Centra has joined forces with Hurling for Cancer Research to raise vital funds for the Irish Cancer Society. The annual charity match returns on Monday, August 18th at 7:30pm in Netwatch Cullen Park, Carlow, bringing together stars from hurling and beyond for one evening in support of one great cause.

The exhibition match, which has raised over €1.6 million since it began, sees hurling rivals and sporting legends set aside competition to support a cause that touches every community in Ireland.

Among the driving forces behind the event is Kilkenny icon TJ Reid, who has once again put his name and influence behind the cause — even as he prepares for an All-Ireland semi-final.

“Cancer affects every family,” Reid said. “I’ve had relations who’ve suffered and some who’ve passed away. This is about creating awareness, especially for men. I’m always encouraging lads over 40 to go and get their bloods and prostate checked. Ten minutes at the doctor could save your life.”

Reid has played a central role in elevating the game’s profile, recruiting top talent and helping to pack the stands year after year. Last year’s edition saw Limerick’s Cian Lynch, Gearoid Hegarty, and Tom Morrissey among the standout names.

“It’s a special day,” Reid said. “There’s great fun, great skill, and you never know who you’ll be sharing a dressing room with.”

The match continues to draw support from all corners of Irish sport and entertainment, with boxer Bernard Dunne, footballers Shane Long and Stephen Hunt, camogie star Ursula Jacob, and jockeys Rachael Blackmore and Danny Mullins all regular attendees.

Mullins, who hails from one of Ireland’s most famous racing families, highlighted the appeal of the Carlow venue. “It’s great to have something like this on our doorstep. You don’t need to go to Dublin or Cork — it’s a short spin from places like Kilkenny, Kildare or Wicklow. It’s a really fun evening, but for a cause that affects us all.”

The event was originally founded 14 years ago by racing trainer Jim Bolger and jockey Davy Russell, with the mission of blending sport and community spirit to support cancer research.

This year’s new partnership with Centra strengthens that mission. “At Centra, we’re delighted to stand alongside Hurling for Cancer Research,” said Des O’Mahony, Director of Strategy & Business Planning.

“This initiative reflects our deep commitment to local communities. It brings together the passion of hurling and the critical need for cancer research — two causes that go right to the heart of what we do.”

Tickets are priced at €10 for adults and €5 for children, and are available from selected Centra and SuperValu GAA ticket agent stores or online at www.hurlingforcancer.ie.

Fans can also purchase a special edition Centra Game Day Jersey from Cul Sliotars for €50, with 10% of all sales going directly to the cause.

All proceeds from ticket sales and donations will support the Irish Cancer Society’s life-saving research.

 

Sport for Business Events

 

 

Find out More about Our Sport for Business Events Programme Here

 

The Latest Sport for Business Podcasts

 

Further Reading for Sport for Business members:

Check out more of our Sport for Business coverage of sporting charity

 

WHAT’S UP NEXT?

Sport for Business is in planning for major events bringing together leaders in Irish Sport and Business across a range of subjects in the second half of the year.

On Thursday, August 29th we will host a special event looking at Future Proofing Irish Sport including the use of AI in sport.

Find out More about Our Sport for Business Events Programme Here

MEMBERSHIP AND EVENTS

The GAA, as well as all the leading sporting and business organisations in and around the world of sport are among the 300+ members of the Sport for Business community.

This includes all of the leading sports and sponsors, as well as commercial and state agencies, individuals interested in our world, and an increasing number from beyond these shores taking a keen interest in Ireland.  

Find out more about becoming a member today.

Get the full benefit of a Sport for Business membership by joining us at one of our upcoming events, where sporting and business leadership come together.

Or sign up for our twice-daily bulletins to get a flavour of the material we cover.

Sign up for our News Bulletins here.