Hundreds of people across the UK & Ireland will cycle 10km a day for eight days to raise vital funds for autism projects as part of the first nationwide Cycle for Autism campaign.
Registrations are now officially open for our first ever Cycle for Autism UK & Ireland, giving riders time to fundraise ahead of the challenge which will begin on July 14 ending on July 21 2021 and see people cycling 10km a day for 8 days.
Despite a challenging past year with a number of Covid related restrictions in place, Cycle for Autism aims to raise thousands of pounds to support projects which encourage the pursuit of specialist interests, promote physical activity and help autistic adults and children learn and develop every single day.
10km is equivalent to around 6.3 miles or about an hour of riding, which cyclists can complete in one or more sessions over the course of the day, however and wherever suits them best.
Fundraising Manager at Autism Initiatives Group Liz Oakley said: “In the past we would encourage our cyclists to become part of a community that would meet up and take on the challenge together, so this year we are making virtual opportunities for people to come together through a special Facebook group. This inspirational team spirit is something that we are passionate about bringing into our 2021 campaign and although the challenge can be done solo, anywhere at any time within those eight days it’s the message behind it that links us all and has the power to create lasting bonds and ultimately make a real difference to autistic people alongside their families and support networks.”
“We’re encouraging people to sign up for Cycle for Autism and help us to raise funds that will help us to change lives for the better. Autism affects more than 700,000 people in the UK and Ireland and it’s so important that we help raise awareness and increase understanding of the condition as well as vital funds.”
The team are encouraging cyclists to raise at least £10 a day across the eight-day challenge although greater donations will really help to make a difference. Once registered, cyclists will be able to set up their own unique fundraising page and connect with others online via a dedicated Facebook group. After receiving an initial donation of £10, participants will receive their very own Cycle for Autism t-shirt.
Liz added: “This campaign is an opportunity for us to jump on our bikes and get active for a great cause. This last year or so has been tough for everyone and cycling has been proven to help with mental wellbeing – just another positive reason to get involved. Cyclists can complete their rides at any time and in whatever way suits them, whether it’s a morning ride to blow the cobwebs away or even time on the exercise bike at the gym. It’s important to remember that each time you get on a bike it counts so even if you can’t manage a whole hour riding you can split it into two or three smaller rides each day. You can track your rides easily using Strava or smart phone apps to make sure you’re hitting your target. The concept is simple, but the rewards are huge.”For more information or to sign up click here
