Having begun in the UK with a cycle ride to the Plasa Show each year to raise awareness for mental health, BikeFest returned to London in 2021, fundraising for industry colleagues impacted by the coronavirus pandemic. This initiative was partnered with #WeMakeEvents, the global campaign spearheaded by Plasa in support of the live events supply chain.
Now, cyclists of all ages and abilities are invited to take part in BikeFest Spain 2022, a three-day fundraising ride from Valencia to ISE in Barcelona from 29-31 January, travelling 360km along the Mediterranean coast. The BikeFest team aims to raise funds for live events, entertainment and A/V professionals who have suffered financially due to the pandemic.
Two industry charities – Backup in the UK and AAA in Spain – will benefit from BikeFest 2022’s fundraising efforts, with; Plasa, Avixa, ISE, Afial, Fiave and Alerta Roja supporting and promoting the initiative.
Equipson COO and CMO Juan Jose Vila conceived the idea of a charity bike ride in Spain and asked #WeMakeEvents to headline the project, alongside a partnership with Afial, Plasa, Avixa and ISE. Over the past two years he has worked closely with these organisations to help the A/V industry, winning Avixa’s Volunteer of the year award 2021. He is also an active member of the Spanish #WeMakeEvents team, the Spanish equivalent of the campaign #hacemoseventos.
‘Primarily, this event is all about raising funds for the organisations and charities that are supporting those struggling in the live sector,’ he says. ‘But it is also about having fun and having a sustainable adventure where all the power is generated by our legs. The route isn't too arduous and, because it sticks to the coast, doesn't involve too many hills. With a bit of fitness almost everyone can do it. Of course, it is still a challenge to ride long distances over three days, but the challenge is manageable. We will even provide a six-week training plan if you want to take part.’
The ride will start in Valencia, finishing at ISE. Cyclists who wish to participate can sign up for all three days or single days. Day One from Valencia to Peñiscola is 140km; Day Two to Tarragona is 130km; Day Three to Barcelona is 95km. Two feed stations will be provided each day and participants who sign up for more than one day will have hotel accommodation provided. Everyone who completes at least part of the ride will receive a medal and have their name included in the Riders Directory.
‘Even if you can't take part, you can still support the event by buying merch such as a BikeFest 2022 jersey, or just by donating,’ Vila says. ‘And, of course, if companies want to sponsor the event they can as we want to raise as much as we can for this very worthwhile cause.’
‘It’s fantastic to see BikeFest grow and help our industry colleagues in Europe,’ sya Plasa Membership Director and co-founder and steering group member of #WeMakeEvents, Nicky Greet. ‘Initiatives like this do so much more than just raise funds – they bring people together for a meaningful cause and strengthen cross-industry bonds. Together, we also remind the wider world that although the live sector is reopening, our “hidden” industry still faces many challenges. So, let's come together and raise awareness of the talented professionals behind live events, entertainment and A/V.’
‘Bike Fest is a brilliant way to get active and raise support for professionals within A/V and Live Events industries – many of whom need help to get back on track after the pandemic,’ says ISE MD, Mike Blackman. ‘It is a stunning route along the coastline from Valencia to ISE's new home in Barcelona, so if you are a keen cyclist please get involved and do something amazing. We look forward to seeing you back at ISE 2022 in Barcelona to ignite our great industry.’
More: www.bikefest2022.com
