From The Matchroom Stadium (the home of Leyton Orient FC) to the heart of Amsterdam, riders representing all 72 clubs will have plenty of time to reflect on their respective team’s campaigns, as well as looking forward to the upcoming feast of samba football as they join former England star Luther Blissett en route to the Netherlands.
BBC Three Counties Radio and Boro Player commentator Steve Watkins will lead the Boro contingent, and by using pedal power to conquer the picturesque 150-mile challenge, riders will be helping more men survive prostate cancer and enjoy a better quality of life.
One in eight men will be affected by prostate cancer in the UK, and Steve said: “I’m delighted to lead the Boro in this exciting adventure and at the same time raise money and awareness for an amazing cause. I’m calling on all Stevenage supporters to join me in the peloton and wear their club colours with pride.”
The Grand Depart is on Friday June 6th 2014 from Leyton Orient, heading out of London through rural English countryside, and stopping off at a second ground, Colchester United’s Weston Homes Community Stadium, for refreshments.
After completing the 90-mile sojourn to Harwich by dusk, the intrepid team cross the Channel overnight, before riding a further 60 miles across the flat landscape of Dutch Zeeland. The climax sees the peloton arrive in the country’s capital and its network of canals, cobbled streets and wonderful architecture.
There will be a chance to wind down and reflect on a notable effort on Saturday night in the city centre before a less energy-sapping return to London, via Eurostar, after lunch the next day.
Prostate Cancer UK asks cyclists to raise a minimum of £1,000 in donations. The registration fee is £149. You can find more details and sign up at www.prostatecanceruk.org/amsterdam to represent the club.