HRNZ to support “Blue September” campaign

After a successful association with the Teal Pants campaign, Harness Racing New Zealand is thrilled to announce it will also be supporting men’s health and the Blue September fundraiser from this year.

Blue September is the annual campaign run by the Prostate Cancer Foundation to raise awareness and funds for research on diagnosis and treatments.

HRNZ’s Blue September will run for four weeks from September 1, with ten male drivers wearing Blue Prostate Cancer silks.

HRNZ will donate $100 for every win by a driver wearing the silks, and other clubs and individuals are also asked to contribute.

HRNZ have so far had a great response from clubs that are racing during September with the majority donating $100 per win.

All proceeds will go directly to the Prostate Cancer Foundation.

HRNZ Chairman John Coulam said “The HRNZ board are unanimous in their support of the Blue September Prostate Cancer Promotion and encourage clubs and industry participants to support this cancer awareness program”.

Over 3500 New Zealand men are diagnosed with prostate cancer every year. Early detection is the key, with men aged 50 years or over encouraged to have regular blood tests for PSA (prostate specific antigen).

Prostate Cancer Foundation Chief Executive Peter Dickens says, “We are delighted to have been selected by Harness Racing New Zealand to support us for this year’s Blue September campaign”.

“It is a great opportunity to create awareness about prostate cancer and the importance of regular checks, as early detection leads to better outcomes.”

“The charity receives no government funding and money raised through this campaign will support us to carry on providing vital support, funding essential research and advocating for patients and their loved ones”.

If any male drivers wish to be selected as one of the 10 Ambassadors please register your interest with Courtney Buchanan at HRNZ on the details below.

We are hoping to have a selection of junior and senior drivers placed throughout the country who will wear the Blue September silks throughout September.

HRNZ’s involvement with Blue September will be for the next five years at least. Teal Pants will continue as it has for the past four years starting on February 1.

Courtney Buchanan
courtney@hrnz.co.nz or 0276364355