Right to Play have teamed up with HTC-Highroad and Specialized for the 2011 Ride to the Tour.

The charity ride will depart from the Stoop, home to Harlequins rugby club, in Twickenham on June 29 and cycle 350 miles to Les Herbiers, France over four days in time to witness the close of the 180km first stage of the Tour de France on July 2.

The group will also enjoy an exclusive, behind-the-scenes experience with HTC-Highroad, team of 15-time Tour de France stage winner Mark Cavendish.

“It’s the closest you can get to the Tour de France without competing with myself and team HTC-Highroad for the green jersey,” said Cavendish. “See you at the finish line in France.”

Right to Play aims to improve the lives of children in some of the most disadvantaged areas of the world by using the power of sport and play for development, health and peace.

Ride to the Tour registration costs £240 (£180 for students), with a fundraising target of £1,200 per person. Team discounts are available, with each rider in a team of five required to fundraise £1,100, while the target is £1000 per person for a team of 10.

The route has been designed to be both scenic and cycle-friendly, suitable for first-timers and seasoned bike riders alike.

Specialized will be on-hand with full mechanical support, as well as free products and exclusive in-store discounts to riders who hit their fundraising targets. One rider will win a brand new Specialized road bike.

Head to www.righttoplay.org.uk/cycle for more information.