If watching the stunning displays of athleticism in the Olympics inspired you to become more physically active, then why not consider becoming part of Team ICR? You could take part in one or more of our exciting sporting challenges — either here in the UK or around the world. Why not apply for a place in a marathon next spring if you are already a keen runner; or, if you enjoy cycling, there’s the London to Paris Cycle Ride next summer.
If you are feeling creative, how about something a bit different? We welcome those who would like to create their own fundraising challenge. You could create your own route for a run or bike ride.
In the last five years alone, 574 people have taken part in our sporting events to help us fulfil our mission to ‘make the discoveries that defeat cancer’.
We are a global leader in cancer research, and one of the most influential organisations in our field. In our laboratories in London and Sutton, we have discovered more cancer drug candidates than any other academic centre in the world making a real impact on the lives of people with cancer. We research everything from the basic causes of the disease to developing the latest treatments and diagnostics for patients. Your support means we can maintain this vital research that will make a real difference to people’s lives.
Here are five ways you can support our work:
1. Run
Team ICR runner Kirsty Newman passing the the ICR cheer point at the 2016 London Marathon.
Runners compete for Team ICR at many different distances, from 10K races up to ultra-marathons. Running events in spring 2017 start with the adidas Silverstone Half Marathon in March, move on to the Virgin Money London Marathon in April, and then there is a choice of three different distances at the Edinburgh Marathon Festival in May 2017.
2. Cycle
Crossing the finish line at the 2014 Prudential RideLondon-Surrey 100.
Get on your bike and take part in an organised cycle ride! Team ICR riders have cycled in various events – from city-to-city journeys to amazing jaunts through the European countryside. So why not get together with friends? Our cycling events in the UK and Europe next summer include the London to Paris Cycle Ride in early June, the Prudential RideLondon-Surrey 100 in late July, and the European Cities Ride in late August. Or if you're feeling more adventurous, there’s the Vietnam to Cambodia Cycle Ride, which takes place in both March and late September next year.
3. Trek
Team ICR member Shona Norman taking part in the Great Wall of China trek.
If walking is more your thing, why not join a sponsored trek challenge, and fundraise for the ICR whilst taking in some amazing scenery? Our treks in the UK next year include climbing the heights of Ben Nevis. Or, if you love to travel as part of the challenge, we have the Great Wall of China trek in May 2017; and, for the really fit, one which follows the Peru Inca Trail in March 2017.
4. Endurance challenges
Participant at a Tough Mudder event.
For those who are feeling really strong, there are opportunities to take part in endurance challenges. From Tough Mudder to the Ironman triathlons, you can demonstrate your endurance as part of Team ICR. If you would like to take part in these events – which are available throughout the UK and abroad - you just need to secure your own place and let us know.
5. Create your own challenge
Mountain climber. Image from Pixabay.
We welcome applications for all manner of sporting challenges, such as mountain climbing, epic cycle rides and swimming. You could even choose your favourite Olympic sport and design a challenge around that. For the keen runners amongst you, RunBritain is a useful site — you can sign up to over 500 races all over the UK and then choose to support the ICR during registration.
These are just a few ways that you can support us. So if you feel like getting active after the watching the Olympics you can find out more about taking part by visiting our sports and challenges page — or by emailing [email protected]. We would be delighted to hear from you.