Cyclists across the professional services industry have helped to raise more than £160,000 for children’s charity Action Medical Research.
They were taking part in Möntare, a new three-day ride which saw 51 participants cycle to Paris from 3 to 6 September, raising vital funds for children’s medical research.
The challenge brought together professionals from across the legal, financial, investment, property and consulting professions to network, collaborate and support life-changing research.
The event was made possible thanks to support from Möntare lead partners, Top 20 accountancy and tax firm Saffery and pioneering UK top 100 law firm Keystone Law, and supporting partner intellectual property firm, Mewburn Ellis.
Möntare is organised by Action Medical Research, the UK children’s charity funding research into conditions affecting babies, children and young people, including rare diseases, premature birth and neurological conditions.
"This was our newest corporate ride, so we wanted to ensure it was a success – and it surpassed all our expectations!” said Zoë Westerman, Cycling Events Lead at Action Medical Research. “We had to battle the elements and we covered some serious miles, but it was well worth it for the fantastic networking. Plus the sun came out as we headed into Paris."
The route took riders from Penshurst Place in Kent to Calais, onward to Amiens, before a final stage into Paris and a finish near the Eiffel Tower. Riders were joined by former professional Lizzie Deignan MBE for the last leg into the French capital.
Elizabeth Hartless, Private Client Partner from Saffery, says: “This was a great event. We had a strong group of riders who were truly tested, especially on day two as the wind and rain bore down! But the experience brought everyone together and built lasting connections and friendships that will continue long after the ride has ended.”
Funds raised through the event will help Action continue to fund breakthroughs, like those already achieved including the development of ultrasound in pregnancy, advances in meningitis treatment and research into rare childhood diseases.
Catherine Williams, Corporate Partner at Keystone Law, said: “Taking part in this year’s Möntare cycle ride to Paris was both a challenge and a hugely rewarding and memorable experience. We are absolutely delighted to have helped beat the fundraising target and raise over £160,000 to fund medical studies to improve the lives of sick children.
“We are proud to have played a part in supporting such an important cause and would like to thank everyone, including our co-sponsors Saffery and Mewburn Ellis, who contributed to making the event such a success.”
Find out more: https://action.org.uk/events/corporate-events/montare.