Turning the wheels for local charities
As a business that’s been part of the community in Solihull for more than two decades, Red Kite is committed to supporting local charities that serve people and families in the area. We have put real thought into who and what we actively promote and support, with a programme of engagement that brings together cyclists and fundraising.
Our main shop charity is the West Midlands Marie Cure Hospice in Solihull, which provides specialist care and support for people with terminal illnesses. Locally, the hospice is close to people’s hearts and has supported the families of many customers of Red Kite Cycles.
Each year Red Kite sponsors the Tommy Godwin Challenge, a sportive event, of 30k, 70k and 100km through the Warwickshire countryside. Named after a local cycling hero, who won Olympic bronze in track cycling at the 1948 Olympics, the race offers a fun challenge to cyclists of different abilities whilst raising funds for the hospice. Tommy himself spent his last days at the hospice and his daughter is keen for to continue raising funds for Marie Curie. In the four years since the challenge was started, £40,000 has been raised through entry fees, donations and fundraising by the participants.
You can see the bike Tommy won his medals in the shop at Red Kite. For more information and pictures of past rides, visit the Tommy Godwin Challenge website. This year’s challenge is 24th September 2017. Registration is open now.
We talk to Brian Wevill who worked with Tommy Godwin in the early 70s
Tommy Godwin Sportive movie
Heart of England Bike Ride
Red Kite also supports the annual Heart of England Bike ride organized by Knowle and Dorridge Lions. Now in its 12th year, the ride raises money for the British Heart Foundation and other local causes. A family ride for both adults and children, the event has route has options of 20, 30, 50, and 100 kilometres to suit a variety of legs.
Photos by Mike Adams
Slingshot Website