HUNDREDS of women are gearing up for the Race for Life on Sunday.

Last year, the annual women-only 5km charity race at Northfields Recreation Ground in Cwmbran drew 2,280 runners and raised a giant £102,000 for Cancer Research UK’s life-saving work.

Teenager Tegan Williams (pictured above) will be taking part in this year’s event with cousin, Vikki Wright.

Miss Wright said the Cwmbran 13-year-old has Down’s Syndrome, but is a “bubbly” girl who loves meeting new people and raising money for charity.

Joining Tegan will be her mum Lynsey and friend Sophie, while her dad Darren and brothers Rhys and Josh will cheer them on. Tegan became interested in fund raising when her grandmother Rita was diagnosed with cancer in 2012.

When visiting her in St Anne’s Hospice, Tegan told her she wanted to “raise lots of money for poorly people”.

So when she saw the Race for Life advertised, she wanted to take part, and has been completing practice walks. Despite suffering with weak ankles and knees, Tegan is determined to complete the challenge.

Miss Wright added: “We as a family are so proud of the determination and the caring young girl Tegan has become.”

Also taking part are the ladies at Curves Gym in Pontypool who have 53 members entered. Cerys Hopkins said: “Race for Life is a big event in our calendar. Taking part, alongside thousands of like-minded women, is incredibly motivating. The atmosphere at all the events is full of emotion.”

Entry closes tomorrow (June 19) and organisers are encouraging women who want to take part to sign up now.

Event manager Katy Barley, said: “We are absolutely thrilled that the ladies at Curves Gym have shown their dedication to Race for Life again by rallying up an army of ladies. But we still have places left.”

The charity hopes the 1,700 who have so far entered will raise £100,000.

Women can boost their contribution to Cancer Research UK’s work by sorting out a bag of unwanted quality clothes, books and accessories and drop them to the Donation Station at Race for Life.

There is no event parking available, but there are car parks in the town centre and surrounding area.

Visit www.raceforlife.org or call 0300 123 0770. To back Tegan, see www.justgiving. com/TeamTegan