The Red Funnel Night Rider and Runner mountain bike and trail running challenge in support of the Ellen MacArthur Cancer Trust will return to the Isle of Wight on Saturday 6 May. It follows the fund-raising event’s inaugural year in 2016, which saw over 200 participants tackle the trails across the Cheverton Downs in southern England.
Organised by the Ellen MacArthur Cancer Trust and trail experts GP Sport, 2017 will see the off road cycling and running adventure continue. The Ellen MacArthur Cancer Trust is a national UK organisation that supports young people aged between 8-24 in recovery from cancer through the power of sailing, to help rebuild their confidence and reengage with life following treatment.
Tanya Brookfield, Head of Fundraising and Communications at the trust explained, “By signing up to this hugely fun but challenging endurance event, you are helping to transform the lives of young people in recovery from cancer; as for every one young person the Ellen MacArthur Cancer Trust supports, there are nine we cannot. With 50% of ticket sales going automatically to the trust, events such as this are invaluable in helping change that.”
Starting at sunset, the Night Rider and Night Runner is a non-timed checkpoint challenge that welcomes all abilities. Participants are equipped with a headtorch, basic map and stamp card to help navigate their way around Cheverton Farm and the surrounding downs and woodlands, either in a team or solo. This year has expanded for those wanting to push themselves, with 5-35km trails for the runners and 5-50km trails for the cyclists.
Kevin George, Red Funnel’s CEO said, “We are delighted to continue our title sponsorship of the Night Rider and Night Runner events in support of the Ellen MacArthur Cancer Trust. It was great fun taking part last year and I would encourage mountain bikers and trail runners at any level to enter and help raise funds for such a great cause. Red Funnel has been a long-standing supporter of the Ellen MacArthur Cancer Trust and the amazing, life-changing opportunities it offers young cancer sufferers.”
Red Funnel is offering a 15% ferry discount between Southampton and East Cowes for anyone living on the mainland who enters the event. The offer is also available to friends & family who want to come along as spectators.
Phil Payne from GP Sport added, “We’re absolutely thrilled to be involved in the second running of the Red Funnel Night Runner and Night Rider events. Last year set the foundations of a great event, and this year promises to be even bigger and better, and it’s all for such a good cause – we can’t wait!”
