Cool FM’s Gareth Stewart launches Ards Half Marathon and Walk

Cool FM presenter, Gareth Stewart, pulled on his running shoes to officially launch the 2012 Ards Half Marathon and Walk.  

The event, organised by Ards Borough Council, takes place on Friday 29th June and the nominated charity for this year is the Ulster Cancer Foundation.

Now in its fifth year, the race is expected to attract more than 1,000 runners and walkers, according to Mayor of Ards, Councillor Mervyn Oswald, “The Half Marathon and Walk have grown in popularity each year and, judging by the level of interest we’ve already had in the 2012 race, we expect to have even more entrants this time round. Many use the event to raise money for good causes, and I’m delighted that our nominated charity this year is the Ulster Cancer Foundation. I’d encourage anyone participating to consider showing their support for the Foundation’s vital work by logging onto to our web site at www.ardshalfmarathon.info and downloading a sponsorship form”.

Speaking at the launch Gareth Stewart said, “I ran the Ards Half Marathona couple of years ago and I really enjoyed it so I was thrilled to be asked to take part again this year.  You can run, jog or walk - whatever feels comfortable.  Knowing that I’ll be doing the run on 29th June has really motivated me to start training again and get fit.

“I’m also very proud to be raising money for the nominated charity – the Ulster Cancer Foundation.  Like most people inNorthern IrelandI have been touched by cancer so the cause is very close to my heart.  My uncle died from the disease and three years ago my Dad was diagnosed with lymphoma.

“It was a huge shock to us all as Dad had always been so fit.  Before he was diagnosed with cancer he would have been out running 15 miles a day in theMourneMountains, even when he was 60!  Thankfully, after undergoing very intense treatment, he is now doing well.  He is my inspiration and motivation for getting involved in this year’s event.

“I would like to encourage all participants in the Ards Half Marathon and Walk to go the extra mile and raise as much money as they can for the Ulster Cancer Foundation.  Get your friends and family to sponsor you and together, we can help support cancer patients and their families in Northern Ireland.”

Joyce Savage, Head of Appeals & Marketing, Ulster Cancer Foundation said, “We are delighted to be chosen as the nominated charity for the Ards Half Marathon and Walk.  The Ulster Cancer Foundation is Northern Ireland’s leading local cancer charity and we’re dedicated to helping patients and their families inNorthern Ireland cope with cancer. 

“We provide a range of services from counselling to family support, art therapy to walking groups which are all provided free of charge for patients and their families.  Our work is only possible due to the generosity of local people who raise almost all the £4m needed annually to provide our services. 

“We have a team of fundraisers who are able to advise and help all those raising sponsorship and we thank you in advance for all your support.”

The top ten competitors receive prizes, including £400 for 1st place, £250 for 2nd and £200 for 3rd.  There will also be prizes for the oldest and youngest competitor. All participants receive a medal and a T-shirt.

For further information on the Ards Half Marathon& Walk log on to www.ardshalfmarathon.info.