Legendary Irish cyclist Stephen Roche, who won the 'Triple Crown' of victories in the Tour de France, Giro d'Italia and the World Road Race Championship in 1987, will appear at the 10th edition of the Etape Loch Ness on Sunday.

Roche will join Olympian cyclist turned commentator, Brian Smith and compere and Commonwealth cyclist, Charline Jones on the podium at the Event Hub, Eden Court Theatre on Saturday 27 April.

After sending off riders on the start line, the trio will appear on stage at 11.00, 13.00, 15.00 and 17.00.

"Prize giveaways, street food, pop-up bar and plenty of retail opportunities will also be available at the Event Hub during registration from 10.00-19.00," add the organisers. Entry to the hub is free of charge.

Almost 6000 cyclists have signed up for the Etape, which is the UK's second biggest closed road sportive after RideLondon.

The 66-mile route starts from Inverness and makes a circuit of Loch Ness with some 900m of climbing along the way.

This year's anniversary edition sees entries from as far afield as Australia, USA and UAE as well as across the UK and Europe.

A total of 650 participants will be cycling for the official charity of the Etape Loch Ness, Macmillan Cancer Support, with the aim of raising £200,000. This would take the total raised for Macmillan Cancer Support over 10 years of the Etape Loch Ness to over £2 million.

"Ten years ago we couldn't have dreamed of the success of the Etape Loch Ness," commented Event Director, Malcolm Sutherland.

"It has grown to become the second largest closed-road sportive in the UK and is a highlight for cyclists in the Highlands, Scotland, the UK and abroad, taking in the sights of the iconic Loch Ness.

"This year, we welcome back a group of ever-present cyclists who have taken part in every Etape Loch Ness. We can't wait to have them join us for the 10th edition this weekend.

"As always, we couldn't do this without our amazing team and volunteers, as well as our sponsors, partners and the communities along the route.

"A huge thank you also to Team Macmillan cyclists who will be raising funds for Macmillan Cancer Support. We hope you all have a fantastic day!"

Read our report on the 2017 edition:

> Etape Loch Ness: Andy heads north for Scotland's monster sportive >

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