Sue’s story: Celebrating 15 years of Pilgrims Hospices Cycle Challenge
Pilgrims Hospices Cycle Challenge marks its 15th anniversary on Sunday 4 May 2025; in doing so, Pilgrims celebrate one of its most dedicated supporters, Sue Barrett-Austen from Ashford.
Sue has taken part in every event since the challenge began, in memory of loved ones and in appreciation of Pilgrims.
Sue completed the very first Cycle Challenge just 18 months after her best friend, Eve, received Pilgrims care.
Sue shared that “Eve was the most incredible lady. A real force of nature. She received such wonderful care in the time that she was in the hospice. But it wasn’t just her who received that care, nor just her family, but me as well, her friend.”
Sue set herself the challenge of riding an impressive 75 miles in Eve’s memory, to raise vital funds and awareness for the hospice.
She reminisced on a poignant moment of the day, saying “registration for that first Cycle Challenge was under the balcony of what had been her room. It really did feel like she was looking down on me!”
Sue’s late husband, Richard
Reflecting on how much the event has evolved since its inception, Sue told us that “it’s grown to something almost unrecognisable from those very first years. What remains unchanged is the faultless support, rest stops, planning and organisation. To see the growth in distances and numbers of participants is a magnificent testament to such a wonderful event.”
Sue shared what motivated her to keep coming back each year: “Having lost Eve, I wanted to do what I could to support the hospice and raise money.”
Her motivation grew further when her husband, Richard, was diagnosed with lung cancer and spent the last week of his life being cared for at Pilgrims.
Richard, Sue and Eve
Sue said: “Richard had supported my efforts in participating in the Cycle Challenge and, even when he was so poorly, insisted that I take part.
“We both were shown a phenomenal level of care, dignity and empathy. This is what motivates me to come back every year no matter what. It’s a little, tiny bit of payback. It is also very important to me as the event is always very close to, if not actually on, Richard’s birthday.”
Sue has special memories of Cycle Challenge over the years, and has met so many incredible people along the way. Whether at rest stops or during training rides, she has “met a whole group of wonderful people who have become good friends”, each with their own special reasons for taking on Cycle Challenge.
Incredibly, it was through this community that she met her now-husband, Jay.
Sue Barrett Austen And Jay Funnell 1
Sue Barrett Austen And Jay Funnell 2
Sue Barrett Austen And Jay Funnell 3
Sue and Jay taking part in Pilgrims Cycle Challenge
Sue’s story shows how Pilgrims not only cares for patients, but also loved ones into the future, by creating a supportive community that continues even after bereavement.
Sue is a super fundraiser, and has even become a Pilgrims volunteer, giving her time back to her local hospice. She has raised an astonishing £13,319 in memory of Eve and Richard, which has directly helped support others who need Pilgrims’ care.
Sue has her own fundraising tips and tricks to share: “Keep people up to date on your progress, training, your goals and why you are doing it. Share your achievements, photos, and any anecdotes!”
For anyone thinking about signing up to Cycle Challenge, Sue has one piece of advice – do it!
Whether you’re taking part in memory of a loved one, or are keen to support your local hospice, Pilgrims Hospices Cycle Challenge really has it all, as Sue says:
“The atmosphere of excitement, nerves and camaraderie at the start. Seeing those motivational signs on the hills! All the volunteers and Pilgrims staff at the fantastically catered rest stops. The welcoming bell, the smiles, the hugs, the feeling of achievement at the end… I enjoy everything about the day!
“I am so very proud to have participated in Cycle Challenge every year. It means such a lot to me, more so than any other event. I intend to keep going in one way or another for as long as I am here. I am taking on the 100-mile route this year. I feel very humbled that I’m able to participate, and grateful for the support I have received from family, friends and my very dear Pilgrims community.”
If you’d like to support Pilgrims by taking on Cycle Challenge, visitpilgrimscyclechallenge.orgto get involved.
With six ride distances to choose from, there’s something for all fitness levels!
To celebrate the event’s 15th anniversary, a brand-new 15-mile route has been introduced to encourage even more participants to join in the fun. For this route only, entry has been opened to those aged 12 years and over, creating an exciting opportunity for families to cycle together, as well as being perfect for beginners or those seeking a shorter ride.
Each year, Pilgrims Hospices care for thousands of people across east Kent, with services provided from its three hospice sites in Ashford, Canterbury, and Thanet, as well as in patients’ own homes. It costs over £17.2 million annually to run these services, much of which comes from the generous support of the local community.
