Nine team members from across Beard offices completed an epic journey for a good cause this September, raising an impressive £33,500!
The 'Pedal to Paris' cycling challenge involved riding in rain or shine from the UK to France over four days, with sponsorship money raised to support the work of Phyllis Tuckwell Hospice.
After setting off from the hospice in Farnham on 10th September, they cycled a total distance of approx. 333 kilometres with a climb of around 8,200 feet. This event is organised and led by Cycle4Good - a non-profit organiser of charity bike rides.
The cyclists were:
- Tom Jenkinson, Director, Guildford
- Oli Kenworthy, Project Manager, Guildford
- George Lewis, Assistant Site Manager, Guildford
- Chris Godfrey, Site Manager, Oxford
- Karl Hogg, Senior Quantity Surveyor, Oxford
- Luke Bennett, Senior Bid Manager, Oxford
- Lee Flashman, Managing Estimator, Oxford
- Levi Summers, Contracts Manager, Swindon
- Matt Bennett, Pre-Construction Manager, Swindon
Before setting off, we asked the participants how they were feeling about the impending challenge, and they shared their past experiences of cycling, the training involved, and the feelings of excitement that are building ahead of the big day.
"I’m a recreational cyclist so the back-to-back days of cycling involved in this challenge is something I have never done before.
"I've been preparing with multi-discipline training including core stability, running, swimming and cycling - but I’m still anticipating some very sore starts to each morning!"
Luke Bennett, Senior Bid Manager (second from left)
"I took up cycling 5 years ago, and was immediately hooked. I cycle to keep fit, and take part in as many cycling challenges as I can each year. It’s my main source of mindfulness and a fantastic way to connect with nature and the outside world!
"I'm most looking forward to riding into Paris, and seeing new places in northern France that I otherwise wouldn’t have had an opportunity to experience (and maybe sampling the local wine!)."
Karl Hogg, Senior Quantity Surveyor
"I cycled to Paris in 2023 from London Bridge - but I mainly do it for enjoyment. I’m really excited to take on a challenge for a good cause and with great people.
"I'm not looking forward to the pot holes (on the UK side – certainly not France!) but I am excited about tackling a few hills and celebrating with the team after."
Chris Godfrey, Site Manager (centre, white helmet)
"I started cycling in 2011 when training for Blenheim Triathlon and liked it so much I'm now a regular cyclist.
"I'm excited about spending some time with colleagues from other Beard offices and raising money for a great charity. Keeping everything crossed that the weather will be kind for our journey!"
Lee Flashman, Managing Estimator
"I was a keen cyclist for a few years, inspired by the Olympics in 2012. In the past I’ve taken on a few multi-day charity rides, and done one or two long single day events (such as the inaugural Ride London event, and the Dragon Ride in North Wales).
"I’m excited and looking forward to the challenge, mixed with a fair amount of trepidation!"
Tom Jenkinson, Oxford Director
"I cycle multiple time a week and take part in challenges and races as well. Like to travel as cycle as well. I normally cycle 150-200k a week.
"I'm looking forward to spending some time with colleagues away from work and celebrating in Paris at the end. I'm least looking forward to trying to dust of my GCSE French to purchase food!
"I'm really excited to be doing this, its for a great cause and we are going to have fun whilst taking part in the activity."
Oli Kenworthy, Project Manager
