Cycling Club Organising Charity Ride in Memory of Member

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Alex Chart and members of the GS Henley Cycling Club are saddling up to take on a charity ride on 26 June in memory of their dear friend and committed club member Graeme Taylor (pictured 3rd from left) who passed away earlier this year.

The ride is a 55km loop around the edge of the Chilterns, taking in some of GS Henley’s favourite local climbs and lanes. The team are encouraging anyone of any ability to sign up – whether to challenge themselves to complete one loop, or for more experienced cyclists to complete multiple.

The route starts and finishes at the Henley Rugby Club so riders can restock on water and snacks between laps if doing multiple laps. There will also be some added fun activities such as a raffle with prizes from our local shops, vineyards, distilleries and cafes and a cake sale.

Alex, 35, joined the club six years ago when she moved from London to Henley.  She said, “The ride is to raise money for Sue Ryder and to remember our much loved friend   Graeme Taylor. He had fantastic support from Sue Ryder Palliative Care Hub South Oxfordshire in his final days. We want to celebrate his love for the sport and his never ending patience and encouragement for new members regardless of their ability, inspiring many new members to join and progress to incredibly strong riders. We’re holding the event on Saturday 26 June as it is the closest weekend to Graeme’s birthday, so felt fitting. “

GS Henley members can pre-register on the club Teams app, and non-members can pre-register by contacting them via Facebook or Instagram. Sign up on the day will also be available.  £10 entry to go to Sue Ryder Hospice. Everyone must sign on and attend a pre ride briefing before setting off, anytime between 8 and 10am.

Alex added:  “We’re encouraging start times to finish approximately at the same time so a big social celebration can happen after with coffees and awards at 1pm (awards will be of the fun variety, not for speed but for enjoyment and encouragement), so if you think you’ll take a little longer or are doing multiple laps you can start early, if you’re speedy and doing the one lap have a lie in and start a little later!”