Cycling events

Hop on your bike for WaterAid

Whether a long-distance experienced cyclist or a casual weekend rider, why not take on a cycling challenge and raise some vital funds for WaterAid in the process.

Cycle in the UK, across Europe or further a field, knowing that every mile you cover is helping us move towards our vision of a world where everyone has access to clean water, effective sanitation. Have fun, get fit and make a difference!

We can offer you a high level of support to help you with your fundraising and training, including:

• An online fundraising page
• A fundraising pack, including sponsor forms
• A priceless WaterAid t-shirt
• Some invaluable fundraising tips
• Balloons, stickers and plenty more
• Legal and safety advice

Organised events

Celebrating its 15th year in 2008, this year's Severn Trent Mountain Walk or Cycle Challenge will be on Saturday 12 July 2008.

You can choose to take part in either the Mountain Walk or Cycle Challenge and this year with the addition of two mini-courses there's something to suit every ability!

If you would like to participate in an organised cycling event and raise funds for WaterAid in the process, the London to Paris Bike Ride is a great opportunity to do so. For more overseas cycle events visit Charity Challenge or Discover Adventure or Global Adventure websites.

If you are looking for something a bit closer to home, you will find a comprehensive calendar of cycling events in the UK on Bike Magic.

Organising your own event

Every year some of our keen supporters, jump on their bikes and take on their very own fundraising cycling challenge to raise funds for WaterAid - from riding the length of the country from Lands End to John O'Groats, to cycling the length of the Danube or pedalling from coast to coast in the United States.

Whatever you decide to do, please let us know about the event you are planning before you set off by filling in this questionnaire. The events team will get back to you as soon as possible, but if you would like to talk about your ideas, or have any questions about events please call 0845 6000 433 or email events@wateraid.org

North Sea adventure

Tim and Liz Delap decided to cycle the North Sea Route, which passes through seven countries, to raise money for WaterAid. The couple, both in their sixties, completed the 4000 mile trip on road bikes, carrying all they needed in panniers.

They took a small tent and once they had tried camping they decided it was the most enjoyable way to sleep at night.

During their planning they decided to raise £1500, but in the end they raised over £5000!

"We were amazed by people's generosity and interest," says Liz, "We received donations from many friends, but also from strangers that we met while travelling. It gave the ride a wonderful extra dimension, as well as making me thankful every time I had a hot shower!"

Tim and Liz saw some fantastic scenery, from spectacular mountains and fjords to sandy beaches and dunes stretching for miles.

Tim remembers, "One of our worst moments was riding through a badly lit tunnel in Norway with traffic thundering past. Apart from that we felt very safe throughout the trip. We often left our bikes unlocked and we met with wonderful hospitality from a great many people."