In September 2022, a team of 50 determined cyclists took part in the annual Straumann fundraising event and cycled across Northern Spain from Bilbao to Sitges, near Barcelona. The team had set the challenging target of raising £75,000 for this year’s nominated charity, Dentaid.

The event has, so far, raised more than £80,000.

Dentaid was selected as the event’s beneficiary because of the charity’s essential work for vulnerable communities across the globe.

Dentaid is currently working towards purchasing a new mobile unit, which will be staffed by volunteer dentists. The unit will provide dental care to the poor, the underprivileged and those experiencing homelessness within the UK. The charity’s fleet of mobile units visit hostels, soup kitchens and other community initiatives to provide free oral health advice, check-ups and pain-relieving treatments to those most in need.

On the most arduous of days, the team of riders covered over 100 miles and climbed almost 7,000ft.

Jill Harding, Dentaid communications director said, “As a charity we depend on initiatives like this which, due to the commitment and sheer physical effort made by the participants, generate the funds to support our activities. So a big thank you to all who took part in this event, all who donated and also to companies like Bupa that continue to support us year after year as their nominated charity.”

“The event itself looked amazing,” Jill continued. “I met the riders at the finish and it was fantastic to see the comradery between them all. Everyone said how well organised it was by Straumann which is a credit to them.”

Andy Evans, Dentaid CEO, participated in the bike ride. He added, “It was an amazing journey with a group of fantastic riders. We had to spend a long time in the saddle to cover the miles and it was a delight to do so with such lovely people who worked together to raise so much money for Dentaid. The route and the scenery were incredible and I really enjoyed it.

“I can’t thank Straumann enough for the organisation that went into the event – everything went very smoothly. I would certainly recommend it to others for the future. It’s an awesome event that is held in great locations and with amazing people. Thank you again to everyone who took part!”

For anyone who feels they might like to get involved in future events, Stephen’s advice is, it’s never too early to start training!

Any final donations are very much welcome at https://www.justgiving.com/team/Dentistsinlycra22

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