Pennine Events managed this event on behalf of the charity Right to Play. Following on from the 2009 ride, where 100 cyclists rode from Edinburgh to London, the bigger 2010 ride from Brussels was even better. The route was beautiful, taking in some wonderful European cities and crossing the glorious stretch of water that is the English Channel. 

 

The Ride

 

With 200 intrepid riders we set off on a challenging ride from Brussels via Bruge to Calais and finally on to Greenwich. Pedalling 90miles a day we successfully completed the 300miles trip, with time to watch the end of the Tour de France Stage 1 to everyone's delight.

 

 

Each rider was raising money for the Right to Play charity and accomplished an impressive total of more than £200,000 to help improve the lives of thousands of children.

 

The route took us along breath taking routes, interesting sights, accompanied by good weather. The most challenging section was the last day, with the hilly challenges through Kent. 

 

Right to Play have a special charity’s partnership with Team Columbia, which meant we were treated to a variety of  special associated Tour de France activities on this is a new three-day ride.

 

Day 1 we passed through Flanders, including sections of the famous race route, via Ghent to Bruges. Then it was along the flat coastal plain to Calais. The final day was through the wonderful Kent countryside before finishing in Greenwich Park.

 

This cycle ride was a fantastic opportunity to have fun, get fit, meet new people and get a feel for the Tour De France while still being an achievable and enjoyable experience.

 

 

 

 

The Daily Route

 

Day 1: We met in London and travelled to Brussels by Eurostar to watch the second stage of the Tour De France finish.

 

Day 2: Leaving from Brussels we cycled towards Ghent riding through much of the Tour de Flanders on the way. From Ghent we made our way along the canals to Bruges, and spent the evening in this beautiful city.

Day 3: We headed west from Bruges across Flanders towards northern France, taking in UNESCO World Heritage sights and First World War battlefields before crossing the border near Dunkirk. We spent the night near Calais ready for the next day of hills!

Day 4: We sailed across the Channel to Dover and cycled the final 75 miles across the South Downs and on to London, finishing in Greenwich Park with the wonderful views over the city.

   

 

2010 Photo Gallery

 

 

            

Participants Video - YouTube

 

Mark Cavendish supports the Right to Play ride 2010

     

 

2009 Past Event

 

Right to Play 2009 - Edinburgh to London

 

2009 Gallery