Braveheart Cycling Fund Dinner and Ride Returns After Nine-Year Hiatus, Celebrating Scotland’s Cycling Past and Future

The Braveheart Cycling Fund Dinner and Ride roared back to life this year after a nine-year pause, uniting Scotland’s cycling community for a celebration of heritage, talent, and the shared ambition to champion the nation’s future stars.

Announced in October 2024, the long-awaited return of Braveheart drew remarkable support from volunteers, sponsors, and cycling icons. The event featured a mass-participation ride through the Ayrshire countryside and a gala dinner at the Park Hotel in Kilmarnock.

More than 170 riders took part in the 87 km route, supported by Ayr Road Cycling Club, who led the way and were joined by ex-Raleigh professionals, Tour de France legend Pippa York, and Scottish Olympians Jack Carlin and Grant Ferguson, among others. Smiles, stories, and Braveheart-branded cupcakes greeted riders at the finish, celebrating cycling camaraderie at its finest.

The evening programme featured exclusive auction items, vintage Raleigh bicycles, and memorabilia, with all proceeds supporting the development of emerging Scottish talent. Hosts Alan Anderson and Charline Jones led conversations with a star-studded line-up, including author Chris Sidwells, Tour de France riders Theo de Rooij, Pippa York, and Olympians Jack Carlin, Charlie Aldridge, and Grant Ferguson, who shared insights from racing’s biggest stages.

A highlight of the night was the announcement of the Braveheart Trophy winner. Among the shortlist of promising Scottish athletes, Erin Boothman, Pheobe Gale, and Callum Thornley, it was Thornley who claimed the honour, boosted by his standout victory at the Tour of Lombardy.

Every bid placed during the silent and live auctions, including the sale of a Raleigh Chopper and a VIP experience at the Tour of Britain,  contributed essential funding to support young Scottish cyclists chasing international success. The evening’s theme resonated throughout: Heroes Don’t Just Happen. Support builds champions.

“The response has been incredible,” said Trustee Kathy Gilchrist. “Braveheart has always been about community, belief, and giving tomorrow’s champions the opportunities they deserve. This year proved that passion for Scottish cycling is stronger than ever.”

The Braveheart Cycling Fund Dinner and Ride has secured its place once again as a key fixture in the national cycling calendar, with plans already forming for next year’s event.

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