Cyclists raise over $135K to support Prostate Cancer research

In only its second year, cycling charity event Pedal4Prostate has raised over $135K to help fund vital prostate cancer research.

Close to 200 cyclists made their way out to Hampton Downs Motorsport track on Sunday morning, bringing with them a great sense of fun and energy as they flew around the twists and bends for four hours.

As well as groups of experienced cyclists, there were tandem bikes, e-bikes, bikers dressed in onesies, corporate teams, people who hadn’t been on a bike for years and even an old school Raleigh Twenty which took part!

All Black legend Buck Shelford, who is a strong advocate for men’s health, and former Silver Fern Jenny-May Clarkson were also among the field of cyclists.

Jenny-May said she was proud to take part in her first Pedal4Prostate event, acknowledging the impact a disease like prostate cancer can have on the whole family.

“For me it’s all about my whanau. My father-in law has survived prostate cancer which means my husband and twin boys are much more likely to be affected by it too. I was out there riding to support them and other families in the same position.”

Research from the Prostate Cancer Foundation of New Zealand estimates that one in eight men are diagnosed with prostate cancer every year, making it the most common cancer in Kiwi men.

Graeme Woodside, CEO of the Prostate Cancer Foundation of NZ says the money raised will help fund vital research into the treatment and diagnosis of Prostate Cancer.

“It was amazing to see people of all fitness levels getting out there and giving it their all on the track and behind the scenes with their fundraising efforts as well.

“We are so thrilled at the growth of the event in just one year, with almost double the riders and a huge increase in fundraising. We can’t wait to build on this success next year and see more people join us out at the track.”

While some very experienced competitors took out the top places, most riders were involved in the event to both raise funds and to show their support in making Kiwi men more aware of prostate cancer.

Race Director, Jim McMurray returned to home soil to take part in the charity ride after walking away with the UCI World Gran Fondo title in the time trail for the men’s 55-59.

“Pedal4Prostate is like no other event I’ve been involved in. It’s awesome to ride the smooth tarmac of Hampton Downs without any cars, and there is always a great vibe out on the track,” McMurray says.

For more information on the event and to register your interest for next year head to https://pedal4prostate.org.nz/

ENDS.

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