27th March 2025
Celebrating 15 years of Pilgrims Hospices Cycle Challenge
Back in 2010, Pilgrims Hospices launched a little bike ride across east Kent. Since then, Pilgrims Hospices Cycle Challenge has not only become a much-loved staple in the charity’s annual events calendar, but it has also become one of the South East’s largest cycle rides.
A staggering total of 14,475 riders have signed up over the years, cycling an incredible 1,024,327 miles for Pilgrims. A million miles equates to in excess of 40 trips around the equator.
The ride traditionally takes place on the Early May Bank Holiday weekend, to allow cyclists to enjoy a relaxing Monday after taking on such an impressive challenge. For 2025, the ride is taking place on Sunday 4 May 2025.
Cycle Challenge Pm April 25 6
Cycle Challenge Pm April 25 5
Cycle Challenge Pm April 25 4
Cycle Challenge Pm April 25 3
Cycle Challenge Pm April 25 2
Cycle Challenge Pm April 25 1
This year, the Fundraising team is aiming to cross the line with several remarkable milestones:
Since 2010, the annual event has raised an incredible £1.4 million for local hospice care. In 2025, we are hoping to surpass the cumulative £1.5 million total over the years.
Whilst contributing to £1.5 million in fundraising, the event has been exclusively opened to welcome 1,500 riders to the event this year, promising to make 2025 the most memorable year yet!
To celebrate the event’s 15th anniversary, a brand-new 15-mile route has been introduced to encourage even more participants to join in the fun. This route is open to individuals aged 12 and older, providing an exciting opportunity for families to cycle together, as well as catering to beginners or those seeking a shorter ride.
A special anniversary medal – each rider will receive a brand-new commemorative medal to mark their fantastic achievements on the finish line.
Starting and finishing at the University of Kent in Canterbury, Pilgrims Cycle Challenge offers a range of distances, including 30, 50, 75, 100 and 125 miles for participants aged 14 and over, in addition there is a new 15-mile route for those aged 12+.
Each distance offers an opportunity to experience Kent’s stunning countryside. Every year, more than 1,300 riders join the event to pedal for Pilgrims.
Together, the cyclists, their friends and family, the wonderful volunteers, bike marshals, mechanics and staff help to fund skilled and compassionate care for thousands of patients and their loved ones each year.
Mileage-worthy stats
In excess of £1.4 million has been raised via Cycle Challenge since 2010.
More than 14,475riders have taken part.
The total distance cycled by these riders equates to 1,024,327 miles.
Last year, more than 3,725 pieces of cake were consumed, and 4,300 cups of tea were enjoyed.
Together with 950 bananas and 1,550 rolls – all made in-house by our dedicated catering team.
Spoke-worthy quotes from Pilgrims’ riders
“Pilgrims Cycle Challenge is my bike challenge of the Year – fantastically well organised and such an inclusive event for all!”
“Fantastic day on the bike with wonderful volunteers”
“Best bike challenge for miles! Simply the best”
“A very enjoyable experience from start to end with added bonus of knowing we’re raising money for a truly worthwhile cause”
“It’s 3 days after the cycle ride and I’m still euphoric about the whole day.”
“Such a heart-warming, amazing event with awesome support”
“The 125 was deeply soul searching”
“A well organised event, which supports the cyclists, and all along knowing you are supporting the hospice.”
“It was a brilliant day, superb roots and immaculate organisation. Bring on 2025!!”
On the day entry and prices will be subject to capacity.
Register early to avoid disappointment.
The 15th Anniversary Special – 15 miles (£30)
The Circuit – 30 miles (£35)
The Classic – 50 miles (£45)
The Challenge – 75 miles (£45)
The Century – 100 miles (£55)
The Epic – 125 miles (£65)
Each year, Pilgrims Hospices care for thousands of people across east Kent, with services provided from its three hospice sites in Ashford, Canterbury, and Thanet, as well as in patients’ own homes. It costs over £17.2 million annually to run these services, much of which comes from the generous support of the local community.
12th February 2025
Gillian and Elizabeth pedal for Pilgrims in memory of dad Dennis
Sisters Gillian Coleman from Chartham and Elizabeth Brewer from Ightham completed the 30-mile Pilgrims Hospices Cycle Challenge in 2024, raising an incredible £1,520 for east Kent’s largest hospice charity. They fundraised in memory of their dad, Dennis White, who received Pilgrims’ care in 2022, aged 89.
