Using Pedal Power to Boost Good Causes

Three good sports have teamed-up to cycle a combined 600 miles in one day to raise money for charities close to their hearts.

Experienced riders Chris Owen, Wayne Thornton and Jason Gray have, ironically, picked today (June 21), which could be the hottest day of the year, to push off on Chase The Sun – a 200-mile challenge – and they have already been racking-up the mileage to get as fit as possible.

Chris, Director of Optimum Safety, Jason Gray, a Gelder Group Senior Quantity Surveyor and graphic designer Wayne Thornton – who owns the business Balance – have hit the road determined to raise thousands of pounds for a variety of great causes.

Jason Gray’s employer, the Sturton by Stow-based Gelder Group has also provided a specially-liveried van to support his effort and those of his fellow riders.

Chris Owen said:  “I was inspired to do this challenge and raise money for the Stroke Association, because my father suffered a stroke and passed away in December.

“As well as doing it in memory of my Dad, I am eager to support the Association’s life-changing work with survivors and vital research work.

“We will be travelling-up to Newcastle, ready to set-off on the sunrise to sunset ride, which involves cycling from Whitley Bay, as the sun rises and finishes in Ayr in Scotland at sunset”.

As part of the ride the cyclists will be climbing more than 10,000 ft (the equivalent of riding up Mount Snowdon more than three times)!

You can support Chris’ fundraising at:  https://www.justgiving.com/page/chris-owen-202-mile

Jason Gray said: “I’m raising money for the Gelder Charitable Trust and to raise awareness for families and individuals affected by rare genetic conditions.

“Any donations people can give, no matter how small, will be sincerely appreciated.  They will also keep me motivated during the ride.

“The Gelder Charitable Trust Fund was created in March 2020 following the sudden loss of a colleague and friend.

“It exists to provide urgent support for those working in Lincolnshire’s construction industry who find themselves in unexpected hardship due to suffering illness or tragedy.  It’s a cause rooted in care, compassion and community and one I’m proud to support.

“But there’s another cause very close to my heart.  Part of the money raised will also go towards raising awareness and supporting families affected by rare genetic conditions.

“In agreement with the Trust’s trustees, a portion of the funds will be donated to charities working in this space.

“I’m so grateful to Gelder Group for supporting this effort by lending us a welfare vehicle for the ride and to our Commercial Manager, Joe Almond, who’s generously giving up his time to act as our support driver.”

Wayne Thornton of Balance, and a member of the Lincolnshire cycling network Spoke, said Chris Owen had suggested doing Chase The Sun ride and he is just as eager to rise to the challenge.

Wayne has chosen to raise money for Shine Lincolnshire.  Its mission is to support people with poor mental health to live well, through accessing a range of support services by  working with service users and carers and other agencies in the county.

“As well as being a business network, Spoke wants to encourage more people to get out into the fresh air and generally offer support to the mental health of the group.”

You can support Wayne’s effort at: https://www.justgiving.com/page/wayne-thornton-chase-the-sun

Chris, Jason and Wayne all completed the recent 100-miles Lincoln GP Sportive (which took place before the Lincoln GP proper in Lincoln), and used the Sportive as great practice for the Chase The Sun event.

Gelder Group CEO Steve Gelder said: “At Gelder Group, we’re always proud to support our team members in their personal challenges—especially when they’re going the extra mile for a good cause.

“Jason’s dedication to the Chase the Sun event is inspiring, and we’re delighted to provide a support vehicle to help him – and also his fellow riders –  on their journey.

“The funds Jason is raising for the Gelder Charitable Trust will make a real difference to people in need, and it’s a great example of our team spirit and community values in action. We’re all behind him and wish him the very best of luck.”

​