On Sunday, September 22 the Farnham Maltings car park was full of anticipation as cyclists prepared to crank up the fun with every pedal for charity. For the past 15 years, the Bike ride had been run by St Andrews School and the Farnham Round Table but this year the baton was handed to the Farnham Hedgehogs to prepare the event for its 16th year. An early and chilly start for many with the earliest starters leaving at 8 am for the long 75 KM ride down to Chalton and back up to the Maltings for the finish line. The Malting was on hand serving warm food and drinks to heat riders as they awaited the start. Paralympic GB Gold Medallist Rachel Morris wished the riders luck and spoke about her own experiences on the trail around the area. The first two rides 75KM and 50KM were filled with seasoned riders and those wanting to test themselves with a difficult ride over hilly terrain. As more and more cyclist began their ride the car park at the Maltings filled up again as people gathered for the next batch of riders being sent out. Participants doing the shorter distances brought with it a different kind of rider with families, children and the elderly all taking part in the name of charity and fun. Groups rode together making sure no one was left behind and that they all crossed the finish line together. For those finishing the race, they had the bar open for any drinks from a well-deserved beer to a refreshing soft drink. The main Charity partners of this year’s event were pleased to support The Royal Hospital the fundraising efforts to raise money for the cancer unit. We are also supporting Phyllis Tuckwell Hospice this year with their fabulous renovation.
