From experienced cross-country cyclists to novice pedal pushers, a record number of riders took part in the fourth Argus Appeal South Downs Way Challenge.

Some riders were taking part for the fourth time to raise funds for good causes across Sussex.

This year the weather was a mixture of warm sunshine, cloudy skies and a cooling breeze.

Meticulous planning went into the event, which included overnight stopovers at Midhurst Primary School and at Brighton Rugby Club. More than 200 cyclists started the challenge and most completed the 105-mile ride.

Among those taking part was Graham Martin, from Hove, who undertook the challenge in memory of his son Ryan who was too ill to compete last year.

The Argus Appeal presented Ryan's parents with an off road bike for the 25-year-old, who was suffering from myeloid leukemia, but he died before he saw it.

Graham, who has been training for two months, said: "It was tough going. I knew it was going to be a real test so I had a picture of Ryan with me and whenever I felt like giving up I just looked at the picture and knew Ryan was with me."

Ryan's mother Ann helped with food and water distribution.

She said: "The Argus Appeal was so good to us and we wanted to do something to help it carry on with its good work and help others."

Ninety-nine red balloons were released into the air at the finishing post in memory of Ryan, whose favourite song, 99 Red Balloons by Nena, was played at his funeral.

Appeal coordinator Elsa Gillio said: "The bike ride is a major fund-raising event for us. A lot of people put a lot of hard work into the organising and running of it to make it a success.

"I'd like to thank them all. It couldn't be done without their commitment." The challenge is sponsored by Legal & General.

  • Monday, May 15, 2006