Riding your bike and raising money: Sam’s success as a cycling fundraiser
Cycling to raise money for charity has never been so popular. Embarking on a challenge ride with the sponsorship of family and friends is fast becoming a regular activity for lots of cyclists.
There are plenty of big fundraising rides out there, like the London to Brighton or the Great Manchester Cycle, but some cyclists are taking the plunge and organising their own. We spoke to Sam McEwan from London about the success of his ride ‘Cycle Round the Circle Line’, which he organises on behalf of Macmillan Cancer Support...
‘I decided to arrange a fundraiser bike ride in support of Macmillan three years ago when my mother died of cancer and two of my friends were diagnosed,’ Sam told us. ‘I wanted to do something to raise money for a charity that does so much to help not only cancer sufferers but also their families.’
Sam’s ride proved a great introduction to the sights and sounds of central London. Despite a couple of nightmare traffic jams, 30 people made their way around the route, 24 of whom cycled, five walked and one ran! ‘We do a different route each year which keeps things interesting,’ he says. ‘It was definitely more challenging this year but everyone got round and back with a smile on their face.’
‘It’s been great to have the extra numbers and hopefully we’ll get even more coming along next year.’ Sam McEwan
Since the ride began in 2011, Sam has raised £28,000 for Macmillan. ‘Many of us have lost loved ones to cancer. It seems to touch us all. Over the years we’ve been joined by work colleagues, friends and family, all in support of this worthwhile cause.’
Adding the ride to Social Cycling Groups this year has helped introduce new cyclists to the ride and boost the size of the group taking part. ‘It’s been great to have the extra numbers and hopefully we’ll get even more coming along next year,’ Sam said.
It’s not just the older, hardened cyclists who join in either. Sam is delighted that his daughter comes to the ride every year too. ‘Rebecca and her friend Sophie were both sponsored by their school teachers and fellow pupils this year. They’re our youngest cyclists and the future of keeping Cycle Round the Circle Line an ongoing event.’
Thinking of organising your own charity bike ride? Or want to find people to train with for your next challenge? Start your journey by joining Social Cycling Groups.
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