Prostate Cancer charity announces 2010 sportive line up

Following a successful entry into the world of sportives last year, The Prostate Cancer Charity, in partnership with The Tour of Britain, has announced they will stage a further three events in 2010.

Cyclists will have the opportunity to measure themselves against the pro riders, taking on one or more stages of The 2010 Tour of Britain, going the full distance of 150km, or taking on a challenging 70km.

The Prostate Cancer Charity's Tour Rides, which will all take place in September, will offer amateur cyclists the chance to ride three full stages of Britain’s national cycle tour in 2010:

In a brand new event for 2010, cyclists will be able to tackle a tough route which traverses the scenic South West, travelling 150km from Minehead to the South Devon coast or covering part of the route over a distance of 70km, on Sunday 5 September.

Stoke-on-Trent, which saw 1,300 riders participate in the inaugural Tour Ride last year including British Road Race Champion Kristian House, will again play host to cyclists, offering a grueling 145km route which starts and finishes in Stoke-on-Trent in the City’s centenary year, as well as a 70km challenge event, on Sunday 26 September.

There will also be an event on the London stage of the event, which will take cyclists on a route past some of the most iconic landmarks in the capital, on Saturday 18 September, prior to the final stage of The Tour of Britain.

The Prostate Cancer Charity Tour Rides are part of the Charity’s commitment to get people on their bikes to raise awareness of the disease, under its ‘Unite ByCycling’ initiative.

In both the South West and Stoke-on-Trent, there will also be 20km family rides, as well as other cycling-related activities at the event sites, so that people of all ages and cycling abilities can take part.

John Neate, The Prostate Cancer Charity's Chief Executive, said: "Last year’s events proved hugely successful and we received extremely positive feedback from participants about the organisation of the day and the fact that they could take on a leg of the actual Tour of Britain for the first time.

“Of course, everyone who takes part, as well as completing a personal challenge, will be helping the Charity to raise awareness of prostate cancer and helping us to raise funds to fight the disease, which kills one man every hour in the UK. We are delighted to be entering into the second year of our successful partnership with The Tour of Britain.

“Places are limited for the event, so we are urging cyclists to ensure they are at the start line by signing up early.”

“The Prostate Cancer Charity Tour Ride, the first event of its kind in Great Britain, provided members of the public with a unique opportunity to get on their bikes and ride the official Stoke-on-Trent stage of The 2009 Tour of Britain race, all in support of a fantastic cause,” said Hugh Roberts, CEO of The Tour of Britain. “The inaugural event in Stoke-on-Trent proved to be a huge success and this year we are pleased to be extending the number of Tour Rides to include a new ride in the South West.”

The Prostate Cancer Charity Tour Rides cost £40 for the full stage distances, £30 for the 70km distances and £20 for a family of four to do the 20km Family Rides, in both Stoke-on-Trent and the South West. Entries close on 1 September 2010 but as places are limited and expected to fill up fast, riders are encouraged to sign up as soon as possible.

To take part in The Prostate Cancer Charity's Tour Rides, visit www.tourride.co.uk.