Business teams in epic ride for charity

Business teams from across the region have taken part in Carter Jonas’ own version of the Tour de Yorkshire – the Yorkshire Pedalthon.
Business teams from across the region gear up for the Carter Jonas Yorkshire Pedalthon. (S)Business teams from across the region gear up for the Carter Jonas Yorkshire Pedalthon. (S)
Business teams from across the region gear up for the Carter Jonas Yorkshire Pedalthon. (S)

More than 200 riders representing more than 50 companies tackled one of three routes as part of the Yorkshire Post-backed event, which doubled as networking day.

The ride raised money for the Yorkshire Air Ambulance and LandAid, which supports disadvantaged and vulnerable young people in the UK.

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The sponsorship money is still being collected, but it is hoped that it will exceed last year’s amount of £9,500.

The routes – the 90-mile challenge ride, 70-mile scenic ride and 40-mile social ride – all started and ended at Ripley Castle, and three food stations provided much-needed re-fuelling for the cyclists.

Local producers Theakstons, Wensleydale Creamery, Heck Food, Yorkshire Provender, Brymor Ice Cream, Yorkshire Crisps and SK Biscuits were among the companies supporting the event.

Carter Jonas’ head of commercial in the North, David Aspland, who helped plan the event and completed the 40-mile ride, said: “We really must thank all those that came back to take part in the Pedalthon after the wet weather we had last year. The weather was kinder to us this year which made the ride all the more enjoyable.

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“The food stations located among magnificent scenery were a welcome rest-stop for the riders – including myself – and the great Yorkshire produce on offer was much appreciated by all. It was great to see such a variety of people taking part this year, from teams of colleagues and friends to a tandem, and all for two very good causes.”

The event was supported by the first Briton ever to complete the Tour de France, cycling legend Brian Robinson, who joined riders at Ripley.

“Since last year’s Tour de France there has been considerable enthusiasm for all things cycling and it is fantastic to see this continuing into 2015 with the Yorkshire Pedalthon,” he said.

“A good day was had by all, the sun made an appearance as riders set off from Ripley and I was delighted to be a part of it.”