Paralympic swimming champion, Jessica Jane Applegate MBE, has become a keen cyclist during the pandemic lockdowns and is urging local cyclists to sign up to the Norwich 100 which takes place on Sunday 6th June. This year funds raised for Big C will go towards the charity’s new cancer support and information centre in the heart of Norwich.
Jessica-Jane who lives at Burgh Castle near Great Yarmouth, said, “I am a local girl and I love supporting local causes. Big C is a great charity doing so much to help those in our community with cancer and their families. The new centre in Norwich will be a fantastic facility that will provide support for many. Depending on my training commitments, I am hoping to ride the Norwich 100 on their behalf and I would encourage any keen cyclists to do the same and raise much needed funds for the charity.
“I am new to cycling and it will actually be my first cycling event! I have discovered that Norfolk has a wonderful cycling community, I didn’t know it could be so much fun! What I like about the Norwich 100 is that it is a fun challenge and you don’t have to push yourself too hard if you don’t want to. It’s a lovely scenic route too.”
The Norwich 100 starts from Norwich City Hall, taking riders on a mighty 100-mile journey through picturesque countryside, passing landmarks such as Horsey Mill and Blickling Hall. There is also an adventurous 60-mile option or more relaxing 30-mile route available. The finish is located at Norwich Cathedral where they’ll be music, a beer tent and delicious food options to help everyone refresh, replenish and celebrate! All cyclists will receive a medal at the finish.
The cycle ride is fully Covid compliant and supported with clearly signed routes, marshals, medical cover, cycle mechanics and pick up vehicles.
Tom Holmes, Events and Engagement Manager at Big C, said, “The Norwich 100 is one of our first in-person events taking place since Covid restrictions have started to lift and we couldn’t be more excited! A big thank you to Jessica Jane, our wonderful sponsors and everyone else who is supporting Big C. We are extremely grateful to anyone who signs up and decides to fundraise for our charity and those affected by cancer locally. Whether you sign up for the 30, 60 or 100 mile ride every pound you raise will go directly towards the build and development of a vital new cancer support centre in Norwich.”
The main sponsor for the event is Loveday and Partners Independent Financial Planners. Mark Loveday, director of the company, said, “We chose to sponsor this event and continue our support of Big C because they contribute significantly to the improvement of cancer prevention, diagnosis, care and treatment in our county. Proactively working to improve these areas is essential and Big C funds a significant amount of scientific research, whilst also providing practical support in our community when it is most needed. We also chose to support Big C this year in memory of Ted Hare, a trustee of Big C who recently passed away.”
Also sponsoring the event are long term supporters of Big C, Norwich Accountancy Services. Jon Hook, Director of Norwich Accountancy said, “It’s a privilege to sponsor Big C cancer charity and the Norwich 100! I’m supporting this event in memory of a great man, Michael Hook, my Dad who sadly passed away from cancer earlier this year. He was my hero and will be greatly missed.”
How do I take part in the Norwich 100?