Entries now open for Bridge to Bridge Highland Cycle charity fundraiser from Skye to the Kessock Bridge in Inverness
A major charity cycle challenge that smashed through the £100,000 barrier last year is open for entries once again.
The Bridge to Bridge Highland Cycle, which sees plucky participants pedal their way the 77-mile distance between the Skye and Kessock bridges, will this year take place on Saturday, September 7.
Last year’s event raised a whopping £103,000 for Dream Believe Achieve and The Elsie Normington Foundation.
Hundreds of eager cyclists are expected to take part this time out, with three local causes all set to benefit.
The Elsie Normington Foundation, operator of the Haven Centre in Inverness which supports children and young adults with severe, profound and multiple learning disabilities and complex needs, will receive 50 per cent of the funds raised. The child mentoring programme and operator of social enterprise Inverness Kart Raceway, DAY1, and The Leanne Fund, which provides essential support services to children and young people affected by Cystic Fibrosis across the region, will each receive 25 per cent of the funds raised.
Now in its third year, Bridge to Bridge Highland Cycle has gone from strength to strength. Looking ahead to this year’s event, event co-organiser Willie Gray, the managing director of Ark Estates, said: “We are absolutely delighted to bring this brilliant event back for 2024. Not only does it raise vital funds for some incredible local causes, it is also a great experience for those that participate. We have everyone from ex-professional cyclists to total beginners and the emphasis is on fun and making sure everyone completes the course.
“Last year we exceeded even our own expectations by raising over £100,000 for two very worthy local charities - and with the support of a superb team of sponsors and volunteers 100% of funds raised goes to the chosen charities. I’m sure the 2024 entrants will be looking to at least match.”
Commenting on being one of the chosen beneficiaries for the 2024 event, The Leanne Fund development manager, Chrisetta Mitchell, said: “The Leanne Fund are delighted to have been selected as a beneficiary of Bridge to Bridge Highland Cycle 2024. It’s a fantastic challenge and we’re so grateful to everyone who participates and raises vital funds for each of the charity partners.
“The money we receive from Bridge to Bridge will provide essential support services to children and young people affected by Cystic Fibrosis across the region – ensuring they can access the help they need whenever it is needed.”
Corrin Henderson of DAY1 added: “Being selected as one of the beneficiary charities for the Bridge to Bridge cycle is a tremendous privilege for DAY1. The very local nature of the fundraiser means there is a good chance that participants may know of some of the young people we have supported over the years.
“This, we hope, may provide an added element of pride in participation. Income from the event will help ensure that our services thrive and more young people gain the positive impact from DAY1.”
People can enter Bridge to Bridge Highland Cycle at www.entrycentral.com/bridgetobridge.
Those taking part - and their bikes - are ferried to the start point on Skye on the morning of the race, thanks to the help of the fundraiser’s sponsors. Support crews also accompany the group as it makes its way to the finish at the Kessock Bridge, providing technical assistance and manning food stops on the route.