Hurling for Cancer Research supported by Centra raises over €200K
(L-R) Pictured at Netwatch Cullen Park as the record-breaking fundraising total of €215,690 for Hurling for Cancer Research was announced are, from left, Jim Bolger, Co-Founder of Hurling for Cancer Research; Luke Hanlon, Centra Managing Director; Glenda Ryan, Director of Fundraising & Marketing at the Irish Cancer Society; and Davy Russell, Co-Founder of Hurling for Cancer Research.
Centra, in proud partnership with Hurling for Cancer Research, is delighted to announce this year’s charity match raised a record breaking €215,690 for Irish Cancer Society research, the highest total in the events history. Reflecting the extraordinary generosity and community spirit shown by fans, players, and supporters nationwide, this hugely successful event marks another major milestone towards the day where nobody dies from cancer.
Now in its thirteenth year, the annual Hurling for Cancer Research match has raised almost €1.9 million to support the Irish Cancer Society’s Research, a testament to the enduring generosity and commitment of communities across Ireland. The 2025 event, proudly supported by Centra saw thousands of fans, players and families come together to show their support and solidarity for the fight against cancer.
The partnership between Centra and Hurling for Cancer Research, in aid of the Irish Cancer Society, reflects a shared commitment to funding life-saving cancer research. This initiative is vital in helping to advance pioneering research that will make a lasting difference for future generations by supporting breakthroughs in early detection, treatment innovation, and survivorship.
Luke Hanlon, Managing Director, Centra said: **“**We’re incredibly proud of the impact this year’s event has made. The record-breaking funds raised will directly support the Irish Cancer Society’s life-saving research efforts. What makes this event so special is the passion our Centra retailers bring, not just for their communities and for hurling, but for causes that truly matter. Their commitment, alongside the generosity of fans and supporters, helps us move closer to a future free from cancer.”
**Jim Bolger and Davy Russell, Co-Founders of Hurling for Cancer Research said: “**This event simply wouldn’t be possible without the incredible support of so many who work tirelessly behind the scenes and come together on the pitch to deliver a night to remember. To the hurlers and jockeys, the wider GAA and horse racing communities, the volunteers on the night, and those who’ve been working for months to bring it all together we thank you. We’re especially grateful to the Gardaí, the Order of Malta, and Carlow County Council for helping keep everyone safe, to Cul Sliotars for the team kit, and to Centra for proudly coming on board this year. This event continues to show the power of sport and community united for a cause that touches so many lives”
Glenda Ryan, Director of Fundraising & Marketing at Irish Cancer Society, said: “We are absolutely thrilled with the incredible success of this year’s Hurling for Cancer Research match and the record-breaking funds raised. Each year, we are moved by the support shown from the army of volunteers, players, and sportspeople who make this event so special, as well as by the generosity of everyone who donates and attends. These vital funds will help the Irish Cancer Society continue to invest in life-saving cancer research to improve cancer detections methods, develop less toxic and more targeted treatment and support patients to live long and healthy lives beyond their cancer diagnosis. We are so grateful to Centra for their support of Hurling for Cancer Research this year and their commitment to helping us move closer to a future where no life is cut short by cancer.”
Hurling for Cancer Research is an annual charity hurling match founded by Jim Bolger and Davy Russell in aid of the Irish Cancer Society. Each year, some of Ireland’s biggest names from the world of sport come together for a special exhibition match in support of cancer research.
Centra remains committed to building on this momentum and continuing to support the Hurling for Cancer Research match in 2026. Plans are already underway to grow the event and attract even more supporters - ensuring that every euro raised brings us closer to a future free from cancer.
Tickets for the 2026 match, taking place on August 24th, are now available to purchase in selected Centra and SuperValu stores, and at www.hurlingforcancer.ie. They make an ideal stocking filler for any hurling fan this festive season.
