The Actavis Lifecycle Challenge will this year be heading to Asia as cyclists pedal their way across Japan in an effort to raise funds to combat kidney disease.

Addressing a press conference for the launch of the 2014 challenge at the Renal Unit at Mater Dei Hospital, Lifecycle cofounder Alan Curry said the 16th edition of the challenge will see cyclers take on a gruelling two-week trek from Fukouka to Tokyo.

The choice of destination, he said, showed that the foundation was not taking the competition of other charities lightly.

“We know that there are other charities out there so we are upping our game. Some might look at the destinations we choose and think ‘that makes for a good holiday’, but let me assure you this is hard work,” he said.

Funds from the trip will go towards a new 24-hour dialysis service and the employment of a fulltime dietician at the Renal Unit.

Last year the foundation donated an eight-seat van to provide transport to the new night shift dialysis service offered at the unit.

Unit nursing officer Paul Calleja said the van was essential for patients who worked or studied during normal office hours.

“We have patients who are bread winners and need four hours of dialysis three times a week. Patients definitely cannot drive after dialysis so this allows them to lead regular lives, this service is essential,” he said.

The organisers of the challenge also presented the Research Trust with a cheque for €70,000 for new research on kidney disease.

Health Minister Godfrey also attended the conference.

“The 14-years of contribution to health services in Malta are a sign of this initiative’s success,” he said.