They plan to enter the Cycle Challenge again this year, taking place on Sunday 4 May 2025, hoping to raise even more for vital hospice care.
Now in its 15th year, the event will feature a new 15-mile route, a special anniversary medal and a beautiful new rest stop. An exclusive anniversary cycle jersey will also be available to purchase.
When Dennis was diagnosed with a life-limiting illness, he was referred to Pilgrims Hospices and offered a bed at the Canterbury hospice. His wife, Ann, and wider family were able to visit.
Ann And Dennis White 3 2
Ann And Dennis White 1 2
Ann and Dennis
Gillian and Elizabeth said: “The hospice staff were so compassionate, keeping Dad’s dignity at the heart of his care through his final days. They also kept us informed at each stage, offering us advice, kindness and thoughtfulness throughout, which is something we will always remember.”
Dennis
The Cycle Challenge 2024 was incredibly meaningful for the sisters; not only were they able to raise money and awareness for Pilgrims in memory of their dad, but it marked a significant moment for Gillian, who had recently finished her cancer treatment in March 2024.
Reflecting on the event, they said: “The organisation and the fantastic feeling we had riding for Pilgrims was remarkable. It was great that a variety of distances were offered – there was something for everyone – and the amount we raised was unbelievable; thank you to all who donated!
“This year, we’re looking into asking others to join us for the challenge and taking part as a group, so we can raise even more for Pilgrims. We feel that if others are able to experience the service that was provided to us, more charitable funds will be raised for Pilgrims’ vital care. That’s why we want to fundraise, so that other families can continue to benefit in the future.”
Each year, Pilgrims Hospices care for thousands of people across east Kent, with services provided from its three hospice sites in Ashford, Canterbury, and Thanet, as well as in patients’ own homes. It costs over £17.2 million annually to run these services, much of which comes from the generous support of the local community.
4th February 2025
Pilgrims Hospices Cycle Challenge celebrates its 15th anniversary on 4 May 2025
Pilgrims Hospices is thrilled to announce the anticipated return of its iconic Cycle Challenge, celebrating an astounding 15 years on Sunday 4 May 2025.
Since the event’s creation in 2010, this beloved event has raised an incredible £1.4 million to fund skilled and compassionate care to thousands of patients and their loved ones each year.
This year, the team is aiming to cross the line to another milestone: raising £1.5 million while welcoming 1,500 riders to the event, promising to make 2025 their most memorable year yet!
To celebrate the event’s 15th anniversary, a brand-new 15-mile route has been introduced to encourage even more participants to join in on the fun. For this route only, entry has been opened to those aged 12 years and over, creating an exciting opportunity for families to cycle together, as well as being perfect for beginners or those seeking a shorter ride.
IMG 0822
IMG 0742 1
IMG 0731
DSC 0170
DSC 0100
30A4371 CR3 DxO DeepPRIME
30A4211 CR3 DxO DeepPRIME
Event organiser Billy Williams said:
“We’re so excited to be celebrating 15 years of the Pilgrims Hospices Cycle Challenge and are incredibly grateful for the support we’ve received across the years. To make this year extra special, we’ve not only introduced the new 15-mile route, but also an exclusive cycle jersey, a commemorative 15th anniversary medal and a beautiful new rest stop for participants to enjoy. We can’t wait to welcome supporters to this year’s event and make it our best year yet!”
Starting and finishing at the University of Kent in Canterbury, the Cycle Challenge offers a range of distances from 30, 50, 75, 100 and 125 miles for participants aged 14 and over, in addition to the new 15-mile route.
Each distance offers an opportunity to experience Kent’s stunning countryside, whilst allowing supporters to push personal limits, ride alongside a supportive community and pedal for a fantastic cause.
Pilgrims Hospices provides vital care to people with life-limiting illnesses across east Kent, with services costing £17.2 million annually to run. Much of this funding comes from the generous support of the local community, making events like the Cycle Challenge essential in continuing this crucial work.
Registration for the Pilgrims Hospices Cycle Challenge is now open.
Don’t miss the chance to be part of this record-breaking year, all whilst helping Pilgrims Hospices continue to deliver compassionate care to those who need it most.
Sign up today and help make this year’s event the biggest and best yet!
Each year, Pilgrims Hospices care for thousands of people across east Kent, with services provided from its three hospice sites in Ashford, Canterbury, and Thanet, as well as in patients’ own homes. It costs over £17.2 million annually to run these services, much of which comes from the generous support of the local community.
