Champion’s cancer contribution recognised with honorary doctorate

Bob Champion has been awarded an honorary doctorate by the Institute of Cancer Research in recognition of his outstanding contribution in supporting research into male cancers.

The former jockey famously recovered from testicular cancer to make an heroic return to the saddle and win the Grand National aboard Aldaniti in 1981, with the comeback story of both horse and rider portrayed in the 1984 film Champions.

Inspired by his own experience, Champion set up the Bob Champion Cancer Trust alongside Aldaniti’s owner Nick Embiricos and since it’s inception it has supported research into innovative treatments, diagnostics and strategies for male cancers and raised more than £15million.

On receiving his award, Champion said: “It is truly an honour to receive this recognition from the ICR. We set up the Bob Champion Cancer Trust over 40 years ago and I’m extremely proud of what we’ve achieved in that time through pioneering research to discover new diagnostics and treatments.

“Since my own cancer diagnosis, great strides have been made in research into male cancers, and I commend the scientists at the ICR who work so tirelessly towards our shared goal to help patients live longer and better lives.

“I am also immensely grateful to all our wonderful fundraisers, whose ongoing support enables us to continue to fund vital projects that will make a difference to countless men with the disease.”

Since his retirement from the saddle, Champion has proven central to fund-raising events and augmenting awareness of male cancers and the need for research.

The Bob Champion Cancer Trust has assisted in funding research at both ICR and the Royal Marsden, as well as at the University of East Anglia, including jointly funding the building of the Male Urological Cancer Research Centre on the ICR’s Sutton campus.

Professor Kristian Helin, chief executive at the ICR, said: “Bob is an inspiration and there is no doubt that his outstanding contributions have helped to transform how male cancers are diagnosed and treated.”

Champion joins the likes of broadcaster and journalist Victoria Derbyshire in receiving an honorary doctorate from the ICR, which is a part of the University of London.