Mountain Software helps to sponsor two charity bike rides to raise money for the Christie Hospital Cancer Treatment Centre. Both rides are in the Peak District and Southern Pennine areas and are extremely hilly incorporating famous climbs like the Snake Pass, Cat & Fiddle, Long Hill and Winnats Pass which has a 30% gradient at one point. The Polka Dot Challenge (named after the jersey worn by the rider leading the King of the Mountains competition in the Tour de France) is held in early June and is 100 miles with a 75 mile shortcut option. The second ride, the Spud Riley Memorial ride, is scheduled for early September and is also 100 miles and has a 54 mile option.

The Polka Dot challenge is one of the most popular events of its kind and this year had reached its limit of 500 entrants by the end of January. Last year over £7000 was raised for Charity from the two events.

Full details and entry forms can be found on the web site created by Mountain Software at Polka Dot Challenge Website