The Courier & Advertiser (Fife Edition)
Cyclists urged to get well dressed up for annual charity race
Firsts for popular event with introduction of trophy for costume and cup for school which raises most
Thousands of cyclists are expected to pedal their way around Dundee this weekend for the 15th Cyclathon.
The event, organised by Claverhouse Rotary Club, has raised more than a quarter of a million pounds for good causes since 2003, with Marie Curie being announced as this year’s charity.
Participants can also choose to raise money for their own nominated cause.
For the first time a trophy will be handed out for the best fancy dress costume, and the school which raises the most money for charity will be awarded the Dundee Schools Cyclathon Cup and yellow jersey.
The race has grown in popularity over the years, with cyclists from across Scotland making their way to the city for the event.
Callum Hall is one of them. He cycles
A win for the cyclists who have a great day out which has many lasting memories and a win for the charities who depend for their very existence on funds raised by their supporters
from his home in Dufftown to Huntly, where he catches the train to Dundee, rides from Dundee Station to Camperdown Park and then pedals the full 26-mile route.
Ian Balgowan, president of the club, said: “Win-win is what the Cyclathon is all about.
“A win for the cyclists who have a great day out which has many lasting memories and a win for the charities who depend for their very existence on funds raised by their supporters.
“The more cyclists who enter, the more money we all raise.”
The race will begin at Camperdown park and follows the Dundee green cycle route over 26 miles.
Cyclists of all abilities are being encouraged to take part and those interested can still sign up on the event website.
Marie Curie provides free nursing care to the terminally ill at home.
Susan Walsh, a local Marie Curie community fundraiser, said: “Marie Curie is an inspirational charity to work for. I am honoured every day to talk to patients and families who benefited directly from the wonderful care our nurses provide.
“It is only because of fundraising activities like the Cyclathon that we can continue to provide these essential services and support our local communities.”