Gillingham FC ride into Europe for Men United
Gillingham teamed up with their Football League counterparts to raise more than £305,000 last weekend on Prostate Cancer UK’s sold-out football fundraiser – the London to Amsterdam Cycling Challenge.More than 250 riders – including former international trio Terry Butcher, Matt Holland and Luther Blissett together with Preston North End boss Simon Grayson - cycled 145 miles from the Matchroom Stadium, Leyton Orient FC to the Amsterdam Arena across two days and the total raised continues to rise.
Adam Lawrence saddled up for the third annual ride, and the Gills total adds to the significant contribution the club has made this season from the ride, and from their match day collection.
The money raised will go towards supporting the 300,000 men living with prostate cancer in the UK, and funding ground breaking research to beat a disease which currently affects one in eight men in the UK.
Director of Fundraising at Prostate Cancer UK, Mark Bishop said: “To see Gillingham and our ever-extending football family come together over two never-to-be-forgotten days and raise a phenomenal total is another example of the power of Men United.
“It’s amazing to think that back in 2013 Luther was one of 35 hardy souls taking on the challenge for the first time, so its fair to say its really caught the imagination – and raised a substantial amount of money.
“This year‘s ride was bigger and better than ever. 250 riders representing clubs up and down the land convened for brilliant demonstration of what we call Men United: people joining one team to fight a common opposition – prostate cancer.
Lawrence said: “Our team had a fantastic time on the ride. We have some brilliant memories and made some great friends along the way, and it’s a really fun way to raise money. We’re proud to be part of Men United and look forward to next year’s ride.”
Fans who missed out on this year’s ride can find out more about the biggest ride in football at prostatecanceruk.org/amsterdam