Pink Ribbon Walk gets big boost from local SuperValu

The Kells Pink Ribbon Walk 2010 has got off to a flying start with the news that Larry O'Brien's SuperValu has pledged €3,000 in sponsorship money and entered its own team in the unique event. This year's 10km run/walk will once again start off from the picturesque surroundings of Drewstown House and take in the Girley Eco Bog Walk on Saturday 11th September, with the 10km run setting off at 2.45pm and the walk scheduled to start at 3pm. "We are thrilled that Larry and Dolores O'Brien and their staff in Kells have entered a team and provided such generous sponsorship money," said Penny McGowan, chairperson of the Pink Ribbon Walk committee. "We'd like to convey our sincere thanks to them." She added: "We are hoping to encourage other local companies to consider entering a team this year. After all, training and participating together in the walk would provide a great team-building opportunity, as well as a staff day out. It will be motivational, challenging, good fun and exercise - and it's all for a great cause." Intending participants can also sign up as an individual or join up with friends, family and colleagues - a minimum of four people is required to form a team and there is no maximum limit. The recommended minimum fundraising amount for teams is €75 each per participant. All money raised by the team will be split evenly between the team members, in other words, a team of five should aim to raise €375 between them. Teams can give themselves a unique and colourful name and set up a team information page on the website. There will also be prizes on the day of the event for the 'best dressed team' and the 'top fundraising team'.  Last year's inaugural Kells Pink Ribbon Walk raised an astounding €100,000 for Action Breast Cancer - making it one of the most successful fundraising events for the Irish Cancer Society in 2009. Kells Chamber of Commerce is sponsor of the event and provide all office support and administration on a voluntary basis. Speaking on behalf of the Irish Cancer Society, CEO John McCormack said: "Action Breast Cancer (ABC) is Ireland's leading provider of breast cancer information and support, and it is our aim to ensure that everyone affected by breast cancer receives the highest standards of treatment, support and care as they go through their breast cancer journey. There are on average 2,200 new cases of breast cancer in Ireland every year." People can register online for the Kells Pink Ribbon Walk on the new website at www.pinkribbonwalk.ie Forms can also be picked up in Kells library, SuperValu, Kells; Dunnes The Premier House, Kells, or The Fincourt Guesthouse and Bar in Oldcastle. Registration costs €20 and each participant will receive a Pink Ribbon Walk t-shirt, sponsorship form and event information. On the day of the walk, all walkers and runners who cross the finish line will receive a medal. There will also be a barbecue and plenty of post-event entertainment.