Macmillan Cancer Support looks for cyclists to fundraise for it at Etape Loch Ness 2020
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Macmillan Cancer Support is hoping cyclists will pledge to raise at least £150 for it in this year's Etape Loch Ness.
General and priority entry tickets for the annual event sold out in just over two days last October, but there are still a few places available for Team Macmillan supporters.
Etape Loch Ness is one of Scotland’s few closed roads sportives and takes in 66 miles round Loch Ness.
It also features a timed King of the Mountain stage, with a 4.8 mile climb out of Fort Augustus gaining 380m in height with a gradient reaching 12 per cent at times.
Malcolm Sutherland, Etape Loch Ness event director, said: "With over four months between now and the event it’s the perfect time to sign up and start training.
"While we see lots of experienced cyclists participate, we would love to see some new faces this year and welcome less experienced riders. If you’re thinking of taking up cycling to get fit in the new year or have received a new bike this Christmas, then this is the perfect achievable goal to get you started.
"Research from Cycling UK shows that, if you cycle regularly in adulthood, you will enjoy a level of fitness equivalent to someone 10 years younger.
"Supporting the work of Macmillan Cancer Support is a great way to give back while experiencing our iconic Loch Ness route."
Will Morrison Ayton, challenge events programme manager for hiking and cycling at Macmillan Cancer Support, said: "We are delighted to partner Caledonian Concepts once again for this fantastic event. So far we have more than 750 participants signed up for Macmillan Cancer Support and we hope to raise over an incredible £320,000.
"A huge thank you to those who have already chosen to cycle for Team Macmillan, but there are still places available. If you are looking for a new year challenge, sign up to take on the incredible route today and help people with cancer live life as fully as they can."
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