The Virtual Etape Caledonia

Regarding this year’s postponement of the Etape Caledonia from 17 May 2020 we can confirm that despite the best efforts of Perth & Kinross Council, and our wider stakeholders we are unable to find an alternative date for 2020.

The ongoing uncertainties caused by the outbreak of the COVID-19 virus, along with a very busy events calendar in the local area between September and November, and major roadworks scheduled for the A9, means that a 2020 event is not possible.

We understand that this will be very disappointing news. However, whilst we haven’t been able to find an alternative 2020 date, we are pleased to be able to announce, following agreement with all stakeholders, that next year’s event will take place on Sunday 16 May 2021. We very much hope that you will take up the Etape Caledonia challenge with us then, and with that in mind, we have automatically deferred your place to next year’s event. If you are unable to join us next year, we have outlined some other options below.

• We have automatically deferred everyone’s entry into the 2021 event, for free.
• All of your subsidiary purchases will automatically transfer over too. So, if you bought: parking, an iTab, or a Premium Place etc... It will be transferred to 2021 for you.
• You DON’T need to take any other action at this time.

If, for whatever reason, you are unable to make the 2021 date then we have a couple of alternative options for you.

Option 1 – Transfer to a friend

We will be waiving all associated fees for anyone wishing to transfer their place in the 2021 event to a friend.

To transfer your place to a friend, you will need to email us at: [email protected]. You MUST use the subject line: ‘FRIEND TRANSFER’.

Please note that due to the admin complexities associated with us being able to offer this service, we ask that you:

- Factor in up to 4 working weeks for us to process this for you

- Note that to facilitate this service, we will essentially ‘cancel’ your current entry, and then generate a unique code for your friend to enter, to the exact same value as your original entry

- You will therefore need to privately arrange between the two of you for your chosen friend to reimburse you

Your friend will then need to select all of the same subsidiary purchases that you had selected (if they want them), as there can be no refunds on those. So, if you bought: parking or a Premium Place. Your friend can choose to add those to their entry. If you bought an iTab however, you will need to email [email protected] to request the iTab is transferred to them. If they do not wish to have the iTab, you can ask to transfer the iTab to any other event that is compatible with iTab.

If this is your preferred option, you NEED to email us BEFORE the deadline of: Tuesday 30 June at 11.59pm.

Option 2 – Email our Customer Service Team

We understand that the above options may not suit everyone, and we always look to accommodate people’s different circumstances. If you’d like any further information, please email our team: [email protected]

As we expect to be busier than usual dealing with incoming queries, please allow up to 3 working days for a response.

What will happen to my fundraising so far?

If you have fundraised for Marie Curie, everything you have raised so far will count towards your fundraising total for the new 2021 date. We are immensely grateful for everyone’s fundraising efforts and the commitment they have shown to training for the 2020 event so far. Without the heroic efforts of our supporters we would not be able to provide vital care and support to people living with terminal illness and their families. If you have any queries please email - [email protected]

All monies raised for SCAA, as part of your 2020 fundraising agreement with them, will be deferred to your 2021 entry into the Etape Caledonia event. If you have any queries about your fundraising, please contact Fiona at SCAA on [email protected]

I have a charity place via Marie Curie or Scotland’s Charity Air Ambulance, what happens if I wish to transfer my entry to another rider?

If you transfer your place to another rider, your entry will be transferred under the same terms at no extra cost. The rider you transfer your place to will be expected to fundraise to the same target that you committed to; though all of your fundraising to this point will count toward that total.

I am unable to take part in the rescheduled event next year; can I further defer my entry to 2022?

Yes, please email: [email protected] with the subject line: ‘2022 DEFERRAL’ no later than 11:59pm on Tuesday 30 June.

Is it possible to receive a refund of my entry fee?

Here at Limelight Sports, the event organisers behind Etape Caledonia, we are committed to delivering world-class, premium events every year. As an SME, event cancellations have significant financial implications due to the marketing, planning and staff costs that have already been accumulated up to the point of cancellation. It would help the event, and indeed our wider business if you were able to defer your entry to next year; or choose one of our other options. However, if you are not in a position to do this, we will process a refund to you - please email us at the following emails address, no later than 11:59pm on Tuesday 30 June, if this is your preference: [email protected]

Thank you for your support, our team all greatly value each and every member of the Etape Caledonia community and we thank you for your continued support of the event. We look forward to welcoming you to the start line in May 2021.

To join us in supporting the NHS & Marie Curie during these unprecedented times, here’s what you need to know:

When can I enter?

Entries are now open and will close on Friday 22 May at 5pm

How much does it cost?

There is an admin fee of just £2.99. This covers the postage and packaging for delivering your medal.

Although as this is a fundraiser for the NHS Appeal and Marie Curie, we do ask that you strongly consider donating: £10, £15 or £20 as part of your entry process. This is clearly sign posted during sign-up. 100% of your donation will go to the two charities, split equally.

Where will the money I donate go to?

All donation proceeds will be split 50/50 between Marie Curie and the NHS Charities COVID-19 Appeal.

How far do I need to cycle?

Although we won’t track this, and we suggest that you only take on whatever you feel comfortable with, or those that wish, we think that cycling a total of 85 miles (our traditional event distance), over the 31 days in May might be a good way to approach the virtual event.

How do I record my rides?

If you wish to send us proof of one of your rides (note: this is not mandatory), please:

1. Login in to MyEvents

2. Select The Virtual Etape event from your list of current events – the ‘upload’ prompt will be visible

3. Upload your screenshot or image displaying your result (acceptable formats: PDF, JPG, GIF or PNG. Size: Less than 1MB)

4. Your document will show as pending until The Virtual Etape team review and approve

How long do I have to complete the event?

The Virtual Etape Caledonia - supporting The NHS Charities COVID-19 Appeal & Marie Curie, will run from: 9am on Friday 1 May – 7pm on Sunday 31 May 2020.

Can I take part indoors?

Yes, absolutely. If you have a static bike, or roller – you can enter too. Anyone who takes part in the Virtual Etape Caledonia – supporting The NHS Charities COVID-19 Appeal & Marie Curie will be sent their participation medal (up to a maximum of 4,500).

Will I get a medal?

Of course! Those taking part will be sent a 2020 Etape Caledonia medal. Please note that medal numbers are limited and only the first 4,500 entrants will be posted a medal. These will be allocated on a first-come-first-served basis.

So, what are you waiting for? If you love cycling and you want to keep fit while being a part of a great community – then this is for you. Help us to support the NHS and Marie Curie, together.

Every day and night, Marie Curie Nurses and frontline staff are giving vital support to dying people and their families, in their homes and across their hospices across the UK. At this time of national emergency, these crucial services are needed more than ever; as the NHS is put under such great strain.

Marie Curie rely on the generosity of the public to deliver their incredible care. It's thanks to you and the rest of their amazing supporters that they can continue to provide these crucial services. Any funds you raise for Marie Curie over the coming weeks and months will go towards supporting their emergency appeal. Please help Marie Curie Nurses and hospices care for dying people at this unprecedented time of need.