Television presenters Chris Kamara and Ben Shephard are set to participate in the AJ Bell Great North Run on September 13 to support Prostate Cancer UK. Kamara, 68, a former professional footballer and long-time advocate for the charity, will run the 13.1-mile course alongside his son, Jack. Shephard, 51, Kamara's close friend and former co-host on Goals On Sunday, will join them in the effort.

Both men have personal motivations for their involvement in the event. Kamara has highlighted the disproportionate impact prostate cancer has on black men, noting that while the disease affects one in eight men overall, the risk is twice as high for black men. He stressed the importance of early detection, emphasizing that the disease is treatable when caught in time. Kamara also spoke of the emotional experiences he has witnessed among men and their families dealing with the diagnosis, describing their stories as both heartbreaking and inspiring.

Shephard, who previously presented on Sky Sports and now hosts Tipping Point, said that joining Kamara at the Great North Run was an easy decision, partly driven by his personal connection to the cause—his father was diagnosed with prostate cancer. Their combined efforts aim not only to raise funds but also to increase public awareness about the disease.

The AJ Bell Great North Run, a popular half marathon held annually in the Tyneside area, usually draws tens of thousands of participants; this year, approximately 63,000 runners are expected to take part. Both Kamara and Shephard hope their participation will encourage others to support prostate cancer research and education while marking the significance of the ongoing fight against the illness.