Pitlochry, Scotland – After months of rigorous training and fundraising, the 4fatblokesonbikes (including our very own Piers Kilfoyle), successfully completed the gruelling Etape Caledonia cycling event. The Team overcame steep Scottish hills, drizzly weather, and even exploding valve caps, all while keeping their mission at heart – raising funds for Macmillan Cancer Support.

The Team arrived on location the night before, and with no doubt about the scale of the challenge (and the 5am start) waiting for them the next day, they hit the sack early.

Unfortunately for Piers, his room was directly above an oystercatcher nest on the hotel roof and to his great delight he was kept awake by the calls of the mother and chick. Could these have been calls of moral support cheering him on?

The sea of cyclists on the morning filling the high street showed the true scale of the event, and the Team soaked up the buzzing atmosphere of the starting village before embarking on a challenging 85-mile route through Scotland’s picturesque landscapes.

After a quick selfie and the usual warning for Derek not to go mad at the start, they were off! Surprise, surprise, Derek, ever the Team player, went mad and rode off far too quickly, losing his Teammates in the crowds of cyclists.

Throughout the ride, the Team faced 12 classified climbs – a formidable challenge for our Suffolk-based cyclists, but the Team’s spirits remained high, spurred on to the finish line by the thought of their friend and colleague, James.

James, who was recently diagnosed with Low-Grade Non-Hodgkin Follicular Lymphoma, is currently undergoing chemotherapy treatment. His journey, resilience, and positivity amidst adversity served as a beacon of inspiration for the Team during their ride.

Despite the struggle, Piers reminds us, “Our struggles with steep Scottish hills pale into insignificance compared to the struggle James is going through.” James, who is currently undergoing his fourth cycle of chemotherapy, has inspired the Team with his strength and positivity.

“We’d like to extend a big thank you to everyone who has sponsored our Team so far. Your generous donations have brought much-needed funds to Macmillan Cancer Support, which provides indispensable aid to those dealing with cancer, like James.”

The Team’s efforts have already garnered an overwhelming response, with their fundraising total for Macmillan Cancer Support steadily rising. Macmillan provides invaluable support to those affected by cancer, offering practical, financial, and emotional aid to thousands of people every day.

At present the boys have raised an incredible £10,485 and there’s still time to support the fantastic fundraising efforts for Macmillan Cancer Support. Donations can be made at https://www.justgiving.com/Team/4fatblokesonbikes.

Let’s give it up again for Derek, Piers, Bozza, and Simon – Well done boys!