Transaid releases additional places for Cycle Malawi 2022

Transaid has released nine places on its highly sought-after Cycle Malawi 2022 challenge, which will take place from 1 – 9 October, and is inviting riders from across the transport and logistics industry to register their interest quickly, to avoid disappointment.

Those signing up will join a group of 36 cyclists already confirmed for the event, which was sadly postponed in 2020.

The epic two-wheel adventure will take cyclists across the country commonly known as the ‘Warm Heart of Africa’, thanks to the kindness and friendliness of its people. It will mark the international development organisation’s 10th African cycle challenge and includes five days of riding – plus the ultimate opportunity to discover Malawi away from the tourist trail.

Florence Bearman, Transaid’s Head of Fundraising, explains: “Moving the dates meant some of the original group are unable to take part, so we’re opening those places and expecting demand to be very strong. After two years of limited travel for many, we believe the attraction of cycling through rural Africa is going to be huge!”

Helen Tattersall, Head of Vehicle Accessories for Brand Licensing at Michelin Lifestyle, says: “I signed up with a group of colleagues back in 2019, and I wouldn’t miss it for the world. We’ve got unfinished business in Malawi, and we can’t wait to get on our bikes. It’s going to be a fantastic opportunity to be part of something really special, with teams from across the industry coming together to raise vital funding for a very special charity.”

Over the years Transaid has delivered both access to healthcare and professional driver training programmes in Malawi, the most recent of these involving bicycle ambulances as a simple, yet highly effective, lifesaving mode of transport.

Bearman adds: “So far as New Year’s resolutions go, committing to get bike-fit is a great place to start! Southern Malawi is a truly spectacular location; and this is going to be a once in a lifetime opportunity to see great swathes of the country from the saddle.”

Riders will cover an average of 60 miles per day and the route is graded as challenging. The penultimate day’s riding includes an afternoon tackling the Zomba Plateau, a stunning table-like mountain which soars to more than 2,080m and presides over the surrounding area.

To register your interest in a place on the challenge, or to request a registration pack, please contact Florence Bearman, Transaid Head of Fundraising by email to florence@transaid.org

Those signing up for a place on Cycle Malawi 2022 will be asked to pay a £349 registration fee, and to commit to raising a minimum of £3,800 for Transaid. Entries are welcomed from both individuals and teams.