Run it for yer man

The 2013 marathon will take place on the May Bank Holiday, 6th May, and work has already started behind the scenes to make the popular sporting event even bigger and better than before.

Cancer Focus Northern Ireland, the new name for the Ulster Cancer Foundation, is urging marathon runners, wheelchair participants, relay teams, fun runners and walkers to show their support for Cancer Focus, sign up early and start training.

All the sponsorship money raised from the prestigious flagship event stays in Northern Ireland and will go towards the charity’s Men’s Health Campaign. 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.

“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