Cyclists are being urged to saddle up and support Poppyscotland’s upcoming Sportive, as the charity celebrates 10 years of the popular event.
Not only is this the tenth anniversary, but the Wee Yin route will also become a permanent feature after a successful trial of the scenic course in 2024.
The Sportive is Poppyscotland’s flagship fundraising cycling event, featuring four routes designed for different ability levels. It is split into two distinct types – the Classic (46, 68 and 102 miles) and the Wee Yin (22 miles).
As in previous years, riders will line up at the starting point in Prestonpans, East Lothian, then head along the historic coastal route to North Berwick where Classic route participants will face a timed hill climb before reaching the first feed station at East Linton.
From there, the short route continues to Gifford while medium and long routes head towards Garvel before splitting at Whiteadder Reservoir, with the longer challenge heading to Duns and medium returning to Gifford. All routes finish in Musselburgh.
The Wee Yin route will take cyclists inland to Gullane before heading back towards Aberlady and then on to the coastal path.
Poppyscotland’s Head of Fundraising and Learning, Gordon Michie, is encouraging both individuals and families to take part in this year’s Sportive, and said: “2025 marks the 10th anniversary of this event, and we have been working so hard to create something really special for all of our riders.
“With the Wee Yin route proving so popular last year we are delighted to be able to bring it back on a permanent basis, opening up the Sportive to even more participants who may want to take part. The Wee Yin is perfect for those leisure cyclists and families too.
“Please sign up today and be a part in one of the best cycle rides in Scotland with amazing scenery, all while supporting our Armed Forces veterans and their families.”
Avid cyclist Ally Mallinson took part in last year’s trial run of the Wee Yin route and encouraged his daughter, Amy, to partake in it also. Ally highly recommends it to others. He said: “It’s a great idea and it would be good to see more families out doing it as that’s what it’s all about.
“The Wee Yin route is a good way of staying fit, healthy and raising money for a great cause and it’s a good family activity. Cycling on roads is safer than many people think and if you follow the highway code, cycle properly, you should not have an issue.
“I’ll be back this year with Amy and my son!”
Gordon added: “We’re really excited to celebrate the 10th edition of the Sportive and our goal is to raise as much as possible to support the Armed Forces community at times of need, including help with housing, debt, mental health, and mobility.
“If you’d like to help us make an even bigger impact, please consider adding a £10 donation per rider. It’s a small gesture that can make a big difference!”
Entry for our Classic routes is £40 per rider (minimum age: 16). The Wee Yin route is £25 per rider or £40 per family (2 adults & 2 children). Minimum age is 12 and entry is free for riders under 16.
Entry Includes: Electronic timing; mechanical support; food and water stations; coffee at the start; Tea & Toast at the finish; ‘King and Queen of The Heugh’ timed hill climb; sweeper service and a finishers gift.
To sign up today, please visit poppyscotland.org.uk/sportive
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