Yorkshire octogenarian cyclist to make history at Cancer Research UK Etape Caledonia 2025
Cancer Research UK Etape Caledonia, the UK’s original closed-road cycling sportive, will welcome its oldest participant in history this Sunday; 85-year-old Derek Powers from Barnsley, South Yorkshire will saddle up to tackle the 85-mile route in the Scottish Highlands.
A lifelong sports enthusiast, Derek will take on the gruelling 85-mile route through Highland Perthshire on Sunday 11 May, alongside his son, 60-year-old Russell Powers. It marks Derek’s second year at Cancer Research UK Etape Caledonia, adding to an impressive cycling record that includes four consecutive finishes at Etape Loch Ness and consistent participation in the Tour O The Borders since 2018.
Despite living with arthritis for over 20 years and now relying on his right leg alone to pedal, Derek shows no signs of slowing down. His left leg offers minimal movement, and he typically walks with a crutch. But once on the saddle of his e-bike, he powers through hills and distance with extraordinary determination.
Derek said: “I had to give up climbing Munros when my arthritis worsened, but I could still pedal, so I started cycling more and more. In the last ten years, I’ve cycled more than I ever have in my life. Cycling keeps me going!”
A retired nursery owner, former teacher, and colliery worker, Derek is no stranger to resilience. Now, his participation in Scotland’s most scenic cycling challenge is capturing attention for all the right reasons.
Until 2018, Cancer Research UK Etape Caledonia had an upper age limit of 80 for participants, which they waived following a campaign mounted by octogenarian, John McNally, then 81, from Fife. This year 4 octogenarians will take on the 85-mile route, and 6 will tackle the shorter 55 and 45 mile routes. Participants aged over 80 now outnumber the volume of younger cyclists aged under 18 by a ratio of 10:2.
Cancer Research UK Etape Caledonia Event Director, Jo Dytch, said:
“Derek’s story is genuinely inspirational. His grit, humility and passion for cycling embodies everything Cancer Research UK Etape Caledonia is about, pushing your limits and celebrating the joy of riding in one of the UK’s most breathtaking locations.”
With its three closed-road route options, 85, 55 and 40 miles, Cancer Research UK Etape Caledonia continues to attract thousands of cyclists each year from across the UK and beyond. Derek’s record-breaking ride will take him through iconic Highland scenery, including the climb of Mt Schiehallion, Loch Rannoch, and the historic town of Pitlochry.
Cyclists and spectators alike are encouraged to show their support along the route and at the Event Village in Pitlochry, where Derek’s finish will no doubt be met with a hero’s welcome. Cyclists can still register for Cancer Research UK Etape Caledonia 2025 at www.etapecaledonia.com
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