We are writing to update our supporters and community that the #1367 Diamond Homerun for Ovarian Cancer research – a 100km endurance run undertaken by Jarrod Russell – will be moving from its original summer schedule to Autumn 2026.

Why the Change?

As many of you know, Queensland summers are synonymous with two things: intense heat and the unpredictable rainy season.

Running 100km is a monumental physical challenge on its own. Doing it by running 1,367 laps of a softball diamond adds a mental grit that few possess. To give Jarrod the best possible track conditions and ensure the event can proceed without the interruption of torrential downpours or dangerous humidity, we have made the decision to shift the event to the cooler, drier Autumn months.

This change ensures safety first, but it also promises a better atmosphere for spectators to come out, cheer, and support the cause without dodging summer storms.

The Challenge: #1367

For those new to the event, the number 1367 isn’t random. It is the precise number of “home runs”—or laps around a standard softball diamond – required to hit the massive 100km milestone.

Jarrod Russell is taking on this gruelling distance to raise vital funds and awareness for ovarian cancer research. Every lap is a step toward breakthroughs that could change lives, and every donation helps ensure that Play for a Cure can continue to target this critical area of cancer research.

Jarrod has already completed nearly a quarter of the challenge, with many laps run under horrendous rain. His determination is epic, and we know that times are tight – especially with Christmas coming up. That’s why we ask our community to save their coin and donate to this truly worthy cause.

looking ahead

The full run will be completed when the weather cools and the rain begins to disappear, making what is already a very difficult task just that little bit easier.

We are finalising the specific date in Autumn and will share it as soon as it is locked in. In the meantime, Jarrod continues his training (dodging the rain where he can!), and we’ll keep sharing updates along the way so you can follow his progress and stay connected to the challenge.

This is going to be a homerun you won’t want to miss.

Together, let’s Play for a Cure.

The post A New Season for a Diamond Challenge: The #1367 Moves to Autumn appeared first on Play for a Cure Foundation.

Saturday, 22nd November
Downey Park

This year’s event promises to be bigger and brighter than ever, with a huge multi-draw raffle featuring fantastic prizes generously donated by our community. Whether you’re joining us in person or cheering from afar, you can still be part of the day and go into the draw to win more than one of these brilliant prizes!

Thank you to Leading Edge Sports, and the members of Panthers Softball Club who have so kindly donated:

• Mint Mizuno Glove (LES)
• Lizard Glove wrap (LES)
• $50 voucher (LES)
• $200 Westfield gift card (donated by our sponsors Aston Air Conditioning – thank you Lauren))
• $200 Westfield gift card (AAC)
• $100 Westfield gift card (AAC)
• LKSD voucher (Panthers A Grade Black and Red)
• $100 Eftpos gift card (Panthers A reserve Black)
• Yeti hamper (Panthers A reserve Red)
• $110 Bunnings Voucher (Panthers B Grade Red)
• The Flower Farm Gift Set (donated by U16) – think Drinking Chocolate bonanza, Newfarm chocolate, Proceso & Harvest or a $50 flower voucher (3 prizes in total)
• Scratchie tree (Panthers Under 12)
• Lob a Choc – techically not a raffle prize, but a thank you from us to Panthers Under 14 red for what sounds like a lot of fun on the day!
• More to come…….

Every ticket sold and every dollar raised helps us fund vital cancer research and support those affected. Panthers Softball Club continues to show what it means to be a club that plays with heart — and we couldn’t be more proud to have them by our side.

Thank you, Panthers, for standing with us. Together, we’re swinging for a future without cancer.

See below to purchase your tickets online! Upon payment, we will reply via email with your numbers and hopefully be contacting you on your mobile on the day of the draw (22nd November).

1 ticket ($5)

3 tickets ($10)

7 tickets ($20)

15 tickets ($50)

#PinkPanthersDay #PlayForACure #PanthersSoftball #EndCancer #TogetherWeCan #Gratitude

The post Pink Panthers Day 2025 – Panthers Softball Club Playing for a Cure appeared first on Play for a Cure Foundation.

