Something for the weekend: Colt Technology Services has announced that 175 of its employees will cycle a 450 kilometres route from Brussels to Dusseldorf from 6 to 9 September to raise money for 22 charities around the world.
As part of its ninth fundraising bike ride, the firm’s employees will cycle for more than 100 kilometres, or 62 miles, a day on a multi-terrain route. Colt employees and handcyclists Susanne Hogan (pictured above), Gio Strawbridge and Jordan Francis, who are active members of the organisation’s Disability Accessibility Network, are also taking part.
As they have accessibility and mobility challenges, each XCR handcycle has been custom-made and specially adapted, with adjustable backrests and electric assist 500W motors to support with difficult terrain and elevation. They were designed to be operated by riders’ arms and suitable for long journeys on paved roads and off the beaten track, with hand-controlled braking and gearing via a changer on the right crank handle.
Riders who are neurodiverse and with health conditions will also take part, and will be supported by the employer’s disability network to make sure their needs are met.
Colt stated that it is a year into its five-year accessibility roadmap, through which it designs accessibility into every project and initiative right from the start as a key part of its strategy. It believes that accessibility and inclusion are essential for its mission to empower employees to thrive.
Annette Murphy, chief commercial officer at Colt Technology Services, said: “We’re so proud of our Colt Bike Ride; it’s a fantastic opportunity for our Colties to come together and give back to some wonderful charities and we’re hugely grateful to our sponsors for their support. Reframing the conversation around accessibility is so incredibly important, and this ride is particularly special as it gives us the opportunity to challenge perceptions.”
This sounds like a brilliant way to raise money and improve employee accessibility to us at Employee Benefits!
