“It was very emotional for Tim and I seeing all the cyclists in their Molly Olly pink tops ride in together to the finishing point to huge applause and a great welcome from family and friends. Knowing why we were there and what everyone has achieved, the difference that it will make for the children we support is truly humbling.”
The emotional words of Rachel, as 47 cyclists rode into The Durham Ox in Shrewley after three days of a gruelling ride covering 185 miles to fundraise for us at Molly Ollys. More than £73k has been raised so far by the riders who took part in our 10th Anniversary charity cycle ride from York to Warwick (8,9,10 July). These amazing riders endured the event in sweltering heat.
The route – planned by cyclist and supporter Duncan Coutts – was extremely tough with some particularly steep hills, but the beautiful scenery of the Peak District and Yorkshire Dales helped to keep the cyclists going when they felt they couldn’t go on.
The cycling group was officially waved off by the city’s Sheriff Suzie Mercer at York Minster; “I know that for all of the cyclists taking part, this charity holds a special place in their hearts. Whilst I never had the pleasure of meeting Molly, I know what a strong and determined young lady she was and so much good has been done in her name over the 10 years that the charity has been going.”
The trip was backed by former England footballer, Ben Foster who shared a video message of support to help propel fundraisers ahead of the event. He is an avid cyclist, producing a YouTube channel called The Cycling GK, and he said:
“I have been to one of the Molly Ollys Annual Balls in the past which was a great evening and I am aware of the wonderful work that the Charity does to emotionally support children across the UK with life-threatening illnesses. Having two children myself, I cannot begin to imagine the horror of being told your little one is seriously ill and not knowing if they will regain their health.”
Rachel said: “We decided to do this cycle event in 2022 to celebrate 10 years of Molly’s legacy. It is a special route for us as York is one of the last places we – as a family – visited before Molly died so it holds poignant memories. What a ride it was! It far exceeded our expectations on so many levels. This was a phenomenal team effort with so many highlights. The camaraderie between all the riders and support team made it a unique and very special few days. It was certainly a challenge, but all the riders faced every day head on and looked out for each other and helped their team of riders to complete each day. Thank you to everyone – riders, support team, friends, family and all those who have donated. All the cyclists should feel extremely proud.”
A big thank you to our sponsors who came on board to support the charity ride such as Oakland International, SCC, HiB, Risk Evolves, Mills & Reeve, Langham Walsh Accountants, Allen Creative, New Horizons Logistics, Mosaic Island, Advanced Vehicle Contracts Leasing and Affordable Warmth Solutions.
