Samer’s Nordic 10k march for cancer appeal

OLDHAMER Samer Badriya will be putting his best foot forward to boost breast cancer funds as he gears up for the Genesis Appeal’s “Keep Fit and Pink” 10km walk.

Samer (32) will be stomping the pavements of Manchester city centre with well known-faces like Rebecca Atkinson who plays Karen in Channel 4’s hit show “Shameless”, and Dr Chris Steele from “This Morning” to raise cash for the prevention of breast cancer.

And as a qualified Nordic walking instructor, Samer is set to take it in his stride when he steps out on June 14.

Nordic walking is a specific fitness technique which includes the use of poles to provide a more strenuous workout.

Samer holds weekly Nordic walks as part of the Energize Project, a partnership between Oldham Community Leisure and Oldham Community Health Services, and he will be doing the Genesis walk with his friend Alan Keane.

The walk promises to be particularly eye-catching as participants are encouraged to wear a pink tutu. These will be available to buy on the day for £4.50.

Samer said: “The fact that I can combine my passion for Nordic walking while supporting the appeal is brilliant.

“My family has been hit by breast cancer and it would be great if the numbers of sufferers and families affected could decrease as a result of the support of the appeal.”

Following the success of appeal’s annual Twilight Walk, first staged in 2007, the charity has expanded and rebranded the event to allow more people to take part.

Fitness instructors will be on hand to offer walkers encouragement while visitors can enjoy live music, fitness activities, food stalls, celebrity guests and activities for children — from face-painting to a fun quiz about Manchester.

Lester Barr, breast cancer surgeon and chairman of the appeal, said: “The event is set to be a fun-packed day for all the family.

“The walk promises to be a really enjoyable way for young and old to get fit, while helping raise vital funds. It will also boost awareness of the benefits that maintaining a healthy lifestyle can have in the prevention of breast cancer.”

People of all ages can join in and registration costs £12 for adults and £8 for children over five. Family tickets are also available.

Anyone who would like to register can visit www.genesisuk.org or email info@genesisuk.org or call the appeal’s office on 0161-291 4400.