Last Thursday, 27 July, 57 cyclists from different parts of the asset management sector set off from London Waterloo and 48 hours later – give or take, and notwithstanding the occasional flat tyre, scraped knee and bruised ego – the same number duly arrived at Waterloo, Belgium.
The epic ride of more than 220 miles – which has so far raised in excess of £47,000 for war veteran charity Waterloo Uncovered – took them through three countries and via a number of important First and Second World War battlefields and memorials.
Founded in 2015, Waterloo Uncovered focuses on the recovery, wellbeing, transition into civilian life, education and employment for veterans and serving personnel. The charity’s yearlong programme offers vital support and structure and a sense of camaraderie for participants. The teamwork and process of an archaeological dig aids recovery and rehabilitation with more than 350 veterans supported since the charity began.
James Penny, CIO at TAM Asset Management, said: “The three-day route took us all through some poignant monuments to WW2, WW1 and into the Napoleonic wars. This made the fundraising challenge a powerful tribute to both the charity itself and the very essence of why we must help those suffering as a consequence of human conflict.”
True challenge
Portfolio Adviser’s commercial director Samantha Harris and head of event operations Sophie Keevill were part of the peloton. “Neither of us would class ourselves as a cyclist so spending upwards of five hours in the saddle each day was a true challenge,” said Sam.
“There were plenty of hills, a couple of falls and more near misses than either of us care to remember,” added Sophie. “Still, reaching the iconic Lion’s Mound finish line was a real achievement both of us will remember for a long time – although it might take some convincing to get Sam back on a bike again …”
In honour of all the amazing riders, Sophie and Sam would like to present some special awards:
Best team player/Champion flat-tyre rescuer: James Baxter, TAM Asset Management
Strongest hill climb: Pippa Brady, Wellington Management
Chief entertainment officer: Jack Hecquet, UBS
Most temperamental bike: Angus Duncan, UBS
Most flat tyres in a 5km stretch: Peter Stewart, Waverton Investment Management
Best comeback from the night before: Charlie Thompson, BNY Mellon
Most glamorous fall: Tri Huynh, Capital Group
Many thanks to everyone who participated and especially the ride sponsors and organisers – TAM Asset Management, Wellington Management and Fundpath.
If you would like to sponsor Sam and Sophie, there is still time to do so at: https://www.justgiving.com/page/mafinancial-cycletobrussels
