They certainly had Balls! – Le Tour de Balls Deux Bodmin to Bristol
Last weekend 23 intrepid cyclists rode 300 miles in 3 day in aid of Testicular Cancer charity It’s in the Bag, raising a phenomenal £15K. The charity, which is celebrating its 10-year anniversary exceeded all expectations.
The team made up of survivors, nurses, policemen and supporter, took on this massive challenge to raise money for charity, but also to raise awareness of the disease, the most common cancer in young men. It’s in the Bag is 10 years old this year and Le Tour de Balls Deux is one of the key events organised to celebrate this fantastic achievement.
Their journey began in Bodmin, where the terrain and bitter wind made a very challenging start. The Old Orchard Inn in Week St Mary gave a well-deserved rest and wonderful welcome. Next stop Great Torrington at The Puffing Billy Trading Company, where the lunch helped ease the pain. Unfortunately, this did not go without incident as on route two riders collided and Rob Kay came off worse and needed some medical attention from North Devon District Hospital. Onward through Exmoor, which nearly broke them, but they arrived safe in Minehead, some after sunset.
The sun came out again for day two, riding through Somerset to Wiltshire, stopping at the top of Cheddar Gorge for lunch provided by a wonderful group of volunteers. A couple more incidents kept the support team on their toes, but all arrived safe at The Rolling Mill café in Batheaston, before completing the day in Chippenham.
The last day saw wonderful scenery and great teamwork as they wheel their way to Café 53 in Tetbury. Not long to go and our teams become lifelong friends supporting every breath, every pain and every turn of the wheel. The end is near, and they see in the distance, family, friends and supporters at The Globe Frampton Cotterell to cheer them in and help celebrate their achievement.
It’s in the Bag would like to thank all who took part, donated, and supported the tour.
Organiser Sue Brand says:
“I am overwhelmed by the sheer tenacity and will power of all our riders, who kept going when both the terrain and conditions made riding so difficult. The support team were second to none as they ensured all our riders’ safety and were there for all eventualities”.
Rider Connie Short says:
“I rode this weekend for my brother, Lewis who spend a long time fighting his way to beat this cancer. To have him alongside me through this, while I could give something back was truly incredible. I can honestly say this tour tested me mentally more than anything else I have every experienced. I found a love of cycling and found some amazing friends for life”!
Why not support them by making a donation here: everydayhero