Macmillan Cycletta Pedals Past Palace on Route to Cycling Success

Around 450 female cyclists crossed the start line for Macmillan Cycletta Scotland this morning, embracing Scotland's slightly unseasonal Summer weather and setting off on a variety of courses ranging from 20km - 150km from the inspirational grounds of Scone Palace in Perthshire. The event was formally opened by Liz Grant, Provost of Perth & Kinross.

For one participant, Melanie Hurley, what started as an activity to take her mind off things while undergoing radiotherapy treatment for breast cancer, this weekend's Macmillan Cycletta Scotland marked the half way point in her half megametre challenge which will see her take part in all six Macmillan Cycletta events across the UK. Over the course of the events she will cycle a distance of 500km (half a megametre), using her mighty pedal power to raise money for Macmillan Cancer Support who supported her during her gruelling treatment. Her half way bid, which also marked her first ever visit to Scotland, was supported by Scottish cycling business Wheels Cycling Centre in Callander, who lent her a road bike for her Scottish leg of the challenge.

Melanie commented: "Cycling helped build my confidence back up and I really enjoyed taking my mind off the treatment. Then I decided to sign up for a 25 mile charity bike ride that was exactly 25 days after I finished treatment. I think I was hooked after that! I wanted a challenge that made people think,oh my God, she's crazy! More importantly, I wanted to encourage people to donate to Macmillan because what would I have done if they hadn't been there for me?"

Commenting on the event, Liz Grant said: "This is the third year that Macmillan Cycletta has returned to the stunning surroundings of Scone Palace and, despite the inclement Summer weather, there was a real buzz amongst the participants. Proving us Scotswomen are a hardy bunch! It was a real honour to mark the start of the third event and watch everyone spin off into the Perthshire and Angus countryside on two wheels."

Following the success of this morning's event which saw more than 500 participants cross the start line, ladies can check outwww.humanrace.co.uk/cyclingfor details of next year's event.

Gillian Daly from event organisers Human Race, said: "We are absolutely delighted with how well the event went this weekend. Everyone was in good spirits in the grounds of Scone Palace and it was fantastic to see so many ladies crossing the finish line with proud smiles. Feedback has been extremely positive with everyone commenting on the stunning scenery on the route and the glorious atmosphere."

"We'd like to extend our thanks to Macmillan Cancer Support, Perth & Kinross Council, and the many sponsors involved in the event who contribute to ensuring it is a fantastic experience for cyclists."

Official charity partner of the Macmillan Cycletta Series, Macmillan Cancer Support, had a few hundred cyclists raising funds at Sunday's event.Macmillan Cycletta is supported by the leading women's bike brand Liv. Liv were also on hand at the event offering mechanical support on the course to help get participants to the finish line as well as rewarding all finishers with a bumper Liv goodie bag to celebrate their achievement.

Shirlie Geddes from Macmillan Cancer Support, said:

"We have loved being a part of this amazing event and seeing all the cyclists cross the finish line. We're especially proud of all the cyclists who have completed today's challenge to raise money for Macmillan Cancer Support."

For more information visit:www.humanrace.co.uk/cycletta

ENDS