Cool FM presenters Pete Snodden, Rebecca McKinney and Paulo Ross reached Bicester at around 5pm on Tuesday, September 8, after completing the second stage of their 800-mile charity cycle for Cash for Kids. The six-day ride began in Paris and is heading for Banbridge in County Down, with more than £100,000 targeted for children and young people across Northern Ireland.
220km from Newhaven
The team covered nearly 220km from Newhaven to get to Bicester, a hard day’s work before the route turns sharper. The full challenge spans more than 800 miles and includes 10,000 metres of elevation gain, the sort of load that turns a charity ride into a sustained endurance test rather than a publicity lap.
Paulo Ross sets the pace
Paulo Ross said the ride was his idea in the first place, and his comments after Bicester made the pressure plain. “This is without a doubt the biggest challenge we've ever taken on, even with months of intensive training and planning.”
He added: “The nerves are understandably kicking in for all of us – particularly me as it was my idea in the first place.” Ross also said: “Knowing the difference these donations can make for local children will keep us going every step, or pedal, of the way.” That gives the trip a blunt deadline: keep moving, keep raising money, and survive the stage that is already being described as the hardest.
Wednesday's 280 kilometres
Wednesday, September 9, is expected to be the most demanding stage, with up to 280 kilometres to cover in a single day. With the route still to pass through France, England, Scotland and Northern Ireland before it reaches Banbridge, the next stretch is the one that will decide how much energy the three presenters have left for the rest of the week.
Steve Mosley said Omexom is proud to support Pete, Paulo and Rebecca as they take on the ride, adding: “Their commitment, determination and drive to push themselves to the limit for children and young people across Northern Ireland is truly inspiring.” For the charity, the practical aim is clear: the pace now has to hold, because the fundraising target only matters if the legs do too.
