If you see what appear to be naked men cycling around the Isle of Man this week, you shouldn’t be surprised.
A number of men, in skin-coloured costumes, are planning to get on their bikes to raise awareness of cancers that affect men. such as testicular cancer and prostate cancer.
The ‘Near Naked Man’ team from the Male Cancer Awareness Campaign is to stage its second Isle of Real Men cycling challenge on Friday and Saturday.
Founded in 2005, MCAC aims to raise awareness of and reduce the embarrassment connected with male cancers.
Patrick Cox, MCAC chief executive, said: ‘We had a great time in the island last year, and we’re really looking forward to returning. It will be 300 miles cycling in just three days – it’s tough, and last year we had some riders in tears, but everyone loved it!
‘So we are looking for Isle of Man riders who fancy the challenge of donning our eye-catching “Near Naked” cycling kit and helping us raise awareness of male cancer. This year, we are bringing something extra with us; Toyota has supported us with an amazing liveried Land Cruiser, carrying our Awareness Number Plate – BALL CHK.’
The Steam Packet helped MCAC when it held the first Isle of Real Men event and is teaming up with the charity again for this year’s challenge, which runs from July 17-19.
Steam Packet boss Mark Woodward said: ‘The charity’s Near Naked Men certainly caught the public’s attention last year, and we are delighted to be able to help support Male Cancer Awareness Campaign again for this month’s challenge. The tireless work the charity does is crucial in raising awareness and persuading more men to follow the advice and check for tell-tale symptoms.’
To get involved with the Isle of Real Men challenge, contact community support manager Laura Hurding at Laura@malecancer.org