5,000 cyclists take part in Highland event for Cancer Research

Thousands of cyclists from across the UK pedalled across the Highlands to raise money for Cancer Research.

On Sunday, around 5,000 cyclists took part in Cancer Research UK’s Etape Caledonia feat, which started in Pitlochry.

The event branched off into 40, 55, and 85-mile routes, meaning riders of varying degrees of experience could take part.

Gold medal holder and Olympian Hailey Duff MBE (front centre) skipped to the start line of Cancer Research UK Etape Caledonia to lead the pack of around 5,000 cyclists (Alan Richardson/PA) PA Media

Organised by Motiv Sports UK, the fundraiser attracted cyclists from all backgrounds and the closed-road event meant participants could cycle without fear of traffic or disruption.

Each route offered views of the Highlands’ lochs, forests and hilly backdrop.

Gold medal Olympian Hailey Duff MBE officially started the event at 6.30am, leading the throng of cyclists off on the course.

She powered over the finish line as the first female just two hours, 30 minutes and 54 seconds later, smashing her target time of 3.5 hours.

Dentist Alanna Cameron from Inverness took the top time, setting a new course record for the 40-mile route of two hours, 19 minutes and 16 seconds, knocking a slim five seconds off the previous record set by Louisa Brown.

Female riders led the pack this year on performance with a second impressive course record set for the 55-mile route by Sharon McNicol from Troon who came in at three hours, one minute and five seconds on the 55-mile route, smashing almost 26 minutes off the previous route record held by Kate Woodward.

Among the standout participants was Nathan Grove, a Scottish RAF engineer and bowel cancer survivor, riding the 55-mile route to raise awareness and money for Cancer Research UK and finishing in three hours, 47 minutes and 24 seconds.

Originally from Tain in the Scottish Highlands and now living in Letham, Angus, he has raised nearly £13,000 for the charity across several endurance events.

Event director Jo Dytch, who has been involved with the event since its launch in 2007, said: “Cancer Research UK Etape Caledonia is more than a cycling event, it’s a celebration of strength, solidarity and community. Stories like Nathan’s remind us why this event matters.

“Taking part in a sportive of this scale, in stunning surroundings and peaceful closed roads is a tremendous experience, and all the more meaningful if cyclists have been riding to raise money to help transform lives through funding cancer research.

“Thank you to the community of Highland Perthshire who came out in their droves to support the cyclists and offer a warm Scottish welcome.

“Congratulations to everyone who took part today. We’re already looking forward to our landmark 20th edition in 2026!”