Chris Hoy supports Maggie's Monster Bike and Hike
12/03/2008
Olympic Champion Chris Hoy led Maggie’s Monster Bike and Hike participants on a training session at Arthur’s Seat in preparation for the challenge of a lifetime
Olympic track cycling gold medallist, Chris Hoy MBE, took cyclists through their paces on Sunday, March 9, to train for one of the biggest outdoor charity events of the year – Maggie’s Cancer Caring Centre’s Monster Bike and Hike.
The Edinburgh born seven-times World Champion also imparted advice on endurance and teamwork to the group of eight participants who work for Edinburgh based marketing agency, Big Mouth Media.
Chris Hoy MBE, said: “As anyone who knows me will tell you, I enjoy a challenge and Maggie’s certainly know how to put on a team event that is challenging, rewarding and great fun at the same time. I have competed for Great Britain in individual and team categories and I know about the high spirits and fulfilment that can only come from a team event. There is such a strong cycling community throughout Scotland and I would urge them to sign up for Monster, as this is an adventure not to be missed. Also, with the choice of bronze, silver and gold, you can take yourself to your own limit – so if it’s been years since you got on your bike, this is the ideal opportunity to get back on the saddle. How better to spend your bank holiday weekend than getting fit with a group of friends, family or colleagues, surrounded by some of Scotland’s most spectacular scenery, while doing your bit for a worthwhile cause? With one in three people affected by cancer, there never has been a greater need for Maggie’s Cancer Caring Centres and by taking part in Monster Bike and Hike, you will be helping Maggie’s to raise the vital fun.”
This is the fifth outing for Monster Bike and Hike, which takes place across 73 miles of stunning Highland scenery, to help raise vital funds for Maggie’s Centres to provide people with the tools to build a life beyond cancer. 800 participants from across the UK are expected to take part in the 30 mile cycle, followed by a hike of their choice – 8 miles (bronze), 22 miles (silver) or 43 miles (gold).
The ultimate 24-hour team building challenge, which takes place on the bank holiday weekend of May 3-4, takes in some of Scotland’s most awe inspiring scenery, starting under the shadow of Ben Nevis in Fort William and taking in views of Loch Ness, the Caledonian Canal and several Munros, as participants travel along the Great Glen Way to Inverness.
Shivonne Graham, Maggie’s Head of Events, said: “We pull out all the stops to make this the ultimate team building challenge. And anyone who has taken part will tell you it is one of the most inspiring and enjoyable weekends of the year. Participants can choose their challenge and take themselves to their own limit, whilst at the same time, helping us to continue to support the thousands of people affected by cancer who visit our centres. It takes a great deal of determination to take part but by all accounts it’s a hugely rewarding experience both physically and mentally.”
Mark Beaumont, who recently broke a world record by becoming the fastest person to cycle around the world, made an appearance on Sunday to thank Chris for his support during his 195-day cycle. He also showed his support for Maggie’s Monster Bike and Hike, which he had heard of through his head of physiotherapy and support, Fiona Lindsay, of Athletes’ Angels, who also heads up the support for Monster participants.
2,500 people have taken part in Maggie’s Monster Bike and Hike to date, raising over £2.3million to help Maggie’s to build and support centres across the UK. And this year is expected to raise a record £800,000 for the network of centres, which offer emotional support and practical advice to people with cancer, their friends and families.
To find out more about Monster 2008 call Kirsty Toal on 0845 602 6427, e-mail kirstyt@maggiescentres.org or visit www.maggiescentres.org/monster.
