Founder of the charity Climbers Against Cancer John Ellison has been awarded the prestigious Arco Rock Legends Climbing Ambassador award at the annual celebration in the Italian town of Arco. John - based in Ribchester - founded 'CAC' in 2012 and has since raised over 500,000 Euros for cancer research centres around the world through the sale of 250,000 t-shirts and fundraising events.
© Giulio Malfer/Planetmountain.com
The award - sponsored by Dryarn - is presented annually to an individual who has contributed to the culture of climbing on a global scale.
Upon accepting the award, John thanked the supporters of CAC who have contributed to the cause over the years:
“I am one of you and it’s thanks to you that I’m here. This award belongs to everyone, we all received it.“
John also presented a cheque for 10,000 Euros to a cancer research facility in Mexico during the World Youth Championships which were taking place in Arco at the same time.
© John Ellison
Commenting on his award, John told UKC:
"It was a real honour to receive the Dryarn Climbing Ambassador award in Arco on behalf of everyone who supports CAC. To share the stage with many of the worlds top climbers was truly humbling and the continuous thunderous applause sent shivers down my spine and for a moment my illness was forgotten!"
JURY MOTIVATION
Dryarn Climbing Ambassador by Aquafil
“To John Ellison, for the courage and strength with which he interprets his life through adversity, inspiring the world’s climbing community with motivation and visions that form the universal values of solidarity”
The nominees for the Rock Award and the Competition Award proudly donned their CAC tshirts in support of the cause as they took to the stage for a group photo.
© Giulio Malfer/Planetmountain.com
The Salewa Rock Award 2015 was awarded to German sport climbing star Alex Megos, and the La Sportiva Competition Award was won by renowned Czech climber Adam Ondra.
More information on the Arco Rock Legends event here.
Donate to Climbers Against Cancer and find out more about the charity here.
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