Irish Cancer Society appeals to runners to go the distance and give cancer research a run for its money

Irish Cancer Society nominated official charity partner for the 2012 Dingle marathon

The fourth Dingle Marathon will take place on Saturday September 1, 2012. The organisers are proud to announce their official charity partner; The Irish Cancer Society. At the announcement; The Irish Cancer Society`s National Campaigns Manager Cliona Hegarty said, “The cancer challenge in Ireland is an enormous one. One in three of us will develop cancer during the course of our lifetime and this year alone it is estimated that 30,000 people will develop cancer.” She highlighted the Irish Cancer Society`s reliance on the public`s goodwill and support to fundraise for the Society`s cancer researchers across the country. “We’re appealing to people all over the country to run the Dingle marathon in support of important work in cancer research,” she stated, adding: Participants will be supported every step of the way by the Irish Cancer Society`s Run4Life programme.” Runners and walkers who register for any of the three spectacular events on the day are encouraged to raise funds for this notable organisation. Simply click the box for the free fundraising pack on the registration page of www.dinglemarathon.ie. The Dingle Marathon is becoming a favourite with marathon runners both nationwide and internationally. There are 3000 participants expected to take part in this year’s events with over 400 overseas entrants. The 13 mile half marathon is popular with both runners and walkers. The 26 mile marathon is attracting first time and veteran runners. The 50 mile ultra marathon attracts international attention. It is already considered the toughest race in Ireland.The course will lead you around the Dingle peninsula through picturesque villages and incorporates 17 miles of coast road. The spectacular scenery of one of Ireland’s most beautiful landscapes will enhance the pleasure of your Dingle Marathon experience. “We were absolutely thrilled when the Irish Cancer Society accepted our offer to become the official charity partner this year.” Ken Dunne of the Dingle Marathon explained. “Their Run4Life programme with former Olympian, Marie Murphy, is something we admire and we are a natural compliment to this.” He added; “Over 30,000 people are diagnosed with cancer annually and research shows that taking regular exercise reduces the risk of developing cancer. It’s important that people get active and fit and any of the Dingle Marathon’s three events is an attainable goal to achieve.” He said. In 2011, the Society invested a significant sum of more than €3.1 million in cancer research, making the Society the largest voluntary funder of cancer research in Ireland. This funding is in addition to the €26.3 million the Society has contributed to cancer research since 1963. The Society is also committed to the next generation of cancer researchers in Ireland. Each year, the Irish Cancer Society hosts a Research Awards Ceremony that recognises and awards new funding to scientists, doctors and other researchers who will lead the way in cancer research in Ireland in the future. Their research spans all cancer types and is contributing to the worldwide knowledge of cancer.  The Irish Cancer Society is committed to improving the lives of those affected by prostate cancer by supporting world class research and survivorship programmes.   We all know someone who has had cancer. When registering for the Dingle Marathon please check the box to receive the free fundraising pack from the Irish Cancer Society. Your health will improve as you train for your chosen event. Your sense of achievement and personal reward in completing the Dingle Marathon will appreciate in value: because you know your fundraising efforts will impact positively on someone who needs immense support as they battle cancer.  For further information on the Run4Life marathon programme CallSave 1850 60 60 60 or email fundraising@irishcancer.ie. Sign up today and get a special runner marathon pack which includes advice and tips on training programmes from former Irish Olympian Marie Murphy. See www.dinglemarathon.ie/charities for more information.