Noel McGrath will be among list of stars to line out for Hurling for Cancer match 2026
Premier County ace among the big names taking part as Hurling for Cancer Research targets €2 million fundraising milestone
Hurling for Cancer Research is returning for another major fundraising effort, with the 2026 edition of the charity event officially launched at Netwatch Cullen Park in Carlow.
Now in its 15th year, the event is on course to pass the €2 million fundraising milestone for the Irish Cancer Society. This year’s game takes place on Monday, August 24, and will once again bring together some of the biggest names from horse racing, hurling and camogie, along with well-known figures from across the wider sporting and entertainment worlds.
Among those lining out will be Tipperary legend Noel McGrath, for whom the event carries particular significance. It is 11 years since the four-time All-Ireland winner was diagnosed with testicular cancer, and his successful treatment gives him a unique perspective on the importance and impact of Hurling for Cancer Research.
McGrath’s check-ups have recently moved to just once a year and he no longer attends them with the same sense of trepidation. He will be among a huge turnout of former and current stars who will support the event on the day.
The annual fundraiser is also an occasion which sees traditional rivals from across Gaelic games put their allegiances aside and line out together in support of the Irish Cancer Society.
TG4 will broadcast the game live from 7.30pm, while the gates at Cullen Park will open at 5pm.
Ahead of the main game, winners of the Centra Sharpshooter Competition will get their opportunity to take to the Cullen Park pitch. A series of mini matches will begin at 5.30pm before the main action gets underway.
Centra will also run a promotion in conjunction with the fundraiser, with Hurling for Cancer Research-branded milk cartons going on sale and proceeds being donated to the Irish Cancer Society.
Since the event was first held in 2011, it has attracted some of hurling’s most recognisable names, including TJ Reid, Brian Cody and Joe Canning.
A host of other Irish sporting personalities have also taken part over the years, among them former Republic of Ireland soccer internationals Paul McGrath, Stephen Hunt and Niall Quinn, along with Tipperary’s Shane Long.