Members of the UK OP industry have celebrated crossing the finish line for the second successful Ride of Life (ROL) which took place on 19 September.
Organised by Durable UK Managing Director Sean Starkey and Safescan UK and Ireland General Manager Steve Robinson, around 20 leading figures from the sector cycled about 100 km – or 103 km (65 miles) to be precise – in support of the Institute of Cancer Research (ICR).
Starting in the stunning Surrey Hills, the riders enjoyed glorious weather (for the UK!) on the day. The route took in sections of the intense course used in the 2012 Olympics road race, namely Leith Hill and Box Hill. The cycling was certainly no easy feat, gaining 4,100 ft (1,250m) in height in total, with three quarters of this taking place in the last 25 miles. “We saved the best until last with the very last section of the route climbing a steep 600 ft. It was also a great experience to have the Brother Neutral Service vehicle following us round throughout the day, so our sincere thanks to Phil Jones and team.”
So far, ROL has raised around £9,500 ($11,800) with more donations rolling in. “We expect to reach over £12,000 this year, but we already have a guaranteed total of £29,000 since we launched the charity ride last year,” confirmed Starkey.
The next ROL will take place on 10 September 2020. Already, 20 industry professionals have signed up to take part again. Said Starkey: “If you would like to help the ROL, the team is currently looking for sponsors for the rider’s jerseys and for a speaker for the celebratory dinner in the evening. Christine O’Donnell, this year’s speaker, was truly inspiring.”
For more information on how to participate, volunteer or sponsor the event, please email sean.starkey@durable-uk.com or call him on 07747 442948. Donations can still be taken for this year’s ride directly on the JustGiving page.
Starkey wishes to thank fellow organisers Steve Robinson, Steve Hilleard, Kelly Hilleard and Monika Starkey, event sponsors ACCO Brands, Avery, Brother UK, COLOP, Durable, Hainenko, Hamelin, Interaction, Integra, OPI and Superstat as well as, of course, all of this year’s riders.
London, UK
