On Sunday 9th June, the sun was shining as 65 brave cyclists jumped on their bikes and took on the Ride High Cycle Challenge. The teams collectively cycled over 3,000 miles in an effort to raise money for children’s charity Ride High. The teams cycled either 100-, 50- or 25-mile routes covering the Buckinghamshire and Bedfordshire countryside and managed to raise an impressive £18,000.
The event was the perfect opportunity to bring people together and get outdoors while also raising awareness of the important work the charity does. Ride High supports vulnerable and disadvantaged young people in Milton Keynes in the surrounding areas. The charity uses the horses as a vehicle to connect with the children, helping them engage in a programme that not only teaches them horse riding and care but uses an educational programme that works to increase their confidence and encourage positive mental health.
Since 2020 there has been a staggering increase in the number of children suffering with mental health challenges, with many struggling with day-to-day challenges. Despite Ride High increasing their intake of children by 33% in the last year, the waiting list is ever growing, with the number of children being referred continuing to rise. The charity is self-funded meaning they rely on grant funding and donations to fund the important work they do. This is why Ride High are so grateful to all those who participated at the weekend.
All cyclists crossed the finish line with smiling faces looking forward to their celebratory BBQ and being awarded a highly coveted Ride High medal designed and decorated by the children they were raising money for. The afternoon was filled with celebrations and elation as the cyclists enjoyed their success of completing the challenge and raising such a large amount of money. The money raised will be able to fund 4 children for 12 months at Ride High, helping to change their lives.
“The event was lots of fun, our team cycled the 25-mile route, which had gorgeous scenery, we couldn’t believe we were in Milton Keynes! The pit stop was lovely too, with lots of people, including kids waving flags and cheering us on, we felt like heroes. The BBQ at the end was great where family members joined us to celebrate us completing the course. We enjoyed it so much we have all decided to give the 50-mile route a go next year,” Dan Johnson, event participant.
Ride High would like to thank everyone who made the event possible. The amazing team from Mitie who provided 16 volunteers and the dedicated team of Ride High volunteers who are always there to lend a hand when needed. Local bike shop Trek Cycles, who were on hand to check over cyclists bikes, Tesco, Morrisons, M&S and local butchers Best Butchers who provided supplies for the BBQ and pit stops and finally our amazing event sponsors All Things Business and SIS.
