Cyclists pedalled marathon distances around Romsey and the Test Valley last weekend as part of cardiac charity Heartbeat’s 8th annual Cycle Sportive event, which raised £9,500.
Teaming up with leading house builder Barratt David Wilson Homes’ Southampton division and Peter Cooper Motor Group, this year’s Heartbeat Cycle Sportive offered a choice of 70- and 40-mile routes through Romsey over to Winchester, Stockbridge and Broughton where the routes split. The longer route travelled over to Salisbury and the shorter one goes back to Romsey via East Tytherley, finishing in the lovely grounds of Embley, Romsey.
Cycle Sportives are long-distance, organised cycling events – the cycling equivalent of running a marathon – which involve completing a set route of up to 150 miles. They are designed to test all-round bike riding skills rather than flat-out speed and are a great way for riders to enjoy the camaraderie and thrill of being part of a large group of riders.
This year’s event, which took place on Sunday 29th September, was sponsored by Barratt Southampton as the housebuilder’s first joint-venture with Heartbeat after it was named chosen charity of the year for 2024 / 2025.
Megan Hamlyn, Marketing Manager at Barratt Southampton, who took on the 40-mile ride, said: “This was one of the most challenging things I have ever done, but, seeing the great work the charity does, and having personally met several people who have benefited from Heartbeat’s amazing support, I wanted to help raise much-needed funds for them.”
Tina Richardson, Head of Operations at Heartbeat, said: “There was a great turnout on the day and thanks to Barratt we were able to raise an amazing £9,500 for Heartbeat. We’d also like to thank Hildon Water for keeping everyone hydrated, as well as Hendy Motor Group and Giant for their support too. And not to mention Embley for letting us access the grounds. The money raised will make a huge amount of difference to us and we are so grateful for Barratt’s and everyone’s support. Thank you!”