The sun was shining on June 9 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 the children’s charity. The teams cycled either 100, 50 or 25-mile routes around 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 and 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 its 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 it relies on grant funding and donations to fund the important work it does, which why Ride High is so grateful to all those who participated.
All cyclists crossed the finish line with smiling faces looking forward to a celebratory barbecue 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 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 four children for 12 months at Ride High, helping to change their lives.
One participant, Dan Johnson, said:
“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 barbecue 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.”
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 were on hand to check over cyclists’ bikes and Tesco, Morrisons, M&S and local butchers Best Butchers provided supplies for the barbecue and pit stops and finally the amazing event sponsors All Things Business and SIS.
The next fundraising event will be on Wednesday September 25, 2024 where Ride High will be hosting a Charity Golf Day at Woburn Golf Club.
Anyone who would like to be involved in sponsorship the golf day, or attending should contact marketing@ridehigh.org
For more information about the charity visit www.ridehigh.org
