CANCER RESEARCH UK ANNOUNCED AS NEW HEADLINE PARTNER
The UK’s original closed-road cycling event, Etape Caledonia, is set to break new ground with the announcement of the UK’s largest charity, Cancer Research UK, as its official headline partner.
Taking place on Sunday 11 May 2025 in the stunning Scottish Highlands, the partnership marks the first time that Cancer Research UK has sponsored Etape Caledonia as title sponsor, aiming to inspire thousands of cyclists UK-wide to ride and fundraise for their lifesaving work. Cancer Research UK is the world's leading cancer charity, dedicated to saving and improving lives through research.
Etape Caledonia has welcomed over 40,000 cyclists since its inception in 2007, drawing participants from across the UK and beyond, from teens to octogenarians. Renowned for its breathtaking routes through Highland Perthshire, the event offers three closed route options, 40, 55, and 85 miles, catering to seasoned cyclists, club riders and those seeking their first cyclosportive challenge.
Funds raised through the partnership will support Cancer Research UK’s groundbreaking work. The charity invested £31 million in Scotland in 2023/24, supporting pioneering research at the Cancer Research UK Scotland Institute in Glasgow and the Scotland Centre between Glasgow and Edinburgh, where research is helping to bring about a world where everybody lives longer, better lives, free from the fear of cancer.
“Etape Caledonia is an incredible challenge which people of all cycling abilities can enjoy, taking in the beautiful Scottish Highlands, while helping to beat cancer.” ”
Starting and finishing in Pitlochry, Highland Perthshire, the 2025 Etape Caledonia will welcome 5,000 cyclists for the event, renowned for its dramatic landscapes, including lochs, forests and the challenging ascent of Mount Schiehallion. Over the years the event has attracted high profile names including Olympians Eve Muirhead OBE and Chris Boardman, adventurer Mark Beaumont and actor, John Hannah, reinforcing its reputation as a bucket-list sportive.
Gareth Mulcahy, Head of Events and Sports for Cancer Research UK, said: “Nearly one in two people will get cancer in their lifetime, but all of us can support the research that will beat it. We’re really excited to be the official headline partner of Etape Caledonia and together we hope to raise over £100,000 this year, and more through the life of the partnership. Etape Caledonia is an incredible challenge which people of all cycling abilities can enjoy, taking in the beautiful Scottish Highlands, while helping to beat cancer.”
Cyclists can now register to ride for Cancer Research UK at Etape Caledonia 2025. Find out more in the link below!