Canal du Midi Bike Ride Was a Memorable Experience

Cancer Support France groups in the south of France joined together to organise a 240-km cycle balade along the Canal du Midi – a UNESCO heritage site and one of the most scenic routes in Europe. Reports came in that the event was a smashing success for participants and for Cancer Support France, and brought together English speakers from far and wide. Taking part were visiting UK residents, French, Australian, Swiss and South African, and from many walks of life: accountants, surgeons, doctors, police, and teachers, both active and retired.

For a great cause, along a beautiful stretch of French countryside, the CSF Canal du Midi bike ride set off from Toulouse came to an end by the Mediterranean under a clear blue sky last Thursday June 11. Over 5 days up to 61 cyclists tackled the locks, paths and a few road sections steered by Tony Ray, Treasurer of Cancer Support France Gascony.

President Jayne Ray said how thrilled they are at the success of the event. There have already been suggestions to make it an annual occurrence! To see pictures of the ride go to the Facebook page for CSFCanal du midi cycle ride.

‘The original purpose of the event was to raise public awareness of CSF and to share a convivial experience in an enjoyable and memorable way’, said Jayne, ‘I am delighted to confirm that all elements were achieved in a fantastic display of human spirit. Awareness of the charity has been raised enormously over the area covered and much money has been raised that will be used to help sufferers and their families at such a difficult time.’

An official send off was given by Marie-Hélène Mayeux-Bouchard (Adjoint au Marie de Toulouse) and comments from authorities and participants were soon flooding in:

“What a wonderful time we had….Great memories”
–Gwen Western – CSF Gascony organising committee

“A great week! Thank you to all the organisers and everyone involved it was certainly an adventure and one that I will always remember”
–Terrie Budd-Meier – Cyclist

“The week has not not only raised awareness, raised funds but also raised the spirits of the people we help who have not been able to join us. Every night pictures of the event were posted on the Facebook page so they could feel as if they were still part of it”
–Jackie Clarke – CSF Gascony organising committee

“Has anyone seen my whistle?”
–Tony Ray, daily briefing before the start of each ride.

 

A shout-out to all the volunteers and drivers that each day moved heavy bags and equipment to the next stop and were ready to help in case of need and gave directions at difficult waypoints. CSF wanted us to convey their huge thank you for making this events possible!

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How can you get help if you need it?

CSF National Helpline Tel No: 0810 240 200 or [email protected]
CSF website: www.cancersupportfrance.org
CSF Forum: www.csf-forum.org

CSF – Sud de France if you live in Aude, Ariege, Pyrénées-Orientales, Tarn
Sud de France Helpline Tel No: 04 68 69 01 37 or [email protected]
Our local website: www.csf-suddefrance.webs.com
Sud de France Facebook page : www.facebook.com/csf.sud