The event, which has raised over a quarter of a million pounds for its two benefiting charities - The Friends of Cynthia Spencer Hospice and Macmillan Cancer Support in the county - over the past decade, is being launched at Franklin’s Gardens at 6pm on Wednesday, February 12th.
Director of rugby Jim Mallinder, who has ridden in the event for the last two years, will again be on hand to present the trophies to the prize winners from 2013, including to the individual who raised the most money, the team sporting the best fancy dress and the chairman’s prize which is given to the person deemed to have made a special contribution to the event.
Jim will be joined by players Christian Day and Calum Clark, who captained the England Saxons last month, although sadly Dylan Hartley and Tom Wood, who rode with their coach last year, will be absent owing to their being on training duty for England’s Six Nations campaign. However, subject to next season’s fixture list, they all hope to take part in the ride itself, as does former Northamptonshire and England cricketer Allan Lamb who pedalled last year.
Among those out in force at the launch will be staff from St Andrew’s in Northampton, which has just named the hospice as its chosen charity of the year. Phil Broxton, who is Therapy Manager for Men’s Service, explained why they’re so keen to get involved again.
“We’ve had riders of all ages and abilities take part in the event for the last three years and, thanks to the great organisation and the amazing atmosphere on the day, our guys have always really enjoyed it, so our team’s set to be even bigger this time!” he said.
“Cycling is also a great for improving your fitness so I’d really encourage everyone to take part as I can’t think of a better way of showing support for these two fantastic and thoroughly deserving charities!” he added.
Cycle 4 Cynthia 2014, offering riders 5, 25 or 50 mile routes, is taking place on Sunday 21st September at an exciting new venue – the details of which will be unveiled at the launch.
Anyone wishing to take part is cordially invited to attend the launch event at Franklin’s Gardens on Wednesday, February 12th. To find out more details, to book your place or to pledge your involvement in the ride, please contact Sue at the hospice on 01604 678088 or visit www.cycle4cynthia.com
