Over 40 people took part in the SBitC Man Mile Cycle which raised awareness for Prostate Cancer UK...
The ‘Man Mile Cycle’ – organised by the Sky Blues in the Community, took place last Sunday with over 40 people taking part.
The event was set up by the community team to raise money and awareness of prostate cancer, with the participants generating sponsorship to donate to the charity Prostate Cancer UK.
Sky Blues in the Community staff and Sky Ride leaders guided participants on either a 10, 20 or 30 mile route from the Decathlon store at Arena Park.
Free bike checks were on offer from Decathlon staff, with the Arena Park Tesco store supplying water and bananas to refresh the riders. The event was also supported by Cycle Coventry and transport organisation Centro, who attended the day with their road show bus providing a goodie bag for participants and information on sustainable travel across the city.
Participants had a variety of reasons for taking part, with many personal stories inspiring people to ride. Sky Blues fan Shaun Davies, who rode with his sister Lauren said “It’s a great cause to cycle for prostate cancer, recently we’ve had a couple of close family members diagnosed with it, so I’m pleased to be helping to raise money and awareness.”
Simon Fox, who rode with his stepson Matthew (16) said “We know quite a few people who have suffered from various cancers, including a close friend who has just come through prostate cancer. We think it’s important to put a little bit back, so people can get the support that they need as well.
“it’s also important to get over the stigma for lads Matthew’s age; that if you have got something wrong with you it is important to flag it up – it’s not embarrassing, you’ve got to go to your doctor to say ‘something’s wrong’. That conversation could be the difference between fixing your problem or leaving it too late.”
Sky Blues in the Community Director David Busst said “The event has been a great success, both in terms of the number of people taking part, as well as the awareness and fund-raising.
“There have been a number of people and organisations involved in making the Man Mile Cycle happen, so we must say a big thank-you to not only all those who took part, but all of the organisations and individuals helping behind the scenes.”
The Man Mile Cycle follows on from the Sky Blues in the Community Man Mile run last year, which raised over £3,000 for testicular cancer charity Balls to Cancer. Both events form part of the Big Lottery-funded ‘InForm’ project, which promotes physical activity and health awareness for adult males in the city.
The Inform project also sees five free football sessions taking place each week throughout the year. If you would like to find out more about the free football sessions or to be made aware of future events like this, please contact Hiedi Sloan on 024 7678 6313 or email hiedi.sloan@ccfc.co.uk