Team sets €100k target for cancer research

An ambitious target of €100,000 is being set for supporters of an annual cancer research fundraiser.

The three-day Kerry Way Walk in aid of the Cork Cancer Research Centre has generated in excess of €500,000 over the past five years.

The three-day event is backed by Cork-based adventurer Pat Falvey and Kerry football legend Pat Spillane.

Breakthrough Cancer Research is dedicated to fundraising to help find treatments for cancers that have poor survival rates.

The guided walks take place over the weekend of July 20-22 and encompass 71km of terrain.

The trails include Molls Gap to Kenmare via Templenoe (22km), Kate Kearney’s Cottage to Kenmare via Black Valley and Galway’s Bridge (28km), and Cloonee Lake to Kenmare via Lough Inchiquin (20km).

“They promise to be a challenging and truly memorable experience for all, regardless of levels of fitness,” said Bláithín Kiernan, one of the organisers.

Mr Falvey, who has conquered some of the world’s greatest peaks, said: “We hope to see a great turnout at this event. Cancer affects so many people, through their own journey or through someone they know.

“Taking on cancer is a daunting challenge which requires focus and determination, elements which are also needed for facing other challenges in life such as climbing Mt Everest or walking to the North or South Pole.

“However the greatest challenges cannot be achieved alone — it is the team supporting you that will help you get through.”

Mr Spillane said: “There are still too many people affected by cancer, including personal friends and family. The research this walk supports is the kind of cutting edge research that will change that.”

* To support the Kerry Way Walk or Breakthrough Cancer Research, call 1890 998 998, visit www.kerrywaycancerwalk.ie or see their Facebook page.