Annual cycle ride departs from St James' Park
A group of 21 cyclists has set off from Newcastle on a 160-mile fundraising ride to the Netherlands, aiming to raise money for a new £30m cancer centre. The journey began at the Sir Bobby Robson statue outside St James' Park and will conclude in Eindhoven. This year's event carries extra significance following the recent death of football legend Kevin Keegan, whose tributes were visible at the starting point.
Funds to support Sir Bobby Robson Institute
The annual Three Days for Bobby ride raises money for The Sir Bobby Robson Foundation, part of Newcastle Hospitals Charity. Proceeds will go towards the Sir Bobby Robson Institute at the Freeman Hospital, a state-of-the-art facility that will provide groundbreaking cancer treatments for approximately 3.5 million people across the region. Construction has recently begun, with over £26m already secured through charity fundraising and major donor gifts.
Poignant tribute to Kevin Keegan
Organisers noted the emotional weight of this year's ride, as cyclists gathered among floral tributes and messages left for Kevin Keegan. Participants are riding in memory of Sir Bobby, Keegan, and other loved ones lost to cancer. The three-day route changes annually, with the destination chosen to reflect Sir Bobby's managerial career. Support drivers and cyclists from Tyneside and Teesside are taking part in the international journey.
Organiser reflects on growing meaning
Stephen Hay, event organiser, said: "This is our 15th Three Days for Bobby bike ride and it just becomes more meaningful every year. We’re all football fans, mostly Newcastle fans, and we began the ride because of Sir Bobby." He added: "It’s especially meaningful that we’re able to start the ride from St James’ Park surrounded by tributes to Kevin Keegan. We’re all feeling his loss."
Community fundraising praised
Charity leaders commended the cyclists for their ongoing commitment to funding new cancer drug trials in the North East. Anisa Rahim, campaign officer, commented: "Fundraising like this is the bedrock of our Foundation and we’re always grateful for that support. Anyone who sponsors the Three Days for Bobby cyclists will be supporting fundraising for the new Sir Bobby Robson Institute and enabling even more cancer drug trials in our region."
To sponsor the team, visit justgiving.com/page/3dfb2026. For enquiries or details on the project, contact Kate.bradley14@nhs.net, call 0191 213 7235, or visit sirbobbysgreatestteam.co.uk.
