BCO Cycle Challenge 2016 (London to Amsterdam)

Congratulations to D2E’s Liam Shepherd and Robin Cheeseright for recently completing the BCO Cycle Challenge from London to Amsterdam.

Joined by another 55 keen cyclists from the Construction Industry, Robin and Liam set off from Kings Cross and completed the 350-mile trip, passing through France, Belgium and ending the tour in Holland 4 days later.

Day One; a short but tough 80 mile start to the trip, taking the riders through a scenic but ‘bumpy’ Kent. This was perhaps the toughest day in the 26⁰ heat with a ferry crossing to catch from Folkestone.

Day Two; after a well-earned overnight rest in Calais, the group set of on a 120mile ride across the First World War battlefields into the heart of Flanders. What was anticipated to be a ‘flattish’ day in the saddle quickly evolved into a trying day of rolling hills and some tough climbs. 11 hours and mountains of chocolate and bananas later, the group reached their destination in Oudenaarde, Belgium. The group enjoyed dinner that night in the Tour of Flanders Cycling Museum, a nice touch from the organisers.

Day Three; having past the half way mark, another long but reasonably flat 120mile route was the challenge of the day. To spice things up and add to the challenge, the heavens decided to open on Day 3. Hours of heavy rain, and regular intervals of ‘Pave’ (cobble roads) ensured the riders had to be at their very best to cope with the conditions. Unfortunately, there were a few accidents resulting in some scrapes and bruises. Luckily, no one was seriously injured and everyone made it to the finish line in Dordrecht, Holland.   

Day Four; the final stretch. On paper the shortest day of the trip, however, after 3 days in the saddle, perhaps the most testing on the limbs and joints. The final day took the peloton in to Amsterdam via a network of dedicated cycle paths which was nice way to wind down towards the finish line. 50 hot miles later the challenge was complete. Robin and Liam were greeted at the finish line by D2E’s Mark Fairweather and Paul Burns, before enjoying a much welcomed rest in advance of the Buckley Gray Yoeman annual conference party.

We are delighted to announce that the group collectively raised over £40,000.00 for Teenage Cancer Trust.

Well Done!