Cyclists crank up £4000 for Abbie's charity
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MORAY cyclists went the extra mile at the weekend for Abbie's Sparkle Foundation – cranking up £4000 for the cancer charity.
Some 109 riders pitched up on Sunday, August 18, for Abbie’s Sparkle Ride, organised by Elgin Cycling Club.
Elgin-based Abbie's Sparkle Foundation provides treats – or "sparkles" – to children living with cancer throughout the UK.
The mass cycle was a huge success after organisers were forced to rearrange their plans for the ride in May due to bad weather.
The event was open to both competitive and beginner cyclists, who could choose to complete either 100km or 50km routes. A massage service was on hand to soothe worn-out legs.
One of the four organisers, Linda Smith, said: "The weather was great for our rides.
"It was particularly lovely to hear of riders tackling a hill or a distance for the first time, and how much everyone enjoyed the day.
"We had ample food and fuel for our riders all round the courses, thanks to the generosity of local cafes, suppliers and an army of bakers from among our riders and Abbie’s supporters."
The ride headquarters was set up at Elgin Football Club. Participants donated generously to Abbie’s Sparkle Foundation directly and snapped up raffle tickets for prizes donated by local businesses and individuals.
Linda added: "We have a lot of people to thank for making the day happen. Our community has been incredibly generous."
Co-organiser Sheila Scott said: "We had a cracking day. Feedback from the riders has been excellent, and we’re looking at banking around £4000.
"We have 67 individual people and organisations to thank too for making the event happen – marshals, support riders and vehicles, bakers, caterers, food manufacturers, sponsors, masseurs, raffle prize donors – it was a real community helping out."
