MEN and women in Warwickshire are being challenged to ditch the drink and raise money for Cancer Research UK as part of its September Dryathlon challenge.
The fundraising campaign invites social drinkers to take a month-long break from alcohol – and ‘Dryathletes’ use the challenge to raise funds and awareness for the charity.
Last year, 6906 people took part in Dryathlon across Warwickshire and the West Midlands – raising a huge £493,650 to help beat cancer sooner.
Jane Redman, Cancer Research UK spokesperson for Warwickshire, said: “After a summer of boozy holidays or ‘one too many’ at weddings, Dryathlon is the perfect opportunity for everyone to kick-start a new season, by going booze-free for September.
“We’re encouraging Warwickshire men and women to say ‘cheers’ to the challenge and become a ‘Dryathlete’ for Cancer Research UK.
“As well as raising vital funds to help save more lives, people might be surprised to realise the added benefits of ditching the drink for one month.
“Most people probably don’t think about the calorie content of their favourite tipple – but with a large glass of red wine containing around 180 calories, a few drinks can really start to add up.”
Supporters can register to take part in Dryathlon as individuals or set up a team by getting their friends, colleagues or relatives involved to motivate one another along the way.
For those who think the challenge sounds a bit too daunting, or who plan to raise a toast at a wedding or party, there’s a special ‘tipple tax’. So if a Dryathlete falls off the wagon one evening, they can donate a £20 penalty.
Jane added: “Whatever the motivation for taking part, now’s the time to sign up and banish the booze this September.
“Money raised by our Dryathlete heroes will help fund life-saving research.”
Currently, one in two people in the UK will be diagnosed with cancer at some stage in their lives – however more people surviving the disease now than ever before.
Visit www.dryathlon.org to sign up and take part in this year’s event.
