SUE BRUCE CHIEF EXECUTIVE of Aberdeen City Council launched the Bon Accord Bike Run in Aberdeen on Thursday 2nd April 2009 at The Foyer in Aberdeen, recognising the support that the Foyer provides to young people who are at risk of homelessness and unemployment in the area.
The 2009 event held on 17th May attracted a number past participants and many first time entrants including a number of family groups . Young riders from 6 upwards participated along with parents in the event many adopting the 7 mile route. At least one 8 year old completed the 22 mile route finishing before some adult riders. The event attracted well over a hundred entrants and despite the ecomonic downturn thousands were raised for division between Aberdeen Foyer and Rotary International.
The 2008 Bike Ride launched by Kate Synott of UCAN and took place on Sunday 18th May 2008. A total of over £3,700 was raised by sponsors and participants with the funds going to support UCAN and the Rotary Foundation.
The 2007 event was a great success raising over £6000 launched with the assistance of AFC and benefiting nominated charity Project Scotland and the Rotary Foundation.
Launched by former Big Brother winner Cameron Stout and Christine Brown, then Miss Aberdeen, with the bike ride taking place on Sunday May 28th raising money for Cash for Kids - in its 10th anniversary year, and giving grants to local groups which work with disabled and disadvantaged children. The event will also benefit Rotary International projects.
The inaugural Bon Accord Bike Ride launched on Rotary Interenationals centenary day and taking place on the 29th May 2005 was extremely successful attracting over 60 participants and raised over £4000 for the nominated charities Aberdeen Safer Community Trust and Anthony Nolan Trust as well as Rotary International.
TRANSPORT MINISTER CONGRATULATES THE ROTARY CLUB OF ABERDEEN BON ACCORD ON INAUGURAL CHARITY BIKE RIDE
LAUNCHED TO COINCIDE WITH ROTARY CENTENARY CELEBRATIONS
Today, the centenary of the Worldwide Rotary movement, the Rotary Club of Aberdeen, Bon Accord the Scotland’s newest and “youngest” Rotary Club and Aberdeen’s only breakfast Rotary Club announces that it is to stage an inaugural Bon Accord Bike Ride on 29th May 2005.
The Rotary Club of Aberdeen Bon Accord are encouraging all cyclists; young & old; new starts and experienced; individuals, families & teams; to get on their bikes to raise funds for their nominated charities and enjoy a fun event.
Lindsey Fettes, the first President of the Rotary Club of Aberdeen Bon Accord says, "The wheel is recognised as the focus of the Rotary emblem. A charity bike ride seemed an obvious choice for our first major fund raising project as we look to introduce new and younger members and build on the ideals of Rotary and encourage fellowship and service. As a club we have no intention of reinventing the wheel but we wish to build on it. A number of our members are keen cyclists and some have been involved in successful and hugely enjoyable bike rides outwith the City. We hope that the Bon Accord Bike Ride becomes an established annual family event for many years to come"
In support of the launch of this event Nicol Stephen MSP & Scottish Transport Minister said "I am particularly pleased to recognise the initiative of the new club in encouraging the participation of younger members. They are doing great work in raising funds for worthwhile causes and in encouraging the public to focus on an alternative means of transport. I wish them well not only in this venture but in all that they do."
The charities benefiting from the 2005 Bon Accord Bike Ride will be the Aberdeen Safer Community Trust, Anthony Nolan Trust and other Rotary projects. The event has already attracted sponsorship and support from local and national organisations and aims to raise significant funds for these deserving charities.
Alastair Hurry, President of the Aberdeen Student Division of the Anthony Nolan Trust and a second year medical student comments "I have been involved with a number of fund raising projects for the Anthony Nolan Trust and am aware from my medical knowledge of the importance of supporting this charity. I hope to be involved in the bike run on the day and am confident I can encourage my fellow students to participate."
The 2005 Bon Accord Bike Ride, which is open to everyone, offers the choice of two routes starting and finishing in Hazlehead Park: a short 7 mile loop for younger or less able cyclists and a longer more challenging 22 mile route meandering through picturesque Deeside for those wanting to spend a bit more time in the saddle. With the emphasis on safety the route will be fully signposted and marshalled.