the effectiveness of the drug tamoxifen and the research shaped the way the drug is used to treat breast cancer today.
Andy Curran, chief executive of Standard Life, the headline sponsor of the event, said: “We are incredibly proud to continue as headline sponsor for Cancer Research UK’s Race for Life, with the opportunity to encourage participation across the country.
“By working to raise funds for life-saving research, we can move towards a future where people live longer and healthier lives, free from the fear of cancer.”
