Calling cyclists of all abilities! A brand new cycle challenge is being launched this summer which takes in the beauty of all of North Shropshire while raising money for the county’s children’s hospice.
The North Shropshire Cycle Challenge on Sunday, June 10th offers an 85 mile sportive, plus a 35 mile fun route suitable for all.
The event is being organised by the Shropshire Gentleman’s Club which has raised a staggering £300,000 for Hope House Children’s hospice over the past decade through annual balls and the Gents themselves undertaking challenges such as cycling to Paris.
Like everything the Gents do, it will be a fantastic occasion with refreshment and cheer stations along the route at Newport, Wem, Hope House in Oswestry, Ellesmere and Whitchurch, and a barbecue and bar for spectators and riders on the finish line at The Grove School in Market Drayton.
Standard entry fees are £25 for the sportive and £20 for the fun ride, but a £5 Early Bird discount is currently available. All of the entry fees, and any optional sponsorship raised, will go directly to Hope House.
Major Gifts Manager Vanessa Thomas said she hoped that hundreds of cyclists would take up the challenge and enjoy a great adventure while helping Hope House.
“It is a fantastic and very well-organised new fixture on the county’s cycling calendar,” she said.
“The longer route will prove challenging for regular riders, while the shorter route is a great way to explore the local countryside with the support of refreshment stations, a bike doctor and support vans.
“At the same time, everyone who takes part will be helping to fund the vital care and support Hope House provides to terminally ill local children and their families, and to families who have been bereaved.”
To see route maps and sign up visit www.shropshirecycleride.com.
Also back on Sunday August 5th is the Annual Hope House Cycle Challenge which starts and finishes at Hope House after a 56 mile route to Lake Vyrnwy or a 70 mile route to Lake Bala. It costs just £25 to register in advance at www.hopehouse.org.uk/events
Pictured: Launching the Cycle Challenge at Hope House are (l-r) Shropshire Gents Mark Charman, Ken McGillivray and Richard Kolbe with the Hope House Care Team Liz Norton, Shirley Gregory, Lyn Piatczanyn and Gwyneth Morgan.
