Set over three consecutive days spanning the May Bank Holiday Weekend – and featuring a line-up that included Sir Bradley Wiggins – the contest was organised in the wake of last year’s Tour de France Grand Depart in Yorkshire.
The feat of endurance inspired our Managing Director and keen cyclist Phil Bird to set himself his own Tour de Yorkshire Challenge. On Sunday 3 May 2015 he cycled the 88 miles non-stop of the amateur Sportive that ran alongside the pro event – raising much-needed funds for the Multiple Sclerosis Society.
With donations currently totally £720, monies still pouring in and the ride satisfyingly completed, Phil reflects back on a fantastic experience.
“Like most people I first learned to cycle when I was very young and then pretty much stopped when I learned to drive; but I really got back into road cycling in 2012” says Phil.
“The thing I love most about it is that you get to really experience the countryside and you can make any ride as relaxed or as tough as you like.
‘I ride a Trek Madone 5.2 (for those cycling nerds out there) and try to get out at least a couple of times a week, usually into the Derbyshire hills as I’m a gluton for punishment.
‘I’ve taken on other big challenges in the past such as the London Marathon and cycling from London to Paris but this was definitely one of the toughest.
‘The Multiple Sclerosis (MS) Charity is the cause I chose to support because it’s a terrible debilitating illness that can affect anyone, no matter their age, sex or general health… and there’s no cure. I also know two lovely people who are unfortunate enough to have MS so it was great to raise some money for further research.
‘I’d like to thank everyone who donated – especially my friends, family and colleagues at The PC Support Group who have supported me along the way.
‘The ride itself was a lot tougher than I imagined so it was great to make it to the end where thousands of spectators had gathered for the pro race and cheered us amateurs on.
‘I have no idea what my next challenge will be but I’m sure something will come up.”
If you have a cause close to your heart or a challenge you’re taking on, we’d love to hear more about it in the comments field below.
You can also still donate to Phil’s charity appeal at https://www.justgiving.com/Philip-Bird4/