This September, the intrepid 777 team returns for yet another challenge, and this one is certainly no easier than the last! You may remember back in 2018 they cycled from Paris to Henfield? This time they’re sticking a little closer to home, but with a few more hills involved, and to top it all, the entire track is off-road!
On the weekend of the 2nd & 3rd September, 14 intrepid cyclists will be attempting to cycle the entire South Downs Way, 100 miles (that’s 160km in new money) off-road and with the highest peak at Butser Hill standing at 270m. Day 1 starts from Winchester and finishes at Steyning, and day 2 will see the cyclists travelling in the opposite direction, from Eastbourne back to (hopefully) celebrate the finish in Henfield.
All this sweat and energy is in aid of a great cause; one of our crucially important local charities, Henfield Leisure Centre. Many people don’t realise that HLC is entirely self-funded and independent. The Trustees were challenged themselves during Covid and the team fundraise continually to keep this essential Henfield resource open to the public (and offering completely affordable health and fitness for everyone). HLC also offers essential childcare in the form of after-school and before-school clubs, the very popular Sharky’s and lots of support for rehabilitation and fitness for all ages and abilities. Their contribution to Henfield life is immeasurable.
The good thing is – the Pedal for Henfield team aren’t asking you to cycle anywhere! It’s very easy to help, just go to Just Giving and pledge your support.
If you are feeling energetic and inspired, you can join in with a Spinathon class at HLC, 16 classes will run across the weekend and you can take part in as many as you wish, for just £10 each. You can even ask friends and family to sponsor your efforts!
Pedal for Henfield have some sponsorship opportunities available including classes, fuel for vans and shirts. If you’re a local business looking to help out (and in return your name will appear on the cyclist’s clothing and promotional signs) please contact Tracey Prescott on tracey.prescott@hotmail.co.uk. A huge thank you to existing sponsors Rushfields and Cliff’s Energy Bars.
Thank you for your support!
Emma Cole
THE PEDAL FOR HENFIELD 2023 TEAM ARE: Tracey Prescott, Sammie Bremner, Adrian Hillman, Bob Beatty, Mark Berrett, Rob Slaughter, Mark Pinder, Gail Way, Richard Woodward, Tanya Woodward, Nigel Spells, Trevor Slaughter, Anthony Scutt, Simon Smart-Foster.