This year’s challenge, dubbed ‘The Italian Job II’, saw a 52-strong team of cyclists – made up of TIP customers, partners and colleagues from across the UK and Ireland – tackle a grueling 350-kilometre route over three days. Starting in the Veneto region, north of Venice, the riders pushed through the Dolomites and around the lakes of Lombardy, before finishing in the historic city of Bergamo.
This historic challenge raised crucial funds for the Douglas Macmillan Hospice, which provides vital care for people living with life-limiting illnesses in Stoke-on-Trent and North Staffordshire.
TIP had originally set a target of £90,000 for this year’s ride, but by the end of the very first day the total had already surpassed £100,000.
Mike Furnival, managing director of TIP, commented: “Throughout the ride, the team never shirked from the challenge. Tough moments were met with determination, teamwork and humour, and reaching the finish was incredibly rewarding. We are delighted and deeply grateful for the amazing amount raised for such a fantastic charity. None of this would have been possible without the support of TIP’s customers, partners, colleagues and friends – thank you for making such a huge difference.”