Galway TV presenter is ambassador for breast cancer Very Pink Run

GALWAY’S Maura Derrane has been announced as an ambassador for Breast Cancer Ireland’s Very Pink Run 2026.

This family focused, feel good initiative will see three large-scale live events take place across Dublin, Kilkenny and Cork between August 29 and September 6, all in support of ground-breaking breast cancer research and nationwide awareness.

Ireland’s leading breast cancer charity is inviting people of all ages and abilities to register, don their pink attire, gather their friends, family, or colleagues , and take part in what is Breast Cancer Ireland’s most important fundraising event of the year.

All three live events will offer a festival-style experience. Alongside the 5k and 10k run and walk routes, guests can enjoy live music, children’s entertainment, games and a range of festival style food trucks.

Joining RTÉ’s Maura Derrane, who comes from Inis Mór on the Aran Islands, as an ambassador for the event is Newstalk presenter Dr. Ciara Kelly, Dancing with the Stars judge Karen Byrne and her fiancé, singer Jake Carter.

Politician Hazel Chu and influencer Jennifer Wrynne, both of whom have recently been through treatment themselves for breast cancer, will also be involved, alongside Elaine Crowley of Virgin Media, former Ireland and Leinster rugby player Shane Byrne, and presenter James Patrice.

“The Breast Cancer Ireland Very Pink Run is so much more than an annual fundraising event,” said Aisling Hurley, CEO of Breast Cancer Ireland.

“It is a powerful movement that brings together thousands of people who share a common goal – creating a future where breast cancer no longer devastates lives and families.

“Every participant, every donation and every kilometre completed helps to fund the research, innovation and education programmes that are changing outcomes for patients today while shaping a better future for generations to come.”

Since its inception, the Very Pink Run has grown into a global movement, with over 110,000 participants across 40 countries, raising a phenomenal €8million.

Every euro raised will help deliver faster breakthroughs in aggressive breast cancers, greater access to cutting-edge treatments, earlier detection through complimentary, nationwide education programmes, and a stronger investment into world-class research talent.

The pink wave is set to sweep across Dublin on Saturday August 29, Kilkenny on Sunday August 30, and Cork on Sunday September 6.

Thousands more are expected to take part virtually from anywhere in the world between August 29 and September 6. Registrations for the events are now open by visiting www.verypinkrun.ie.