Action Medical Research has put out a plea for riders to return their registrations for its 24th annual Action 100 bike ride on Sunday August 29 as soon as possible.  This not only helps the charity to plan, but eases workload on the volunteer registrations officer, Roy Clarke.

“This is a light-hearted plea to stop Roy from drowning – but with a serious message,” said Regional Fundraising Manager Jennifer Reid.

“We had just over 300 registrations up until last Saturday,” said Clarke.  “That’s around 15% up on the same time last year, but we’ve sent out around 6000 registration forms this year.  Traditionally, we are inundated with registrations in the last week.  Last year, 450 cyclists rode, raising over £52,000.  At this rate, I’m expecting over 200 applications to be returned over the next two to three weeks.  Of course applications are welcome right up to our closing date of Wednesday August 17, but it would help greatly with workload if applications were promptly returned.”

“We’re also a bit concerned that people will forget,” added Reid.  “Last year we had five outsized banners around Bristol as reminders. This year we’re down to three.”

The Action 100 bike ride challenges ordinary cyclists who are prepared to cycle 100 miles for Action Medical Research.   Cyclists have all day to complete the ride on which they are fully supported with plenty of refreshment stops, a pub lunch at Theale, and hot showers and beer available at the finish in Chobham.  St John Ambulance and Avon Valley Cyclery (for bike repairs) patrol the route to support riders. Return transport to Bristol and Bath is provided for both cyclists and their bikes.

The ride was originally designed to persuade 100 riders to raise £100 each for the charity, which uniquely funds medical research projects at the point of breakthrough. The ride has since developed into a major annual event in the South West.

Anyone wishing to take part in the Action 100 Bike ride on Sunday August 29 should contact Roy Clarke on 0117 970 6348 or visit www.action100ride.org.uk.
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