Tom and Piggy March Embark on Charity Cycle Ride in Memory of Caroline March
In a heartfelt tribute to the late event rider Caroline March, her brother Tom March and sister-in-law, renowned eventer Piggy March, have launched a remarkable charity cycle ride. The initiative, named Cycle4Caroline, aims to raise an ambitious £500,000 for the British Eventing Support Trust and Spinal Research. These organizations are dedicated to supporting athletes and advancing medical research for spinal cord injuries.
The Tragic Inspiration
Caroline March's life took a devastating turn when she sustained a severe spinal injury from an eventing fall in April 2022. Despite her courageous battle and determination, she passed away in March 2024. This loss deeply affected her family and the equestrian community, inspiring them to honor her legacy through a fundraising event.
The Epic Cycle Ride
The Cycle4Caroline journey spans ten days, covering an impressive 1,100 kilometers. Starting on November 20, 2023, from Blair Castle in Perthshire, Scotland, the ride will traverse some of the UK's most prestigious eventing venues, including Bramham, Chatsworth, Burghley, Blenheim Palace, and Badminton. The final leg will see cyclists ride from Windsor through central London to The Savoy Hotel, aligning with the BE Support Trust Charity Ball on November 30, 2023.
A Star-Studded Team
Piggy and Tom March will be joined by a core team of cyclists, including Ian Stark OBE, a three-time Olympian and Chair of the BE Support Trust Board, Support Trust Patron Alastair Wilson, and multi-medallist Holly Woodhead. Additionally, members of the British 2024 gold-medal Olympic team, former Olympians, and world and European champions will participate in various sections of the ride.
Overcoming Challenges
Despite their lack of cycling experience, the participants are determined to complete the grueling ride. Tom March acknowledged the significant challenges they face, including adverse November weather conditions and the physical demands of cycling over 100 kilometers each day. Their resolve is strengthened by the noble cause they are supporting.
A Message of Hope and Support
Piggy March emphasized the dual goals of this initiative: to honor Caroline's memory and to encourage future generations to pursue eventing while ensuring comprehensive support for those affected by severe accidents. Tom March highlighted Caroline's passion for advancing spinal cord research, aligning perfectly with the mission of Spinal Research, the UK's leading charity focused on the repair and restoration of the spinal cord.
The Broader Impact
The Cycle4Caroline ride brings critical attention to the need for funding in spinal cord research. In the UK, someone suffers a spinal cord injury every two hours, often resulting in paralysis. Spinal Research has been at the forefront of medical research for 40 years, and this charity event comes at a pivotal time as function-restoring therapeutics undergo human trials, offering real hope for breakthroughs in treating paralysis.
Supporting the Cause
The public can follow the cyclists' progress and support the cause through various channels. Success relies on donations and partnerships, with the goal of raising £500,000 to be split between Spinal Research and the British Eventing Support Trust. This fundraising effort will be transformative for both charities, enabling them to continue their vital work in supporting athletes and advancing medical research.
In conclusion, Cycle4Caroline is more than a charity ride; it is a testament to the resilience and solidarity of the equestrian community. By supporting this initiative, we not only honor Caroline March's memory but also contribute to a brighter future for those affected by spinal cord injuries.
For more details and to support the cause, visit www.cycle4caroline.com.
Source: [Horse & Rider Website - News Section](https://www.horseandrideruk.com/news)