A DROITWICH man is set to take on a national cycling challenge for a cancer charity after his friend and himself have both received diagnosis’ in recent years.
Richard Guest, aged 47, was diagnosed with Stage 4 Non-Hodkin Lymphona in 2022 and will ride in Olympic legend Sir Chris Hoy’s Tour de 4 on Sunday (September 7).
Sir Chris Hoy’s Tour de 4 was created after his own Stage 4 diagnosis as a hopeful reminder that the disease, ‘while devastating, doesn’t define the limits of what’s possible.’
Richard, an aerospace engineer and father of two who has been in remission since December 2023, is taking on the challenge in support of his friend Tony who has now also been diagnosed with Stage 4 cancer.
As an avid cyclist, Richard was riding his bike even while undergoing treatment with his wife Lisa suggesting he ‘possibly over did it’ from time to time.
Richard said: “Being diagnosed with cancer was a moment that changed absolutely everything. In the face of fear and uncertainty, I turned to one thing that gave me strength, clarity, and purpose – cycling.
“Even on the hardest days, getting on my bike helped me stay grounded, focused, and hopeful. It reminded me that while I couldn’t control everything, I could still fight, with every pedal stroke, every mile.
“As one of my dear friends is now about to take on the next stage of his own battle, I want him – and all those fighting now – to know they’re not, and never will be alone.”
Varying in distance and difficulty, the Tour de 4 has four categories, catering to all levels of fitness, cycling proficiency, and health.
The options range from the yellow ride, a 20 minutes static bike ride for those undergoing treatment, to the most advanced red ride for ‘more seasoned’ cyclists.
Richard will complete the red route, a 56-mile ride featuring 3,830 ft of elevation on roads around Glasgow. The event aims to fundraise and change perceptions for those living with cancer.
The aerospace engineer’s family and friends, including his son’s who enjoy cycling themselves, will be supporting him on sidelines.
Richard is fundraising for Bowel Cancer UK and has raised almost £2,000 already. Visit https://www.gofundme.com/f/my-tour-de-4-fundraiser-to-fight-cancer-tjh5z to donate.
