4×4 Response (South & South West Wales ) were once again proud to give logistical support for the 2022 Cancer Research ‘Race for Life’ events throughout South and South West Wales.

This is our second year assisting the Cancer Research Race for Life events, and it’s been an honour and privilege to do so.The enthusiasm dedication commitment dynamism and all round application of the RFL’ events team and volunteers is both humbling and enlightening to behold.

We, the 4×4 group Responders have been made to feel welcome and treated as ‘one of the family’ and appreciate the efforts made upon our behalf.

This season has seen RFL (Wales) events take place at Aberystwyth, Llanelli, Bridgend, Cwmbran, Cardiff, Swansea and Oakwood theme park. Each raised different challenges and emphasised the requirement for good communication and teamwork between the RFL events team and 4×4 Response to ensure the foundation for a successful day out for all concerned. A massive thank you to all of our group members who volunteered for the various events and ensured the wonderful participants were able to honour their loved ones, and raise much needed funds along the way.

The RFL events team often stated they genuinely couldn’t have coped without us, and that we as a group go above and beyond what’s expected of us. That’s very kind of them to say so, but in all honesty I think you’ll agree we just pick up on their positivity and dedication and it fuses into our resultant performance and enjoyment of each event. 4×4 Response members also attended a ‘Cancer Conversation Seminar’ at the magnificent Coal Exchange building in Cardiff Bay.

It bought together the RFL events team, Sponsors, Supporters, Fund raisers, Specialist nursing staff, Senior research personnel and Scientists.Speeches were given by Cancer Research senior management, Scientists and a poignant personal story given by a young girl suffering stage 3 breast cancer ( brave young lady, it reduced all to tears ). – amongst others too. It gave an interesting informative and surprising insight into Cancer virus recognition and treatment, research and hopefully, helping to give cures for many people suffering the curse of the big ‘C’.Firstly, a mention to both Sophie and Kimberley who have alternated Event/Course Manager duties throughout the season, and have been an absolute revelation ! Secondly, a big thank you to ‘Jim’, volunteer extraordinaire ! Jim completed all the Welsh RFL events and also took part in many other events both sides of the border raising thousands of pounds for Cancer research in the process. Jim is a cancer survivor and has a personal crusade bringing his unique personality to help ensure others get to ‘ring the bell’ after being given the all clear in future – well done mate.

So, with the 2022 Cancer Research Race for Life season nearly at an end ( Cardiff Shine event, Friday 7th October still to go) Once again, a massive thank you to all the 4×4 Responders who volunteered and assisted at the various events throughout Wales, it will be fantastic to see as many of you as possible next year. You don’t need a 4×4, – a van, car, or wheel barrow will suffice.

The Race for Life Events team is so proud of you, and you should be proud of the efforts you’ve made too – every little helps, every penny counts.

Now have a nice Christmas and see you next year. Phil Magness.