Uncle Bob’s Cycle event, the charity fundraiser created by licensed trade legend Bob Taylor, took place on June 9 this year, with a record 37 cyclists taking part.
Hospitality Health, the Scottish charity dedicated to improving health and wellbeing in the hospitality and tourism industry, was chosen as the charity partner for the event.
Speaking at the event, which started and ended at Manorview’s Bowfield Hotel & Spa, Bob Taylor said: “We are delighted to support Gordon and the team at Hospitality Health. The day is about getting out and having fun, getting exercise with a group of brilliant people.”
The 53-mile route, undertaken by a pack that included cyclists who travelled from Albania and Northern Ireland to take part, departed from Bowfield at 9am after an informal breakfast, then wound its way around Ayrshire taking in a brief coffee stop at Cecchini’s in Ardrossan, then on to Brisbane House Hotel in Largs for lunch, then back to the Bowfield for a light meal.
Bob’s planning was supported by Steve Graham of Manorview and Michele Pagliocca of Monteleone Group, while the Director of Sport was Robert Campbell, who was out in the Broom wagon.
The cyclists reportedly experienced four seasons in one day, including a hail shower as they were climbing up the Hailey Brae leaving Largs.
Gordon McIntyre commented: “We are delighted to get support from Bob, Steve, Michele, Robert and all the cyclists who took part.
“It is a perfect fit for what we are trying to do at Hospitality Health. A fit body is a healthy mind; there is not a better thing to do than catch up with friends and head out on the bike for exercise and fresh air.
“Bob is so inspiring – who would not want to join him on a cycle ride? The saying ‘You do not give up cycling when you grow old…. you grow old when you give up cycling’ is so true when you look at Uncle Bob!”
Sponsorship funds are still coming in, and the organisers expressed their gratitude to sponsors and supporters, including Tennents, Inverarity Morton, Nixon consultants, Dunns, JSB Windows, Scottish Hospitality Group, The Buff Club, The Marlborough, Singl-end, The Butterfly & Pig, Howies cider and the Manorview Foundation.
Funds raised so far are in the region of ‘an amazing £12,000’.
Bob’s closing words on the day were: “Please keep cycling after today – it is so good for you!”
To make a donation to Uncle Bob’s Cycle event, go to this JustGiving page.
