Somerset Cyclist to Tackle Tour de France Route for Charity After Leukemia Diagnosis

David Stoyle, a 60-year-old cyclist from the Chew Valley in Somerset, is preparing to ride the entire route of the Tour de France this June to raise £30,000 for Cure Leukaemia, just months after receiving a diagnosis of Chronic Lymphocytic Leukaemia (CLL).

A Shock Diagnosis and a Renewed Purpose

Stoyle received the “complete shock” diagnosis during routine blood tests last year . He described the diagnosis as a “wake up call” that ignited a deeper passion to make a difference. CLL is a type of cancer that affects the blood and bone marrow, but is often slow-progressing. Stoyle’s diagnosis prompted him to take action and dedicate himself to fundraising for cancer research.

Extensive Cycling Experience

Despite the recent health challenge, Stoyle is no stranger to long-distance cycling. He has a lifelong passion for the sport, having cycled across Europe, to the Arctic Circle, and to Patagonia . He previously raced with Bath CC and has continued to cycle extensively in recent years, covering approximately 240,000km in the last 15 years .

The Tour 21 Challenge

Stoyle will be participating in The Tour 21, an event where amateur cyclists ride each stage of the Tour de France one week ahead of the professional racers . The challenge covers 3,500km across France and includes the same grueling climbs and time trials as the professional race . The Tour 21 aims to raise over £1 million for Cure Leukaemia.

Fundraising Efforts

To reach his £30,000 fundraising goal, Stoyle has been involved in several events. He completed a 100-mile static bike ride at the ReBalance Bath festival on February 3rd and plans to ride through Japan as a warm-up before the Tour de France begins in Barcelona on June 27th . His family is also supporting his efforts with events like a charity dinner prepared by his chef son and a show garden sponsored by Cure Leukaemia organized by his daughter .

Supporting Cure Leukaemia

All participants in The Tour 21 fund their own participation costs, ensuring that 100% of donations go directly to Cure Leukaemia . The charity funds research nurses at UK blood cancer centers, providing patients with access to clinical trials and driving advancements in blood cancer treatment.

Those interested in supporting David Stoyle’s challenge can contribute through his Justgiving page. Opportunities to participate in A Taste of the Tour, riding four stages alongside the Tour 21 riders, are also available .