Story added: 2nd July 2024

Cycle Swarm 2024 Recap

In the early hours of Sunday 30th June, over 140 eager riders met at the home of Norwich City FC, Carrow Road, to take on the Foundation’s renowned bike ride, Cycle Swarm. With the choice of two routes, either 25 or 50-miles, riders began their challenge by departing the stadium grounds to cheers from Foundation staff and volunteers.

The first group to depart were those tackling the 50-mile route.  Heading out to Mundesley via Buxton, the circular route brought them back into Norwich via Wroxham. Riders taking on the 25-mile route left shortly after, following in the first group’s tracks but crossing into Wroxham via Horstead to complete the 25-mile loop.

Unfortunately, as the Norfolk roads unveiled themselves, the short British heatwave came to an abrupt end and the rain set in. Whilst in theory this made riding conditions more challenging for our riders, they all stepped up to the plate and breezed through the challenge.

The Foundation ensured there were several rest points along the route, welcoming riders with open arms, high fives and refreshments at both Buxton and Bacton village halls.

As riders completed their routes, they were greeted back at Carrow Road the Foundation way – big smiles, cheers and a well-earned medal. And of course, in true British style, as the day drew to a close, the sun decided to join the celebrations and make an appearance!

We’re delighted to announce that the event raised a fantastic sum of £5,500 (and counting!). A special mention must go to all our riders, especially the team from Lovell Homes, who chose to fundraise for the Foundation in addition to the entry fee. Thank you. Your efforts and participation will help us to continue to drive inclusion for people with disability across Norfolk. Your support really does make a difference.

We wish to thank all our volunteers at Saturday’s event, without whom events like Cycle Swarm simply wouldn’t be possible. We were especially pleased to be joined by Hope Rogers, a participant on the Foundation’s programme, Realising Potential. Thank you Hope for being such a superstar in awarding our riders their medals.

Special thanks also need to be offered to our challenge sponsors Coastal Construction and fundraising team sponsors, Norfolk Hire, for their continued support.

And last, but by no means least, our thanks must to go our Mechanic, Paul from Dolphin Cycle Repairs, for coming to our cyclists aid when needed and keeping everyone on the road.

To view the full image gallery, click here.