To the incredible Masters teams who donated to Play for a Cure: thank you. Your generosity fuels our mission and honours every story behind the cause. We’re especially grateful to the teams who made direct donations—your support was visible, personal, and powerful. A special shoutout to:

• Brisbane Fusion
• Brisbane Demons
• Our very own team – Team P4AC
• Softball Queensland – for your ongoing partnership and for enabling the donations online – incredibly grateful

We also want to acknowledge the many teams and individuals who donated online. Due to privacy restrictions, we may never know exactly who you are—but please know this: your support is felt, valued, and deeply appreciated. Whether your name appears on a receipt or remains anonymous, your impact is real, and we’re grateful beyond words.

To my own Masters team, Team P4AC: your ongoing advocacy, visibility, and heart-on-sleeve commitment continue to inspire. Whether it’s on the diamond or behind the scenes, you show what it means to play with purpose.

A very special thank you to the McKellar family, led by Carol and Kelly. Kelly—our ambassador—is the only person to have played in every Team P4AC Masters tournament and is a proud Life Member of Team P4AC. Your continued support and generosity mean the world to us. And to Carrie Rose, board member and fellow Life Member of Team P4AC—thank you for your generous donation and unwavering commitment to our cause. You both embody the spirit of Play for a Cure. ???

And to our newest Life Members of Team P4AC—congratulations! Your dedication, spirit, and legacy are now woven into the very fabric of our movement. You are the heartbeat of this team. Over more than a decade, you’ve shown up with purpose, passion, and persistence—making a profound contribution not just to Team P4AC, but to the advocacy that drives us forward. Your commitment has shaped our culture, strengthened our mission, and inspired everyone who wears the jersey.

And to Stacey—recipient of our Legacy of Loyalty Award—your dedication is nothing short of extraordinary. Since 2011, you’ve been there every single year, showing up in whatever way the team needed: cheering from the sidelines, keeping us hydrated as our beloved water girl, and now leading with heart as our coach. Your loyalty, quiet strength, and enduring presence have become part of Team P4AC’s DNA. This award is a small gesture to honour a truly big legacy. ???

Scroll down to explore the photo gallery, beautifully enhanced by the stunning floral arrangements generously donated by Sharon from The Flower Shop.

As for the scoreboard… well, sport has a way of keeping us humble. After a strong win against the Renegades, they came back swinging in the grand final and handed us a whitewash. Credit where it’s due—they played brilliantly. We’ll wear the loss, learn from it, and come back stronger. That’s the P4AC way.

Here’s to the wins, the lessons, and the people who make it all matter. ???

The post The First Weekend of August: Laughter, Pride & Gratitude appeared first on Play for a Cure Foundation.

The first day we were down 5, yes 5, but rest assured it had no impact. Zoe, Judith and Julie stepped up and filled in for us in the 2 games we played and unlike previous years we actually won our first 2 games.  Thank you ladies for filling in for us, you certainly fit right in and looked right at place on the diamond. 2 from 2 on day one – 19 runs for, 1 against. 

Day 2 we had a full complement of players and were able to get them all on the diamond.  We won our first game and despite leading the 2nd game 7-5, we ran out of time and Renegades served up our first loss of the weekend.  30 runs for, 6 against – our bats were firing and our 3 pitchers were dominating with our defence showing signs of 25 odd years ago! 

Day 3 was an early start for us and historically we have a way of playing an 8am game. But…this time we were switched on, however Renegades were too strong and we went down 4-2 and had to play off against Giants to make the Grand Final.  Brisbane Giants beat us in the Div 1 Grand Final in 2023 so we were eager to avenge.  Initially, our bats were quiet, but our pitcing and fielding kept us in the game.  One inning explosion by the Giants had them leading us 4-1 with out last turn at bat coming up.  We had to dig deep, or else our campaign was over. And dig deep we did, finding the hits when we needed it to scrape through to the GF with a 5-4 win.

