Transaid has launched its 2021 UK Cycle Challenge, laying down the gauntlet to transport and logistics industry professionals to dust off their lycra, polish their saddles and gear up for the coast-to-coast fundraising event, which is scheduled to take place from 24-26 September 2021.
The 170-mile ‘Way of the Roses’ challenge – the international development organisation’s sixth UK cycling event – is expected to see up to 40 participants take part in the Morecambe to Bridlington journey to raise money in support of Transaid’s work in sub-Saharan Africa, where it works to improve road safety and access to healthcare for communities across the region.
Announcing the ride, Florence Bearman, Transaid’s Head of Fundraising, said: “We were bitterly disappointed not to be able to go ahead with our planned events last year, and so we are absolutely thrilled to launch this exciting new fundraiser.
“Our cycle challenges are always a sell-out, with a real sense of camaraderie among the riders – but most importantly because they are a fantastic chance for supporters to raise essential funds for our lifesaving programmes – a cause close to all our hearts. We cannot wait to welcome people back to the saddle in September.”
This year’s challenge, sponsored by the UK Warehousing Association, will involve two days of scenic cycling through the beautiful Lancashire countryside and Yorkshire Dales, before culminating in a much-deserved celebratory dinner for participants on the final night.
Riders will begin their adventure in the seaside town of Morecambe, setting off along the River Lune on a 77-mile journey to Harrogate. The route will pass through the rolling Lancashire hills and the bustling Yorkshire market town of Settle before ascending further east along the green fields of the Dales, with an overnight stop in Harrogate.
Day two will reward participants with flatter plains, with the 95-mile-long leg taking in the sights of the historic walled city of York, before meandering through farms and towns along the Yorkshire hills, towards the finish in the seaside town of Bridlington – ahead of that evening’s celebratory dinner and overnight stay.
Entries are encouraged from individuals and teams although space is limited and places are expected to fill up fast, so Transaid urges participants to sign up quickly to secure their place.
There is a registration fee of £99, with participants asked to raise a minimum sponsorship of £1,000 to take part. Anyone wanting more information about the challenge, or to sign up, can contact Nicola Parkes on 07909 009568 or via email at [email protected], or see the transaid website at transaid.org.
