TV presenters Chris Kamara and Ben Shephard are set to participate in the AJ Bell Great North Run to raise money for Prostate Cancer UK. The 13.1-mile race will take place on September 13, with Kamara's son Jack also joining the team.
Why They're Running
Kamara, a former footballer and long-time supporter of the charity, aims to highlight the increased risk of prostate cancer for black men. Shephard, who co-hosted Goals on Sunday with Kamara, has a personal connection as his father was diagnosed with the condition.
Kamara's Motivation
Having previously participated in fundraisers for the charity, including Jeff Stelling's Football Marches, Kamara shared his experience: "I've been working with Prostate Cancer UK for more than a decade now and have met so many men and their loved ones affected by this disease. Walking side by side with them was heartbreaking and inspirational, but an education too."
He added: "I'm still stunned by the stats. Prostate cancer affects 1 in 8 men, but if you are black, like me, its double the risk. But this disease is treatable if you catch it early."
Reuniting with Shephard
Kamara expressed excitement about reuniting with his "old mucker" Shephard for the challenge, noting that the couch they used to sit on was more comfortable than a Sunday morning run, but their friendship will keep them going. He also recalled running the Great North Run 26 years ago, finishing in under one hour 30 minutes, and hopes to complete it again despite balance issues related to his apraxia of speech and dyspraxia.
Shephard's Commitment
Shephard, known for hosting This Morning and Tipping Point, said: "When Kammy asked me to join him at the Great North Run, I jumped at the chance. He's such a brilliant guy, and we've been mates for many years now. It's going to be a real thrill to run alongside him and Jack at such an iconic event."
He also acknowledged the personal impact of the disease: "I know all too well about the dangers of prostate cancer. It's a disease that's affected my family, and so many others too."
The trio will represent "Team Kammy" at the event. Prostate Cancer UK notes that the condition is the most common cancer in men, with one in eight receiving a diagnosis in their lifetime, and the risk increases for those over 50, black men, or those with a family history.
