Oban man’s marathon bike ride for charity
AN OBAN man is preparing to embark on a 737-mile cycle to raise money for three charities close to his heart.
Willie Neilson will cycle from Land’s End to Oban, before raffling his £1,750 bike at Station Square, with all profits going to charity.
‘My gran passed away in 2017 after suffering from Alzheimer’s disease so I want to raise money for Alzheimer Scotland.
‘Secondly, my sister-in-law Laura has Cerebral Palsy. When she was growing up she went to a specialist school which provided educational and therapy services for children and young people throughout Scotland affected by Cerebral Palsy and other neurological conditions.
‘Schools like these are invaluable. They do fantastic work to help these children and young adults.
‘Lastly, in 2017, my granny Jean was diagnosed with cancer. She was admitted to the Beatson hospital in Glasgow. Thankfully, after treatment, she was given the all clear early this year. So I would like to raise money for the Beatson Cancer Charity.’
Willie, who describes himself as ‘fairly new to the road’, will be competing in this year’s Oban Sportive cycle on Sunday April 22.
He will be riding alongside Mark Beaumont, who recently set a world record for cycling around the world in 80 days. Speaking about the trek, Willie said: ‘It’s going to be hard, but if it wasn’t, noone would sponsor me.’
The Oban Camanachd player has already secured sponsors including Cuan Mor and Fitness Hebrides, but is on the lookout for more.
Any businesses wishing to get in touch, or anyone looking to buy a raffle ticket, should email bigbillscycle@ gmail.com. To donate, visit www.gofundme.com/bigbillsbigcycle