AROUND 290 people from Coventry to Canada took part in the annual Starley Sportive earlier this month where they raised over £7,800 for charity.
The cycling sportive got underway at Deeley Group’s George House head office and included locations in the West Midlands, Warwickshire and the Cotswolds.
Cyclists were able to take on sections of the Starley Network, a recently created 500-mile regional cycling network.
All funds raised will be going to Zoë’s Place Baby Hospice, The Myton Hospice and University Hospitals Coventry & Warwickshire Charity.
Over 30 volunteers, 18 of which were City Hosts also helped with the event, completing tasks including organising the car park, providing refreshments for participants and answering questions on the route.
Two large food crates were taken to Coventry Food Bank depot following the event as part of the pre-event drive.
The drive saw all riders encouraged to donate food to help people in need across Coventry and Warwickshire.
The sportive was organised by Coventry Road Club with support from Deeley Group and Coventry City Council.
Coventry Road Club general secretary Ian Court said: “It’s really pleasing that we’ve managed to meet all of our objectives for this year, and to receive such great feedback from people about the route and how they were looked after by our amazing volunteers is really nice to hear.
“Every year, the generosity and eagerness of the people of Coventry, Warwickshire, and beyond, who get behind the Starley Sportive, is amazing.
“But in this year in particular, with the charity sector facing challenges due to the energy crisis and cost of living crisis, we’re absolutely bowled over.”
