RAK Ruler attends Terry Fox Run to support cancer research

H.H. Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Ras al-Khaimah, attended on Friday the Terry Fox Run, a charity race to support cancer research.

Organised for the seventh year in a row, the event also aims to boost solidarity between institutions and the community to encourage them to raise funds for cancer research.

According to the organising committee, the Terry Fox Run has become one of the most popular events nationwide amid huge support and interaction among sponsors.

Among others present were Sheikh Omer bin Saqr Al Qasimi; Sheikh Saqr bin Mohammed bin Saqr Al Qasimi; Sheikh Mohammed bin Kayed Al Qasimi, Chairman of RAK Economic Development Department, and a number of Sheikhs, directors of departments, fans and children.

Terrance Stanley "Terry" Fox (28th July, 1958 - 28th June, 1981), after whom the race has been named, was a Canadian athlete, humanitarian and cancer research activist. In 1980, with one leg having been amputated, he embarked on a cross-Canada run to raise money and awareness for cancer research. Although the spread of cancer eventually forced him to end his quest after 143 days and 5,373 km (3,339 miles), and ultimately cost him his life, his efforts resulted in a lasting, worldwide legacy.

The annual Terry Fox Run, first held in 1981, has grown to involve millions of participants in over 60 countries. It is now the world’s largest one-day fundraiser for cancer research and more than C$650 million has been raised in his name.