Breast Cancer Ireland has officially launched its 2026 Very Pink Run, with thousands of people expected to take part in fundraising events across Dublin, Kilkenny and Cork later this summer.
Supported by online retailer Very, the annual event raises money for breast cancer research, education and awareness programmes.
The three flagship events will take place in Dublin on Saturday, 29 August, Kilkenny on Sunday, 30 August, and Cork on Sunday, 6 September.
Participants can also choose to complete the event virtually from anywhere in Ireland or abroad between 29 August and 6 September.
The family-friendly festival will feature 5km and 10km walking and running routes, alongside live entertainment, food vendors and activities for children.
Karen Byrne, DWTS Judge and fiancee Jake Carter, Singer pictured at the launch of Breast Cancer Ireland’s Very Pink Run.
Since it began, the Very Pink Run has attracted more than 110,000 participants across 40 countries, raising over €8 million for Breast Cancer Ireland.
Breast Cancer Ireland CEO Aisling Hurley said the event is about much more than fundraising:
“The Breast Cancer Ireland Very Pink Run is so much more than an annual fundraising event. 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.”
Funds raised this year will support breast cancer research, clinical trials, early detection programmes and the training of future oncology researchers in Ireland.
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Very.ie CEO Henry Dummer said the company is proud to return as title sponsor for a fourth consecutive year.
“The event captures everything that makes communities strong – positivity, inclusion, support and collective action. It’s a great opportunity for people to come together and raise vital funds which help to make a genuine difference.”
A number of well-known ambassadors are supporting this year’s campaign, including Maura Derrane, Dr Ciara Kelly, Karen Byrne, Jake Carter, Hazel Chu, Jennifer Wrynne, Elaine Crowley, Shane Byrne, James Patrice, Chris Connolly, Terrie McEvoy, David Fitzpatrick, Dr Monica Oikeh and Lesley Giltinan.
According to Breast Cancer Ireland, one in seven women and one in 738 men in Ireland will be diagnosed with breast cancer during their lifetime, with around 3,700 new cases diagnosed nationwide each year.
The Dublin event will take place at Leopardstown Racecourse on 29 August, while the Cork event will be held at Munster Technological University (MTU), Bishopstown on 6 September.
Registration for all events is now open through the Very Pink Run website, with organisers encouraging early sign-up due to expected demand.
