In 2018, the aim is to inspire healthy cities and communities to fight cancer. 

Cape Town CBD and its surrounds was a sea of bright colour as thousands of people dressed up in their craziest outfits in support of the Hospice Palliative Care Association’s (HPCA)* annual Lace up for Cancer fun walk.

The event, which is now in its seventh year, was sponsored by Cancer Care and Brimestone Investment.

The Cancer Alliance is the beneficiary of the event, which is a collective group of non-profit organisations advocating for better care & support for cancer patients and their families. The organising committee has representatives from the HPCA, Sunflower Fund, CANSA, CHOC, People Living With Cancer and Love Your Nuts.

People of different ages and walks of life excitedly made their way to the starting point at the front of the Castle of Goodhope ahead of the 10km fun walk start at 08h00am.  The 5km fun run/walk began 15 minutes later. The route followed saw participants proceed through the CBD, taking in the beauty and architecture of the buildings and its surroundings. The event concluded with everyone gathering at the Castle for spot prizes, treats and time to spend with loved ones.

According to HPCA CEO, Dr Liz Gwyther, they were overwhelmed at the support they received this year for the Lace Up for Cancer event. “Our event started off in 2012 with only a handful of people. Last year, we had approximately 4500 participants and this year the response was equally as amazing.”

On Sunday the 4th of February was World Cancer Day. Lace up for cancer is event to honour those who have lost their battle with cancer and for those people who are bravely still fighting. The aim of Lace up for cancer is around raising awareness that cancer can be beaten, and that life should be celebrated!

A special mention to Cape Town City Football Club for their unwavering support towards the event, from donating a jersey and two signed balls, to having the whole team present at registration before the walk. Cape Town City FC have shown that they are not only a football team with amazing players and coach, but they are a football team with a HEART for a good cause!

According to race director, Farouk Meyer from Itheko Sports Management, the event was a success and no incidents were reported. “Our aim was to organise fun, exciting but safe event. We ensured that all our event requirements met the City of Cape Town and traffic and law enforcement guidelines.”

“All our road marshals were well briefed, and this assisted with a pleasant fun run/walk experience. Thank you to our event partners, sponsors, staff and volunteers for ensuring that this Lace Up for Cancer fun run/walk was a success.”

**Click on the link to view the Expresso news clip that they featured of the event 

**Click here to view images from the day