A team of nearly 200 runners will be hoping to turn Cardiff Bay green at the Brecon Carreg Cardiff Bay Run this weekend, in support of Wales’ Hospital of Hope.
Velindre Cancer Centre have become the Lead Charity of the popular 10K race, which is returning for the first time since before the COVID-19 pandemic on Sunday 26 September.
Velindre is the major provider of radiotherapy and other specialised anti-cancer treatments in Wales, with funds raised by the public used to fund things over and above those provided by the NHS. Fundraising from the event will help the hospital to continue to provide specialist cancer services to over 1.5 million people in South Wales and beyond.
Amongst the army of fundraisers taking part on behalf of Velindre, will be a 43 strong team of ‘Derek’s Dazzlers’ – an inspirational group of runners who have been training for over a year and half. They’ve battled all weathers, event postponements and pandemic uncertainty to prepare for the race, some whilst having cancer treatment.
They’ve been supported by BBC Wales weatherman Derek Brockway who is spearheading the group, which has aimed to motivate, train and support new runners, patients and fundraisers to dazzle their way around 10K of Cardiff Bay whilst raising vital funds.
R4W Chief Executive, Matt Newman commented: “We’re delighted that the Brecon Carreg Cardiff Bay Run is returning for the first time since the beginning of the pandemic. It will kick off the return of Run 4 Wales races, with the Cardiff University Cardiff Half Marathon our last event to take place in October 2019.’
‘The pandemic has been tough on the mass participation events industry and charity sector, but nowhere near as difficult as for those living with cancer. We hope those running for Velindre have a fantastic day fundraising in support of Velindre’.
Andrew Morris, Head of Fundraising at Velindre said: “We are absolutely delighted to be the Lead Charity at the Cardiff Bay Run. The support of our fundraisers is vital so we can continue to provide exceptional care and support to cancer patients and their families.’
The race will be the largest mass participation event to take place in Wales since before the pandemic but there will be some noticeable changes. It will be delivered as a ‘Breathable Event’ – providing a great event day experience and atmosphere with a focus on responsibility and safety. A number of measures will be in place to help keep everyone safe.
The 10K race will get underway from 10:00am on Sunday 26 September, starting on Lloyd George Avenue. The route takes in all of Cardiff Bay’s most iconic landmarks including the Wales Millennium Centre, Mermaid Quay, Pierhead Building, Senedd, Porth Teigr and the Cardiff Bay Barrage before finishing in the Roald Dahl Plass. A 2K Family Fun Run will take place at 1:00pm, starting on Lloyd George Avenue and finishing in the Roald Dahl Plass.
If you’re taking part, you’ll find loads of pre-race information at https://cardiffbay10K.co.uk/event-information/
