A colony of fundraisers are hoping not to get in a flap as they tackle two 110-mile bike rides and a half- marathon dressed as penguins.

The group have already taken on 10k races in Keighley, York and Leeds, plus bigger challenges such as Daventry Triathlon and the Ironman 70.3 Mallorca, in support of Yorkshire Cancer Research.

For their latest event, Penguathlon 2013, the 22-strong team, which includes members from Wilsden, Ilkley, Shipley, Bingley, Burley-in-Wharfedale and Queensbury, will cycle from Headingley Rugby Ground to Newcastle, complete the Great North Run, then bike to Bar T’at in Ilkley.

Leeds Rhinos stars Jamie Peacock and Ian Kirke will officially start the fundraiser on Saturday.

The hardy 22 will dress as penguins and wear custom-designed and made cycle kit by Spirit Cycling of Ilkley, complete with beaks and flippers.

Mark Summerson, 40, of Burley-in-Wharfedale, said: “The following day, the much more cumbersome seven- foot-tall furry penguin suits will be broken out and worn whilst completing the Great North Run, before getting the bike gear on again for the return journey, this time finishing at Bar T’at in Ilkley. We’ve secured sponsorship from businesses.”

The group have Penguin Jerseys signed by triathletes Alistair and Jonny Brownlee, the Leeds Rhinos squad and cycling legend Chris Boardman, which will be auctioned.

Mr Summerson said: “All funds being raised are going towards the great charity that is Yorkshire Cancer Research and more details including how to sponsor any of the penguins or even buy fundraising Penguin merchandise, can be found on http://www.penguathlon.com.”

On the weekend of the event the website will have a live GPS feed of the penguins’ location and if any cyclists wish to join up for a few miles, they are more than welcome.