Harnessing pedal power in solidarity with Mentor Mothers – RideLondon 2018

16th August 2018

On Sunday 29th July, a team of mothers2mothers (m2m) cyclists took to the roads for RideLondon – Surrey 100. Now in its sixth year, the event is one of the legacy events inspired by the 2012 London Olympics, and has been billed as the world’s biggest weekend of cycling.

Map cred to Ride London

The team of seven riders joined more than 25,000 cyclists on an impressive 100-mile route. Starting off in Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park (the home of the 2012 Olympics), they made their way through London and into the beautiful countryside of Surrey before returning to the city. The crowds were out in force and it was a great day, despite the first rain in months!

Team m2m did an incredible job, covering the route in great time. RideLondon is no easy feat with three steep inclines to tackle, including the infamous Leith Hill and Box Hill, two of Surrey’s highest points with an elevation of over 200m. But our cyclists took the challenge in stride!

Edward Shires – ready to pedal at the start line.

“The cycle was great. Very wet and windy in parts (and after all this nice weather!), but the crowds really helped lift dampened spirits,” said Sam Leech, one of the m2m team.

Mentor Mothers employed by m2m in sub-Saharan Africa often cycle or walk miles to support women and their families living in rural communities to access vital medical care. On that Sunday, our seven cyclists rode 100 miles each in solidarity with these women, and collectively raised over £2,000 to support their work.

When asked what motivated him to cycle for m2m, Sam said: “I chose to ride for m2m as I believe the cause is worthy and the charity effective. I hope I also raised the profile of m2m—they are not a household name like some charities but they definitely should be!”