More than 380 cyclists donned their helmets whilst braving Storm Callum and put power to the pedals in support of Rowcroft Hospice on Sunday 14 October. Organisers hope the hundreds of participants will have raised in excess of £35,000 to help fund Rowcroft’s vital services. These amazing fundraising efforts will help Rowcroft provide care and support to patients and families living with life limiting illnesses across South Devon.
This year’s course event had two cycle options; the return of the 24km route, now known as ‘The Classic’ and the introduction of a more gruelling 32km course; ‘The Haytor Hill Climb’, which added an extra sense of challenge and adrenaline to the day.
Garth and Amanda Nadin cycled in memory of Amanda’s Nan who was cared for by the hospice. They took on the 24km route and Amanda said: “It’s an amazing local charity that we are always keen to support in whatever way we can.”
While Gary Taylor completed the new 32km Haytor Hillclimb. Gary said. “It was tough taking on the hill climb as you think it just goes on and on but it’s for a good local cause and I feel great now I’ve completed it.”
Cyclists were supported by a team of passionate volunteers who generously gave up their Sunday morning to help the event run as safely and smoothly as possible.
Willi Armes from Holcombe volunteered at the event at commented: “I chose to volunteer for Rowcroft today because I wanted to give something back. Rowcroft has cared for friends from my Church. It was so lovely that with the support of the Rowcroft Chaplain we were able to take communion with a friend in her final days. Volunteering today has been great and I would highly recommend it!”
Rowcroft’s Events Manager, Stewart Molyneux is thrilled with the amount raised for local patients and families in need of Rowcroft’s services.
He said:
“What an amazing Sunday! We would like to say a huge thank you to all of our dedicated volunteers and amazing participants who joined us so early in the morning and braved the wind and rain of storm Callum. The atmosphere was amazing – there was a real buzz created by the community coming together over a passion for cycling and enjoying our beautiful South Devon countryside, all in support for Rowcroft Hospice. We hope that everybody had fun, making memories whilst raising vital funds to provide end of life care and support to patients and families in our community. Everyone here at Rowcroft feels truly touched to see such passion and generosity from our local community.”
“Every pound raised will help local families share precious moments with the people who mean everything to them. We would not be able to continue to provide our services without the fundraising support from our community – thank you.”