Local family are getting on their bikes to help people get their lives back on track! 26 June 2017 …press release…press release….press release… The Harkai family from Duthil and Kingussie are preparing to take part in the family Bikeathon event next weekend to help people get their lives back on track after a stroke, or diagnosis of a chest or heart condition. Mum, Amanda Harkai, her children James aged 10 and Emily age 8 are taking part again this year to support Chest Heart & Stroke Scotland. Amanda said “My kids James and Emily have been taking part the Bikeathon for a few years now usually with their Granny and Grandad and last year with their school friends too.” “We love taking part as it’s for such a good cause – the older I get, the more people I know of who are affected by stroke, heart and chest problems from family and friends to customers who come into our restaurants.” The Bikeathon is taking place on Sunday 25th June and is based in and around the Highland village of Kingussie in the scenic and picturesque landscape of the Cairngorms National Park and consists of a 25 mile circular cycle ride on quiet roads and cycle routes – ideal for families, friends, groups and individuals with all participants receiving a CHSS T-Shirt and a well- deserved medal at the finish line! The route is well-signed and marshalled and will have a number of water and snack stops around the circuit. Paul Corrigan, Fundraising Manager North said, “Last year’s Bikeathon raised nearly £10,000 for CHSS to support people of all ages who have been affected by debilitating illness, helping them to recover their lives with support from Chest Heart & Stroke Scotland. Surviving life-threatening illness is obviously a good thing… but getting a quality of life back and living a stronger and longer life is much better. With the efforts and help from our wonderful Bikeathon participants we can continue to provide vital support and services to people in the community to help them recover their lives after suffering life changing illness. Amanda Harkai explained, “We are all really looking forward to it, it’s a fantastic day out, and hope the weather is on our side again too!” ENDS Photo caption: (L-R) Picture of the Harkai family and friends taking part in last year’s event! Media Enquiries: Katy Aitken, Senior Press Officer Tel: 0131 225 6963 email:katy.aitken@chss.org.uk Date: 16th June 2017 Chest Heart & Stroke Scotland 2nd Floor, Hobart House 80 Hanover Street Edinburgh EH2 1EL