Keen cyclists are being given the chance of a lifetime to join one of the world’s most famous athletes on a 265-mile adventure — all while raising cash for a Tayside charity.
Perthshire local Mark Beaumont, who in 2017 set a new world record after cycling around the world in just under 80 days, will lead a group of fellow adventurers from Tayside to the Highlands and Grampian.
Just 30 places are up for grabs on the two-day mission — set to take place in April — with all proceeds going towards the ARCHIE Foundation, which is raising funds for improvements to children’s healthcare.
The local branch of the charity is currently trying to raise £2 million to build a new twin operating theatre suite at Tayside Children’s Hospital at Ninewells.
ARCHIE and MARK’s Big Bike Ride will see the group travel between each of the charity’s three hospitals in Dundee, Inverness and Aberdeen.
Mr Beaumont, who has been a supporter of the charity for a number of years, broke the world record when he cycled around the world in just 78 days, 14 hours and 40 minutes in September 2017.
He said: “ARCHIE supports children’s hospitals in Tayside, Grampian and Highlands; and one way in which they do this is by providing emergency funding to families that have a child receiving hospital care.
“Be that for travel, accommodation, or just a cup of tea and a chat for some support in a much needed time, this funding is invaluable.
“I am very proud to be an ARCHIE patron and have supported them for a number of years. This year, I thought I’d get on my bike and encourage others to do the same.”
All money raised for the foundation goes to the nearest children’s hospital and is used to fund a range of things such as capital build projects, advanced medical equipment and training, specialist staff posts, invaluable family accommodation as well as books and toys.
Through ARCHIE’s small grants scheme, families can apply for money to help with things like travel, food and accommodation costs while their children are receiving treatment.
For more information, email hello@archie.org.
