Get on your bike for the Starr Trust!

Date set and route revealed for this year’s group Bike Ride, taking place in September.

The Starr Trust has been organising group bike ride events since 2016 – the first ever event was Cornwall to Brighton (Brighton to Brighton). Somerset to Brighton (King Alfred to King Alfred) followed, then Wales to Brighton (Pier to Pier) and Brighton to Amsterdam which attracted the largest group at nearly 50 cyclists!

Post-covid, an event saw cyclists take on the ultimate challenge of Nice to Nimes (incorporating an option of conquering Mont Ventoux), which was not for the faint-hearted. In 2023, the Bristol to Brighton Bike Ride was a huge success and, as such, many are signing up again for 2024.

This year, the challenge will take place between 5th-8th September. The trip is equally suitable for keen cyclists or inexperienced but enthusiastic cyclists wanting to be part of an exciting three-day cycling adventure between Cornwall and Brighton. Electric Bikes are allowed for those who want a little extra boost and cyclists are put into groups with passionate and supportive team leaders matched to their cycling abilities. The events are always an excellent opportunity to get fit, make new friends and connections as well as raising invaluable funds for the charity.

Here are some of the testimonials from previous participants and sponsors to tell you more about what to expect…

Guy Barwell, Implant Surgeon and Co-Founder at The Implant Centre, said:

“The Implant Centre Team have both been the lead sponsor and taken part in the Starr Trust Annual Bike Ride for seven years. Always a fantastic trip and a fabulous team vibe amongst the cyclists. All their Bike Rides are extremely well organised and some of our dentists and nurses can’t wait to participate again this year in the Cornwall to Brighton challenge!

“It is such an inclusive ride where everyone is welcome, at all standards of riding skill (and fitness!) This variety really sets this group apart for bringing everyone together for a few days of great fun and hard work, with the main focus of helping bring in some more money for the charity.

“We have a great commitment in supporting the Starr Trust as we can see the amazing work they do with the local community and championing kids to achieve their dreams. It is charitable events like this that show how committed they are to getting as much money as possible to help.”

Rich Bates, Solicitor at Cognitive Law, said:

“The Bristol to Brighton Bike Ride 2023 was challenging, but great fun! The Starr Trust always works so hard to provide an excellent experience for a group of people from all walks of life, and who may or may not have cycled much in the past. It’s such a rewarding experience to complete a challenge like this, especially when you know 100% of the funds raised goes directly to young people in need of support. Sign up for Cornwall to Brighton 2024 – you will not be disappointed!”

Nick Poyner, Director of Rubix VT, said:

“At Rubix VT we are proud supporters of The Starr Trust, our chosen charity of 2024. They empower young people in need and open doors to brighter futures, and their impact within our community is truly inspirational. We are deeply committed to changing lives for the better, in more ways than one: fundraising initiatives that promote physical activity and well-being are a great way to give back to the community while fostering healthy habits. That is why we are so thrilled to be sponsoring and taking part in the Cornwall to Brighton Bike Ride in 2024! September’s trip will for sure be an unforgettable experience for everyone involved!”

Rosie Molloy, Fundraising Manager for the Starr Trust, said: “We’re excited to announce our Cornwall to Brighton Bike Ride for 2024 is now open for sign-ups! We always look forward to welcoming familiar and new faces to join us for a fun trip away with plenty of food, refreshments and laughter! We always love seeing new friendships being formed during our trips as people bond and encourage their peers to complete the challenge. Our routes are always strategically planned including bike-friendly hotel stays and lots of scenic pit stops for everyone to pause, gather and share their progress and funny stories!”

The Starr Trust would like to thank its sponsors without whom these events would not be possible: The Implant Centre, Rubix VT, Webtrends Optimize and Gardiner and Scardifield.

To find out more and register your interest visit: www.starrtrust.org/events