Glasgow brothers take Chris Hoy Tour de 4 after dad's death
Donald and Iain Jarvie, two Glasgow brothers who lost their father John to stage 4 prostate cancer in 2023, will cycle 90km in Sir Chris Hoy's Tour de 4 on September 6, 2026, to raise money and awareness for Prostate Cancer UK in his memory. Their dad kept his 2022 diagnosis quiet over Christmas so the family could enjoy the holiday together before he died at St Andrews Hospice in Airdrie.
Key Takeaways
- Donald, 40, and Iain, 43, will ride 90km at the Sir Chris Hoy Velodrome on September 6 with friend Peter Hall.
- John Jarvie was diagnosed with stage 4 prostate cancer in 2022 and died at St Andrews Hospice in Airdrie in 2023.
- The brothers were inspired by Chris Hoy's BBC documentary and their father's own cycling history.
- Donald says early testing matters because their dad showed no traditional prostate cancer symptoms.
- Donations go to Prostate Cancer UK via their Team Jarvie GoFundMe campaign.
Who Are Donald and Iain Jarvie?
Donald and Iain Jarvie grew up in Airdrie and now live in Glasgow. Both are fathers themselves. They lost their dad John, who they describe as determined, quietly tough, and never one to make a fuss about it.
John was always there for his sons before prostate cancer took his life. The family also includes sister Eileen and mother Margaret.
Why Are They Joining Chris Hoy's Tour de 4?
The brothers decided to take on Chris Hoy's charity cycling event after watching the Olympic cyclist's BBC documentary about his own journey with stage 4 prostate cancer. Sir Chris Hoy has become a high-profile voice for prostate cancer awareness since his diagnosis.
John Jarvie also loved cycling. As a teenager, he completed a 190km ride from Airdrie to Drummore. On their GoFundMe, Team Jarvie noted that their dad managed 190km while they are only doing 90km.
The Tour de 4 ride starts and finishes at the Sir Chris Hoy Velodrome in Glasgow on Sunday, September 6.
What Happened to Their Father John?
John was diagnosed with stage four prostate cancer in 2022. He kept the news secret over Christmas so the family could enjoy the holiday together.
He passed away at St Andrews Hospice in Airdrie the following year. Donald remembers his dad was quietly proud when Donald completed a half marathon in 2022 while John was still alive.
What Message Do They Want to Share?
Donald told Glasgow Live there needs to be more awareness of how common prostate cancer is and what to look for. John did not have traditional symptoms, and both brothers are now classed as higher risk.
Full details of prostate cancer signs and symptoms are on the NHS website. Donald said families should talk openly about cancer's mental and emotional toll, not just treatment.
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How Can Readers Support the Ride?
Donald said he is excited and nervous for the cycle, while Iain may feel more confident after previous long-haul rides. They will ride alongside lifelong friend Peter Hall.
Readers can donate to the brothers' GoFundMe for Prostate Cancer UK. Donald said his dad would be super proud and would have been out fundraising if he were still here.