What made Velindre decide to do a New Zealand Bike Challenge?
New Zealand is well known for its rugged and dramatic landscape which we thought would make for an incredible cycling challenge for our fundraisers, and the fact that the British & Irish Lions were touring helped!
Watch some of the highlights here
What made you use The Ultimate Travel Company for this event?
We have worked alongside The Ultimate Travel Company for several years, whose expertise in an overseas challenge is vital in the success of our trips.
How much did the challenge raise for Velindre?
This particular challenge has raised £120,000 for Velindre Cancer Centre.
How did you find the challenge?
This was one of the most challenging bike rides we’ve undertaken thus far, but also one of the most rewarding. An incredible way to see parts of New Zealand that many tourists might never discover.
What was the best bit?
The best bit was the feeling of satisfaction each participant felt, but also as a team when conquering the mountains around the Coromandel Peninsula. An incredible effort but the most jaw-dropping views as a reward.
What was the scariest bit?
I’d say probably the steep descents were quite intimidating for those less experienced cyclists.
How fit do you need to be to take on this challenge?
You definitely need a decent base level of fitness to enjoy this challenge but you don’t have to be considered an athlete, I’d certainly recommend specifically concentrating on hill training. The satisfaction of summiting the hills out there was fantastic and it would be a shame to miss out on that feeling.
Would you recommend it to other charities?
Yes, it was an incredible challenge all things considered. A stunning route.
What is the next challenge for Velindre?
Next up for Velindre is a 10-day challenge to Peru, Trekking to the Lost City of Machu Picchu, and our next bike ride will be in September 2018, San Francisco to Los Angeles.
