Richard Olney

Le Loop - supporting the William Wates Memorial Trust

Le Loop follows the official route of the Tour de France, one week ahead of the professionals and finishes 21 stages later in Paris

On Friday 25th June 2025 around 100 riders will gather in Lille for the 'Grand Depart'. Some cycle a few days, some ride further. More will join us over the following 3 weeks of the tour.

Riders tackle one of a selection of "Loops" riding anything from 2 to all 21 stages of the Tour de France route. 

I will be joining for stages 16 and 17 in the mountains, covering 333km across 2 days.  Day 1 includes  a 16km climb up the iconic Mont Ventoux.  Day 2 is a slightly more gentle 100 miler through the rolling hills of Northern Provence.

I have always dreamt of tackling the Tour de France so here is my opportunity to see whether my 58 year old self can manage 2 stages on consecutive days!

Every participant commits to raising a minimum amount for the William Wates Memorial Trust (WWMT). The fundraised money is entirely separate from the participation fee - donations do not pay for my Tour. 

All monies raised go directly to the William Wates Memorial Trust whose mission is to help the most disadvantaged young people keep away from a life of crime and violence and fulfil their potential. This is achieved by giving grants to charities that engage young people through the medium of sports, arts and education.

It's been a tough couple of years for charities and particularly for young people. This is my chance to give something back and help support young people who aren't lucky enough to enjoy the advantages in life that most of us take for granted.

Le Loop is no small undertaking. I'm pretty sure riding just the 2 stages of the Tour de France route is going to hurt! Please reward my pain by giving generously.

Merci!