FITNESS fanatics from Arden School have raised almost £8,500 for Parkinson’s UK by completing a gruelling 100km bike ride.
The 18-strong team of teenagers and their teachers took the scenic route from Knowle to Stratford-upon-Avon and back.
The Arden 100km Charity Bike Ride is an annual event that’s now in its sixth year and Parkinson’s UK was chosen as the charity to support with this year’s ride following heartfelt testimonies from students about how the charity has supported their family members.
Year nine pupil, Olly, shared how his grandad, John, who has been living with Parkinson’s since 2010, benefited greatly from Parkinson’s UK’s services and community events.
Another pupil, George, also has a family connection, with his mum Claire being a long-time member of Parkinson’s UK, in support of his dad.
To prepare for the cycle, the youngsters completed rigorous training, including safety sessions, group communication drills, as well as a 47-mile training ride a month before the main event.
Guv Singh, maths teacher at Arden Academy, and organiser of the event, said: “The most rewarding part of this event has been witnessing the students’ dedication and the overwhelming support from the community.
“The accomplishment of completing a 100km ride at such a young age is truly inspiring, and it just shows the significant impact we can have when we come together for a cause we believe in.”
Highlights of the event included a lively welcome from family, friends, and staff upon the students’ return, and a successful fundraising initiative held a week before the cycle, which included a Krispy Kreme doughnut and samosa sale.
Together, the school managed to raise an impressive total of £8,434 for Parkinson’s UK.
Aaron Coleman, community fundraiser for the Central Midlands at Parkinson’s UK, said: “The Arden 100km Charity Bike Ride really shows the power of young people coming together with a purpose. It’s so touching to see how these Year 9 students and their teachers, all driven by personal stories, have rallied to support Parkinson’s UK.
“Their hard work, from the intense training to pushing through tough weather, was truly inspiring. We’re beyond grateful to everyone who took part and donated and you’ve made a real difference for our community.”
