A powerful community cycling event inspired by the loss of five close friends to brain cancer is set to return this summer, bringing riders together to raise vital funds and awareness for the charity Brain Tumour Research.
Founded in grief, grown into a community
Now in its ninth year, The Brain Tumour Research Ride For Hope 2026 will take place on the Isle of Wight on Saturday 6th June 2026. Cyclists from across the UK will unite to honour loved ones lost to brain tumours and support those currently facing the disease.
The event founded was by Simon Tier, 58, from Fareham, who has raised more than £100,000 for the charity – which is dedicated to finding a cure for all types of brain tumours – after losing five friends to brain cancer since 2014. What began as a deeply personal mission has grown into a widely supported annual challenge.
Simon said,
“Having already lost five friends to brain cancer has been devastating, not just for me but for their families whose lives were turned upside down. Watching them face it with such courage left a lasting mark on me. When the ride gets tough, I think of them and their strength, and it keeps me going. This is for them, and for everyone still fighting.
“However, this year we’ve seen lower participant numbers compared to previous years, and we urgently need more people to sign up. This event is so important—not only to raise vital funds but also to increase awareness of brain tumours. Without that support, it becomes harder to keep The Brain Tumour Research Ride For Hope going, and we really don’t want to lose something that means so much to so many.”
In memory of Richard Preston
Among those who had been a passionate supporter of the event was Richard Preston, 56, from Waterlooville in Hampshire, who sadly died in August 2025 after a brave battle with glioblastoma. Diagnosed in November 2013, Richard underwent a five-hour high-risk operation followed by 11 months of intensive chemotherapy and radiotherapy, and went on to defy the odds for more than a decade.
Richard supported The Brain Tumour Research Ride For Hope over several years, becoming a familiar and inspiring presence within the community, offering encouragement and support to fellow riders.
Simon Tier said,
“Losing Richard was incredibly hard for all of us. He was such a huge part of The Brain Tumour Research Ride For Hope and an inspiration to everyone who met him. Even while facing his own diagnosis, he showed determination, kindness and real strength.
“His loss is a stark reminder of why we do this. Brain tumours take far too much, far too soon, and that’s why it’s so important we keep this event going. Nothing will stop my resolve to continue raising awareness and vital funds in memory of Richard and everyone we’ve lost.”
Brain tumours kill more men under the age of 70 than any other cancer, yet just 1% of the national spend on cancer research is allocated to brain tumours since records began in 2002.
Three routes to choose from
Cyclists can choose from a range of routes. The Vectis Gladiator – a clockwise route offering approximately 68 miles and climbing 4000ft.
The Vectis Centurion – a 100-mile route with 5000ft of climbing, taking the full route further afield with stunning new views of the island, ideal for anyone looking for a new Century challenge.
The Vectis Gladiator Dual – as the name suggests, tackle the Gladiator both ways – clockwise then anti-clockwise 136 miles and 8000ft of climbing
Returning participant Simon Warren, 50, from Hampshire, rides each year in memory of his friend’s daughter, Brooke, who also sadly died of a brain tumour just aged 11.
Simon Warren said,
“Taking part in The Brain Tumour Research Ride For Hope is personal. I have a friend who lost their daughter to a brain tumour, and riding is my way of helping raise vital funds for research. It’s a powerful reminder of why this cause matters so much.”
Brain tumours remain one of the most devastating forms of cancer, killing more children and adults under 40 than any other cancer. Despite this, just 1% of the national spend on cancer research has been allocated to brain tumours since records began in 2002.
Letty Greenfield, community and fundraising manager at Brain Tumour Research, said,
“The Brain Tumour Research Ride For Hope is a powerful example of what can be achieved when a community comes together with purpose. We’re incredibly grateful to Simon and every cyclist taking part. Their efforts not only raise vital funds but also shine a light on the urgent need for more research into brain tumours.
“We’re also calling on the wider cycling community to sign up and support the event – every participant plays a crucial role in helping to drive forward research and bring hope to those affected by this devastating disease.”
A disease that receives too little research funding
Brain Tumour Research funds sustainable research at dedicated centres in the UK. It also campaigns for the Government and larger cancer charities to invest more in research into brain tumours in order to speed up new treatments for patients and, ultimately, to find a cure.
The charity is the driving force behind the call for a national annual spend of £35 million in order to improve survival rates and patient outcomes in line with other cancers such as breast cancer and leukaemia.
To make a donation, visit Simon’s JustGiving page.
How to take part
To register for the event, cyclists can sign up via the official event page.
News shared by Simone on behalf of
