The Managing Director of Buckinghamshire based audio visual integrations company, Smartcomm, has bravely taken up the challenge of cycling one of the most iconic routes in the world – London to Paris – all in the name of charity.
Invited by a client to take part in the four day bike ride in aid of Action Medial Research; a charity dedicated to improving the health of babies and children, Steven Worrell, MD of Smartcomm gave no thought to the grueling challenge that lay ahead of him but instead agreed eagerly knowing that with each pedal stroke he will be raising vital funds for a worthy cause.
Day1 - London to Dover
Steven, along with nine other members of the DOA (Death on Arrival) Team, will commence the first day of their four day challenge on 22nd July. Leaving early from Croydon, the 87 mile (140 km) route will take them through picturesque countryside, past Oast houses and through beautiful Kent villages before arriving at the port of Dover.
Day 2 - Calaise to Arras
From Calaise the boys say bonjour to the French open road and head southeast for a 71 mile (114 km) ride towards Arras; stopping off en route to sample the exquisite café culture.
Day 3 - Arras to Compiegne
After sampling a few croissants, the team cycle through beautiful forested areas, visit WW1 memorial sites and arrive 75 miles (120 km) later in Compiegne on the banks of the scenic River Oise.
Day 4 - Compiegne to Paris
On the last day, the remaining 54 mile (86 km) stretch takes the team to Paris! Cycling down the Champs-Elysées they join teams from 3 other routes and head towards the finishing line and the most iconic Parisian structure – the Eiffel Tower! Here they celebrate their inspirational achievement with new found friends and some well deserved champagne.
Day 5 – Free Day in Paris!
After celebrating hard and long into the small hours of Sunday morning, this free day will be a well deserved day of rest to explore Paris. In the afternoon, the team will have the opportunity to watch the final stage of the Tour de France as it hits the Champs-Elysées for the final sprint. Watching the teams speed past will be an amazing experience for the boys, especially knowing that they cycled down the same stretch of road just one day before. In the evening they will travel back to the UK on Eurostar in time to make their way home for a good night’s sleep!
Action Medical Research specialises in children’s health, tackling problems affecting pregnancy, childbirth, babies, children and adolescents. This clear focus enables them to get a more detailed understanding of specific health needs in children and to build strong relationships with doctors and researchers, as well as with other specialist charities and patient and professional organisations, with the aim of making a significant impact within the field of child health.
Anyone wishing to support Steven and the DOA Team to reach their target of £23,500 with a donation, however large or small, can visit the link below to pledge on line. It’s all safe & secure so feel free to get carried away!
http://www.action.org.uk/~sworrell