|   SHARE:   

You are here:  Home

Blog

[ Go back ]

'Tis the season for giving

Going for 25000 Spins

Back in 2009, my son Craig had a high profile position at a London bank but he longed for some active adventure away from corporate life. Craig also had a desire to do something for others, especially underprivileged children in third world countries. He gave me a shocking fact some time ago, 17 children die every minute somewhere in our world due to poverty related causes. So Craig dreamt up and organised his first group bike ride to raise funds for appropriate children’s charities.

The riders participating in that inaugural London to Paris ride (pictured below) were friends, friends of friends and work colleagues. However, the trip was successful, funds were raised for charities and 25000 Spins was born.

The inaugural 25000 Spins London to Paris riders, enjoying the adventure and raising funds for children's charities

EZIPOP eco friendly brochure holders to the rescue

This became the pattern for subsequent rides in various locations but eventually that ‘pool’ was exhausted and Craig realised he needed to advertise more widely. The people at EZIPOP came to the ‘rescue’ by donating their unique cardboard brochure holders, printed up in 25000 Spins livery.

25000 Spins volunteers were called on to get these brochures onto counters in diverse outlets like bike stores, newsagents, video rental outlets, convenience stores and cafes etc. Craig asked me to volunteer and at first I was a little apprehensive but when I approached these stores and popped the EZIPOP full of brochures up on their counter, the reception was very positive, “They look strong, very attractive and won’t clutter our store counter”; “Just put it right here next to the cash register”, were typical comments that I received, so I became a very happy and keen volunteer, successfully placing these brochure holders full of Craig’s 25000 Spins leaflets in many different locations.

100% more riders since EZIPOP

Craig told me that since they have used the EZIPOPs to display their leaflets promoting upcoming rides, interest has dramatically jumped, with over 100% more riders participating. “I now have riders on a waiting list, which is a great result” he said.

I'm very proud of my son Craig’s achievements and all he's doing to help disadvantaged children in the world. He and 25000 Spins have raised over $370,000 so far and are on track to raise $300,000 next year! 25000 Spins donates all funds raised to four children’s charities - ADRA, COMPASSION, UNICEF and the Botswana orphan project. http://youtu.be/-1RTu0qhxOw

Upcoming rides are the Great Ocean Ride Australia in February 2013 and London to Paris in July 2013. Craig said, “We’ll be arriving into Paris the day before the Tour De France riders, WOW! In July we have the Swiss trip and in September the North Queensland Australia Adventure. I will also be taking a trip to New Zealand next year to plan the 25000 Spins 5th annual ride.”

People can help by either becoming a rider or sponsoring an existing rider and these funds go directly to the charity the particular rider is supporting. Also volunteers are always needed who are willing to fundraise and ride on the various tours. More details at 25000 Spins.

These 25000 Spins riders helped raise over $370,000 for children's charities. Photo: Switzerland 2011