Dad beats cancer to bike 600 miles
Oban’s ‘only competitor’ in this year’s Scottish six day motorcycle trials, George Gage, raised more than £1,200 for the Beatson Cancer Charity competing in the event for the first time, celebrating 10 years as a cancer survivor.
The Scottish Six Days Trial, centred in Fort William each May, sees riders completing up to 100 miles each day over six consecutive days. Each day they will take on a combination of rough moorland, rocky tracks and public roads in the best – and worst – weather the Highlands of Scotland can throw at them.
For safety reasons, the Scottish Six Days Trial is limited to around 270 competitors, but entries are regularly in excess of 400, such is the popularity of the event. Gage explained: ‘The Scottish Six Days Trial, commonly known as the Scottish, has a reputation for being the toughest trial in the world.
‘Since starting in 1909, riders from all over the world have come to compete in this event, which is a real test of the skill, consistency and fitness of the riders, as well as a test of the bike itself.
‘The Scottish is one of the few events where everyday trials riders get to ride alongside with professional and world class riders. Competing in this trial is a dream of every trials rider.
‘I was diagnosed at the end of 2006 with testicular cancer which spread to my lung. I finished my treatment just before my daughter Olivia was born in June 2007. I am forever grateful for the care I received from the Beatson in Glasgow and would like to continue to support the amazing work they do for all the patients in their care.’
The Beatson Cancer Charity provides patients and staff with the most cutting-edge equipment, treatments and surroundings to fight cancer. It also offers a range of complementary therapies to help relax patients and provide relief from pain, insomnia, nausea, phobia and anxiety.
You can donate via George’s JustGiving webpage.