Women to cycle 250 miles across Kenya for cancer charities (From Times Series)

Women to cycle 250 miles across Kenya for cancer charities

9:10am Wednesday 8th February 2012 in Top Stories By Hannah Raven

Three women will cycle 250 miles across Kenya next week to raise money for women’s cancer charities after one of their mothers beat breast cancer.

Fashion designer Emma Cunnane, 25, paediatric nurse Hollie Cormie, 25, and fitness coach Anna Prescott, 30, all from Barnet, are joining a group of 60 women cyclists from across the UK for the five-day ride.

Hollie’s mum, Jude, was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2008 and, after successfully battling the disease, the girls were inspired to take on the challenge.

The trio have already raised £9,000 for Breast Cancer Care, Jo’s Cervical Cancer Trust and Ovarian Cancer Action. They will also make a donation towards cancer care in Kenya when they visit a clinic as part of their trip, organised by Action for Charity.

Emma said: “When Anna spotted an advert for the challenge in a magazine, we didn’t think twice about it. All three charities are so important and to raise awareness of them is crucial.

“We’re doing it for all the women fighting any of these cancers. That’s what will keep us moving up those nasty hills.”

The group arrives in Nairobi on Sunday, where the temperature is round 28 degrees and humidity is about 40 per cent.

They will embark on their challenge the following Monday morning, cycling both on and off road across savannah plains away from the usual tourist trails.

Their journey will take them through wildlife game parks, tropical rainforests and traditional villages, finishing at Lake Victoria.

The women have already been hard at work fundraising, holding a fete, cake sale and car boot sale.

They also arranged a sponsored spinning class as part of their training and will attend a final class tonight at LA Fitness in East Barnet Road, New Barnet, in preparation.

To make a donation visit: http://www.justgiving.com/emmaandhollie-cycle-kenya http://www.justgiving.com/annapiscyclingkenya