July 2014
Some of the Story cycle challenge team
A team of Story’s staff raising money for Macmillan are hoping that their hill starts and braking techniques are all up to scratch, as they tackle a notoriously tough cycling challenge for charity.
The team of 12 will be taking on a 50 mile bike challenge for the company’s corporate charity Macmillan Cancer Support, tackling three tough Lakeland passes on their bikes. The mix of male and female biking beginners and cycling enthusiasts will cycle the 50 miles, covering Whinlatter, Newlands and Honister passes.
The staff from Story Homes and Story Contracting will aim to complete the challenge in just six hours, accounting for plenty or rest time and encouragement for the inexperienced cyclists. The team has been rounded up by engineer Luke Walker, 26. Luke decided to organise the challenge after recently taking up road cycling.
Luke said: “I have done a bit of cycling before but I thought this would be a great way for us to raise some money for Macmillan and do something we could enjoy at the same time.
“The route we have chosen is a challenge even for more experienced cyclists, with Honister apparently one of the toughest routes in the UK due to the climbing involved. We are obviously hoping for a good forecast but we will tackle the challenge no matter the weather.”
Amy Young, 21, is the only female in the team, and one of the least experienced cyclists. Amy said: “I agreed to the challenge before I even owned a bike or a helmet! It will really push me out of my comfort zone but it’s for a great cause so I will give it my best shot.”
Fred Story is offering to donate £100 for each of his colleagues participating in the challenge. The team is also fundraising through a Just Giving page, aiming to raise £2000. To sponsor the team, visit: www.justgiving.com/SHcycling. The challenge will take place on Sunday 3 August, leaving Keswick at 8am. The team includes:
Luke Walker, 26, Story Homes – Medium level experience
David Bell, 51, Story Contracting – Medium level experience
Andrew Clitheroe, 34, Story Contracting – Medium level experience
Paul Fenton, 24, Story Homes – Beginner
Adam McNally, 35, Story Homes – Medium level experience
Jonathan Reed, 34, Story Contracting – Medium level experience
Aaron Stafford, 29, Story Homes – Medium level experience
John Story, 27, Story Contracting – Medium level experience
Kevin Wharton, 44, Story Contracting – Experienced
Amy Young, 21, Story Homes – Beginner
Giles Finegan, 45, Story Homes – Medium level experience
Andy Butler, 32, Story Homes – Medium level experience
Story Homes and Story Contracting are supporting Macmillan throughout 2014/15 after it was voted as ‘Charity of the Year’ by colleagues. A number of colleagues have already participated in challenges and fundraising activities for the charity.
