Meet Your Event Director
For Jo Dytch, Cancer Research Etape Caledonia UK isn’t just another cycling event on the calendar. It’s personal.
Jo grew up in nearby Dunkeld and now lives in Perthshire, just a short distance from the iconic route that thousands of riders tackle each year. In fact, for a few years she even lived directly on the course itself.
Today, she’s the Event Director of Cancer Research UK Etape Caledonia – but her connection to the event goes back much further.
Jo cycling the 2017 edition with her Dad.
From Day One
“I’ve been involved since the very first event in 2007,” Jo explains.
“I worked on the event from the beginning for the first five years until 2012. After that, I had the pleasure of riding it several times myself. When I moved back to Scotland in 2017, I worked in Event Control on event weekend before taking on the Event Director role a couple of years ago.”
That long history gives Jo a unique perspective on the event.
“As the original closed-road cycling event in the UK, we have something really unique here. And although I might be biased, the route, the scenery and Highland Perthshire are hard to beat.”
A Boost for the Local Community
Cancer Research UK Etape Caledonia has become one of the highlights of the year for Highland Perthshire.
“The event has helped the area grow into a destination where people want to come and explore by bike,” Jo says.
During event weekend, the towns and villages along the route come alive.
“There’s a real buzz. We also know many participants come back later in the year with friends and family after discovering the area through the event.”
The local connection runs deep, with volunteers and residents playing a big part in making the event happen.
“We’re lucky to have brilliant support from volunteer groups and local individuals along the route, and lots of locals also take part.”
Discovering Pitlochry
For riders visiting for the first time, Pitlochry offers plenty to explore beyond the bike.
“It’s a really lively town with lots to do,” says Jo. “I’d recommend exploring the whole place because there’s something for everyone.”
Some of Jo’s personal favourites include:
The Moulin Hotel – a brilliant pub with great Scottish food
Prince of India – the site of the event team’s annual tradition: a post-event curry dinner
“There’s so much to see and do around the whole route to be honest.”
A Favourite Part of the Route
Choosing a favourite part of the course isn’t easy.
“That’s a tough one,” Jo laughs.
“But I love Loch Rannoch. There’s something very special about being somewhere so remote and the views are spectacular.”
It’s also a welcome moment in the ride.
“It’s a flat 25-mile loop around the loch, so it’s a great place to enjoy being on the bike before the biggest climb of the day.”
A True Family Affair
Cancer Research UK Etape Caledonia is a family tradition for Jo.
“My parents have volunteered at the event, and my dad has ridden it many more times than I have!”
And he’s not slowing down.
“He’s hopefully riding again this year – and I know he won’t mind me saying this – as one of our oldest participants at 82!”
Advice for First-Time Riders
For riders taking on Cancer Research UK Etape Caledonia for the first time, Jo’s advice is simple.
“Plan your trip so you can explore the area. Pitlochry, Aberfeldy and Kinloch Rannoch are all worth visiting if you have the time.”
And on the bike?
“Nothing beats getting the training miles in your legs.”
Fuel is important too.
“Take plenty of food and eat regularly. But make sure you leave room for the macaroni cheese pies at the feed stations — a Scottish delicacy and perfect carb loading!”
Ready to Ride?
With stunning scenery, closed roads and an incredible local atmosphere, Cancer Research UK Etape Caledonia remains one of the UK’s most iconic sportives.
And if you ask Jo, there’s nowhere quite like it.