Le Loop - supporting the William Wates Memorial Trust
🚴♂️ Michael & Sam – Riding the Alps for WWMT
In June 2026, my son and I will be taking on the Alps section of Le Loop, riding the official route of the Tour de France just one week ahead of the professionals.
Le Loop follows the full Tour route and finishes 21 stages later in Paris. Around 100 riders will gather in Barcelona for the Grand Départ on Friday 26th June 2026. Some ride a few days, some take on the full three weeks. We’ve chosen the Alps — arguably the most iconic and brutal part of the Tour.
Massive climbs. Long days. Little mercy.
Riders tackle one of several “Loops”, covering anything from 2 to all 21 stages of France’s most famous bike race. Every participant commits to raising funds for the William Wates Memorial Trust (WWMT). Importantly, every penny donated goes directly to the charity — it does not fund our participation.
Why We’re Doing This
The William Wates Memorial Trust exists to help some of the most disadvantaged young people stay away from a life of crime and violence and fulfil their potential.
They do this by funding grassroots charities that engage young people through sport, arts and education — giving opportunities to those who might otherwise never get them.
As a dad, riding this alongside my son makes the cause even more meaningful. We’re incredibly lucky to have opportunities, health, and support. Not every young person does.
This is our chance to give something back.
The Challenge
Le Loop is no small undertaking.
Even ONE stage of the Tour de France route is tough. The Alps? That’s serious climbing — the kind you normally only watch on TV with a cup of tea in hand.
There will be long mountain ascents, high temperatures, tired legs and probably moments of questioning our life choices.
But it’s nothing compared to the challenges faced by the young people this charity supports.
Please Support Us
Charities — especially those supporting young people — have faced incredibly tough times over the last few years.
If you’re able to sponsor us, any amount makes a real difference.
Please reward our pain in the mountains by giving generously 🙏
Thank you so much for your support.
Michael & Sam
Merci! 🇫🇷🚵♂️
