Downslink Challenge 2024 Raises Significant Funds for Local Charities

The 9th annual Downslink Challenge has successfully raised nearly £12,000 for local charities. Sponsored by Trident Honda, this off-road cycling event features two main rides: a century ride of 96 miles from Knaphill to Brighton and back, completed by 22 cyclists, and a 48-mile ride from Brighton to Knaphill, completed by 26 cyclists…

This year's supported charities were Woking & Sam Beare Hospice and Citizens Advice Woking. The ride primarily followed the disused Downs Link railway line from Guildford to Shoreham-by-Sea, with a special detour through the ShyneFest music festival at Merrist Wood.

Event organiser Steve McKeown expressed his pride in the participants, stating: “Chuffed to bits for all the riders in completing their personal challenges and for going the extra mile in their fundraising efforts. What a great community we have!”

Additional fundraising activities, including a gin night and a quiz night held in Knaphill throughout the year, have contributed to the total amount raised. It is hoped that this year's final total will reach £17,000, bringing the overall amount raised by the Downslink Challenge to £168,000.

Woking & Sam Beare Hospice acknowledged the event's success on social media, saying: “What an amazing day, such a great atmosphere and incredible fundraising. Thank you to The Downslink Challenge, Woking FC, Trident Honda, The Garibaldi, and the incredible team of volunteers who make it happen.”

Trident Honda in Ottershaw has been a sponsor of the event since its inception. Richard Roberts, Managing Director, commented: “This is a fantastic achievement for the Downslink team, raising over £168,000 in the nine years they've been organising these events. They should feel immensely proud, as we are to have supported them from the start!”

The event concluded with an evening of music from local band Blackbird and an auction of donated items from Woking FC.

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