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Each year, the Cycle September challenge run by Love to Ride celebrates the benefits of cycling and encourages new riders. Cycling can help your health and wellbeing, and as transport, it’s better for the environment than travelling by car or bus.
In Love to Ride’s previous challenge Bike Month, which took place in May, Islander Miguel won a £500 prize to spend in a local cycling shop of his choice. He was randomly selected after taking part and logging his rides.
He said of his experience cycling, “I got back into cycling a few years ago when a friend suggested we try it as something to do in nice weather with the added benefit of a bit of exercise. I’ve been cycling every so often ever since.”
Although he cycles to work occasionally, Miguel rides mostly for the views that are found en route, “I don’t quite cycle enough to have a favourite, but I do enjoy getting lost in the green lanes out east. It’s a great way to admire the beauty of Jersey.”
Generously, he has chosen to use his prize money to help someone else get involved in cycling, “I already have a bike, so I’m putting the prize money towards a bike and helmet for my partner so she can join me on my rides too.”
This kind of shared experience is at the heart of Cycle September; inspiring others and building a community around cycling.
“Most people already use Strava when they cycle, and Love to Ride allows you to sync your rides directly. Once that’s set up, you get a clear display of your cycling stats, and you’re automatically entered into prize draws.”
You can also use the Love to Ride app to automatically or manually log rides.
We asked if he thought more people should get into cycling. “As someone who also drives and gets stuck behind cyclists, I’d like to say no… But honestly, yes! If people are able to, I think it’s a great idea. It’s a fun way to spend time with friends, and a brilliant way to take in the natural beauty of Jersey.”
This Cycle September, more prizes can be won with Love to Ride. For both Jersey and UK based riders there is a chance to win a £3,000 holiday. In fact, since 2023, 29 Jersey cyclists have won national prizes, and like Miguel, locals are in with the chance to win £500 in a Jersey cycle shop too.
If you haven’t signed up yet, don’t worry! Just register at lovetoride.net/jersey and start logging your rides today.