Cyclists saddled up to raise thousands

Fundraisers have donned their lycra and saddled up to raise over £3,000 for the Foundation of Light in a Virtual Cycle Challenge.

Cyclists took on the 275-mile epic challenge throughout the month of Junetohelpsupportthefootballclub’sofficialcharityand raise funds to help them to continue support families throughout the North East.

After the original Italian Cycle Challenge,apicturesque route from PisatoRome,fellvictimto COVID-19, cyclists were still keen to get on their bikes for the cause and pedalled their own scenic routes across Sunderland for the last four weeks.

Most riders made it their aim to take in the Foundation’s Beacon of Light base ontheirjourneyandeachhad their own fundraising goals.

Olympic runner Aly Dixonwasoneofthecyclistsand she admitted it was quite a challenge: “It was tougher than I thought, especially with fitting in around my training. It’s been good fun though, well done to all who took part.”

AlanCookdefiedtheodds and completed the distance withinfourdays,aheadofundergoing treatment for a health issue.

David Field from Newcastle was also delighted to complete the challenge: “I loved every minute of taking part. “I arrived at the Beacon to find out I’d smashed my fundraising target too.”

You can still donate to the cause via the Virtual Cycle Challenge JustGiving Page.

Each year a team of cycliststakeonadifferentchallenge.

Previous challenges have seentheteamridefromDublin to Sunderland, as well as further afield.