A team of six dedicated cyclists from Clinton Devon Estates are ready to get back in the saddle for the 2023 Nello Cycle Challenge. Taking place on Sunday 25 June, their goal is to raise funds for FORCE – Friends of the Oncology and Radiotherapy Centre, Exeter, a local cancer charity.
The Nello, a prominent event on the cycling calendar, challenges riders to the classic 100-mile route from Topsham over Exmoor and back or offers a slightly shorter ride of 60 miles. Whichever course our cyclists choose, they will be treated to a scenic journey though the stunning surrounds of the Devon countryside.
Charlie Briant-Evans, one of our Estate Farm Workers, said: “This year I have decided to take on the 100 as I love to push myself so felt I needed to go up to the next level! I feel a real sense of joy when I am raising money for charity and FORCE is such an amazing cause it makes all the hard work worth it.”
Charlie will not be alone, joining her are fellow comrades, Will Dale (Head of Commercial and Energy), Neil Eriksen (Personal Trainer), Kevin Brosnan (Head Gamekeeper), Gaynor Hayne (Finance Assistant) and Dr. Sam Bridgewater (Director of Environment Strategy and Evidence).
No stranger to the Nello, Head of Commercial and Energy, Will Dale wants to challenge himself further: “This year I will be riding the Nello on Shadow. Shadow is a 1980’s road bike which I found neglected in Chudleigh, rusting, without tyres, tubes, a chain, and seemingly devoid of hope. I paid £20 for the bike as part of a challenge set by a friend who wanted to make this year’s Nello even harder!” More of this story can be found here https://tinyurl.com/f2bvbarc.
Since the first Nello Cycle Challenge in 2000, the ride has raised more than £1.2m for FORCE Cancer Charity, which works locally to support anyone affected by cancer. Something that our Director of Environment Strategy and Evidence, Dr Sam Bridgewater is personally passionate about: “I have lost my mum and sister to cancer and over the years a number of friends and colleagues have also had a cancer diagnosis”, Sam adds: “It is great to have an opportunity to raise funds for organisations that support cancer patients and their families at such a difficult time.”
Veteran Nello competitor, Neil Eriksen is aware of the personal test that lies ahead: “This year will pose a challenge for me as I’ve been relying on an electric bike for several months. The demanding hills of Exmoor will be a test of my endurance!” And finally, according to our Head Gamekeeper, Kevin Brosnan, the Nello is the ultimate anti-aging remedy: “Cycling is a great way to slow down the ageing process!”
On behalf of everyone at Clinton Devon Estates, we wish Team Clinton the very best of luck in this year’s challenge! May you all have a fantastic time and relish in the event’s excitement. Well done on your efforts to raise vital funds for FORCE Cancer Charity.
If you would like to contribute and support their outstanding efforts, please visit our Just Giving page at www.justgiving.com/fundraising/jayne-savage1.