London to Paris Bike Ride
Visa asked Across the Divide to put together a London to Paris bike ride in 2009 in order to raise money for UNICEF. They wanted an event which could deliver some of the CSR objectives of Visa Europe whist raising funds for their chosen charity. It was recognised as a great opportunity to ask some of their associates and partners to participate to help build networks through shared experience (as well as some nights out too).
The Event
Since 2009, we have delivered six four-day road bike events for Visa Europe. Each event has to be over 300 miles in total with at least one 100 mile day. Visa and ATD felt this was an appropriate challenge and to give participants a big personal tick or kick. The average total distance for each event is 375miles and has increased in difficulty over the lifetime of the events as repeat participants have improved their cycling skills.
The rides have all been in Northern Europe for ease of travel and average 65 participants. The routes have all been testing and every day there are a number of climbs, varying in degrees of difficulty.
Being in northern Europe, the weather has often played its part! However, all the riders have risen to the challenge and no rider has ever failed to complete a section due to adverse weather!
The Outcome
Since 2011 the events have raised over £500K for UNICEF and almost £200K for Save the Children. There have been 1560 rider days completed over the lifetime of the event. Almost 2500 miles cycled.
