Inspirational nine year old Florence cycles 125 miles to Paris, raising £2,210 for two West Sussex based charities.

5/5/2022

Over the Easter holidays, whilst many of us were enjoying the bank holiday sunshine; nine year old Florence Day, from Chichester was on the final push to the finish line of her epic 125 mile cycle ride to Paris.

Florence and her dad Chris kicked off their mammoth challenge from Dieppe on Monday 10th April, cycling 125 miles through the french countryside, reaching the Eiffel Tower on Friday 15th April.

It was a huge challenge for Florence. As well as being the longest cycle she had ever completed, she also had to contend with steep climbs, strong headwinds and 24 degree heat.

Florence’s challenge came about after she told her Dad that wanted to go on an adventure with him during the holidays and raise money for charity at the same time.

A few weeks later, after watching an episode of one of her favourite programmes, ‘Find me in Paris’, Florence decided that she wanted to go on her own adventure to Paris. Chris agreed to Florence’s request but only if they cycled there! Florence is a keen member of her local youth cycling club, the Solent Pirates, and although the challenge was daunting, she knew that with lots of training and effort she could do it.

Florence cycling

Florence chose to support two local Sussex based charities for her challenge. Children on the Edge and The Snowdrop Trust.

She said, “I chose The Snowdrop Trust because my best friend Snowy had cancer when she was in reception and they looked after her when she was poorly.

I chose Children on the Edge as Daddy has friends who work for them, so I found out how they work with children, especially refugees, to make their world a better place and I wanted to help support that.”

Florence had hoped to raise £1,000 on her challenge, but she smashed her goal, doubling her target and raising an incredible £2,210!

“The highlight was getting to Paris and the Eiffel tower knowing that I had completed my aim and goal. The support that I got through the trip was a big encouragement and made me smile each day when I was tired. I felt amazing after achieving my longest day I had ever ridden (42miles) and my biggest hill that I have
ever climbed (4km at 5%).”

Florence reaching the Eiffel Tower

Children on the Edge Fundraising Officer Annie Whillians said,

“Cycling to Paris is a huge feat, it’s a big challenge for an adult and Florence is only nine years old! Not only did she complete her 125 mile cycle she raised an incredible amount of money for Children on the Edge and The Snowdrop Trust. Florence is an inspirational young person, taking on such a huge challenge to help make a difference for other children. We can’t wait to see what she gets up to next!”

Florence and her dad on a practice ride before the challenge.

Whether you're feeling inspired to get on your bike or have a different challenge in mind, we’d love to hear from you. Our brilliant fundraising team will support you every step of the way. Get in touch and let us know what you have planned.

Get in touch with the fundraising team