Grand Final – it was apt that we met Renegades again; the games we have had over the years have always been hard fought and the GF was no exception.  Pitching was tight, and the fielding was outstanding, meaning both sides were unable to unleash.  Runners, on both teams, may have made base but they were left stranded by the aforementioned pitching and fielding.  We took a lead 2-1 and had to hold tight while Renegades threw one last effort at us. We held firm and for the first time since 2017, we were able to claim the Div 1 Championships.  41 runs for and only 13 against, and a Gold Medal – oustanding effort by our hitters, pitchers and fielders. 

A great weekend for our Masters Charity team on the diamond and we thank them and congratulate them on the team effort to bring home the gold…Allison Waters, Cara Rennie, Cheryl-Lea Godfrey, Karen Sala, Keri McCracken, Amanda King (or King Amanda?!?), Megan Misso, Melanie Roche, Micaela Harrington, Nic Bennett, Poppy Ditchburn (our umpire (our biggest thanks to you!!)), Sheridan Darroch, Kelly McKellar-Nathan, and Karyn Foxover.  Shout out too to our officials – we couldn’t do it without you – Tracey Pollock (Scorer (alongside her little sidekick Lucy B)) and Stacey Porter (coach).  Thanks too to our supporters, you are always there!

BUT, we all know this weekend is not just about playing, although to be honest it is always the fun part, catching up with friends and being with your people, it is also about fundraising for our cause.  Our partner Softball Queensland have opened the portal so when registering, people can also donate when paying their match fees.  With that we made an incredible $4,108 and we want to thank each and eveyone of you that donated!  We won’t know your names ( a little thing called confidentiality) but know we are so so grateful to you all. 

We have some wonderful donors that choose to donate directly to us, some might say, the old fashioned way.  We are forever grateful to you and simply love how much our community supports our work.

Tan Aunties and Uncles (with #teamp4ac)

Dodgers

Aunty Emma’s Moongalba

Suncoast Flickers

Brisbane Fusion 35s

Demons

Young Devils

Lygers

And to Carrie Rose, our board member, and 10+ year member of the team (and newest life member alongside Cheryl-Lea Godfrey). Every year you drop such a significant donation to us and we simply do not have enough words, except to say thank you and we love you!

Year 15, still going strong, and with this event at SQ Masters, our charity has now raised at the SQ Masters alone….. $54,496!  It’s all down to Softball.  What a sport, and what people we have – we are truly lucky to be a part of this community! 

Leigh
#TEAMP4AC

PS. A bit of fun and reminiscing = Then (2010) verses now (2024)

Our first P4AC team

Smacks, Marty, Shez and Frecks

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Exciting Announcement!

Ease yourself into the weekend and come join us for a round of golf on the 21st June from 12.30pm. YES, we are back with another ‘A Day on the Greens’. We are super excited about being able to host a golf event and this year even more so by hosting it at the Ashgrove Golf Course.

Join us for an unforgettable addition to our Charity Golf Day! After a day of swinging and putting, treat yourself to a sumptuous Buffet Dinner at the renowned Zegatos Restaurant, nestled within the picturesque Ashgrove Golf Club course. Our host, Tony, is committed to ensuring your evening is nothing short of exceptional. With the entire restaurant area reserved for our guests, you’ll have ample space to relax and enjoy the company of fellow golf enthusiasts, prior to our awards presentation. Access to the bar means you can easily purchase your favorite drinks to complement your meal. Don’t miss this opportunity to indulge in good food, great company, and support a worthy cause while easing yourself into your weekend. Reserve your spot today and get ready for an evening of culinary delights and camaraderie!

NB. TICKETS ARE LIMITED! So be quick and get your ticket today.

The post A day on the Greens! appeared first on Play for a Cure Foundation.

13 years ago, on this very day, our journey as a charity officially began. Reflecting on this milestone, we’re awestruck by the incredible support that has propelled us to this moment.

From the outset, every dollar mattered. Yet, here we stand, celebrating not only our 13th year but also the incredible milestone of raising over $400,000! Yes, you read that right—$400,000 toward cancer research!

