PICTURES: Tenth edition of Etape Loch Ness raises over £2m for Macmillan charity
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The tenth edition of the Etape Loch Ness took place today, with 5650 cyclists from 24 countries signing up to take on the 66-mile closed-road sportive.
Since the first Etape Loch Ness in 2014, over £2 million has been raised for the event’s official charity Macmillan Cancer Support, with £210,000 raised so far by Team Macmillan riders in 2024.
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The 2024 event was officially started by Olympic and Commonwealth Games road cyclist turned commentator Brian Smith, who joined Charline Jones, 2010 Commonwealth Games team sprint silver medallist, alongside a host of other participants and experts for Q&A sessions at the Event Hub on Saturday.
Also taking part in the event were ex-Scottish rugby internationals Ruaridh Jackson and Ryan Grant, Commonwealth Games gold medal rifle shooter Neil Stirton, and Tom Rowlands of The Chemical Brothers.
Finishing fastest at the 2024 Etape Loch Ness were Daniel Sutherland of Ross-shire Roads Cycling Club in a time of 2:45:26 and Natalie Munro of Moray Gravel RT in a time of 2:58:50.
The Etape Loch Ness course includes the King of the Mountain, which is located after Fort Augustus, 34 miles (55km) into the route, and consists of a 4.8 mile (7.72 km) climb to the top of the Glendoe summit.
The fastest male and female for this section are crowned King and Queen of the Mountain.
Taking the crowns this year were Andy Cunningham and Charlotte Dewdney in times of 19:36 and 25:33 respectively. This is the seventh time that Andy Cunningham has taken the crown, while Charlotte retains the title for the second consecutive year.
“Congratulations to everyone who took on the challenge of the Etape Loch Ness this year,” said Malcolm Sutherland, Event Director of Etape Loch Ness. “A special mention must go to the 21 cyclists who have taken part in every Etape Loch Ness since 2014, it was great to welcome them back again in 2024 and to recognise their achievements with cycling legend Brian Smith.
“We’re so proud of what the event has grown into over the past 10 years and grateful to everyone who makes it happen each year, especially our amazing team and army of volunteers.
“To exceed £2 million raised for Macmillan Cancer Support in this time – not to mention the many other charities that benefit from fundraising at the event – makes this milestone even more special.”
Jimmy Holland, programme manager at Macmillan Cancer Support, said: “Wow, Team Macmillan has done it! Raising £210,000 so far this year and exceeding £2 million raised for Macmillan Cancer Support over 10 years of the Etape Loch Ness is incredible.
“We are so grateful to everyone who has contributed to this total over the years – your efforts mean we can continue to support those affected by cancer. Thank you.”
Official event starter, cyclist Brian Smith added: “It’s been great to be here for the tenth edition of the Etape Loch Ness!
“The atmosphere in the city over the whole weekend has been incredible and it’s been fantastic to see so many cyclists of all abilities take on this monster challenge. A brilliant effort by all involved!”
Those interested in taking part in the 2025 Etape Loch Ness, taking place on April 27, 2025, can register their interest now at www.etapelochness.com.
Entry typically sells out within hours so cyclists are encouraged to register to avoid disappointment.
