The trio joined the Sam Steen Show on RTL Today Radio for a quick call before setting off, sharing their excitement, nerves and growing momentum behind a challenge that aims to raise €1 million for cancer research.
“We just reached €350,000, which we’re very proud of,” Sander said ahead of departure. “It’s about one third of the way there, but as we’re starting the journey today, we’re very positive and excited.”
The route will take the team through more than 20 countries over 67 stages, covering around 120km per day as they make their way from Tallinn to Gibraltar.
“We’re feeling very excited about what’s coming up,” Sander said. “What keeps us fresh is the weather outside. It’s about two degrees right now, but feels like minus four.”
From the Baltics, the route heads south through Poland, Slovakia and the Balkans before crossing into Western Europe, the Alps, and eventually France and Spain.
“It sounds quick when you say it like that,” the team joked, fully aware of the scale of what lies ahead.
As outlined in their original interview, the journey is about more than distance. It’s a deeply personal mission tied to loss, resilience and hope.
Funds raised will support the Fondation St Luc, helping to advance research into more personalised cancer treatments.
“The goal is to determine in advance which treatment will work best for each patient,” René explained. “At the moment, success rates can be as low as 10 to 30 percent when applying standard treatments.”
By supporting this research, the team hopes to improve outcomes and reduce the trial-and-error approach many patients currently face.
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After months of preparation, the team officially began their journey this week, and early conditions offered a glimpse of the challenge ahead.
“Finally started! The morning had sun and a tail wind so off to a good start,” Sander shared after completing day one. “The snow, clouds and windchill reminded us in the second part of the day why this is a challenge!! Looking forward to what’s to come!”
It’s a fitting reminder that while the route promises incredible moments, it will also test the riders physically and mentally at every stage.
With more than €350,000 already raised, the team is now focused on pushing towards their €1 million goal as they make their way across Europe.
Supporters can follow the journey, donate and track their progress via the official website:
Regular updates will also be shared on social media, documenting every high and low along the way.
As the team sets off on what promises to be a defining experience, each kilometre brings them closer not just to Gibraltar, but to making a meaningful impact in the fight against cancer.
