An annual sportive in Coventry and Warwickshire has surpassed a major fundraising landmark, and is looking for people in the region to saddle up this year to scale new heights for charity.
The Starley Sportive, a charity cycle established through a partnership between Coventry Road Club, Deeley Group and Coventry City Council in 2017, has now raised over £50,000 for its three chosen charities - The Myton Hospices, Zoë’s Place Baby Hospice and University Hospitals Coventry & Warwickshire Charity.
More than 270 cyclists have already signed up to this year’s event, which takes place on Sunday, September 4 at 8.30am, but there is still time to pay to register in addition to a number of free charity spots still available for anyone looking to raise some money for a good cause.
The sportive starts from Deeley Group’s head office on Herald Avenue, and takes in specially selected areas of Coventry and Warwickshire with parts of the Cotswolds also featuring on one of the three routes.
Edward Hudson, business development manager at the Deeley Group, said: “We’re looking forward to welcoming the riders, as well as representatives from our partners at Coventry Road Club and Coventry City Council and charity partners The Myton Hospices, Zoë’s Place Baby Hospice and University Hospitals Coventry & Warwickshire Charity for this year’s sportive.
“Supporting charities through donations is a fundamental requirement of any business with strong links to the community in which it operates, and at Deeley Group, we’re keen to support the people of Coventry and Warwickshire as much as we can.
“We can’t wait for the sportive to begin.”
The closing date for entries to the 2022 Starley Sportive is Friday 26 August at 6pm.
All of the proceeds will be distributed equally across the three charities, whose representatives are set to hand out energy-boosting teas and coffees and help participants with registration on the day.
Ian Court, general secretary of Coventry Road Club, said: “After a prolonged spell of summery weather, we’re hopeful of a strong turnout – and would like to encourage anyone thinking of combining their love of exercise and cycling with an urge to do their bit for charity to sign up.
“Put simply, we’d love to have you with us. To pass the £50,000 mark is absolutely incredible, and each charity entry that is received means we can do even more to help those in Coventry and Warwickshire that are doing their best in the face of challenging circumstances.”
To help locals in need that are facing tough times due to the cost-of-living crisis, those taking part are being encouraged to donate a food item or more before hitting the road, which will be passed on to a local foodbank to distribute within the community.
“The aim is to collate over 50 food parcels – which would make a real difference to foodbanks in the city of Coventry and surrounding towns in Warwickshire, who are doing their utmost to provide relief and support for many families in the region,” added Ian.
To claim your place at the Starley Sportive 2022, visit https://starleysportive.co.uk/enter-now-for-2022.