Accessibility
Search
More than £100,000 has been raised for Thames Hospice through the charity's new overseas fundraising event - the Big Mountain Challenge.
The Big Mountain Challenge saw pro-riders and amateur cyclists take to the French Alps to raise money for the charity's new hospice currently being built by Bray Lake. Riders conquered iconic Tour de France climbs, choosing from three different routes to suit everyone's abilities.
Amongst the participants was actor James Phelps, renowned for his role as Fred Weasley in Harry Potter. He said: "This was the best trip I have ever been on, and thats saying something! Four days, 299km and it was fun from start to finish, and more importantly it was all for a great cause. I'm a newbie to cycling but everyone on the Big Mountain Challenge made me feel welcome. As soon as I crossed the line I signed myself up for next year!"
The event was run in conjunction with some of the best names in cycling, including Chain Reaction Cycles, Mavic, Mountain Drop-Offs, Vitus and HIGH5. Every detail was thought of to guarantee the highest standards at excellent value; approximately 70% of the costs of the trip were subsidised by the sponsors.
Jason Bevan a senior film industry executive and Thames Hospice Ambassador organised the event. He said: "Whatever our riders level, they all loved the experience, conquered some of the most famous Alpine rides in the world and supported and encouraged each other throughout. All backed up by incredible volunteers and professional level support. Thanks to our sponsors we can offer this amazing experience at a fraction of the real cost with the chance to support a phenomenally valuable cause.
"We cycled up some big mountains, but what we did can never compare to what Thames Hospice patients have to deal with."
Registration is now open for the 2021 Big Mountain Challenge, book your place here.