Jo Cox Way cycle event is a roaring success

HUNDREDS OF cyclists jumped in the saddle and collectively rode the circumference of the earth as part of the Jo Cox Way event.

The pedal-powered initiative saw its 25,000-mile target smashed as families, community groups and friends got on their bikes to reach a staggering 29,348 miles. People of all ages and backgrounds took part in the Jo Cox Way between July 22-26, pledging their miles and following a variety of routes such as mountain trails, coastal roads, city networks, country lanes and greenways throughout the UK, France, the United States, Australia and New Zealand.

Team Ride, from Dewsbury, saw 65 of its members clock up a phenomenal 3,470 miles over five days, travelling to the neighbouring towns of Bradford, Huddersfield and Wakefield, as well as York, and a coast-to-coast ride from Morecambe to Bridlington.

Founder and cycling development lead Irfan Mohamed said: “We took part because the Jo Cox Way ride embodies what we as a club stand for – inclusivity and sharing commonality in people.”

One of the youngest cyclists was three-year-old Bobby Johnson, from Mirfield, who took part with his dad, Craig.

“We know Kim Leadbeater, Jo’s sister and one of the event organisers, so Bobby was very excited and keen to join in. I think the work of the Jo Cox Foundation is really important in connecting people and bringing those from different backgrounds together,” said Craig.

Foundation ambassador and Jo’s sister Kim Leadbeater said:“I am thrilled that we found such a great way to make the ride happen and awestruck by the efforts that people have made for this year’s Jo Cox WayOn behalf of Jo’s family, I want to say a huge and heartfelt thank you to everyone who has been involved this year and enabled us to hit our goal of cycling round the world!”

To donate, visit: virginmoneygiving.com/fund/jocoxway2020.