There are just a couple of weeks to go until our MD, Tony Morris, joins a team cycling from the historic beauty of Venice to the vibrant heart of Milan, in support of the Frenkel Topping Charitable Foundation. This 4-day challenge covers over 270 miles but is more than a test of endurance. Whilst the route will see the group taking in some of the most glorious countryside northern Italy has to offer, skirting the city of Verona and Lake Garda, make no mistake – this is a quest. A quest driven by empathy and compassion, to help make a positive difference in other people’s lives.
The Frenkel Topping Charitable Foundation helps individuals and their families achieve happiness and fulfilment after life-changing events. For those left with a disability or cognitive behavioural needs – in particular, those with a head or spinal injury – the Frenkel Topping Charitable Foundation works to empower them to discover their strengths, support their achievements and protect them in their endeavours.
This is why Tony and the rest of the team are riding. They’re a mix of experienced, die-hard cyclists and complete novices, each with their own reasons for taking part. The demands of running M & C and catering for the ongoing needs of his clients mean that Tony hasn’t been able to train anywhere near as much as he had planned and feels that he’s somewhere in the middle! But how tough does he think the ride will be?
Tony says: “I’ve done marathons before but this is a different kind of challenge altogether. Physically demanding, of course – but there’ll also be an emotional element involved. You can’t help but think that for all the discomfort that us riders may find ourselves feeling, just how much the people we’re riding for, would give to experience that discomfort. The Frenkel Topping Charitable Foundation makes a real and tangible difference to people whose lives are irreversibly changed. I think I can put up with aching legs and a sore bum for a few days!”
Tony’s approach reflects that of the whole team – they will be willing each other on and helping each other through the inevitable ups and downs of the adventure. So, given that it’s not all going to be a bed of roses, is he looking forward to it?
Tony explains: “It’s going to be an incredible experience, but none of us can expect to be on a high for the whole ride. We have to take it one revolution at a time and just focus on what’s in front of us at that point in time. Exactly like people who are newly dealing with a life-changing injury, have to do. As a Tour de France rider once said, ‘There’s no point in worrying about the Alps when you’re in The Pyrenees.’ I have every confidence that the team will work together to get everyone across the finish line!”
In the meantime, Tony will keep the wheels turning on the highways and byways of his local countryside; is stocking up on energy gels, and is looking forward to a diet of every cyclist’s nutritional friend – pasta!
You can donate to Tony’s quest to make a difference to those supported by the Foundation here. Every penny contributed will make a difference, so please help him to help them. He’ll certainly appreciate it, but more importantly, you’ll be helping bring a taste of la dolce vita to those in need.