Ride to the Gate 2023 concluded at the Menin Gate, Ypres on Wednesday 19th April. This epic 3-day cycle started at the National Memorial Arboretum (NMA) on Monday 17th April. The NMA is an outstanding place for Remembrance and we were allowed private access inside before opening. The Armed Forces Memorial was visited prior to the cycling, every participant knew someone that is listed on the wall that lost their life during Service.
The 3 day route:
Day 01: National Memorial Arboretum – Little Gaddesden (102 miles)
Day 02: Little Gaddesden – Dover (123 miles)
Day 03: Dunkirk – Ypres (40 miles)
This joint fundraising event with Haig Housing Trust raised a magnificent £7568. Everyone involved and those that generously donated should be proud of this achievement, it will help Hidden Warriors CIC and Haig Housing Trust continue supporting Armed Forces Veterans and their families.
The cycle nearly totalling 300 miles in 3 days was challenging but humbling at the same time. Those involved appreciated the camaraderie that they have missed since leaving the Armed Forces. We were also able to pay our respects at very prominent memorials and graves to those that lost their lives during various conflicts. Many Poppy Wreaths were laid by the participants and support driver in England and Belgium.
The most prominent memorial to those that lost their lives during the Great War and have no known grave are listed on the Menin Gate, a total of 54,000 names. We were honoured to be able to lay a wreath at the Menin Gate during the Last Post Ceremony.
Thank you to everyone that followed our journey and supported. Also, those at Haig Housing Trust, Mandi Deakin for putting us up with excellent hospitality after Day 01. Patrick Lyster-Todd and Jo Hawkins for their support also.
Participants:
Gavin Tuach – WO2 Royal Navy
Lee Cox – Royal Navy Veteran
Lee Windeatt – Royal Navy Veteran
Ian Jacques – Royal Navy Veteran
Michael Marvin – British Army Veteran
Adrian Moore – British Army Veteran
Support:
Steven Bolton – Royal Navy Veteran
