81 Days ‘Till #LondontoParis!
Published on: 29/04/2016
Left To Right: Jo & Chris
It’s getting ever closer to this year’s London to Paris Bike Ride, an awesome and epic cycle through 300 miles of rural towns and countryside from the 20th – 24th July, our twelve strong team are working hard to train and raise funds for the hospice in preparation for this adventure. One member of last year’s team, Chris, spoke to us recently about her experiences with last year’s London to Paris Cycle.
What made you take part in the event?
“As I was an employee of the Hospice observing how hard the staff work in order to support patients and their families, I felt a strong desire to help their efforts and to raise as much money as possible. Jo, who completed the cycle with me, has also worked as a nurse and was keen to be involved.”
How did you find the fundraising side? What was the best way of raising funds?
“Fundraising was lots of fun and a great learning experience. We found the best method of fundraising is communication and involvement of family, friends and colleagues. There are many events which, in our case, proved financially beneficial towards our target e.g. coffee morning, fashion shows, pub quizzes, raffles, etc. all time consuming but great fun.”
What did you enjoy about the cycle ride?
“The cycle was awesome from start to finish. Beautiful English and French countryside with local residents and passers-by clapping and cheering encouraging all the cyclists. The finish cycling around the Eiffel Tower is a wonderful, wonderful memory. It is a lifetime experience not to be missed and we have no doubt one we hope to experience again. It surpasses my 7 global marathons and is an achievement we are both very proud.”
What advice can you give to this year’s riders?
“Enjoy the training and include a few hills!! It will be well worth it.”
Another one of last year’s riders, Frank, is doing it all over again this year, he shared with us why he wanted to do the challenge a second time.
“I’m taking on the London to Paris ride for the second consecutive year. I think that tells you something in itself. It was such an inspirational trip for me. Not just in terms of the personal challenge and the wonderful countryside which the ride passes through between the two capitals. But the shared experience, friendship and support my fellow riders gave to each other was something very special. This July, it will be a privilege to ride again with others who are taking on this challenge for Wirral Hospice St John’s.”
Cycling from London to Paris is one of the great cycle experiences in Europe covering over 300 miles in 4 days. With long days in the saddle and some strenuous hill-climbs, the sight of the Eiffel Tower, the finishing point, evokes a real sense of achievement. It is an inspirational and challenging experience to treasure forever.
If you would like to take part in the 2017 London to Paris challenge simply call Michelle on 0151 343 0778 or email michellet@wirralhospice.org for a full information pack and everything you need to take part in this fantastic event.
Author: Jacinta Warwick
