ANNOUNCING 2008’s EXTRA MILE MASSIF CHALLENGE

On 28 February, Martin Banham-Hall, senior partner of major sponsors, Heald Solicitors, revealed the most exciting route yet for 2008’s Extra Mile Massif Challenge.

Since 2003, the annual Extra Mile Challenge has raised and donated a total of £438,000 to 128 predominantly local charities. Phil Corley of Corley Cycles and previously British National Professional Road Race Champion said a few words of encouragement for the Heald Solicitors Extra Mile Massif Challenge this September:

“Given the amount you have raised, I can see the motivation that comes from deep within you all. It is fantastic to see such an array of people taking part. You can ride at whatever pace you like – just as long as you do it. Do not forget to train, do not forget to enjoy it and best of luck for this year. We have a wealth of knowledge, so if you need any advice on your bike, position, diet or training, please ask us; we would be happy to help you.”

This year’s three-day challenge sets out from Lens in France on 26 September, passing Paris, and reaching Fontainebleau before nightfall. On the second day participants will pedal into the Loire Valley. On the third day they tackle the Massif Central as the Challenge reaches its climax in the Parc Naturel des Volcans d’Auvergne, finishing at the foot of the Puy de Dôme, the famous Tour de France stage finish. There may also be the option of pedalling straight to the top of this, the highest volcanic peak in the Monts Dome range, straight after crossing the finishing line.

The teams of four are normally sponsored by an employer. The subsidised entry fee, which amounts to £249 per person covers channel crossings, accommodation, breakfast, supper and a gala dinner on the final evening. Each team has to raise a minimum of £1,200 in charity sponsorship donations. Last year the ‘Willen Wheelers’ raised £9,365.

The daily distances ranging between 150 and 180 miles are split between the members of each team in relay sections chosen by themselves.

“It is all about wanting to raise money for charity while having fun. One-third of the funds raised by each team is shared between the three main charities – which change each year. Two-thirds go to the charity selected by the team itself,” commented Martin.

This year, the three main charities are:

– Ridgeway Special School, Kempston which helps children who have severe physical and learning difficulties

– Milton Keynes YMCA which provides accommodation for young homeless people

– Extra Mile is lifting its sights beyond the local horizon by also supporting ARCA (Brazilian Street Children’s Charity): in certain areas of Brazil, many children live on the streets and, without help from charities such as ARCA, they would often turn to prostitution, drugs and other crimes for an income.

This is a unique opportunity for local businesses to enable people to make a difference by entering a team. The Extra Mile Challenges never fail to build new, long-standing relationships, develop motivation and team bonding while supporting local charities, including those close to each team’s heart.
Last year’s Challenge sold out well before the closing date, and there is, once again, a maximum limit of 45 teams.

Entry costs are heavily subsidised by sponsorship from Heald Solicitors who also organise the events with other contributions from Gibbs & Dandy builders’ merchants and the Rotary Clubs of Bedford Park and Milton Keynes Grand Union. Together these ensure that every penny received from teams’ sponsorship goes directly to charity with no deduction for expenses or administration.

Click here to download an entry form

Filed: 05/03/2008 12:01:24