Team ITFC, led by Simon Milton, raised at least £68,887 for Prostate Cancer UK and £50,000 for the ITFC Academy at last weekend’s London to Amsterdam Cycling Challenge.
Team ITFC, whose 67 members also included Terry Butcher, David Johnson and Alan Lee, was the biggest contingent from any one club at the now annual two-day, 145-mile ride from Leyton Orient’s Matchroom Stadium to the Ajax Arena in Amsterdam.
Matt Holland was part of a Talksport team, while Preston manager Simon Grayson and ex-Watford striker Luther Blissett were also amongst the 250 riders.
The overall total raised for organisers Prostate Cancer UK from the event is £305,000 so far with the Town figure likely to rise to around £75,000 with members of Team ITFC still accepting donations.
Director of fundraising at Prostate Cancer UK, Mark Bishop, paid tribute those who took part: "To see Ipswich Town and our ever-extending football family come together over two never-to-be-forgotten days and raise a phenomenal total is another example of the power of Men United.
"It’s amazing to think that back in 2013 Luther was one of 35 hardy souls taking on the challenge for the first time, so it's fair to say it's really caught the imagination — and raised a substantial amount of money.
"This year‘s ride was bigger and better than ever, 250 riders representing clubs up and down the land convened for a brilliant demonstration of what we call Men United: people joining one team to fight a common opposition — prostate cancer.”
Team ITFC captain Milton added: "Our team had a fantastic time on the ride. We have some brilliant memories and made some great friends along the way, and it’s a really fun way to raise money. We’re proud to be part of Men United and look forward to next year’s ride.”
You can find out more about the ride, including how to take part next year, via Prostate Cancer UK.
The TWTD-sponsored member of Team ITFC, Tim Hodgson, is still accepting donations here or you can donate via the ITFC Academy here.