Danish legend Schmeichel ready for Iceland charity cycle

Legendary Danish goalkeeper Peter Schmeichel is to cycle around Iceland to raise money for underprivileged children. The former Manchester United keeper will lead a 30-strong team of cyclists in the 150-mile charity ride as part of a fund-raising event, dubbed the Ice and Fire Cycle Challenge, for the Manchester United Foundation.

The Dane said Iceland is home to some of Europe’s finest landscapes, describing the challenge he has agreed to take on as “incredibly demanding”. He said he is looking forward to meeting his fellow cyclists, adding that he expects the ride to be among the most rewarding things he’s ever done.

All the proceeds from the cycle, which will take place from 3-8 September, will go towards the Manchester United Foundation’s work with youths in Greater Manchester. The charity offers disadvantaged children personal development opportunities as well as football coaching.

Fire and Ice is the organisation’s latest challenge following former captain Bryan Robson’s climb up Kilimanjaro, David May’s Machu Picchu trek and Denis Irwin’s trek in the Sahara Desert.

Schmeichel is United’s most decorated goalkeeper, winning five Premier Leagues titles, three FA Cups, one League Cup and one Champions League. He was also part of the Danish team that shocked the world by winning the European Championships in Sweden in 1992.