Hundreds of women will take their cue from a courageous leukaemia survivor in Perth on Sunday.
Ailsa MacGregor will be the starter and guest of honour at Cancer Research UK’s Race for Life at the North Inch.
The 20-year-old from Scone will blow the horn to set 800 women on their way around the 5km route to raise money for Cancer Research UK’s pioneering work.
Among the sea of pink-clad women will be many who have survived cancer themselves or are participating in memory or celebration of loved ones whose lives have been touched by the disease.
Before they get on their way, a moment’s silence will take place to remember loved ones lost to cancer.
Ailsa will also take to the stage to explain to those gathered how cancer has affected her and why she supports the cause, before taking part with her mum.
Ailsa was halfway through her final year at school when she was diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukaemia.
She had a full year of intensive chemotherapy, then one and a half years of maintenance treatment. She finished her treatment in October and is now in remission.
She said: “I feel so lucky to have survived cancer. I’m taking part in Race for Life because I really want to give something back as it’s thanks to research that I am still here today.
“Success stories like mine would not be possible without the work of Cancer Research UK, which in turn relies on everyone who raises money through Race for Life.”
The build-up to the race will see Perth’s Academy Allstar Cheerleaders, led by coach Emma Davies, show off their skills. An energetic aerobics warm-up will follow, led by instructors from the Curves Perth gym.
This year, for the first time, the start and finish of the race is on the North Inch near the town centre, and not at the George Duncan athletics track, as in previous years.
Parking is limited in the area and participants are advised to leave their cars in the city centre car parks.
On their way around the course, the ladies will be directed by volunteers from Perth Road Runners, who will be marshalling the event on the day.
Volunteers from Perth Sea Cadets, under the command of Officer Brenda Goodwillie, have also kindly agreed to help out by giving out water and medals to the ladies as they cross the finish line.
Hamish Moir, event manager for Race for Life in Perth, said: “This year, the whole community has really got involved with the event. We are really grateful to everyone who has volunteered to help us on the day to ensure it is a great success and the event runs smoothly.
“It’s also a real honour to have Ailsa starting the Race. Ailsa’s courage in coping with cancer is truly inspirational.”
Last year, those taking part in Race for Life in Perth raised almost £50,000.
Hamish said: “Looking at all the ‘back signs’ that women wear at the event, declaring why they are taking part in Race for Life, is a very emotional experience.
“Many signs have been beautifully decorated with photographs in tribute to loved ones whose lives have been touched by the disease.
“I feel so proud and grateful to everyone who supports Race for Life in Perth.”
There is still time to enter Race for Life 5K and 10K events in Dundee on June 23 at raceforlife.org or by calling 0845 600 6050.
Look out for full Race for Life coverage in The Courier and online on Monday.