Stephen Crowley

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 over the following 3 weeks of the tour.

As part of my 60th birthday celebrations in 2025, myself and 3 friends, who are also reaching this grand old age!, have decided to take on the challenge of riding what's known as the "Mountains Week" in aid of a fantastic young persons charity.  

The challenge involves cycling Stages 14-19 from 11th to 19th July 2025, covering 986kms and over 21,000 meters of climbing.  The notable climbs include: Col de Tourmalet, Aspin, Peyresourde, Superbagnéres, Pas Du Sant, Mount Ventoux, La Loze, Glandon, Madeleine, Col des Saises, Cornet de Roseland via Col du Pré and La Plagne.

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.  Here's a link to a link to a video showing the great work the charity does: 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5A45BIl-p18 

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. Riding even ONE stage of the Tour de France route is going to hurt let alone the 6 stages I'm going to attempt to complete! Please reward my pain by giving a donation no matter how big or small.

Merci!