Excited Gosport defence firm to cycle in 500-mile relay across Europe for 'worthwhile cause'
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Hundreds of pounds has been raised ahead of the challenge
Determined cyclists at a Gosport-based defence firm are gearing up for a huge 500-mile relay.
Employees at STS Defence in Mumby Road will be traversing winding streets across Europe as part of the Extra Mile cycling challenge. Led by Club Peloton, the endurance test will take place in France, Belgium, and Luxembourg, from September 17.
Managing director Ben Stancliffe said: “I’m delighted to be taking part in the Extra Mile cycle challenge for the third year in a row. It’s a fantastic event that challenges us physically and mentally as individuals and as a team.
“Each year I promise myself that I will be more prepared than the previous year and each year that somehow doesn’t happen. There have been sporadic training rides which will have to suffice.”
Employees previously took on the challenge in 2025. They’ll be supporting the British Heart Foundation this year, with an online fundraiser already raising £2,250 at the time of writing.
Mr Stancliffe added: “I’m sure this year will see us raise more money than ever before. We are lucky to have excellent support from partners and suppliers who are generously donating.”
STS Defence teams will be riding alongside colleagues their from parent and sister companies, Cicor and Axis Electronics. From all the money raised, 75 per cent will be donated to the British Heart Foundation, with the remaining 25 per cent being awarded to the wider network of Club Peloton projects.
Head of HR, Sean Scott, said he’s incredibly proud to take on the expedition. He said: “It’s a fantastic opportunity to get back on the bike, challenge myself, and raise money for a charity that does such important work. The British Heart Foundation funds vital research, supports people living with heart and circulatory diseases, and helps save lives across the UK.
“Representing STS Defence makes the experience even more special. I’m proud to be part of a team that gets behind worthwhile causes and encourages people to push themselves out of their comfort zone. I’m not sure I’ll be quite as enthusiastic when I see some of the hills on the route though.
“I’m definitely looking forward to the ride, the challenge, and the sense of achievement that comes with completing it. I could probably do without the hills though.”
Donations can be made via the STS Defence JustGiving page here.