Women set for race against cancer

On your marks, get set, go! It's time to get your running shoes and prepare for the inspirational Race for Life.

Thousands of women from across the Black Country and West Midlands are being urged to take part in Cancer Research UK's 2008 fundraiser.

Registration is now open and the race organisers hope that up to 15,0000 women will put their best foot forward in six races in Wolverhampton, Sandwell and Stafford to race money for the cancer charity.

The popular annual events, which allow women to run, jog or walk a 5km route, return to the region in June and July.

Last year's races were hugely successful with women of all ages and abilities turning out.

Many women who take part do so for a personal reason; some are cancer survivors while others take part in memory of or to celebrate the lives of loved ones affected by cancer.

Wolverhampton will host two races in West Park on June 18 and 19. Both start at 7pm.

Sandwell Valley Country Park hosts races on June 8 at 11am and 2pm, while the Shugborough Estate, near Stafford, hosts events on July 8 and 9, both starting at 7.30pm.

Organisers hope to attract a total of 15,0000 women to the six races and raise more than £800,000.

Allison Nolan, area event manager for Race for Life, said: "We hope this is an invitation women can't refuse. At Race for Life there are thousands of women of all ages and abilities, shapes and sizes who will motivate and inspire each other to complete the 5k course.

"Many simply walk round, chatting and having fun, but all share and enjoy the incredible sisterhood and spirit on the day."

The regional participants will be part of a total of 750,000 women from across the UK, taking part in more than 260 events.

To enter Race for Life 2008 or for more information, visit the race website www.raceforlife.org/centralwest or call the hotline on 0871 641 2273.

By Maria Cusine.