Ed's story: pedalling panthers reign supreme to raise money for diabetes

From the desk to the pedals

A group of colleagues from the Bristol branch of the company Support Partners have pedalled their way to glory by cycling from their Bristol office to London to fight for a world where diabetes can do no harm.

The transition from desk jockeys to peddling panther athletes was seamless for the team of 6 who were keen to push their abilities to the limit after an enthusiastic commitment to their Cycle to Work Scheme.

Abbie, Joe, Jonathan and Richard are members of the Support Partners Cycling Club, regularly hitting the road together led by ‘King’ Ed who was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes 6 years ago. They were joined by Richard's heroic brother Jack and together they form the Sport Panthers, their alter ego in the saddle.

Battling hills, wind and rain

With their challenge set the Sport Panthers chose to raise funds for Diabetes UK in support of Ed and people affected by diabetes across the country.

The 135 mile cycle from Bristol to London was a two day event battling hills, wind and rain. But the team had all the motivation they needed to take on the elements as before donning their lycra and crash helmets they’d already reached their target of £1,000. A true feat in itself.

Ed told us, "this ride meant a huge amount to me and wouldn't have happened without Abbie, Rich, Jonathan, Joe and Jack. They were all happy to help raise money for Diabetes UK, which is a cause close to my heart and I'm incredibly thankful that they were up for the challenge.

The first day of the cycle was beautiful, riding through the North Wessex downs, up and down hills through some beautiful scenery.

We woke on the second day to downpours and wind, but despite this not a single person moaned at the prospect of getting back on their bike."

The Sport Panthers raised a sensational £1,749 from 90 donations in total to make a real difference for people affected by diabetes. You can see all the messages of support they received on their BT MyDonate page. They're a testament to team work, being ambitious and brave and, of course, channeling their inner panther.

Ruth, Regional Fundraiser for the South West loved working with the team: "It has been an absolute pleasure to support the Sport Panthers with their colossal challenge. It’s amazing to see a group of work colleagues and friends come together to do something so positive - raising an incredible amount of money and awareness in the process."

We couldn't be more grateful to Ed and the Sport Panthers for their support.

Want to take on your own challenge? Order a fundraising pack today and we'll help you create your own epic personal challenge to fight for a world where diabetes can do no harm.