Disabled cyclists complete virtual trip on Route 66
Disabled residents at four care homes run by charity Leonard Cheshire are celebrating after finishing their massive 2,500 miles virtual cycle across the USA on Friday (31 July).
Riding on static bikes and accessible trikes to raise funds for more inclusive cycling equipment, people took on the Route 66 Challenge from the east coast in Chicago to the west coast in Santa Monica, California. The full-time wheelchair users hailed from Gloucestershire House in Cheltenham, Symonds House in Hertfordshire, St Bridget’s in West Sussex and Fryers House in Hampshire.
Route 66 Challenge organiser Dave Evans, who lives at Gloucestershire House, is delighted with the team’s commitment and rapid progress.
Dave said:
“The achievement, from people who face so many daily challenges, cannot be underestimated. People have enthusiastically embraced the team spirit and have felt more in touch with people across the country too. It has been an honour to ride alongside so many champions.”
The virtual journey began on 1 June and the disabled cyclists reached their destination of Santa Monica on Friday 31 July. Gloucestershire House’s California girl Beth marked a double celebration, crossing the finish line on her birthday.
The Route 66 trip comes after Gloucestershire House residents completed the LEJOG Challenge in April, riding the length of Britain from Land’s End to John O’Groats.
Funds raised from the challenge will enable more disabled people to enjoy the benefits of cycling. MaryClare Faulkner, Leonard Cheshire’s project lead at Gloucestershire Wheels for All, was recently named among the 100 Women in Cycling 2020 by Cycling UK, as part of their Women’s Festival of Cycling. MaryClare is passionate about making cycling accessible for everyone whatever their needs or ability.
To donate to the Route 66 Challenge in aid of Leonard Cheshire, please visit justgiving.com/route66virtualcycle
Media enquires
For additional information and photos, contact Nick Bishop in Leonard Cheshire’s external communications team on nick.bishop@leonardcheshire.org or 01202 747100. 07889 976267. Out of hours press office mobile: 07903 949 388.