SIR Chris Hoy is swapping bikes for flights after teaming up with Paddy Power and Prostate Cancer UK for The BIGGER 180 campaign.
Launching at the Paddy Power World Darts Championship, the campaign aims to smash the silence around men’s health and inspire men across the UK to take action before it’s too late.
Once again, bookmakers Paddy Power will again donate £1,000 to Prostate Cancer UK for every 180 at this year’s tournament at Alexandra Palace.
They are also offering a massive £180,000 bonus for every nine-darter, which will be shared evenly between the player, Prostate Cancer UK and a lucky fan in the crowd.
But it’s not all about the cash.
Prostate cancer is the most common cancer among men in the UK, with 1 in 8 men diagnosed during their lifetime. Every 45 minutes, another man loses his life to the disease – that’s more than 12,000 men every year.
The campaign aims to get 180,000 men to complete the risk checker by January 3rd.
And that’s where Britain’s most decorated Olympian gets involved.
Following his terminal cancer prognosis, Sir Chris Hoy says there needs to be more conversations about health between men, and wants to promote awareness of prostate cancer and its symptoms especially amongst younger people.
“This isn’t about medals or records,” Hoy says. “It’s about saving lives. If sharing my story gets just one person to check their risk or book a screening, then it’s all been worth it.
He added: “Sport is where men connect, laugh, and bond. It’s also the perfect place to deliver an important message: don’t wait, act now. If we can get blokes talking about their health at Ally Pally, between pints and 180s, then we’ve already won.
“Paddy Power’s always been about grabbing attention, and this time, it’s for something life-changing.
“They’re using their platform not just to entertain but to save lives, and that’s something I’m proud to be part of.
“The nine-dart bonus is a stroke of genius. It celebrates the players’ talent while turning it into something much bigger—a chance to make a real difference.”
“Men don’t need to wait for symptoms,” Hoy urges. “The risk checker is quick, easy, and could save your life.”
A responsible gambler is someone who:
Find our detailed guide on responsible gambling practices here.
For help with a gambling problem, call the National Gambling Helpline on 0808 8020 133 or go to www.gamstop.co.uk