The great thing about our annual cycle ride, apart from the £2,000 in sponsorship it raises for our projects in Estelí, is the way everyone seems to enjoy themselves. It seems anyone who turns up on their own can find someone to ride with if they want, and somehow over the 50 or so miles a friendly ambience develops. It s very seldom that anyone says they haven t enjoyed the day (riders and organisers alike) even if some of us finish with aching muscles. We usually have photographs of different projects displayed at the start, so perhaps that helps motivate people.

All the riders have been very complimentary about the present routes, which Jane has carefully planned as a cyclist herself to avoid main roads wherever possible. There are two route options, of about 50 and 20 miles. Both have hills in them, this being Derbyshire, but both give you fantastic views. Most cyclists take 5 - 7 hours over the long route, 2 - 4 over the shorter. The routes are clearly explained in the ride guide and way-marked, with check-in points offering drinks and snacks. The marshals  car at the back ensures no-one gets lost or has mechanical problems, and carries a qualified first-aider, too, although our worst accident so far has been a badly gashed shin.

The Two Peaks Bike Ride has been taking place since 1987, usually on the first Sunday in July, and we have typically attracted 80 - 100 riders, often more. Some are members of cycling clubs and travel the course almost as quickly as the marshal's car, but most are more leisurely in their approach, taking time to enjoy the dramatic scenery and quiet lanes (I particularly like to savour the steeper sections - why rush?). We have kids cycling, too, on the shorter route, 9 being the youngest to date. Many riders come back year after year, and help keep rider numbers up by recommending the event to friends. Organising it takes a lot of effort, but it helps motivate us in our other work, too.  

This year's ride (2006) will be on Sunday July 2nd.

Click here to view and print off a registration form

Bike Ride T-shirt £7.50

Note: We have kept entry fees the same for several years but it costs us over £700 to run the ride, your sponsorship is important!