MEMBERS of Bude Women’s Rugby Team cycled more than 1,300 miles to raise money for one local’s cancer treatment.  

On July 26, six members of Bude Women’s Rugby Team took to the exercise bikes as they challenged themselves to cycle for 24 hours, with the aim of tackling 1,350 miles between them, all while raising money for a cause close to their hearts.  

Bude resident, Clare Downes was diagnosed with colon cancer in 2021 and is now seeking treatment in Germany to help fight the disease.  

With treatment expenses incredibly high, the community are now rallying around to support her. 

In order to raise funds, Vinnie James, Alex Gallagher, Tia Larson, Holly Stephenson, Ellie Gregory, and Lisa Allin got into the saddle and pushed themselves to the limit, cycling the distance between Bude and Frankfurt – the same trip Clare will complete to seek treatment. 

When asked what prompted the challenge, the girls explained: “Vinnie is well know for her generous nature and always trying to help, so anything to raise money for Clare was an option.  

“Vinnie has know Clare for a few years now and Clare's partner Ben and Vinnie’s husband grew up together and Vinnie so she is someone the girls all knew of and had heard her story. 

“We all get on really well and have played rugby with each other for years so we thought a different sort of challenge would be good to undertake.” 

For many of the group, a challenge of this scale was a brand new experience.  

They explained: “Vinnie has previously undertaken two 24 hour challenges in her time, a 24 hour gym challenge and a 24 hour row to raise money for Kilkhampton pre school. As for the other five that took part, this was a whole new experience!”  

With this being a first for many of the group, the team decided that they wouldn’t keep track of individual miles, and as long as the team did the 1,350-mile in total they would be happy.

Having cycled for their lives, the ladies managed to complete their massive journey. 

Bude Women's Rugby Cycle
The team had the support of locals during their challenge (Submitted)

With the aim of raising £600, the group’s efforts were not in vain as their mighty challenge has raised more than £1,700 so far.

The team added: “We set a target of £600 and have so far raised £1,700 which is amazing but the treatment, accommodation and flights are all very costly.”  

With their challenge complete, and a huge sum already raised, the team is hopeful that the figure can continue to grow and Clare’s cause can be supported further. 

To donate to Bude Women’s Rugby Club’s fundraiser, visit the group’s GoFundMe page: www.gofundme.com/f/bd4yb-24-hour-cycle