Dorset Air Ambulance Cycle Challenge arrives
The event will see riders go through Dorset’s most beautiful countryside
Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance is holding its ever-popular Coast to Coast (C2C) Cycle Challenge today (Sunday 15th May) and they're hoping that the public will come out in support of those taking part.
The event offers something for everyone as it has a mixture of quiet back roads, interspersed with some very demanding climbs and equally hairy descents.
The challenge, which is not a race, involves cycling through some of the county's most beautiful countryside.
This year’s 55-mile route will revert back to starting at Watchet Harbour in Somerset at 11.00am and finish in the Dorset's West Bay.
A shorter 11-mile route will start at the Royal Oak public house in Drimpton at 2.00pm and also finish in West Bay.
Supporters will be able to cheer the cyclists on at the starting point, at the various pit stops along the route, or at the finish line celebrations which take place at Station Yard Car Park in West Bay.
The Coast to Coast Cycle Challenge is renowned for being an emotional and inspiring day for everyone involved.
The cyclists include patients who have experienced the work of Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance first-hand or are cycling in memory of loved ones.
Others get involved as part of a team or simply want to challenge themselves and support the charity in return.
STEVE'S STORY
Steve Staple is one such patient who is delighted to be part of the day after Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance helped to save his life.
Steve suffered a cardiac arrest whilst out riding on his bike and there were a whole host of people involved with his rescue and care, all of whom played a key part in his chain of survival.
You can read his full story on the Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance website.
Emma Jones, Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance Fundraising Manager said:
“We cannot wait for our Coast to Coast Cycle Challenge this year. My husband is cycling the route for the first time and I know he is excited and terrified in equal measure! The best part, for me, is seeing the beaming faces of the cyclists as they approach the finish line having completed the challenge.
"Thank you to everyone who is taking part and for all those who have sponsored them or fundraised for us as part of the challenge. Subject to operational commitments on the day, our critical care team and helicopter ‘Peggy’ will hopefully make an appearance, encouraging the cyclists on their way.”
More information about the Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance can be found by visiting: www.dsairambulance.org.uk or by calling: 01823 669604.