Taysiders are being urged to jump on their bikes to raise much-needed funds for local cancer care this September.
Dundee’s annual 26-mile Cyclathon takes place on Sunday September 11 and will raise money in aid of Marie Curie.
Now in its 15th year, the event begins and ends in Camperdown Park and covers the entire city.
The Cyclathon is open to cyclists of all experience.
With the UK still basking in the glow of Olympic cycling success, Ian Balgowan, the event’s co-ordinator, hopes to make 2016 a bumper year for the Cyclathon and Marie Curie.
Ian explained: “The Dundee Cyclathon is suitable for all ages and abilities — it’s not a race. If you have a bike and you’re looking for a fun day out with family or friends, this is the event for you.
“The Cyclathon is very safe and well organised but we really want folks to sign up soon so they can make use of the free bike check offered by Nicholson’s Cycles and minimise the potential for any mechanical hitches on the big day.”
Nicholson’s will have a small team offering breakdown service to competitors on the day of the event, but cyclists are encouraged to ensure their bikes are in good condition.
This year world cycling ambassador Mark Beaumont and Dundee United have added their backing to the event which to date has raised more than £250,000 for various local charities.
Petra McMillan, a patron for 2016’s beneficiary Marie Curie and who is taking part herself, added: “Every penny cyclists raise will stay in the same ‘DD’ postcode area this autumn to ‘buy’ free high quality hands-on nursing care at home for individuals with a range of terminal conditions, including cancer.
“With just £20 buying one hour of care, the Dundee Cyclathon could really help us deliver more care to individuals who ask to be at home at the end, close to the people and things that make them feel most comfortable.”
Entry is £12 for an individual, £20 for a family or £35 for a team of four. To find out more, or to enter, visit www.entrycentral.com/Cyclathon or call Ian Balgowan on 07952 537249.