4th May 2023
Spring was in the air for Cycle Challenge on Bank Holiday Sunday
More than 1,000 cyclists enjoyed a beautiful Spring Bank Holiday Sunday exploring the stunning Kent countryside at the 13th annual Pilgrims Hospices Cycle Challenge.
Riders of all abilities took part, collectively cycling more than 76,000 miles to support the skilled and compassionate end-of-life care the charity provides across east Kent.
So far this year’s event has raised almost £100,000; with indications showing the total could reach as much as £110,000 for Pilgrims, once all donations and Gift Aid are finalised.
Individuals, families, friends, cycling clubs, local businesses and services throughout Kent, took on the 30, 50, 75, 100 or 125-mile challenge. Bright skies and dry roads were the perfect conditions for Pilgrims’ flagship fundraising event. Ever since the event first took place in 2010, supporters have raised an astonishing £1.2 million pounds to help people who need Pilgrims’ care within our community.
All routes started and finished at Pilgrims Event Village at the University of Kent, near Canterbury. Returning cyclists could enjoy a celebratory atmosphere, sports massage and well-earned refreshments after collecting their commemorative medal.
Robert Grew, Pilgrims event organiser said: “It was brilliant to see such a strong show of support for Pilgrims! We congratulate all the riders in achieving their goals and for their incredible support for the end-of-life care Pilgrims provides.
“It’s a privilege to organise the event and, seeing it year after year, I’m always reminded how much of a team effort it is. Our army of volunteers are just outstanding and gave up their bank holiday weekend to help make the whole experience safe and enjoyable for our riders. I can’t thank them enough! Nor the waves of cyclists who puff their way around the course in support each year.”
“I must also thank Kent Sport, Biketart, Barretts and London Array for their wonderful support for the event, which enables us to maximise the amount of funds we can raise for hospice care.”
Care is provided from three hospice sites in Ashford, Canterbury and Thanet as well as in patients’ own homes.To offer these services to patients and their families, the charity must raise £11 million each year from the generous local community.
21st October 2021
Paul and Alfie go the distance for local hospice care
On Sunday 22 August 2021, Paul Maxted and his son, Alfie, from Ashford cycled 50 miles around east Kent, raising more than £700 for local hospice care.
They wanted to support Pilgrims Hospices after the charity cared for two family members – Paul’s dad, Robert (Bob) John Maxted, and his father-in-law, Roger (Rog) Thomas Bent.
It has been an emotionally challenging year for the family; Bob passed away aged 69 years on 27 June 2021, and Rog died shortly after, aged 74, on 18 July 2021.
Robert (Bob) Maxted
Paul said: “Following long battles with terminal illnesses, we lost my father to cancer and Rog to idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) within three weeks of each other; it was devastating, to say the least. The most painful part was watching them both succumb to these terrible illnesses as my wife and I provided care and support. We were lucky to have two such wonderful, loving and inspirational role models in our lives, and we gain some comfort in knowing we carry them in our hearts and thoughts for eternity.
“Pilgrims cared for my dad and Rog both on the hospice ward and at home at the end of their lives. They were superb, providing equipment, personal care and support to them and our family. The staff showed real empathy and understanding; they were never too busy to take a call or give us time to understand what was happening, all the way until the end.”
Roger (Rog) Bent
To give back and say thank you, Paul and his son Alfie decided to take on the Pilgrims Hospices Cycle Challenge to ensure that other families continue to benefit from local hospice care.
Paul added: “I’m a keen footballer and runner but cycling isn’t my choice of activity! So this was a real challenge for me (and my rear end). I’m so grateful for the support we’ve received from family and friends; any donation, no matter how big or small, is hugely appreciated.
“Pilgrims made a very sad time easier for both my dad and Rog during their battles, giving us as a family a small piece of comfort knowing that they did not suffer. We want to support Pilgrims so that more people can receive the level of empathy and care we did, both now and in the future.”
You can still sponsor Paul and Alfie now that they have completed their challenge by visiting their JustGiving page.
Inspired to get on your bike and fundraise for Pilgrims?
Cycle Challenge returns on Sunday 1 May 2022; register your interest today:
Each year Pilgrims Hospices give care and comfort to over 2,500 people in east Kent who are coming to terms with an illness that sadly cannot be cured. The charity support patients to live life as well as possible until the very end, free from pain and distress.
