A keen cyclist will mark his 25th year of cycling in Majorca by fundraising for the Great North Air Ambulance Service (GNAAS), before celebrating at the Air Angel’s charity ball.
Shaun Carr has cycled in Majorca every year since 1993 with a group of friends from North East England and Tenby in West Wales.
To make his 25th ‘silver anniversary’ trip even more special, Mr Carr has chosen to fundraise for the Great North Air Ambulance Service.
“I am very conscious, being a cyclist, that you can find yourself off the beaten track and sometimes miles away from the nearest town or village on these early Sunday morning rides in the North East,” he said. “With that in mind I thought that, in an effort to raise funds towards the Great North Air Ambulance, I would ride this 25th year in Majorca in support of GNAAS.”
Majorca is renowned as a cycling destination thanks to its warm climate, varied terrain and smooth roads. Professional teams and amateurs alike flock to challenge themselves on the infamous inclines and coastlines.
Shaun will be cycling for six out of the seven days he is spending abroad, aiming to cover between 50 and 80 miles every day.
He said: “24 years ago, some cycling friends asked me if I would like to go to Majorca and ride a racing bike for a week to discover the island.
“25 years later, I continue to enjoy the experience of cycling the island alongside visiting some picturesque villages and sampling the Majorcan cuisine.”
A long-time supporter of the charity, Shaun returns home from his excursion just hours before the annual Air Angels charity ball, where he is a regular guest.
“I will finish off my trip by flying into Newcastle Airport at 1:30pm on Saturday, whereupon I will make my way to the Hilton to get ready for the Air Angels ball.
“There will be ten of us all together on a table. I enjoy knowing that it is for a really good charity, the hotel is always great and it’s a fantastic social event.”
To find out more about Shaun Carr’s fundraising and follow his training, visit his JustGiving page.
The Air Angel’s charity ball takes place on the 16th June 2018 at the Hilton Newcastle Gateshead. Tickets cost £60 and can be bought individually or as a table of 10-12 guests.
Last year GNAAS responded to over 900 call-outs and needed to raise £5.1m. To find out how you can help, please visit www.gnaas.com or call 01325-487263.