Run and Walk for Solas official launch
Back Row-Left to Right: Kieran Foley, News & Sports Editor, WLR FM, Paddy McMahon, Chair, Solas, Oliver Carroll, Presenter, WLR FM. Front Row- Left to Right: Gwen Daniels, General Manager, UPMC Whitfield Hospital, Dymphna Nugent, Presenter, WLR FM.
The Run and Walk for Solas is returning this October to Waterford City and Dungarvan.
Solas Cancer Support Centre is marking 25 years of delivering invaluable service to people impacted by cancer.
Every year, thousands of people take to the streets of Dungarvan and Waterford City to raise funds for the centre. Last year's run raised over €230,000 for Solas.
The 10km Run and Walk event starts at 10am Saturday October 10 at Walton Park, Dungarvan. On Sunday October 11, the run takes off from The Quays, Waterford City at the same time.
Chair of the Solas Cancer Support Centre, Paddy McMahon, spoke at the launch about what an important year 2026 is for the Charity:
‘Solas has been offering support to cancer patients and their families here in Waterford for 25 years this year. That's a quarter of a century of care. And 15 years ago this year the Solas Cancer Care Centre opened its doors in Williamstown for the first time. Planned and built by the people of Waterford to continue the care and support in a purpose built centre. 10 years ago this year we opened a satellite service for the people of Dungarvan.
"We have a lot to celebrate as we plan for this year's run and walk - and proud to rename it the Run and Walk for Solas in this special year of anniversaries’.
Tracy McDaid, Manager of the Solas Cancer Support Centre, explained what the event means to the charity:
“The Run and Walk for Solas is the most action-packed and exciting weekend of the year for the charity. This year our logo reminds us that we supported 1,433 clients in our service in Waterford and Dungarvan in 2025. This is possible because of the generosity of the community which we serve and the Run and Walk for Solas remains our main fundraiser annually”.
Speaking at the launch, Gwen Daniels, General Manager, UPMC Whitfield Hospital, said; "UPMC Whitfield Hospital is delighted to once again support the Run and Walk for SOLAS, a wonderful community event that continues to go from strength to strength. It's inspiring to see so many people come together each year for such a worthy cause, making a real difference while promoting health and wellbeing across the region.
"At UPMC, we're committed to bringing life-changing medicine to the people of Waterford and the South East, ensuring more people can access expert care close to home. Partnering with SOLAS reflects that commitment, and we're proud to play our part in helping build healthier communities and supporting those affected by cancer. We wish everyone taking part the very best of luck and look forward to another fantastic event."
This year sees WLR FM return as a media partner and Michael Byrne, CEO of WLR FM explains the strong links that exist with the radio station:
“WLR is proud to support the Run and Walk for Solas once again this year. It's one of those events that reflects the very best of community spirit across Waterford. At WLR, supporting our communities is at the heart of what we do, and we're especially proud of our longstanding commitment to the Solas Centre."