It’s moments like these that make us pause, marvel, and feel a sense of overwhelming gratitude. Each contribution, each effort, each event attended or shared—every action has been a building block in our collective mission.

This milestone isn’t just a number; it’s a testament to the unwavering dedication and generosity of our supporters. You’ve been the heartbeat of our cause, driving us forward, fueling our passion to make a tangible difference in the fight against cancer.

We’re humbled by your trust, your support, and your unwavering belief in our cause. Together, we’ve empowered scientists, funded research, and taken strides towards a future free of this disease.

As we blow out the candles on our 13th birthday cake, know that every wish made is for our supporters—the real superheroes in this story. Thank you for standing with us, for believing in our cause, and for helping us turn dreams of progress into impactful realities.

Here’s to many more years of unwavering commitment, determined spirit, and boundless hope. Together, we’ll continue to make an extraordinary difference.

The post We turn 13 and reach a significant milestone appeared first on Play for a Cure Foundation.

In a fierce battle, the Play for a Cure Masters team showed true sportsmanship and determination in the Grand Final, leaving no stone unturned in their pursuit of victory. As they fought on the field, they were also grateful for the incredible support they received from generous donors who joined their mission to put an end to cancer once and for all. This is a tribute to the team’s journey, their dedication, and the powerful impact of those who rallied behind them to support cancer research.

The semi:

In an intense up-and-down battle, our team showcased unwavering determination and resilience, ultimately emerging victorious against Brisbane Giants Red, 16-9, to secure a spot in the grand final against the formidable Brisbane Giants Black team. The defining moment of our win was an outstanding display of hitting, where every swing of the bat seemed to be guided by pure determination (and of course skill).  Great relief pitching from Kingy was also a highlight.   Off to the grand final….

A Grand Final to Remember:

The Play for a Cure Masters team’s journey in the Grand Final was nothing short of extraordinary. We played a great game, and although tired we never gave up. Cheryl-Lea pitched an amazing 7 innings and despite our passion and competitiveness we ultimately went down 7-6 in the bottom of the 7th. Congratulations to the Brisbane Giants on what looked like to be a very successful masters weekend for your club.

Thanks for your Support:

Play for a cure Foundation want to thank the masters team for continuing to raise awareness and represent our charity – so well now for over 14 years. Our success would not be possible without the overwhelming support of the softball community, friends, family, and all the kind-hearted individuals who donated to our cause. Every contribution makes a significant difference in the fight against cancer, empowering researchers to pursue groundbreaking studies and potentially find a cure.

• Cheryl-Lea Godfrey
• Karyn Foxover
• Cara Rennie
• Megan Misso
• Sheridan Darroch
• Anne Vogler (Life member (LM))
• Nicole Bennett
• Justine Smethurst
• Kelly McKellar-Nathan (LM)
• Amanda King
• Karen Sala
• Melissa Edwards
• Leigh Martyn (LM)
• David Foxover
• Stacey Porter
• Jason Nathan (LM)
• Melanie Roche
• Tracey Pollock
• Tracy Bailey

Joining the Battle Against Cancer:

With the generous donations received, Play for a Cure is actively contributing to cancer research initiatives, which are paving the way for groundbreaking advancements in treatment and prevention. Each donation is a symbol of hope and unity in the battle against this devastating disease.

What was started 14 years ago by one team, the Toowoomba Warriors, has now led to other teams who rather than give gifts, after each game, they choose to donate to the cause. Your generosity is never taken for granted and we are incredibly grateful to you.

Conclusion:

This article stands as a tribute to the Masters team’s determination and an expression of gratitude to everyone who donated to support our mission. Together, we can bring hope to those battling cancer and work towards a future where cancer is no longer a life-threatening disease.

The unsung heroes!

