Rowans Hospice wants to raise £50,000 with annual cycle event

The Rowans Hospice launched its Rowans Ride yesterday and is hoping to see 500 people sign up for the event.

Formerly known as the Ruby Ride, the annual event sees people complete a choice of three routes ranging from 18 miles to 65 miles.

It’s the fifth year of the ride and the hospice in Purbrook wants to raise £50,000 this time round.

Events fundraiser Gemma Carden said: ‘This event appeals to everyone from the leisure cyclist to serious riders.

‘It’s a great opportunity to get on your bike and take part in a healthy activity with family and friends, while raising money to help support people in the community who are affected by life-limiting illnesses.

‘This year, being the fifth year, we are hoping that more than 500 people register to take part and we raise more than £50,000.’

In previous years, the ride has seen an average of 419 people take part, raising around £46,500 each year.

But The Rowans Hospice, which provides specialist end-of-life care, wants to make this one the biggest and best yet by hitting the £50,000 target.

The event is on October 2 and will see the hundreds of riders start and finish at Lakeside North Harbour, in Cosham.

The 18-mile route will see participants cycle around Portsmouth, the 30-mile route will head towards the hospice on Purbrook Heath Road and the longest route of 65 miles will go to Petersfield, through Wickham and back towards Lakeside.

Gemma added: ‘We are extremely grateful to Lakeside North Harbour for hosting the start and finish.’

Online registration for the Rowans Ride has opened. Alternatively, cyclists can complete a registration form at the hospice.

All participants will receive a medal when they finish.

For more information, visit rowanshospice.co.uk, email [email protected] or call (023) 9223 7142.