THE 100-day count down to the Daily Echo-backed Macmillan Dorset Bike Ride 2011 has begun in style aboard a 100ft Sunseeker yacht.

Editor in Chief, Neal Butterworth, joined ride organiser, Peter Smith-Nicholls, and Sunseeker International’s Operations Director, Wayne Moore, in launching this year’s 100+ campaign on board the luxury yacht.

Organisers have set their sights on raising £100,000 from the ride, which takes place on Sunday, July 3, to celebrate Macmillan Cancer Support’s centenary year.

Peter said he hoped cyclists taking part on routes from 10 to 100 miles through glorious Dorset countryside would each raise £100. “That may mean cycling further than usual, perhaps 100 miles, or making an extra effort in raising money,” said Peter.

“People who are unable to cycle can join our 100 volunteers supporting cyclists on the day, or perhaps make a £100 donation.”

Sunseeker staff members, George Ricketts and Dave Higgins, who will be tackling the 100-mile route with colleague, Chris Elms, donned the Phil Tucker-designed 100+ jersey for the photo call.

Organisers hope to sell over 100 of the distinctive green and white jerseys this year to give a further boost to Macmillan funds.

Peter thanked all the jersey sponsors for their generosity.

Wayne Moore, who is supporting the £100,000 challenge, said Sunseeker had a number of entrants taking on the 100-mile challenge, and many more bringing family and friends to tackle the shorter distances.

All six routes start from Corfe Mullen recreation ground.

The 20-mile ride takes cyclists along the River Stour and through Charborough Park. The longer rides of 38, 48, and 60 miles follow the Stour Valley to Blandford and some of Dorset’s most picturesque villages.

For an entry form, visit macmillanbikeride.co.uk, call 01202 601705, or contact Macmillan Dorset Bike Ride, PO Box 1432 Broadstone, BH18 9YE Local bike shop, Primera Sport, is again backing the event and will host a special ‘Sign up at Primera’ day at its Charminster store on Saturday, April 30, where all entrants will receive the new Macmillan Dorset Bike Ride water bottle.