After a two-year break, top jockeys, GAA, sporting and TV stars from around the country will line out again this evening for the tenth renewal of Hurling for Cancer Research at St Conleth’s Park, Newbridge, County Kildare.
It will see the return, albeit for one night only, of Brian Cody to the sideline, alongside fellow manager Liam Griffin.
Kilkenny’s TJ Reid, Richie Hogan and Tommy Walsh, Limerick brothers Tom and Dan Morrissey as well as Kyle Hayes, Wexford’s Damien Fitzhenry and Lee Chin, Cork’s Ashling Thompson and her partner, Limerick’s Darragh O’Donovan and Clare’s Peter Duggan and Ryan Taylor will be among the hurling and camogie stars taking part.
Also joining the teams will be former Republic of Ireland midfielder Stephen Hunt and comedy duo, The 2 Johnnies.
Champion jockey Davy Russell will be joined by some of his racing colleagues such as Rachael Blackmore, Ruby Walsh, Colin Keane, Paul Townend, Shane Foley, Danny Mullins, Kevin Manning, Gordon Elliott, Jack Kennedy, Ger Lyons, Jamie Codd and former Kildare footballer turned racehorse trainer Willie McCreery.
To date the event has raised €1,000,000 to fund the Irish Cancer Society’s innovative cancer research projects.
“After a two-year break, it’s great to have Hurling for Cancer Research back at St Conleth’s Park in Newbridge,” said Jim Bolger, one of the main drivers of the event.
“It is a special night with a brilliant atmosphere and the players give it their all. There will be a lot of All-Ireland winners and All-Stars on the pitch, so we are in for an excellent game of hurling, for a cause that has, unfortunately, touched lots of families around Ireland.”
“I can’t wait for Hurling for Cancer Research on August 16. We will have a lot more hurlers available for selection, including All Ireland winners from this year,” added Jockey Davy Russell who has also been heavily involved in the organisation of the night.
“This could be the most competitive game yet in our 10-year history and reputations will certainly be on the line. I am working hard with my selectors to try to get one over on Jim Bolger’s team.”
“I’d encourage as many people and families to come along on the night. There is great pre-match entertainment lined up and everyone will have an opportunity to meet all the players after the game for autographs and selfies. Every penny raised will go to the Irish Cancer Society, a charity very close to my heart.”
“After spending a morning with jockey Shane Foley, I now know how competitive the racing fraternity are, so not an inch will be given the Hurling for Cancer Research match,” said Richie Hogan.
“It’s going to be a very unique game of hurling with so many hurlers and sports stars taking part so I’m really looking forward to togging out on Tuesday, August 16.”
Tickets costing €10 for adults and €15 for families are on sale at www.HurlingForCancer.ie. Tickets will also be on sale at the gate.
