World champion cyclist backs the nation’s heart charity

Team GB Track and Road cyclist Andy Tennant is encouraging cyclists in the North West to get on their bikes this September and pedal for pounds for the British Heart Foundation – a cause close to his heart.

Tennant, who was recently named as the BHF’s Cycling Champion, is calling for people to don their lycra and take on the 52-mile Manchester to Blackpool Night Ride on Saturday 28th September to raise money for the charity’s Mending Broken Hearts Appeal, a cutting edge research programme which is searching for a cure for heart failure.

As a teenager Andy received treatment for SVT (supraventricular tachycardia) - a rapid heart rhythm - which made it difficult for him to take part in physical activity.

Andy says: “As a local boy, I’m proud to be supporting this year’s BHF Manchester to Blackpool Night Ride. Home to UK cycling, where better to kick off the biggest charity night riding event in the North of England!

“A 52 mile ride from city to sea is sure to be a challenge but not only will you have a sense of achievement at the finish, you’ll have people all around the UK thanking you for what you have done and the money you’ve raised for the fight against heart disease. Three quarters of a million people are living with heart failure in this country – that’s more than the total population of Manchester and Blackpool combined. So sign up, saddle up and help mend broken hearts.”

The event, supported by Santander, is the biggest charity night riding event in the North of England. Last year 1,000 riders took part and used their pedal power to raise over £120,000 for the nation’s heart charity.

Starting from the Trafford Centre from 11pm on Saturday 28th September 2013, riders leave the city behind as they pedal their way through starlit lanes towards the Blackpool illuminations which lead them to the sea for sunrise.
Ali Rulton, Event Organiser for the BHF, said: “We love organising the Manchester to Blackpool Night Ride each year. There is such an appetite for cycling in the North West and we always get a great response from the public for this event, both in regard to sign ups and support. Last year was our most successful year to date so we’re expecting 2013 to be even bigger and better.”

Registration is now open for the ride and entrants are encouraged to sign up now to avoid disappointment, as places are strictly limited. Entry fees are £30 and individuals or teams can enter. All abilities are welcome, although training beforehand is strongly recommended.

Register online now at bhf.org.uk/m2bnight, email the team at nightride[at]bhf.org.uk.