Three members of the Offshore Renewable Energy (ORE) Catapult’s senior management team have just completed the 215 mile Earth Wind and Tyre cycle challenge to mark Global Wind Day, raising £2519.06 for charity.
The intrepid trio, comprising Operations Director Tony Quinn, Finance Director Andrew Walls, and Strategy & Commercialisation Director Steve Wyatt, who was in the winning pack, began their two-day journey in Durham and cycled through seven of the country’s most spectacular wind farms, climbing over 4,000 metres on their way to Edinburgh. They smashed their original fundraising target of £1,500 for the charity Renewable World, which works to tackle energy poverty in the developing world and helps energy-poor communities to access life changing power.
Tony Quinn said:
“When Christian Egal from EDF Energy Renewables first told me about his brainchild after a couple of glasses of red, I took temporary leave of my senses and ‘agreed’ to cycle over 200 miles to raise money for a cause that is very close to my heart, recruiting a couple of colleagues along the way.
“Many of the communities Renewable World work with have been severely affected by the largest earthquake to hit South East Asia in 80 years, with Nepal having special significance for me. I’ve visited twice, and love the country and its people. It is nice to think that turning the pedals a few times might contribute in some small way to rebuilding and renewing Nepal.”
Andrew Walls added:
“I am already a keen cyclist, and couldn’t resist the challenge, especially for such a worthy cause. It was a very well organised event by EDF Energy Renewables and Renewable World, and a hugely rewarding experience for us all. I fully intend to participate in future, similar events that strengthen relationships across our industry.”
Steve Wyatt said:
“It was great to see so many colleagues from across our industry taking part in the cycle as well as raising awareness and supporting the great work of Renewable World. Judging by the smiles on people’s faces when they arrived in Edinburgh I’m sure we’ll all be back next year.”