It has long been a favourite event among cyclists in east Kent, and so it proved on Sunday for the 16th annual bike ride in aid of the Pilgrims Hospices.
Designed for riders of all abilities, participants tackled a choice of five routes through the Kent countryside, ranging from a novice-friendly 30 miles to the leg-burning 125-mile ‘epic’.
Cycling buddies enjoying their day on the East Kent Hospices Cycle Challenge
This year, 770 cyclists set off from the University of Kent to tackle their chosen route, which all visited at least one of the three hospices in Canterbury, Ashford and Thanet.
The day began chilly under grey skies with a dose of rain for some, but brightened up by lunchtime.
Along the way, dedicated rest stops provided welcome refreshments, encouragement, and a chance for riders to recharge before continuing their journey.
Behind the scenes, a huge team of volunteers worked tirelessly in the weeks leading up to the event and on the day itself.
From carefully signing the routes and preparing rest stops, to organising snacks and cheering riders along the way, their efforts remain vital to the event’s success, as does the sponsorship of the University of Kent, Barretts and Biketart.
The East Kent Pilgrims Hospices Cycle Challenge took riders deep into the countrysideTony McKenna with his daughter Molly McKenna, from Faversham, with their East Kent Hospices Cycle Challenge medalsIan Miller, from London, with fellow cycle challenge finishers Julie Khan and Debbie Clifford, from Whitstable.
Richard Bonsier, from Ashford, who completed the 75-mile route, said: “It’s the best ride of the year – everyone is so friendly and looks out for each other along the way.”
Bradleigh Pettman, from Margate, who cycled the 30-mile route with family members and colleagues as part of the Premier Signs team, took part in memory of his dad, company owner Ian Pettman, who was cared for by Pilgrims Hospices.
“We’re proud to cycle in Dad’s memory and to support the incredible care Pilgrims provides to families like ours,” he said.
Already the event has raised an outstanding £90,000 and counting, with individual sponsorship continuing to be sent to the charity.
All the money will go to support the Pilgrims Hospices in providing compassionate end-of-life care across east Kent.
East Kent Pilgrims Hospices Cycle Challenge finishers Hansie Matravers, Paul Matravers and Srdjana Trajkovic, from CanterburyRyan Holmes and Kiyah Turner, from Canterbury, toughed out the 75-mile routeLouise Pomeroy-Dash, from Canterbury, proudly holds her East Kent Pilgrims Hospices Cycle Challenge medal
Head of fundraising Kate Duddell said: “We’re so grateful to everyone who took part, volunteered or supported the Cycle Challenge this year.
“It’s always inspiring to see so many people come together, each with their own reason for riding.
“Every mile cycled helps us continue our vital work caring for patients and their families.”