Cyclists of Malta, Lifecycle is back, challenging as ever, as participants will have to cycle their way through the Carpathian and Tatra mountains, a 2,200 kilometre adventure named Where Only Eagles Dare.
Cyclists are going to start off in Romania, pass through Ukraine and Poland and finish triumphantly under the Brandenburg Gate in Berlin. The team of 75 cyclists and a 26-strong backup team will leave Malta on 7 August and return on 21 August.
During the launch of Life Cycle Challenge 2007 held yesterday, Lifecycle head of marketing Christian Calleja said that Lifecycle had since its inception in 1999 encouraged 1,600 people to become donors. The event is organised in order to raise awareness and raise money to support the treatment and prevention of end-stage renal disease.
Chairperson and event trainer Alan Curry outlined the gruelling track of the ninth edition of Lifecycle, which he gave an assurance was the most ambitious so far. The track, he said, was very hard; however, he said participants were always ready to go the extra mile for Renal Unit patients.
He said the organisation has been busily preparing the event since September. Logistics include 12 one night stays for the team.
Mr Curry announced also a Junior Lifecyle for youngsters aged 13 to 16. Through this event, the organisation will reach out and raise awareness among younger generations and setup a Lifecycle Nursery.
Renal Unit nursing manager Tony Bugeja praised Lifecycle for bringing about a considerable improvement in the Renal Unit. Equipment and services have also been provided on an individual patient basis. He asserted that Lifecycle has helped raise Lm331,000 since its inception and it is aiming at collecting Lm50,000 during this year’s edition.
Health Minister Louis Deguara said he was stepping up his support for the initiative after he read an article on a local paper in which the columnist claimed Lifecycle should not be given the publicity it enjoys. The minister condemned such comments and highly praised the organisation for its endeavours.
Prospective participants can get applications from the St Aloysius’ College Gym reception. For more information log on to www.lifecyclechallenge.com.