Kilkenny sports stars to line out in Hurling for Cancer match
The throw-in date has been announced for the 2026 version of Ireland’s biggest charity hurling match.
The Hurling for Cancer Research game, which will raise vital funds for the Irish Cancer Society, will be held in Netwatch Cullen Park, Carlow on Monday, August 24.
Some of horse racing, hurling and camogie’s biggest names will line out alongside stars from across the sporting and entertainment community in the game, which will be broadcast live on TG4.
Founded by horse racing legends Jim Bolger and Davy Russell in 2011, all proceeds from the event will go to Irish Cancer Society research, helping to fund vital research initiatives for people affected by cancer across Ireland.
Hurling for Cancer Research has become one of Ireland’s most recognised sporting charity events, bringing together leading figures from across all Irish sports and entertainment in support of a crucial cause. Over the past 15 years, the event has raised close to €2 million for the Irish Cancer Society, helping to fund groundbreaking cancer research.
“Every year the support for Hurling for Cancer Research charity match gets from players and supporters is very special,” said Hurling for Cancer Research co-founders, Jim Bolger and Davy Russell. “With Centra’s support, this year we have an unbelievable line-up of hurlers, jockeys, sporting and entertainment greats putting their rivalries aside for a phenomenal cause.
“When you look at the stars who have committed to play this year and see the effort everyone makes, it shows exactly what this country can achieve when we come together.
“Proceeds from every ticket bought go directly to the Irish Cancer Society to support cancer research,” they added. “We look forward to another exciting match in Netwatch Cullen Park in Carlow on Monday August 24.”
As part of sponsor Centra’s involvement, winners of the Centra Sharpshooter Competition will take to the field at 5.30pm ahead of the main event in a series of mini matches before the action gets underway.
New for 2026, Hurling for Cancer Research branded milk cartons will roll out across Centra stores nationwide, turning an everyday purchase into an easy way to support the cause, with customers able to donate or buy tickets instantly by scanning the on-pack QR code.
“This year, we’re focused on helping to raise vital funds for the Irish Cancer Society and to push the total raised by Hurling for Cancer Research beyond €2 million,” said Centra’s Des O’Mahony. “Through our nationwide milk carton activation in Centra stores, we’re giving customers a simple, everyday way to get behind the cause and help make a difference.
We’re also looking forward to welcoming the winners of our Centra Sharpshooter Competition to Netwatch Cullen Park, giving them the chance to showcase their skills and be part of a very special event that celebrates community, sport and the power of people coming together for a shared purpose.”
Tickets are €10 for adults and €5 for children and are available for sale in select Centra and SuperValu GAA Ticket Agent stores and via www.hurlingforcancer.ie. Gates open at 5pm, with all proceeds from ticket sales and donations going directly to support The Irish Cancer Society’s life-saving cancer research.
Supporters can also buy Hurling for Cancer Research jerseys at CúlSliotars.ie for €50 with 10% from each jersey sold donated directly to the Irish Cancer Society.