Teenagers saddle up for coast to coast cycle

14-year-old Camila Dent from Kenilworth will cycle coast to coast from Whitehaven to Sunderland in just three days in hope of raising around £1,000 for British Blind Sport.

Joined by class mate Lucy Abell, the Year Nine pupils at King’s High School in Warwick have set a target of just three days in which to complete the route.

After being inspired by the Tour de France riders over the summer, they said they want to do all they can for the Leamington-based charity which allows blind people to access a wide range of sports.

Speaking about the challenge, Camila said after completing part of the cycle route before, she couldn’t wait for the challenge to make it all the way.

“Lucy and I just fancied training for a challenge. I did a day of the Coast to Coast route three years ago and had always wanted to do to the whole course,” she said.

“Both of us thought it was a really good cause and knowing that the organisation needs all the funds it can get has really spurred us on doing our training.

“The combination of that and watching the Tour de France has helped us put the miles in over the last few weeks so hopefully we will be fully prepared.”

After training hard before the summer holidays, they are confident they can make it to their destination on time when they set off in August.

And all in the hope that it will bring in the £1,000 to help make a difference to the life of someone with sight problems.

British Blind Sport, which is based at Tachbrook Park, was founded in 1976 and has since become the leading voice for visually impaired people in the world of sport and leisure across the UK.

Senior Fundraiser Lucy Shepherd, said they are always grateful to anyone who undertakes a challenge to help them raise much-needed donations.

And that everyone at the charity is backing the girls all the way on their tough challenge ahead.

“We do get people of all ages taking part in a wide range of events and it’s great to hear that Camilla and Lucy have organised this cycle ride from coast to coast,” she said.

“They are aiming to complete the route in three days which would be a considerable achievement.”

The friends have already raised part of their target after setting up an online fundraising page.

They have been given a grant for accommodation along the way by the school’s parents association to help them make sure every penny raised goes towards the charity.

To donate and support the girls, visit www.justgiving.com/millalucy

Visit www.britishblindsport.org.uk or contact [email protected] to find out more about British Blind Sport and who it is able to help across the county every day thanks to donations and fundraising challenges.