Press release - 9th July 2009
Pensioner to take on bike challenge for forth time
Michael on previous bike ridesA 73 year old pensioner will be taking part in the North West’s biggest bike ride this Sunday 12th July, for the forth year in a row.
Michael Martin used to work at Manchester Airport before moving to Cleveleys seven years ago. He has once again signed up for the 60 mile adventure between Manchester and Blackpool to raise money for the specialist cancer centre The Christie.
Starting from Manchester United Football Ground at Old Trafford, the ride takes participants along country lanes to the finish on the South Promenade in Blackpool, where they get to enjoy a barbecue, live music and well-earned massage.
Michael was diagnosed with bowel cancer in 2004. After undergoing an operation, the cycling enthusiast embarked on his first bike ride in 2005 just months after receiving chemotherapy.
He said; “I had my operation and I got over that so I thought, well it’s time to give something back and I like a lot of cycling!
“Although I wasn’t treated at The Christie for my cancer, I believe it’s the outstanding research that’s carried out there that led to me beating the disease – their level of expertise has an impact across the globe. I also know lots of people who’ve been treated there and they all have nothing but praise for the care they received.”
Married to wife Christine for 47 years, Michael raised £900 for The Christie two years ago and a further £1,100 last year.
Michael, father to son Eamonn and daughter Margaret, is the proud grandfather of two. He added; “The Christie needs money to have in reserve. You can’t keep it under the mattress can you?”
Although he always completes the 60 mile ride on his own, this year he will be supported by his wife, and his son is coming up from London to cheer him on.
“The atmosphere is great; I thoroughly enjoyed it with all the crowds last year.”
Michael claims he never does any specific training, but just lots of practice as he never goes anywhere unless it is on his bike.
“Just last week I rode to Preston which is a distance of over 30 kilometres!”
If you would like to join in with Michael in the Manchester to Blackpool Bike ride there is still time to sign up www.bike-events.com or you can register on the day.”
The national construction based group of companies, Seddon Group, is an official sponsor of the Christie charity’s sporting events, such as this bike ride, during 2009 and 2010.
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The Christie in Manchester is one of the leading cancer centres in Europe - registering around 12,500 new patients and treating about 40,000 patients every year.
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