Ski Solutions celebrates completion of charity bike ride

Ski Solutions successfully completed its London to Val d’Isère charity bike ride on 30th August, raising £6,433 (including gift aid) for the Snow Sports Foundation (SSF). Over eight days, four team members cycled more than 1,000km across varied landscapes, facing steep mountain climbs to support the Snow Sports Foundation’s mission of providing inclusive snow sports opportunities for individuals with additional needs.

The team set off from Brixton, London, on 23rd August, cycling through regions such as the vineyards of Burgundy and covering significant elevation as they approached the Alps. The final ascent, a climb to the highest pass at Val d’Isère, presented a major challenge on the penultimate day, testing the endurance of all four cyclists.

Ian McIlrath, Managing Director of Ski Solutions, commented, “The London to Val d’Isère bike ride was truly one of the most amazing and challenging experiences of my life so far. I’m so proud to have been able to support the Snow Sports Foundation – it’s a great cause supporting the fantastic programme that Snowbility runs for people with additional needs.

Highlights were many but for me, cycling through the beautiful French countryside in glorious sunshine with the fields of sunflowers smiling at us was hard to beat as well as that feeling of exhilaration as we approached Val d’Isere. The ride was both physically and mentally demanding, but the ‘cycle crew’ banter kept us going. I don’t yet know how we’re going to better the challenge next year, but we’re working on it”.

Richard Fetherston, Founder of the Snow Sports Foundation said, “The effort of the Ski Solutions team has been exceptional. The money raised will help us continue offering snow sports opportunities to those who may not otherwise have access, and we’re extremely grateful for their support”.

Looking ahead, Ski Solutions will continue to support the Snow Sports Foundation throughout the 2024/2025 ski season by donating £1 per passenger for every tailor-made ski holiday booked. Building on this year’s success, the team has also confirmed plans to participate in another charity challenge next year, further strengthening their commitment to the cause.