Conor's doing the dash for his dad!

A Corkman will be dashing to the finish line in a colourful run in honour of his dad who is battling cancer. 

Conor O’Leary is one of hundreds signed up to take on the Irish Cancer Society’s Colour Dash and will be completing the fun run in honour of his dad Jim who is fighting cancer.

Conor from Grange in Douglas 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 so I’m delighted to be taking part.”

Colour Dash is a fun filled 5km suitable for all ages and abilities. As ‘dashers’ run, jog and walk the course, at each kilometre, they are doused from head to toe in a different colour of powder paint, representing a different type of cancer and cancer survivorship.

The Irish Cancer Society relies almost entirely on public donations to fund lifesaving 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 to ensure it can reach those in need.

The Colour Dash takes place on Sunday 16 June in Pairc Uí Chaoimh and tickets are on sale now at cancer.ie/colourdash. Registration is €30 per person, and €5 for children under 12.