Jack Fothergill, fastest under-16 finishing the 100-mile ride with his dad
The rain may have prevented as many cyclists registering on the day as in previous years, but The Great Shakespeare Rideraised over £18,000 for The Shakespeare Hospice, with the total expected to rise further once individuals’ fundraising efforts have been added to the total.
Jack Fothergill, who rode the 100km route with his dad Mark, was the fastest under-16 rider on the day. Jack, 15, from Kenilworth Wheelers, has been riding since he was 9 and has already ridden in rides in Belgium and Italy. He finished the ride in just under 5 hours (4:58) and completed the Hill Climb Challenge in 4:30 minutes, taking over a minute off his time last year when he took part in the 100 mile!
Kevin Saunders took part in the 100 miler and said “The event was so well organised and the people so helpful. The route was lovely to ride and well signposted. There were plenty of marshals who were also so helpful. I raised £180 for the Hospice and hope to enter the event next year!” Lucy Sainsbury from Stratford-upon-Avon Triathlon club was the fastest female under-16 on the 100-mile ride, and completed the hill climb in 8:35 minutes.
There were also many couples and families who took part in the ride together including Ian Blanks-Walden whose family came all the way from Taunton and Northumberland to take part in the 50km ride to celebrate his 60th birthday.
Angie Arnold, Chief Executive at The Shakespeare Hospice, says “I am very appreciative of everyone who was involved in thisgreat event, despite the weather, to support The Shakespeare Hospice. A big thank you to you all!”
The Shakespeare Hospice would like to thank all the riders and the fantastic volunteers, Clare Sawdon, the High Sheriff of Warwickshire, as well as the Walton Hall Hotel, Chapeau, Tempo Events and Simpson Audio.
The Great Shakespeare Ride is just one of the events held each year by The Shakespeare Hospice, which last year supported over 1000 patients and their families.
If you are interested in finding out more about the many events The Shakespeare Hospice offer, please contact fundraising on 01789 266852 or visit our website www.theshakespearehospice.org.uk.
