Cycling 170 Miles in Memory of Dad for The Kirkwood

When Leonie Allen, a close personal friend of OLIK Sports, lost her dad, Phil, to oesophageal cancer earlier this year, her family were left with a huge hole in their lives.

In his final weeks, The Kirkwood hospice gave Phil and his family care, dignity, and support that went far beyond medical treatment. It was The Kirkwood's compassion that made a lasting difference to Phil's four children, and following his passing, inspired them to give something back.

And thus, the idea of a 170-mile cycling challenge was born.

The family signed up to ride the Way of the Roses, a route that stretches from Morecambe on the west coast to Bridlington on the east. Over four days, they will undertake steep climbs, endure long hours in the saddle, and contend with the unpredictable British weather, all while carrying the memory of their dad with them.

When we found out about the event, we were more than happy to lend a hand by creating bespoke cycling gear for the family to wear to keep them inspired along their arduous journey.

Leonie and her siblings came up with a design centred around the Northern Lights, which, on the night Phil passed away, had filled the sky with almost symbolic beauty.

For the family, that symbol provided hope amidst grief and a source of beauty in loss. Wearing that design as they ride their bikes will give them something deeply personal to carry with them on the journey. Others ordered the shirts too, to create a sense of unity for when the family crosses the finish line and gathers to celebrate their momentous achievement.

So far, two days into the ride (at the time of writing), the fundraiser has brought in more than £5,200 towards a target of £6,000. Every pound raised goes directly to The Kirkwood, helping them continue to provide the same kind of care that meant so much to Leonie’s family to other families in need.

If Phil's & Leonie’s story has moved you to help, there’s still time to donate to this worthy cause, and every contribution will make a difference.

You can support their ride and The Kirkwood’s vital work here: Donate to the fundraiser