Tour de Aky: Packed programme of events for 2026

5 February 2026

A calendar of activities is being organised for 2026 by a North Yorkshire Police Federation member to encourage officers to speak about mental health.

Acting Sergeant Pierre Olesqui has put together a series of events in aid of charity and to keep vital conversations going.

The programme has been inspired by his best friend and colleague, PC Micky ‘Aky’ Atkinson, a North Yorkshire Police dog handler who took his own life in 2018.

On 'Time to Talk Day' - an initiative encouraging people to talk openly and honestly about mental health, across workplaces, schools and communities Supported by UK charity Mind - Pierre said: “It is so important to continue to raise awareness, to bring down barriers, and to get people talking.

 

 

“That’s what I hope these events will do. And if we can help even one person then it will all be worthwhile.”

The events will also raise money and awareness for Yorkshire Air Ambulance, Andy’s Man Club, and Menfulness.

The flagship Tour de Aky cycle ride, now in its eight year, will take place on Saturday 18 July.

Starting and finishing at the Two Pointers pub in Woodlesford, Tour de Aky will take in a 106.6-mile route across Yorkshire. The distance reflects Aky’s collar number, 1066.

Cycling

Pierre said: “I’m a big lad and we’ve tried to make the route as flat as possible. But we’re cycling more than 100 miles in Yorkshire so there are bound to be hills.

“But that’s part of what the ride represents. To feel that burn a bit, and have a hand on your shoulder saying you can get up that hill.

“It’s supporting each other and reminding people they don’t have to face things alone.”

He added: “The Two Pointers have been really welcoming and supportive in previous years, so we’re really pleased to be going back again.”

The Junior Tour de Aky will take place in early June and offers a shorter version of the main ride.

Participants will cycle 10.66 miles from Harrogate to Ripley and back, along a cycle path or quiet road, with a stop in Ripley for an ice cream.

Charities

The junior ride is open to all, including adults who prefer a shorter challenge or want to take part with their families.

“It’s about sharing the experience and enjoying the ride together,” Pierre said. “That sense of togetherness is what Tour de Aky is all about.”

The calendar of events kicks off with the Tournoi de Aky, football tournament being held at Hunslet Warriors in Leeds on 23 May.

It’s a venue with strong personal links to Aky, who helped to coach junior rugby players at the club.

Pierre has invited the beneficiary charities Yorkshire Air Ambulance, Andy’s Man Club, and Menfulness to enter teams. He’s also hopeful North Yorkshire Police will take part.

Fundraising

The fifth annual Golf de Aky day returns on Friday 26 June at Low Laithes Golf Club in Wakefield.

Players will compete in a Ryder Cup-style format. Places are already full with a police team playing against a friends of police team.

“I am really pleased that it is full,” Pierre said. “And hopefully it will be a great day with some good laughs.”

Pierre added that the events were about more than fundraising.

“I’m a big advocate of people talking,” he said. “If you’re struggling, please don’t suffer in silence.

Tour de Aky

“There is help out there and there are people who care. Sometimes you just need to reach out.”

There is a range of Tour de Aky merchandise available as well, including cycling jerseys and beanie hats.

And Pierre revealed he picked the wrong time of year to launch the line in beanies.

“I was trying to sell them at the Tour de Aky in July, but it’s not easy selling beanie hats when it’s 25 degrees outside,” he joked.

“But now the weather is perfect for them and it’s all for good causes.”

READ MORE: Fed support is there for all members, says branch chair

FIND OUT MORE: About 'Time to Talk Day'