Percy Hedley Foundation

Cycle Challenge

Coast to Coast cyclists crossing the finishing line at Tynemouth.

Students, staff and parents from Percy Hedley School completed the ambitious 150 mile 'Coast to Coast' cycle challenge. The money raised will help to support the Tim Carter Hydrotherapy Pool Appeal.

The cycle route consisted of cycling a minimum of 25 to 30 miles per day from Workington on the west coast of Cumbria, to Tynemouth on the east coast, across tracks and roads of all terrains. This took place over five days in April, staying in youth hostels and B & B's overnight.

The students had to overcome physical and mental barriers in order to complete this challenge. They trained up to three times per week, showing great commitment to the challenge and achieved Bike Level Part 1 in aid of their training. The students stayed committed and focussed throughout the ride and worked together, thriving on the experience.

Whilst relaxing in the mini bus travelling to Workington, the students were suddenly aware of the distance they needed to cycle in order to get back to school. After lunch everyone mounted their bikes with excitement and enthusiasm. Following a late cycling session everyone reached a youth hostel and they enjoyed fish and chips and a nice hot shower before setting off to bed ready for the next day.

The second day went well with only a few slight hill climbs and a farm house to settle into for the night. After a delicious cooked breakfast it was time once again to set off on the bikes, although this was the day that had been dreaded by staff as well as students, namely Hartside. It was tough climbing the hills and as the hills became steeper, spirits lowered. The determination and motivation of each student pushed them to the top. After re-gaining their energy levels, some students walked down Hartside to help push their peers’ bikes, which boosted moral.

A well earned lunch was devoured outside Hartside Café whilst thinking about the hill they were about to glide down. Bikes were hard to control, especially for those with balance and posture difficulties as speed accelerated whilst going downhill. Once at the bottom anxious faces appeared as everyone looked towards the next hill climb. Eventually after a hard day’s cycling everyone had made it to the Bunk House. Breakfast the following morning was virtually silent but the day got easier and cheery voices chatted about the journey so far as they cycled along. An early finish was achieved allowing a long social evening in Consett, County Durham.

The last day was bliss for most, cycling through parks and the Newcastle Quayside. Faces lit up as they recognised surroundings, aware the ending was in sight. Reaching Tynemouth Priory, the students could see the happiness in the crowd that awaited their arrival. The cycle was a magnificent achievement allowing the students to work together in enhancing and increasing their ability. The students showed outstanding teamwork to support each other throughout the journey.

The students had a fantastic experience and are now raring to go for their next challenge.

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