Seasoned cyclists are being pushed to their limits in a new 100-mile cycle event in aid of Hampshire and Isle of Wight Air Ambulance (HIOWAA) on Sunday 15 June 2025.
Ride of Champions participants will battle through Hampshire and the Isle of Wight’s challenging climbs, rapid descents and rugged landscapes, putting the skill and stamina of cyclists to the test.
Setting off from Sparsholt College, Winchester, the route journeys through the scenic roads of Hampshire, winding down to Portsmouth, before ferrying across to the island for stunning coastal views and back to the New Forest for the final stretch.
The mammoth ride is raising funds towards the charity’s Operation Airbase appeal, to relocate its airbase to a central location to approximately 70% of its patients. The move will bring the charity’s doctors, pilots and paramedics within 10 minutes flight time to almost every patient in the region.
Former air ambulance patient Tim Daniels is gearing up for the endurance event 11 years after the air ambulance team helped save his life when he broke his neck, back, shoulder and nearly all of his ribs when he crashed into a telegraph pole while riding his bicycle through Owslebury.
Tim and his friends have gone on to raise a substantial amount for the charity since his crash.
Tim said:
“I am so excited to be participating in and supporting the Ride of Champions. Nearly 12 years ago I had a near fatal cycling accident and but for the wonderful team at HIOWAA I would not be here today. Since that day I have been determined to raise funds for the charity and have completed a number of cycling challenges over the years raising more than £100k in that period. This continues to this very day when I will be on the start line along with a group of friends who have all supported me in my fundraising efforts and various challenges. As we cycle right across the whole region where the charity has been saving lives for more than 17 years it will be a wonderful vindication of the work this charity performs for all the residents and visitors of Hampshire and the Isle of Wight.”
Keith Wilson, charity Director of Income and Engagement, said:
“This fantastic but gruelling event celebrates the unique and dynamic landscapes of both Hampshire and the Isle of Wight. Riders will experience the joy and camaraderie of journeying side by side, supporting one another on this enormous challenge. Crucially, support from those taking part and those who have sponsored them will get us one step closer to the centre of the community we serve.”
Registration fee is £60 and includes detailed route handbook, ferry tickets, a charity event jersey, live rider location tracking, a finisher’s medal and an event mechanic. Top finishers will receive exclusive trophies and branded charity merchandise.
Every mile conquered and penny raised will help Hampshire and Isle of Wight Air Ambulance reach its Operation Airbase fundraising goal of £3.6 million to relocate to a new Airbase near Southampton Airport.
