Entries open for charity bike ride

Manx Breast Cancer Support Group ask people to 'think pink'

Entries are now open for a charity bike ride in aid of Manx Breast Cancer Support Group.

The women-only event will take place at Archallagan Plantation next month (Saturday 15 June).

'Paint The Plantation Pink' challenges participants to complete as many laps of a marked course as they like between 10am and 2pm - all whilst wearing something pink.

The event was founded by Serena Wood and her sister Melanie Dowling and is sponsored by insurance company Zurich, with all funds raised matched by the Z Zurich Foundation.

Event organiser Serena Wood said: "The Paint The Plantation Pink ride has grown in popularity since the first event back in 2015. Over the years we have used a few different locations and raised funds for several different charities. 

"This year all the funds will go to the Manx Breast Cancer Support Group which does amazing work to enhance the treatment of breast cancer. We’re also returning to Archallagan this time because it’s such a beautiful and easy place to ride your bike. 

"As always, the event is not a race. The emphasis is on a fun, social ride that suits all abilities – so it’s a relaxed ride where everyone can cycle at any pace and for any distance. 

"Raising funds for the charity is of course the main aim. But it’s also a really friendly event where everyone encourages and supports one another – and that spirit of care, friendship and camaraderie has obvious parallels with the support provided by the charity for cancer patients and cancer survivors."

While Paint The Plantation Pink is a women-only event, there is a ‘One For The Boys’ men’s race later in the afternoon for friends, family or supporters to take part in. 

Julie Stokes, Chair of the Manx Breast Cancer Support Group, said: "The Manx Breast Cancer Support Group are really pleased to have been chosen by Serena and Mel to benefit from this fantastic event. We would also like to thank Zurich for their support and generous sponsorship."

Facebook updates with news about the Paint The Plantation Pink event will be posted on the Zurich on the Isle of Man and Manx Breast Cancer Support Group channels.