Albion in the Community recruiting cyclists to ride to Antwerp in 2019
Albion in the Community (AITC) is recruiting cyclists for its annual European cycle challenge, and this year’s destination is the beautiful Belgian city of Antwerp.
Each year a peloton of fundraisers departs the American Express Community Stadium for the continent with the aim of generating vital funds for AITC. The money raised goes directly to supporting the charity’s work throughout Sussex, which includes running more than 30 regular football sessions for people with a disability.
Last year’s ride, which ended in Cologne, raised more than £35,000 for the charity, and AITC is hoping to top that total in 2019.
The event, which is once again being generously sponsored by American Express, takes place between Thursday 6 June and Sunday 9 June 2019 and will include 170 miles of cycling between the French port of Calais and the finish line in Antwerp.
Cyclists will meet at the Amex on 6 June before traveling by coach and ferry to Calais, with the cycling getting underway the following morning.
Stage one takes in 77 miles of rural French countryside, the beautiful historic towns of Watten and Cassell and some of the region’s historic battlefields. The day finishes in the medieval town of Lille, one of northern France’s hidden gems, where cyclists will enjoy a relaxing evening and a well-earned rest.
Stage two takes place on the third day and covers the 93 miles between Lille and Antwerp. Riders will pass through the outskirts of Roubaix, home of the famous Roubaix bike race, before crossing the border into Belgium and travelling through scenic countryside and an array of towns and villages on their way to the finish line.
The following morning is free for people to explore Antwerp, before meeting for coach transfer back to the UK.
Emma Brockhurst, AITC’s fundraising events executive, said: “Our cycle challenge is always one of the highlights of our fundraising calendar and the support we receive is fantastic.
“You don’t have to be an experienced cyclist to take part and one of the things we always hear from participants is how much they value the togetherness and camaraderie of the group.”
Everyone who takes part will receive a limited edition Brighton & Hove Albion cycle jersey, full ride support, meals, three nights’ accommodation, and transfers between destinations.
Entry is £299, with a minimum fundraising target of £850.
For more information, or to book your place now, email: fundraising@bhafcfoundation.org.uk.