Cian Fenelon will be taking part in the Pat Smullen Charity Race at the Curragh on August 30, which will raise funds for Cancer Trials Ireland, the leading cancer research trials organisation in Ireland.
In 2023, Cian was selected to ride in the charity race at the Punchestown Festival, and managed to raise €1,830 for the Punchestown Kidney Research Fund, having set himself a fundraising target of €1,500. Now, all his focus is on the upcoming charity race.
He said: “Cancer is a battle that many of us know all too well. It has personally touched my life through the struggles of my family and friends. Losing my grandmother Lylah Gaskin to cancer in 2020, and witnessing loved ones battle as opened my eyes to how devastating this disease is.
“That’s why I’ve decided to participate in the Pat Smullen charity race, an event dedicated to supporting Cancer Trials Ireland. Cancer Trials Ireland plays a crucial role in pioneering new cancer treatments and trials that offer hope to countless individuals and families facing this disease. The race is held in memory of the late Pat Smullen, a brilliant jockey and pioneer for cancer research.”
With more than 24,000 people diagnosed with cancer each year in Ireland, Cancer Trials Ireland is dedicated to finding new ways to prevent, find and treat cancer. It currently has more than 110 trials open and is recruiting new patients and has succeeded in offering research options to over 9000 patients across Ireland in the last fifteen years.
As part of his efforts, Cian has established an idonate page and has set himself a fundraising target of €3,000.
Cian added: “Taking part in this race is a true honour, and I am grateful to Pat Smullen’s daughter Hannah, and the entire Smullen family for organising such a meaningful day.
“By donating to this cause, you are supporting Cancer Trials Ireland’s critical mission of advancing research and trials that have the potential to save lives. Your generosity will directly contribute to innovative cancer care, offering new possibilities to those who need it most.
“Every euro donated not only honours Pat Smullen’s memory but also moves us closer to a world where cancer is no longer a threat.”
You can make a donation towards Cian’s cause by visiting www.idonate.ie/fundraiser/CianFenelon