The Heavy Metal Truants, the world’s first Heavy Metal Charity Bicycle Ride, is now in its third year. In the words of Metal Hammer/Team Rock boss Alexander Milas –

“How did it all begin? Like most great things, it happened over a beer. Back in 2012, Iron Maiden manager, Rod Smallwood, invited me on one of his now infamous charity cycle rides, this one through the foothills of the Atlas Mountains in Morocco in some truly blistering heat. It was hard, but it was also genuinely one of the best, most fulfilling experiences of my life. ‘So then, how are you getting up to Donington this year?’ he asked. That was the birth of the Heavy Metal Truants: a charity cycle ride that’s truly one of a kind. So far we’ve raised £174,000 pounds for kids – let’s triple it!

It’s about more than just cycling, though. It’s about the brother and sisterhood of metal cycling to raise money for some very worthy causes – in this case, Nordoff Robbins, Teenage Cancer Trust, and Childline – to raise money for kids who need help. We’re doing that by putting our pedals to the metal with the great and good of the music industry – agents, managers, promoters, publicists, record labels, media organisations, and artists alike for a gruelling 161-mile bicycle ride leaving early from Alexandra Palace in North London on June 10th and arriving at Download Festival around midday on June 12th, just in time to see some bands.

It won’t be easy, but then nothing worthwhile ever is. There will be hills, heat, and hangovers, and it’ll take weeks of preparation to face the task ahead, but we are convinced that if there’s any community out there who’ll answer the call, it’s people like you.

Everything you need to know about the ride, what it entails and how to join us is right here on our website. We guarantee this will be an experience you won’t easily forget!!

Spaces are limited, so if you are interested SIGN UP NOW! If you don’t make it along with us this time, there are still ways to help. Spread the word, and join us on Facebook and Twitter or make a donation. Just remember that it’s all in the name of Charity for the kids who need it the most.”

The Truants have just started their 161 mile trip today, leaving Alexandra Palace in London, with 49 riders making their way to this year’s Download Festival site at Castle Donington. Amongst the riders taking part in this year’s ride are AMON AMARTH frontman Johan Hegg, PARADISE LOST‘s Aaron Aedy and SAVAGE MESSIAH‘s Dave Silver.

To donate, visit the Heavy Metal Truants website here or JustGiving here.