A NEW cycling event took place in Hampshire recently, to raise money for an air ambulance charity.

AddVenture Gravel Ride Sportive was held on April 2, starting and finishing at Thruxton Motor Racing Circuit.

The event raised £1,248.50 for Hampshire and Isle of Wight Air Ambulance and featured 120 participants.

The route headed north through Collingbourne Woods and up to Chute Causeway, before arriving at the refreshment station at Hurstbourne Tarrant.

Participants discovered the old tracks and byways used by ancient Britons and Romans in northwest Hampshire, as they cycled along parts of the Test Way. The final few miles of the route headed through easier terrain south of Andover and back to the finish at Thruxton Circuit.

There were a range of different courses riders could do, from a 100km route offering a great challenge for the more experienced riders, a 65km route ideal for those taking part in their first gravel event, plus a shorter 33km “bite-size” route option.

Director of income and engagement at Hampshire and Isle of Wight Air Ambulance, Keith Wilson, said: “The start of spring means we are entering the event season, which is an incredibly important time of year for all charities. Our critical care teams have already responded to over 400 emergency call outs this year. And every penny raised from this event will help keep our doctors and paramedics on the front line and saving lives. It was great to see so many people turn out for the first edition of this event, and we are hopeful that this is the start of a very successful partnership. We’re looking forward to seeing everyone again next year.”

Proceeds from the event will ensure Hampshire and Isle of Wight Air Ambulance can remain on the front line and continue saving lives in the region.

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