The Marlow Red Kite Ride sportive which took place yesterday, Sunday 3 September 2017, attracted a record number of entries including cycling enthusiast and former pop star Andrew Ridgeley (of 80’s legends Wham!, if you’re too young to know…)
After a fine start to the day, almost 700 riders enjoyed the 50, 80 and 100 mile routes and crossed the finishing line with big smiles, despite the soggy end to the day. This is the sixth year of the extremely popular event which attracted entrants from as far a field as Newcastle and Cornwall.
On completing the 80 mile route with a group of friends, having stopped for a pub lunch on the way, Andrew Ridgeley commented, “I’d like to thank the Marlow Riders for putting on this great event. The route through the Chilterns was beautiful, the marshaling and signage were excellent and there is an obvious attention to detail. We thoroughly enjoyed it.”
The Red Kite Ride, which is run by Marlow Riders aims to raise money for cycling related charities. This year the nominated charities are Marlow Sports Club, which provides facilities for a range of sports for 2000 people of all ages and abilities, and Wheels for All, based at Bisham, which provides adapted bikes for disabled children and adults. Early indications are that monies raised this year will exceed previous years donations. The raffle which is run on the day by Marlow Riders’ Chair Chris Heath has raised a record £2,375.
Colin Lavis, Event Director for the Marlow Red Kite Ride said, “We are delighted that once again the Red Kite Ride was completely sold out in advance. We’d like to thank everyone that took part including loyal participants that come year after year, and those joining us for the first time.
Chris Heath, Chair of Marlow Riders added; “Once again, we are expecting to raise a significant amount for our chosen charities. To date the Red Kite Ride has raised £34,000. I’d like to thank Colin and his team, and all the volunteers from Marlow Riders that helped organise and run this, our showcase event, that spotlights Marlow and the beautiful countryside that we are lucky enough to have on our doorstep.”
Congrats to all riders and organisers from us at MyMarlow!