Park pedal power boosts charity

Caring cyclists raise £2,050 for CLIC Sargent

Cyclists got in the fast lane to raise thousands of pounds for a leading children’s cancer charity.

More than 200 riders jumped in the saddle for the Pedal the Park Sportive in aid CLIC Sargent and collected a fantastic £2,050.

The event, organised by Ride 63 Community Cycling Club 63, was held at Clyde Murshiel Regional Park, with £5 of every £15 entry fee going to the charity.

The event started and finished at Castle Semple visitor centre where all participants received goodie bags and a Pedal the Park medal for their efforts from Rachael McLean, CLIC Sargent fundraising manager for the west of Scotland, who was delighted with the turnout and thanked everyone who took part.

She said: “It was an absolute pleasure cheering everyone over the finish line and giving out the medals. It was great to meet everyone and to hear all the positive feedback from all the riders.

“Thank you to everyone for supporting our work with young cancer patients. We rely on donations to provide services that help stop cancer destroying young lives, and we couldn’t do it without you.”

One of event organisers praised the team who made the day run so smoothly.

Fiona Hewitt, chair of Ride 63, added: “We were so pleased so have the support of the Regional Park with planning and marshalling the ride. The positive feedback we have had from the riders is encouraging and we aim to organise a fourth Pedal the Park Sportive on Sunday, April 22, next year. In the meantime find us on Facebook and join our weekly Tuesday night ride or bigger weekend runs.”

And next year’s course could be even more exciting with off-road routes being examined.

David Gatherer, regional park manager, said: “The Regional Park is delighted to work in partnership with Ride 63 and CLIC Sargent and to see so many folk out on their bikes on what was a lovely sunny Sunday. As well as the fundraising benefit, the ride highlighted some of the cycling options available in the area, and plans are progressing to look at more off-road opportunities as well.”

It was an absolute pleasure cheering everyone over the finish line Rachael McLean