Four countries, four days... Charity launches major cycle challenge

Wednesday 13 February 2019

Jersey's Stroke Association has launched a major cycle challenge taking riders, including one of the island's best-known stroke survivors, across four European countries in just four days.

Fundraisers are aiming for a target of £125,000 to support people who have suffered a stroke.

The route will take the fundraisers through four countries, covering about 350 miles in four days before they arrive in the Dutch capital, which is known to be one of the most 'bike-friendly' cities in Europe. The ride starts on 18 September this year. 

Cyclists will begin by making their way through the countryside of rural England, crossing the Channel to France and Belgium, before arriving in Bruges and finishing in Amsterdam.

Pictured: The cycle will start in rural England and end in Amsterdam.

One of the cyclists will be Anthony Lewis (50), who had a stroke in 2007 which left him with a communication difficulty called aphasia. He also has limited mobility in his right arm and leg, but, despite that, he will be climbing on board a specially adapted trike. 

Ant has already been getting ready for four days in the saddle: “Training, hard but a laugh. Coffee and nutrition important. Bit by bit - come on. Stroke awareness important.”

It follows a similar ride which Ant held in 2012, along with 113 islanders, who all tackled the route from London to Paris.

The ride is being organised once again by Discover Adventure, and islanders wanting to take part, and raise money for the Stroke Association, can click here to sign up, and start training.

Pictured: Stroke survivor Anthony Lewis, who is taking part in the challenge, during one of his first training rides.

It's estimated that in Jersey, around 125 people every year, or one every three days, suffers a stroke. 

Tracy O’Regan, Fundraising Manager at the Stroke Association in Jersey, said: “With around 1.2 million people across the UK living with the devastating impact of stroke, it is vital that we have people like Ant to take on the London to Amsterdam cycle to help raise much needed funds for the charity. The money raised will fund vital research and support for stroke survivors, as well as help to prevent people from having a stroke.

“We’re delighted to have Ant join us on the day, and incredibly grateful for his support in raising awareness of stroke. This cycle will really be one to remember, the sights along the way are going to be breath-taking. We’re really looking forward to cheering on Ant and all the cyclists as they ride through the route."

Pictured: Anthony Lewis on his specially adapted trike.

Bailiwick Express will be supporting the ride as its media partner. Editor James Filleul, commented: "This ride is all about doing what you can do, not focussing on what you can't, and I really hope islanders will get behind it, just like they did in 2012. It will be tough, but also really good fun, with the knowledge that every turn of the pedals is helping people in Jersey who really need it.

"If you want to do something brilliant for your island this year, please get involved in this ride, and help the Stroke Association to change people's lives for the better."