HAMPSHIRE women inspired by the efforts of marathon runners in Southampton and London are being urged to take on their own fitness challenge by entering Cancer Research UK’s Race for Life.

Unlike the ABP Southampton Marathon and Virgin Money London Marathon, women signing up to Race for Life in the county don’t need to pound the pavements or sprint to the finish line – because they can do the 5k, 10k or Pretty Muddy events at their own pace.

Women of all ages and abilities can take part in Winchester on Sunday, June 4 or Southampton on the weekend of July 1 and 2.

For those who want to push themselves further, there’s also the opportunity to enter Race for Life’s women-only full and half marathon events.

Georgina Horne, Cancer Research UK’s event manager in Hampshire, said many would have cheered on runners in Southampton or watched the London Marathon on TV and felt hugely motivated by the inspirational stories and unstoppable spirit of the participants.

She said: “This year, we’re encouraging women to harness that fighting spirit and take on their own fitness challenge by signing up to Race for Life.

“Women of all shapes, sizes, ages and abilities can take part - there’s a Race for Life event to suit everyone.

“ Whether they’re planning a 5k amble with friends, a 10k jog or the challenge of a full or half marathon, it’s not about being first to the finish line; it’s about coming together to beat cancer sooner.

“By taking part in Race for Life and helping to raise money for life-saving research, women in Hampshire will know that they are helping to beat cancer.

“Race for Life events are not competitive - participants can choose to walk, jog or run around the course.”

Cancer Research UK’s life-saving work relies on the public’s support and last year the charity was able to spend over £5 million in Southampton on some of the UK’s leading scientific and clinical research - helping more men, women and children survive.

Georgina added: “Our participants play a crucial role in helping to turn discoveries made in the lab into better treatments for patients in the South East and across the UK.

“The atmosphere at Race for Life events is electric as women come together and give their all to the cause.

“Their passion, power and energy is truly inspiring and if they can go the distance, you can too. By taking part and raising money – whether it’s £10 or £100 – participants can help Cancer Research UK scientists find new ways to treat cancer and save more lives.”