A day of hope, resilience and unity awaits this weekend when Dubai hosts its inaugural Cancer Run by Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi, organised by Plan b.
Communities came together last week for the annual Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi Cancer Run, at Hudayriyat Island. Registration remains open to experience this inspirational occasion on Saturday for the first time at Dubai Design District.
Participants – both men and women – can choose from four distances: 1km, 3km, 5km, 10km. A competitive edge is provided with awards and cash prizes for top finishers in the 5km and 10km runs.
Visit Premier Online to register for one of the last remaining spots. For more information, follow @cancerrun.uae on Instagram and use the hashtags #RunforThem and #RunforYourself.
Sport360° spoke to Dr. Harmeek Singh, founder of Plan b Group, to get the low down on this impactful event designed to spread awareness about the various types of cancer.
What inspired you to start the Cancer Run?
The inspiration for the Cancer Run is deeply personal. My mother battled cancer and, thankfully, recovered. Witnessing her journey highlighted the critical importance of early detection and community support. This experience motivated me to create a platform that raises awareness and encourages proactive health measures.
How has the Cancer Run impacted the community so far?
The Cancer Run has significantly united the community, bringing together individuals from diverse backgrounds to support a common cause. Our partnership with like-minded organizations, such as Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi, has amplified our efforts in promoting cancer awareness and the importance of early detection.
What message do you hope to spread through this event?
The message is one of unity and collective action. The Cancer Run is a reminder that as a community, we have the power to bring about change. It’s about creating awareness around cancer prevention and early detection while building a sense of togetherness. By participating, people aren’t just running—they’re standing in solidarity with those affected by cancer and helping to spread hope and support. Together, we can inspire healthier habits and encourage life-saving conversations.
Can you share any memorable moments from past runs?
One moment that stands out was seeing a group of cancer survivors running side by side with their doctors. It was emotional and uplifting. Their determination and courage inspired everyone around them. Moments like these remind us why we do this—to give hope and celebrate resilience.
View this post on Instagram A post shared by Cancer Run (@cancerrun.uae)
How do you encourage people to get involved in the Cancer Run?
We focus on making the event inclusive and accessible, whether you’re a seasoned runner or just looking to walk for a cause. We also share stories of participants and survivors to show the real impact. It’s not just about running—it’s about showing up, supporting the cause, and making a difference together.
What role does awareness play in the success of the event?
Awareness is everything. If people don’t know the risks or the importance of early detection, they can’t act. This event is as much about education as it is about running. Every conversation, every shared story brings us one step closer to saving lives and making an impact.
How do you measure the event’s impact on cancer awareness and support?
We look at how many people participate and how engaged they are, but it’s also about what happens afterward. Are people getting screened? Are they sharing what they’ve learned with their loved ones? We also work closely with healthcare partners to see how the event drives real change in the community.
What are your plans for future editions of the Cancer Run?
We don’t want the impact of the Cancer Run to stop at Abu Dhabi—we want to take it across the UAE. Cancer doesn’t discriminate based on where you live, so awareness and early detection shouldn’t be limited to one city either. By expanding to other Emirates, we can reach more people, start important conversations, and encourage early check-ups where it matters most.
The goal is simple: to make sure that no matter where someone is, they have the knowledge and motivation to take charge of their health.
How can participants and sponsors contribute to making the event even bigger?
Participants can enhance the event’s reach by sharing their experiences and encouraging others to join. Sponsors play a crucial role by providing resources and support. Notably, 25% of our registration fees are allocated to cancer research, ensuring that contributions directly aid in advancing prevention and treatment efforts
Are there any other areas/topics you’d like to highlight in regards to Plan b and Cancer Run?
At Plan b, we believe in using our skills to make a difference. The Cancer Run is a perfect example of how an event can create lasting impact. It’s not just about organizing an event—it’s about touching lives, raising awareness, and building a stronger, healthier community. That’s the heart of what we do.
Communities came together last week for the annual Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi Cancer Run, at Hudayriyat Island. Registration remains open to experience this inspirational occasion on Saturday for the first time at Dubai Design District.
Participants – both men and women – can choose from four distances: 1km, 3km, 5km, 10km. A competitive edge is provided with awards and cash prizes for top finishers in the 5km and 10km runs.
Visit Premier Online to register for one of the last remaining spots. For more information, follow @cancerrun.uae on Instagram and use the hashtags #RunforThem and #RunforYourself.
Sport360° spoke to Dr. Harmeek Singh, founder of Plan b Group, to get the low down on this impactful event designed to spread awareness about the various types of cancer.
What inspired you to start the Cancer Run?
The inspiration for the Cancer Run is deeply personal. My mother battled cancer and, thankfully, recovered. Witnessing her journey highlighted the critical importance of early detection and community support. This experience motivated me to create a platform that raises awareness and encourages proactive health measures.
How has the Cancer Run impacted the community so far?
The Cancer Run has significantly united the community, bringing together individuals from diverse backgrounds to support a common cause. Our partnership with like-minded organizations, such as Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi, has amplified our efforts in promoting cancer awareness and the importance of early detection.
What message do you hope to spread through this event?
The message is one of unity and collective action. The Cancer Run is a reminder that as a community, we have the power to bring about change. It’s about creating awareness around cancer prevention and early detection while building a sense of togetherness. By participating, people aren’t just running—they’re standing in solidarity with those affected by cancer and helping to spread hope and support. Together, we can inspire healthier habits and encourage life-saving conversations.
Can you share any memorable moments from past runs?
One moment that stands out was seeing a group of cancer survivors running side by side with their doctors. It was emotional and uplifting. Their determination and courage inspired everyone around them. Moments like these remind us why we do this—to give hope and celebrate resilience.
View this post on Instagram A post shared by Cancer Run (@cancerrun.uae)
How do you encourage people to get involved in the Cancer Run?
We focus on making the event inclusive and accessible, whether you’re a seasoned runner or just looking to walk for a cause. We also share stories of participants and survivors to show the real impact. It’s not just about running—it’s about showing up, supporting the cause, and making a difference together.
What role does awareness play in the success of the event?
Awareness is everything. If people don’t know the risks or the importance of early detection, they can’t act. This event is as much about education as it is about running. Every conversation, every shared story brings us one step closer to saving lives and making an impact.
How do you measure the event’s impact on cancer awareness and support?
We look at how many people participate and how engaged they are, but it’s also about what happens afterward. Are people getting screened? Are they sharing what they’ve learned with their loved ones? We also work closely with healthcare partners to see how the event drives real change in the community.
What are your plans for future editions of the Cancer Run?
We don’t want the impact of the Cancer Run to stop at Abu Dhabi—we want to take it across the UAE. Cancer doesn’t discriminate based on where you live, so awareness and early detection shouldn’t be limited to one city either. By expanding to other Emirates, we can reach more people, start important conversations, and encourage early check-ups where it matters most.
The goal is simple: to make sure that no matter where someone is, they have the knowledge and motivation to take charge of their health.
How can participants and sponsors contribute to making the event even bigger?
Participants can enhance the event’s reach by sharing their experiences and encouraging others to join. Sponsors play a crucial role by providing resources and support. Notably, 25% of our registration fees are allocated to cancer research, ensuring that contributions directly aid in advancing prevention and treatment efforts
Are there any other areas/topics you’d like to highlight in regards to Plan b and Cancer Run?
At Plan b, we believe in using our skills to make a difference. The Cancer Run is a perfect example of how an event can create lasting impact. It’s not just about organizing an event—it’s about touching lives, raising awareness, and building a stronger, healthier community. That’s the heart of what we do.
Source: sportsnewsireland.com