Sporting stars out in force to support Hurling For Cancer TJ Reid, Bernard Dunne, Danny Mullins, Rachael Blackmore, Shane Long and Ursula Jacob are just some of the sporting stars that will be taking part in the annual Hurling For Cancer Research game which takes place this year at Netwatch Cullen Park in Carlow on Monday August 18 at 7.30pm. TJ Reid has been involved in the charity game for the past decade, and it is an event that is close to his heart. “Obviously cancer affects all families across Ireland, it comes to everyone’s doorstep. In the past, I’ve had relations who’ve had cancer and some who have passed away,” said the Kilkenny All-Star hurler. The event uniquely brings hurling and sporting rivals together as teammates for one night only and fans get to mingle with their heroes on the pitch afterwards. “It’s become a very special day in the calendar, especially for the kids, but also because it creates so much awareness about cancer, especially among men,” Reid explained. “I’m always telling males, especially men over 40, to go and get their bloods done and get their prostate checked. It only takes 10 minutes at your doctor’s and those 10 minutes could potentially save your life. “The game’s obviously not competitive in one sense. It’s nice to just come out and express your skills and a great day to share a dressing room with past and present legends of the game and from other sports too. “Last year was the biggest year because we had the biggest names, players like (Limerick’s) Cian Lynch, Gearoid Hegarty, Tom Morrissey and some of the Clare lads. It’s getting harder now to get a spot,” he admitted with a grin. “You could have 15 great hurlers on the bench now, waiting for a game. It's a day you want to be on your toes because it's a day you could be easily embarrassed.” Centra will sponsor this year’s event and tickets, priced at €10 for adults and €5 for children, can be purchased at selected Centra and SuperValu GAA Ticket Agent stores or online at hurlingforcancer.ie Centra Director of Strategy & Business Planning, Des O’Mahony, said their involvement is a natural extension of their partnership with the Irish Cancer Society and 16-year sponsorship of the All-Ireland hurling championship. “At Centra, we’re delighted to stand alongside Hurling for Cancer Research in a partnership that reflects our deep-rooted commitment to local communities. “This initiative brings together two causes that reflect our values at Centra — the passion for hurling and the critical need to support life-saving cancer research. Teaming up for this powerful cause allows us to champion community spirit on the pitch while fuelling families across Ireland.” You can also get your very own Centra Hurling for Cancer Game Day Jersey from Cul Sliotars at culsliotars.ie/vintage-collection/ for just €50 with 10% going to Hurling for Cancer Research. All proceeds from ticket sales and donations will go directly towards funding life-saving cancer research.
