The picturesque Highland Perthshire landscape served as the stunning backdrop for the 19th annual Etape Caledonia cycling event, a renowned closed-road sportive raising funds for Cancer Research UK. This year’s event, held on a bright spring day, attracted a record-breaking 5,000 participants, showcasing the enduring popularity of this challenging and scenic ride.
Starting in the charming town of Pitlochry, cyclists embarked on a thrilling journey through the region’s most iconic routes. The event featured several challenging climbs, testing the endurance and skill of even the most seasoned riders. The ascent from Blair Atholl, known for its demanding incline, proved particularly grueling, while the famous Grandtully gradient added another layer of difficulty to the course. A Celebration of Athleticism and Community Spirit
The absence of traffic allowed cyclists to fully immerse themselves in the breathtaking scenery, taking in panoramic views of rolling hills, sparkling lochs, and majestic mountains. This year’s event was given a special start by Olympic Gold medallist Hailey Duff MBE, inspiring participants as they began their journey. The competitive spirit was evident, with cyclists pushing their limits to achieve personal bests and conquer the challenging course. The event also highlighted the strong sense of community in Perth and Kinross, with many spectators lining the routes to cheer on the riders and contribute to the vibrant atmosphere.
This year’s Etape Caledonia set new records, as Alanna Cameron, a local dentist hailing from Inverness, achieved a remarkable new course record, finishing the 40-mile route in an astonishing 2 hours and 19 minutes. Her exceptional performance not only set a personal milestone but also underscored the dedication and training put forth by all participants. Another notable achievement was Hailey Duff’s exceptional time in completing the race, finishing as the first female competitor with a time well ahead of her personal best. A Legacy of Fundraising and Fitness
The event’s success goes beyond athletic achievement. The Etape Caledonia consistently plays a vital role in raising significant funds for Cancer Research UK, a charity dedicated to combating this devastating disease. The collective efforts of thousands of cyclists contribute greatly to this noble cause, emphasizing the event’s broader impact on the Perthshire and wider Scottish communities.
The event, organised by Motiv Sports UK, is known for its meticulous planning and commitment to safety, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable experience for all participants. The stunning route, coupled with a supportive atmosphere and a focus on charity fundraising, makes the Etape Caledonia a unique event in Scotland’s sporting calendar, attracting participants from across the country and beyond. The event’s positive impact on local businesses, tourism, and the overall spirit of the region makes it a key event in the Highland Perthshire calendar. A Day to Remember
The 2025 Etape Caledonia stands as a testament to the power of community engagement, sporting excellence, and charitable giving. The event’s enduring popularity highlights both the beauty of Perthshire and the region’s growing commitment to health and well-being. The dedication of the participants and the support from the local community ensured that the event is memorable, showcasing the resilience and spirit of the Scottish Highlands. The day was one of incredible human effort, community unity and fundraising for a very worthy cause. Many local businesses benefitted from the influx of cyclists and their support crew, highlighting the positive economic impact of such a significant sporting event in Perthshire.
The beautiful images captured by photographer Alan Richardson perfectly encapsulate the atmosphere of the event, showcasing the challenges, triumphs, and unforgettable moments shared by all involved. These photographs serve as a lasting tribute to the dedication and spirit of the riders and the unforgettable spirit of Etape Caledonia 2025.
Starting in the charming town of Pitlochry, cyclists embarked on a thrilling journey through the region’s most iconic routes. The event featured several challenging climbs, testing the endurance and skill of even the most seasoned riders. The ascent from Blair Atholl, known for its demanding incline, proved particularly grueling, while the famous Grandtully gradient added another layer of difficulty to the course. A Celebration of Athleticism and Community Spirit
The absence of traffic allowed cyclists to fully immerse themselves in the breathtaking scenery, taking in panoramic views of rolling hills, sparkling lochs, and majestic mountains. This year’s event was given a special start by Olympic Gold medallist Hailey Duff MBE, inspiring participants as they began their journey. The competitive spirit was evident, with cyclists pushing their limits to achieve personal bests and conquer the challenging course. The event also highlighted the strong sense of community in Perth and Kinross, with many spectators lining the routes to cheer on the riders and contribute to the vibrant atmosphere.
This year’s Etape Caledonia set new records, as Alanna Cameron, a local dentist hailing from Inverness, achieved a remarkable new course record, finishing the 40-mile route in an astonishing 2 hours and 19 minutes. Her exceptional performance not only set a personal milestone but also underscored the dedication and training put forth by all participants. Another notable achievement was Hailey Duff’s exceptional time in completing the race, finishing as the first female competitor with a time well ahead of her personal best. A Legacy of Fundraising and Fitness
The event’s success goes beyond athletic achievement. The Etape Caledonia consistently plays a vital role in raising significant funds for Cancer Research UK, a charity dedicated to combating this devastating disease. The collective efforts of thousands of cyclists contribute greatly to this noble cause, emphasizing the event’s broader impact on the Perthshire and wider Scottish communities.
The event, organised by Motiv Sports UK, is known for its meticulous planning and commitment to safety, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable experience for all participants. The stunning route, coupled with a supportive atmosphere and a focus on charity fundraising, makes the Etape Caledonia a unique event in Scotland’s sporting calendar, attracting participants from across the country and beyond. The event’s positive impact on local businesses, tourism, and the overall spirit of the region makes it a key event in the Highland Perthshire calendar. A Day to Remember
The 2025 Etape Caledonia stands as a testament to the power of community engagement, sporting excellence, and charitable giving. The event’s enduring popularity highlights both the beauty of Perthshire and the region’s growing commitment to health and well-being. The dedication of the participants and the support from the local community ensured that the event is memorable, showcasing the resilience and spirit of the Scottish Highlands. The day was one of incredible human effort, community unity and fundraising for a very worthy cause. Many local businesses benefitted from the influx of cyclists and their support crew, highlighting the positive economic impact of such a significant sporting event in Perthshire.
The beautiful images captured by photographer Alan Richardson perfectly encapsulate the atmosphere of the event, showcasing the challenges, triumphs, and unforgettable moments shared by all involved. These photographs serve as a lasting tribute to the dedication and spirit of the riders and the unforgettable spirit of Etape Caledonia 2025.