The popular Jurassic Classic will take place for a third successive year in Devon on Sunday, August 17. The events cater for cyclists of all levels with distances ranging from 50 to 160km across three routes. Last year 1,100 riders took on the event, which starts and finishes at Exmouth Rugby Club. 

Cyclists can choose between the 50km route, as well as 160km and 100km rides which span the picturesque Jurassic coastline in East Devon. All three routes will include some energy-sapping climbs and speedy descents in a serious test of cycling. 

Riders on the 50km challenge will pedal through several Devon towns & villages, including Budleigh Salterton, East Budleigh, Ottery St Mary and over Woodbury Common. Entrants to the 100km ride will cycle through Budleigh Salterton and Otterton, before heading into Sidmouth. Cyclists will then ride through the villages of Sidford, Sidbury, Honiton and the Otter Vale before reaching Woodbury Common, and heading back to the finish in Exmouth.

Those brave riders taking on the 160km ride will experience the first-class views from Peak Hill, Seaton, Lyme Regis and Charmouth. From here they will ride through stunning countryside via Axminster then across Woodbury Common before freewheeling back into Exmouth for the finish. 

On average, 728 men die from prostate cancer per year in Devon, and the second annual Jurassic Classic raised almost £100,000 last year, not to mention being championed as one of the must-do events in the South West. 

Prostate Cancer UK head of events, Andy Sallnow said: “The Jurassic Classic was a huge success last year with over 1,100 people taking on those Devon climbs. We’re delighted to be returning to Devon and we hope even more people will join us in 2014. Prostate cancer is set to become the most common of all cancers by 2030 so we urge people to sign up and fundraise to help us fight this disease.” 

DJ, broadcaster and charity ambassador, Mark Goodier had this to say: “I know plenty about the Jurassic Classic, having tackled the East Devon coastline twice before. The rides cover some fantastic scenic countryside with very challenging hills and there is a real sense of satisfaction when you complete an event like that. 

Goodier continued: "You get all types of people participating in the Prostate Cancer UK cycling events. You get the serious cyclists, who are out to get a personal best, and you also get people like me that either have a close personal reason to support the charity or who are inspired by the event to come out and help raise funds and raise awareness. They really are excellent events and there’s still time so sign up. So why not join us and come along with some friends and enjoy the ride and raise some money for this remarkable charity that will ultimately save lives." 

The roll-out starts at 7am with the 160km riders starting proceedings, followed by those covering 100 and the 50km distances. Both events will be fully signed, with well-stocked food stations along the route, and a medal awarded at the end. Timing chips will also be provided. As well as watching their friends and loved ones, supporters can take advantage of a variety of entertainment, events and activities planned on the day. 

The entry fee is £28 for the 160 and 100km events, and £18 for the shorter route for those that are happy to fundraise £50 or more. Sportive riders will pay £45 for the longer two distances and £30 for the shorter one. 

For more information go to www.prostatecanceruk.org/cycling or to seal your spot in the event visit www.jurassicclassic.org.uk. 

If you have concerns about prostate cancer please call Prostate Cancer UK's confidential Helpline on 0800 074 8383 or visit www.prostatecanceruk.org. The helpline is free to landlines, staffed by specialist nurses, and open from 9am to 6pm Monday to Friday with late opening until 8pm on Wednesdays.