PICTURES: Race for Life enjoys good weather for its annual 5k raising cash for Cancer Research UK that aims to ‘not only to transform lives, but to save them’
The weather stayed kind for the Race for Life 5k earlier today as the run got underway in Inverness as hundreds of participants sought to raise money for Cancer Research UK.
Clearly, the motivation could scarcely be more serious but the hallmark of the actual event is fun with many sporting brightly coloured running gear to complete two circuits of the route.
Money raised by Race for Life has helped develop radiotherapy which benefits more than 130,000 people with cancer in the UK every year.
Cancer Research UK-funded scientists led the development of the Human Papillomavirus Virus vaccine, which is expected to prevent almost 90 per cent of cervical cancers in the UK.
The charity also funded many large clinical trials looking at the effectiveness of the drug tamoxifen and the research shaped the way the drug is used to treat breast cancer today.
According to the charity Race for Life events which take place across the country are open to all ages and abilities.
The first Race for Life events of the year kicked-off in Stirling and South Queensferry on May 5, followed this spring with events everywhere from Edinburgh to Dundee, Falkirk to Fife, Inverness to Irvine.
Since it began in 1994, more than 10 million people have taken part in Race for Life, funding 30 years of hope and progress, raising £33 million in 2023 alone with some small but significant changes.
It is returning with a shift in attitude this year as it is determined to shine light on the life-saving research that Race for Life has funded and issuing a rallying cry for people to sign up to support the scientific breakthroughs of tomorrow.
Lisa Adams, Cancer Research UK’s spokeswoman in Scotland, said: “No matter how cancer affects us, life is worth racing for. Sadly nearly 1 in 2 of us will get cancer in our lifetime.
“Race for Life has the power not only to transform lives, but to save them. We’re proud that Race for Life has already helped double survival rates in the UK.
“We’d love for as many people as possible across Scotland to join us at Race for Life. There is an event for everyone and we mean everyone. Walk, jog, run or take on the course however it suits best. It’s a chance to feel the power of moving together with fellow Race for Lifers and to treasure that moment of crossing the finish line.
“Whether people are living with cancer, are taking part in honour of or in memory of a loved one with the disease, or are in it for the medals or just for the fun of fundraising, there is a place for everyone.”
