Pump up those tyres and get your cycling shorts on for an epic race against time at a world famous track better known for speeding cars than bikes.
Taking place on September 4, Brands Hatch in Kent is set to become the home for an 8-hour cycling endurance race around it’s iconic circuit – and you can be part of it.
Entrants don’t have to be elite cyclist, as the event is open to all – you just need to have a basic level of fitness and a bike.
Test your spirit by signing up as a solo rider, or come with a crew of friends or colleagues and form a relay team for what is going to be an unforgettable day.
The day will be more than a race against the clock though – it’s a challenge to push beyond your limits and make a lasting impact, as the event is in aid of Metro’s chosen charity for our 2025 Lifeline campaign, Missing People, which helps the loved ones of those who have vanished.
As part of our support, we have already shared the stories of Matt Bone, Damien Nettles and Luke Durbin and spoken to their families of about the support they’ve received from the charity
We also told the story of Jade Knight, who went missing 50 times as a teenager. More often than not, Missing People was described as a “lifeline” during people’s darkest days.
Earlier this year, Metro readers and staff, alongside supporters of Missing People took on the Isle of Wight challenge, trekking up to 50km around theisland’s coastline and raising £33,000.
Speaking about the work the charity does, Jo Youle OBE, CEO of Missing People, told Metro: ‘Someone is reported missing every 90 seconds in the UK.
‘That means life is lonely, scary, and uncertain for 170,000 families every year. Right now, people are searching for children, fearing for their safety. They are searching too for mums, dads, brothers and sisters, and grandparents who suddenly feel very vulnerable. But with your support we can be there for people who are missing and those who love them. However long it takes.’
Jo adds that every pound raised for Missing People is ‘vital’ in supporting families.
For our latest Lifeline event at Brands Hatch, the charity will have a dedicated team track-side to provide support and encouragement throughout your race, as well as a selection of refreshments provided throughout the day.
And when those legs start to feel the burn, professional massages will be on hand to help you recover and get back on track.
How to sign up for the 8-Hour Challenge
Whether you’re entering solo or as a team, participants will need to pay a £60 registration fee.
Then you can choose between fundraising a miminum of £440 (per person) or self-fund – £500 for solo riders, £2,000 for a team of four -inclusive of the registration fee.
For more information click here.
Registration closes on the August 14, 2025.
