Organisers of a major cycle event in Edinburgh say next year’s race is on track to be their biggest yet. More than 800 cyclists took part in 2017’s Tour de Forth, raising £54,000 for the charities Mercy Corps & Radio Forth’s Cash for Kids – £12,000 more than in 2016.
Next year’s race will follow the same gruelling 97.3km route through Edinburgh, West Lothian and Fife, including pedalling over the Forth Road Bridge.
Entries officially open today for individuals, cycle clubs and groups interested in participating in the 2018 race, which takes place on Sunday 3rd June, and – despite increasing capacity for the event – organisers are urging people to sign up quickly as possible as the number of entrants will be capped.
While the Tour de Forth offers budding Chris Froomes the chance to challenge themselves in stunning surroundings, its main purpose is to raise money for two leading charities – Radio Forth’s Cash for Kids, which helps children in the east of Scotland who are disadvantaged through poverty, illness or disability; and Mercy Corps, an Edinburgh-based charity working in 40 countries to provide lifesaving assistance and long-term support to people affected by crisis.
Radio Forth’s Cash for Kids Charity Manager, Emma Kemp, said: “We’ve watched the Tour de Forth get bigger and better every year, so we’re incredibly excited about the plans for 2018’s race. The support of local businesses, amateur cycling clubs and individuals makes a huge difference to the work our charity does.
“All the money we raise as an organisation is handed out to local children and community groups in desperate need of support, so this event truly is life-changing for many people and we’re incredibly grateful to everyone who took part in 2017.”
Sarah Pope, Community Fundraising and Engagement Officer at Mercy Corps, added: “Mercy Corps is an Edinburgh-based organisation with a global outlook. Our work stretches across the world from providing emergency relief in Syria to helping farmers in Ethiopia.
“The money raised from the Tour de Forth saves lives and builds stronger communities and we’re grateful to everyone who challenged and pushed themselves in the gruelling event to help others. We’re looking forward to next year’s event and hope it’ll be another sell-out, raising even more funds for good causes.”
To apply to take part in 2018’s race, or for more information and background go to: http://www.tourdeforth.com/
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