China cycle ride

Six hardy cyclists from the south west have returned home from China where they completed a nine-day bike challenge pedalling more than 450 kilometres.  The cyclists were part of a larger group who took part in the once in a lifetime trip visiting ancient Chinese monuments and sights along the way and raising more than £60,000 for CLIC Sargent.

The group left Heathrow Airport for Beijing on Friday 10th October where their two-wheeled adventure through one of the world’s best known UNESCO World Heritage sites began.  They cycled through stunning mountain and rural scenery visiting monuments such as the Ming Tombs and pedalling through the Black Dragon Pools National Park.  The group arrived back in the UK on Sunday 19th October.

Gavin Hooper, Learning and Development Co-ordinator for CLIC Sargent based at the Charity’s Filton office, accompanied the group on the trip.  He says, “It was a pleasure to be leading a group so driven towards completing this challenge. We all had our personal motivation for being there, but it was the collective support from within the group that got us through. The discomfort we felt going up those mountains is nothing compared to the horror of treatment for some that CLIC Sargent help support, and our short term pain will provide a long term gain for the Charity. What a phenomenal experience: it was a joy to be a part of it, and the surprised smiles of the local Chinese people as we went through small villages will always remain!”

Alan Spencer, 55 from Bristol, was taking part in his ninth challenge event for CLIC Sargent.  He says, “Although I have never been touched by the trauma of losing a child I know what it is like to have had one who was seriously ill.  Therefore to be able to help and support CLIC Sargent in this way makes me feel very proud, and grateful for the opportunity.  The group involved cyclists of all ages and especially reminded me that there are many younger individuals in our society of who we can be immensely proud.”

Paul O’Brien, 42 from Wraxall, had to fight bravely on with increasing discomfort in his knee, but still managed to bike every one of the 452 kilometres. “This was my first challenge event for CLIC Sargent and it really was an unforgettable experience,” says Paul. “Cycling through the Chinese countryside was certainly tough at times but we had a great team spirit and camaraderie which helped us through.  Visiting the Great Wall is one of those once a lifetime opportunities and I’m pleased I got the chance to take part in the ride, and help raise money for such a worthy cause at the same time,” Paul adds.

For anyone looking to go that extra mile for CLIC Sargent in 2009 registration is now open for the Mexican Volcano Cycle which takes place between 16 and 25 October.  This phenomenal biking challenge will see participants pedalling 300 kilometres across a cactus reserve, around volcanoes and through ancient pyramids.

For more information on taking part visit CLIC Sargent Challenges or call: 0845 124 118.

ENDS

Notes to Editor:

• For any media enquiries please contact Ruth Bowen in the CLIC Sargent press office on: 0117 314 8617 or email: ruth.bowen@clicsargent.org.uk.