SUPPORTERS of a Bristol special needs charity are busy training ahead of a 500-mile cycle challenge to Bordeaux over four days to raise £50,000.
A team of 60 riders from North Somerset, Bristol, Bath and Wiltshire, are getting on the saddle in June for the annual Pedal for Props Bristol to Bordeaux Cycle Challenge.
The 500-mile ride and a shorter 300-mile route both leave on June 26, and will see the team averaging 125 and 80 miles a day, stopping only to rehydrate and to sleep.
Together they will be aiming to smash the £50,000 fundraising target for PROPS, which provides opportunities and support for those with special needs.
Rider Kevin FitzGerald, 33, of Weston-super-Mare, who is taking part for the second year running, said: "Pedal For Props was the biggest challenge I have ever undertaken but was a highly rewarding experience.
"I undertook the 300-mile challenge last year as I had undergone knee surgery a few months beforehand but this time I will try to complete the 500-mile route.
"PROPS is a fantastic local charity and I hope together we can exceed our fundraising target."
The Bristol-based organisation survives by generating its own funds through sporting events such as the bike ride and social enterprises like sign making, printing and farm based activity.
David Reeves, who founded the organisation at The Vassall Centre more than a decade ago, is the man behind the challenge and is encouraging people to sign up for the remaining places.
He said: "Pedal for PROPS is a challenging fundraising event bringing together cyclists of all abilities. It presents riders with an opportunity to raise valuable funds for a truly inspirational cause, and challenge themselves over a physically demanding course.
"The event is now in its fifth year and this year promises to build further on our record breaking 2012 tour with 60 riders including some of our PROPS students.
"Students who have taken part in the ride in the past have reaped great rewards by boosting their confidence and their social skills making a real difference to enhance opportunities in adult life."
Youngsters supported by PROPS have a variety of learning difficulties and their participation represents the charity's commitment to inclusive projects.
This year sees another three youngsters from the PROPS Centre taking on the challenge with the rest of the team, a truly inspirational achievement.
All the riders will cross the finish line on July 1, where they will congregate at the Girondins Fountain in Quinconces square, for a well-deserved rest.
Places are still available and to sign up or to sponsor the team visit www.propsforward.org/pedalforprops/ or contact PROPS on 0117 9653514.
