Calling all cyclists – cycle 75 miles to commemorate the 75th anniversary of Victory over Japan Day (VJ Day) on 15 August and raise vital funds for veteran’s mental health.
VJ Day in 1945 marked the end of the Second World War, with British troops returning home bearing not just physical but psychological scars of combat, traumatised by what they had experienced.
Today thousands of former servicemen and women from conflicts ranging from the Second World War to Afghanistan depend on Combat Stress’ specialist mental health services to rebuild their lives.
To commemorate VJ Day and raise funds to continue its life-changing services, Combat Stress has launched a new virtual cycling event – Ride to Victory. With RideLondon cancelled, it’s a great way for those disappointed cyclists to prove their ability after months of training. It’s also a good opportunity to give a boost to your mental and physical health, as explained by Combat Stress Occupational Therapist Christie Alkin https://youtu.be/qhYYPYXYhYI .
Ride to Victory has no physical race start line. How and where people complete the challenge is up to them, meaning the event can be turned into a personal challenge. Cycle 75 miles in one day, beat a personal best by cycling 75 miles as fast as possible, or turn it into a team challenge and divide the distance between your family – the possibilities are endless. Simply register online, dust off the bicycle, and get started.
Robert Marsh, Director of Fundraising at Combat Stress, said:
“It would be fantastic to see as many people as possible sign up to take part in Ride to Victory. It’s the perfect opportunity to show your support for former servicemen and women while improving your own physical and mental wellbeing.
“Combat Stress provides unique life-changing and often life-saving support to veterans in the UK with complex mental health problems. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the need for our specialist services remains critical, so having the support of the public is vital to ensure we can continue being there to empower veterans, rebuild families and save lives.”
The event costs just £20 (or £16 early bird) to register to take part. Participants are also encouraged to try to raise as much as they can in sponsorship. Prizes are up for grabs for reaching various fundraising milestones, and those who reach £750 will receive a special commemorative ‘Hero’s Poppy’. To find out more and to register, visit: https://www.combatstress.org.uk/support-us/ride-to-victory
