Olympic champs back Cancer Focus's marathon challenge

Cancer Focus has been chosen as the official charity for the Deep RiverRock Belfast City Marathon which will be held on May 6 2013. The Chambers brothers visited Belfast City Hall to launch the marathon and support Cancer Focus Northern Ireland, the new name for the Ulster Cancer Foundation.

The brothers urged marathon runners, wheelchair participants, relay teams, fun runners and walkers to help raise funds for Cancer Focus's Men's Health Campaign by signing up early. Radio presenter John Daly was also there to lend his support along with Peter McAlinden and Carol Annesley, who have both had cancer and are both taking part in the event.

Joyce Savage, Head of Appeals and Marketing, Cancer Focus, said, “We are absolutely delighted to have been selected as the new charity partner for the Deep RiverRock Belfast City Marathon 2013 and are so pleased that Richard and Peter have agreed to support us. 

 “Focusing on men’s health is an extremely important part of our charity’s work. Cancer is one of the biggest killers of men in Northern Ireland, yet our research shows that they know less about the disease than women and are less likely to seek advice if they have any warning signs or symptoms.

“Every year 5,794 local men are diagnosed with cancer – that is 22 men every working day – or two football teams inside 24 hours! These men are our dads, brothers, husbands, sons and friends. Sadly, 2,000 of them die each year,” she said.

“Our focus is on raising awareness and reducing men’s risk of developing cancer later in life.

“You can help us do that. Whether you walk it or run it, whether you participate or sponsor someone, your help and support are invaluable. Please sign up today for your man - and every man.”

Danny O’Connor, Chairman of Deep RiverRock Belfast City Marathon, said, “We are delighted to welcome Cancer Focus Northern  Ireland as the Official Nominated Charity for the 2013 event.

 “It is an exciting year for us both with lots of new and exciting plans so we urge everyone to put their running shoes on now, and start fundraising Cancer Focus Northern Ireland.”

For more information about Cancer Focus please call 028 9066 3281or click on www.cancerfocusni.org. For information about the marathon email belfastmarathon@cancerfocusni.org

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 For further information please contact:

Pauline Wylie, PR & Events Manager, Cancer Focus, on

028 9066 3281 / 07810 371118

or Marie Foy, PR & Events Officer, Cancer Focus, on

028 9066 3281 / 07736 358692