Richard raises funds through cycling challenge

Back in May, Richard Simkins took on Velo Birmingham & Midlands 2019, the 100 mile closed road cycling event, and has raised a fantastic £1,000 to support patients at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital Birmingham.

This was Richard’s first taste of a 100 mile cycling event, and he has already set his sights on completing the event in 2020 when it returns on 28 June. Richard works in Telesales for Midwest Motor Factors, a West Midlands and Black Country-based vehicle parts supplier, and decided to take on Velo to set himself a challenge.

Richard said: “I enjoy cycling and I tend to do 20 or 30 miles on a Sunday morning. I had done a couple of 50 or 60 milers, but nothing further than that. When I set off on the Velo challenge I hoped to get to at least 80 miles and I actually felt pretty good at that point.

“From there I managed to push on to 90 miles and then the end was actually pretty good, it was easier than I thought. I loved it and I would love to do it again next year!”

Richard made a visit to QEHB to hand over a cheque for £1,000, alongside Assistant Branch Manager, John Podmore. The team from Midwest Motor Factors all pitched in to help Richard in his fundraising efforts. John said: “We organised at fundraising event at the Monmore Green Dog Racing Track in Wolverhampton, they gave us 50 tickets for us to sell for £5 each, with the money going to QEHB Charity.

“We had a team night out which was fun but the main aim was to raise money for the Charity. We held a raffle, with some great prizes raffled off including a bike.”

Thanks to the amazing fundraising from the Midwest Motor Factors team, and donations from Richard’s friends and family, Richard raised £1,000 to support patients at the hospital.

Richard said: “It’s great to have been able to raise so much money to support such a brilliant hospital, as a branch we wanted to do something that was going to help local people around the West Midlands. The QE is such a great hospital and we all know people who have been treated here over the years.

“Riding Velo was fantastic, it was great being alongside so many other riders. Everybody was egging you on, the crowds were great and the other cyclists were giving everyone words of encouragement. Having people calling out your name gives you that little bit more to keep you going.”

Velo Birmingham & Midlands is returning next year, and Richard is already looking forward to taking part. He said: “I’m hoping to sign up some of my colleagues to take part next year. As a first-time rider over 100 miles it was actually easier than I thought it would be. I think with a bit of training and self-belief anyone can do it.”

Richard said: “I would like to thank everyone who helped us to reach the £1,000 mark, including John Homer our Branch Manager for arranging the raffle and providing the hamper. I’d also like to thank the people of Birmingham and the West Midlands for cheering me along on the day, I couldn’t have done it without them!”

If Richard has inspired you to take on Velo Birmingham & Midlands 2020 then sign up for your Gold Bond place with QEHB Charity today! For just £40 you can guarantee your place before they are released to the public. Find out more here.