Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance has announced the launch of a special fundraising trophy in support of its latest event, Race from the Base.
Taking place at Henstridge Airfield on Saturday, June 10, 2023, Race from the Base is an ultra-cycling challenge with three different distances to choose from: 30km (The Circuit), 60km (The Cruise) and 100km (The Climb). All routes will start and finish at the airfield, which is the home of the Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance team.
The event will begin at 9.30am for those undertaking the 100km route, followed by a 10.30am start for the 60km route and an 11.30am start for those completing the 30km route. There will also be a rider’s village and entertainment for spectators who are coming along to support the cyclists taking part.
The Hugo Yaxley Trophy has been created in memory of one of the charity’s patients, Hugo Yaxley, who was a keen cyclist and tragically lost his life in a road traffic incident in November 2020. Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance cared for Hugo at the scene of the incident and then airlifted him to University Hospital Southampton to receive further treatment. Tragically, Hugo died in hospital later that night as a result of his injuries.
Following Hugo’s passing, his brothers Thomas and Joshua Yaxley, along with friends and family members, have raised over £46,000 for Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance.
To honour his memory and the fantastic fundraising efforts of Hugo’s family, Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance will present The Hugo Yaxley Trophy to the participant who raises the highest amount in sponsorship for the life-saving charity.
Emma Jones, Fundraising Manager for Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance, said: “We are so excited to be holding the first Race from the Base cycle challenge at our airbase in June. It really is going to be a fantastic event and we can’t wait to see everyone on the day.
“On behalf of the whole team, I would like to say a huge thank you to Tom, Josh and their family and friends, for raising such an incredible amount for us. We are so pleased to receive the family’s blessing to dedicate this special fundraising trophy in Hugo’s memory. We hope that it will inspire those taking part to raise as much as possible.”
Speaking about the fundraising trophy, Thomas Yaxley, said: “We are really touched that Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance have introduced this award in Hugo’s memory.
“The clinical team were there when we needed them the most; they gave Hugo a fighting chance and although he didn’t make it, they gave our parents a chance to say goodbye. That means more to us than could ever be conveyed by words, so it’s been a real privilege to raise money and awareness for them. Knowing that the funds we have raised have given others the same fighting chance as Hugo had, is a fitting legacy to an extraordinary young man.”
Entrance fees for Race from the Base are Adults: £25 (30km), £35 (60km), £40 (100km); Under 16’s: £10 (30km), £15 (60km).
Please note, the 100km distance is not open to Under 16’s. All children under the age of 16 must be accompanied by an adult.
For more information about Race from the Base and to register, visit: www.dsairambulance.org.uk/race-from-the-base
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