Forterra Chief Executive and colleagues conquer Mont Ventoux in charity cycle challenge
Staff at Northampton-based building products manufacturer Forterra, including Chief Executive Stephen Harrison, have successfully completed Challenge Adventure Charities’ four-day, 620-mile cycle relay.
Image caption: Forterra staff participating in Challenge Adventure Charities’ Mont Ventoux Challenge 2019.
The eight team members set off from Ouistreham in France on 2nd October and arrived in Vaison-la-Romaine, at the foot of the notoriously challenging Mont Ventoux Tour de France route, on 4th October. From here on the following day, the contestants rounded off the relay with a taxing 18-mile climb to the mountain’s 1,900m summit.
Accompanying Stephen Harrison in the first team were two Forterra employees – National Sales Manager Neil McLafferty and Land & Planning Manager Tim Darling – as well as FTI Consulting Managing Director Nick Hasell. The second team was made up of Contracts & Logistics Manager Nick Clark, Business Manager for Merchant Buying Groups Jason Drinkwater, Business Support Manager Ian Holmes and Sales Administration Coordinator Marc Taylor.
Image caption: The eight participants prior to setting out for Ouistreham to commence the Mont Ventoux cycle challenge (Stephen Harrison second from right).
75% of all funds raised will be donated to the British Heart Foundation, with the remaining 25% going to Cancer Research UK. Both charities were chosen in recognition of several Forterra staff who have been affected by these conditions. Prior to setting off, the teams had already raised over £10,000.
Stephen Harrison said: “Mont Ventoux certainly sets the benchmark for feats of endurance – our physical and mental stamina has been well and truly put to the test, but reaching the summit made the challenge well worth it.
“Conquering this infamously demanding route whilst raising funds for two fantastic charities that have a personal connection to so many of our staff is an achievement for all involved, not to mention a privilege.”
Founded in 1996, Challenge Adventure Charities organises two major cycling events each year in aid of charities chosen by the Trustees and event participants. Excluding this month’s event, the challenges have raised £4.2m to date. To find out more, go to challengeadventurecharities.org.uk.
For more information about Forterra, please visit www.forterra.co.uk. You can also follow the company on Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter and Instagram via @ForterraUK, or subscribe to the Forterra YouTube channel.