2023 was a successful year for Rivertrace. We posted record sales and profit. We also learnt a lot during our first-year post-acquisition of Solar Solve.
Each year, we hold quarterly SLT (Senior Leadership Team) meetings (usually off site) to set and review our strategic objectives. Following the last SLT meeting, Mike Coomber and I decided it would be nice to give back. We identified a couple of charities close to our hearts and committed to supporting them in 2024 and beyond.
One of these charities is Wheels for All. Wheels for All is an Inclusive Cycling programme that embraces all children and adults with disabilities and differing needs to engage with quality cycling activity, using adapted cycles such as handcycles, trikes and wheelchair transporter to assist in building confidence and independence in cycling.
My daughter (Evie) has learning difficulties. It has been challenging trying to find hobbies and past times that appeal to her. Evie has ADHD and struggles to concentrate for a prolonged period. During her childhood, we tried lots of different activities with mixed success.
A few years ago, we found Wheels for All in Epsom. Nigel and the team are brilliant at making everyone feel welcome. Set at an athletics track (closed to the public), there are several types of bikes for people with different disabilities. Everyone rides at their own pace; some are accompanied, and some enjoy their own time. What’s important is that everyone rides with a smile on their face.
Evie has tried most of the bikes and lately has decided the tandems are the most fun. I’m convinced this is because her Dad (me!) does most of the work! We go to the track most Saturdays and do a few laps. Evie loves it!
Rivertrace funded the purchase of a new Tomcat Dragon adapted cycle (see image). We hope this will bring a lot more smiles to the faces of the riders and the volunteers like Nigel that give up their weekends to run these sessions. Hats off!
Martin & Evelyn Saunders at Epsom 24 Feb 24