Former professional footballer, broadcaster and cycling enthusiast Ben Foster has announced that he will ride the first three stages of The Tour 21 in partnership with Flutter Entertainment, in support of Cure Leukaemia, helping raise vital funds for blood cancer patients and pioneering clinical research.
The opening three stages will take place in the UK, in an historic year as the Tour de France begins in the UK for the first time since 2014, with the opening 3 stages passing through Edinburgh, Liverpool and Cardiff.
Foster’s challenge will see him take on a demanding multi-stage ride as part of Cure Leukaemia’s flagship cycling event, The Tour 21, where amateur cyclists ride the Tour de France rout, one week ahead of the professional race.
The event has raised more than £5 million for Cure Leukaemia since 2015, supporting the charity’s mission to accelerate access to potentially life-saving treatments for people affected by blood cancer.
Cure Leukaemia funds specialist research nurses and clinical trial infrastructure across leading blood cancer centres. Its work includes the Trials Acceleration Programme, which connects patients with pioneering clinical trials and helps bring new treatments to those who need them faster.
Ben Foster said: “I’m proud to be taking on the first three stages of The Tour to support Cure Leukaemia, of which I am a proud Patron. Cycling has become a huge part of my life as The Cycling GK, and this challenge is about using that passion to help raise awareness and funds for a cause that makes a real difference to patients and families affected by blood cancer. Our Fozcast co-host Tom Ochoa has signed up to ride the entire 21 stages and we’d love for others to sign up to join us too on what is going to be an incredible event ”
The UK stages will test riders across a mix of iconic climbs, fast flats and memorable landscapes, taking the challenge through Edinburgh, Liverpool and Cardiff before the wider Tour 21 route continues into France. On the event, riders are supported as if they were professional riders with sports therapists, moto-outriders, nutrition and catering and official team coach.
Cure Leukaemia CEO James McLaughlin said: “Ben is a great Patron for Cure Leukaemia and we are delighted to have him ride the opening 3 stages of the Tour 21 alongside riders from across the globe. Every mile ridden and every pound raised helps us continue funding the specialist nurses and clinical trials that give blood cancer patients access to the latest treatments.”
Supporters can donate and follow Ben’s progress through The Tour 21 social media channels and website, www.thetour21.co.uk
The Taste Of The Tour, 3 stage UK Grand Depart packages have now sold out, but those looking to take on the ultimate cycling challenge can still get involved and ride with Ben by signing up to ride the full 21 stages of the Tour 21.