Saddlesore but successful: 7-in-Seven riders back on home turf
THE biggest charity cycling event ever to be held in Birmingham came to a spectacular climax when hundreds of riders pedalled into Centenary Square after collectively cycling a total of over 60,000 miles.
Core riders from the 7-in-Seven Big Bike Challenge were welcomed back into the city after completing a gruelling 700-mile journey across seven countries in seven days. They were joined by an array of sporting heroes and media personalities for the final 27-mile leg from Coventry.
The initiative was a huge success, with hundreds of people from across the West Midlands all contributing to the challenge which was set up to encourage Birmingham residents to get back on the bicycle.
Crowds gathered to see the arrival of Blind Dave Heeley, Phil Upton of BBC Coventry and Warwickshire and a host of former footballers including former West Bromwich Albion and Aston Villa star Cyrille Regis and Villa’s Steve Staunton, make their way back into the square.
A total of £150,000 is expected to be raised from the various initiatives. All money will be donated to Help Harry Help Others, a local charity set up by 11-year-old Harry Moseley before his tragic death. People of all ages participated in donating a mile at Harry Training Hubs posted at key locations throughout September, including football grounds Villa Park and St Andrew’s.
Core cyclist Tim Andrews, event organiser and managing director of Hollywood Monster, said: “To complete the 7-in-Seven Big Bike Challenge feels absolutely fantastic.
“We were overwhelmed at the amount of support we received from the people of Birmingham, they really did themselves proud by taking part in the initiatives and helping to fundraise. Hopefully everyone will continue the hard work and keep up the cycling now they realise how much fun it can be.”
Georgie Moseley, mother of Harry Moseley and founder of Help Harry Help Others, said: “The dedication the team showed in completing this challenge was overwhelming. All money raised will contribute to helping families through the tough times that they go through when someone has cancer.”
