Doing it for dad

There will be an extra dash of colour across the city this weekend with the return of the annual Irish Cancer Society Colour Dash.

A fun-filled 5km race at Páirc Uí Chaoimh, participants are doused from head to toe in powder paint at each kilometre, each representing a different type of cancer and cancer survivorship.

Conor O’Leary is one of hundreds signed up to the fun run in honour of his dad Jim who is fighting cancer. Conor from Grange said: “My main motivation for running the 5k is my dad Jim who’s currently battling cancer. He was diagnosed nearly one year ago and is still fighting it, he is my main inspiration! I’ve been running and playing sports for most of my life because of his support for me so I feel as if this is the least I could do in return for my dad! I also know many others close to me who have had similar experiences with loved ones fighting cancer so I want to help anyone I can by taking part in the Colour Dash. The Irish Cancer Society are doing great work and need all the support they can get to help cancer patients.”

The Irish Cancer Society relies almost entirely on public donations to fund cancer research and free services to support people affected by cancer. With cancer incidence on the rise, the society is experiencing increased demand for its services so donations are crucial.

Aldi announced that it is extending its sponsorship of Colour Dash until 2020 and local staff in Cork are looking forward to the fun filled event this year. Local store manager Karl Browning, from Aldi at the Elysian said: “This is a wonderful event for a cause that is close to the hearts of our customers and staff as everyone has been touched by cancer in some way. Get your ticket and help raise crucial funds to support cancer patients and their loved ones.” The Colour Dash takes place on 16 June at Páirc Uí Chaoimh. Sign up at cancer.ie/colourdash, registration is €30 per person, and €5 for kids under 12.