Acknowledging the Unsung Heroes: A Thank You to Those Behind the Scenes and Our Dedicated Team Officials in Masters Tournaments

While the spotlight often shines brightly on the players, it’s crucial to take a moment to express gratitude to the unsung heroes working tirelessly behind the scenes. These individuals, along with our dedicated team officials, play an integral role in ensuring the seamless execution and success of our Masters tournaments.

Behind every successful Masters tournament are countless volunteers who selflessly dedicate their time and energy to support the event. Their passion and commitment create a positive atmosphere, making the tournament a memorable experience for everyone involved.  Thank you Redcliffe Softball. Thank you Tricia and your band of umpires. Thank you to Chris and your scorers and thank you to the groundsmen!

Last but certainly not least, our very own team officials. Thanks for being with us. Thanks for supporting us.

Here’s to next year, where the hope is we continue to shine the light on cancer research and bringing new players to the plate to help us continue to work towards a world where the word cancer will not strike fear into the hearts of those that hear it spoken. Together we can #endcancer!

The post Play for a Cure Masters Team’s Triumphs and Thanks: A Grand Final Journey Towards Cancer Cure appeared first on Play for a Cure Foundation.

Softball Queensland have also joined in and together we have collated some amazing prizes that you can win, for just $5 a ticket!

To buy your tickets, click here where you can see the prizes, alongside the amazing donors!

Raffle has been drawn and winners notified. Thank you all for your support. More news to follow about the weekend!

The post P4AC Suncoast Masters and Raffle appeared first on Play for a Cure Foundation.

When others believe as passionately about your cause and do an extraordinary amount of work to support you, there is nothing more humbling! Earlier this year we had the pleasure of being hosted by Suncoast Hinterland Softball Association on their Grand Final day where they took the opportunity to present a cheque to our charity from their superbly run Masters tournament in January 2022. To say we are grateful is an understatement 

It was unfortunate that #teamp4ac was unable to participate at the inaugural Suncoast masters but with the heads up of the dates for 2023 (14-15 Jan) we will be there with bells on and look forward to working with Karen and Tam and their team to make the next tournament even more successful…..if possible, because once you watch the video and see the substantial amount raised, you will wonder how it could be possible. Aim high!

And that is exactly what Karen, Tam and her team at Suncoast Hinterland Softball plan to do! We are excited, the 25 teams entered and excited and we just want to simply say thank you!

Check out the video here – the presentation on Grand Final day – you will also learn of the staggering amount the team raised! And it is also a thank you to all those that participated and put an effort in to make the inaugural P4AC Suncoast Hinterland Masters a smashing success!

The post P4AC Suncoast Hinterland Masters is back for Round 2 appeared first on Play for a Cure Foundation.

To start with donated to the ACRF – they do amazing work and all the work our scientists do is mainly due to the equipment they use. In the Australian scene, the ACRF play a massive part in funding the infrastructure purchases (NB. these are very expensive pieces of equipment). This year we were able to donate $10,000 bringing our total donated to ACRF over the years to $102,500.

Next up we had a special guest in Addie Clay who was on hand to donate $12,500 to Dr Nakamura’s program of works. Read more about it by clicking on this link. We were thrilled that Addie could find the time between her 2 softball tournaments (editor note, Addie made the Qld U14 squad – we are so happy for her as this was the first time in 2 years that Ads was able to play at 100% fitness (she smashed it)) to tour the lab with her sister and mum! Thank you to Dr Nakamura and his scientists for showing us around and explaining, so well, what it is they do. Immunology will go a long way to helping #endcancer!

And finally we had the pleasure of taking Kirsty through Assc Professor Moeller’s lab, where the lovely Keko’olani take us through their lab where we got another lesson on the amazing work these scientists do. To learn more about their work, click on this link. Another $12,500 was handed over, taking our total donated to the QIMR to now be $75,000. We are eternally grateful to the efforts of the researchers!

All up we have now donated over $266,000 to cancer research and given we continue to be volunteers, we are really proud of being able to hand over such a significant amount of dollars to research – all because of our #teamp4ac army. It’s because of all of you so we thank you!

QIMR Lab Visits

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