UK Cycling Team Desert Ride Aims to Surpass £1M for Children
Next week, the H&K Cycle Club from East London will embark on their fifth consecutive UK cycling team desert ride charity challenge, tackling an awe-inspiring 550-kilometre journey from Mecca to Medina. From January 25th to 28th, these dedicated cyclists will push through extreme conditions to raise vital funds for children suffering from Congenital Heart Defects in Africa, with an ambitious goal to surpass £1 million in total fundraising.
Five Years of Desert Cycling Excellence
What began in 2022 as a bold, unprecedented ride has now become a defining tradition of endurance, camaraderie, and compassion. Over the past four years, the riders have collectively cycled more than 2,200 kilometres through the Saudi desert, raising over £750,000 for life-saving surgeries. This year’s milestone fifth ride represents a critical push to reach the £1 million fundraising mark, a testament to the unwavering commitment of this remarkable cycling team.
The gruelling expedition will push the cyclists through the heart of the Saudi desert, where they will face scorching 40°C heat, brutal headwinds, and over 550 kilometres of rugged terrain. For many riders, this will be their fifth crossing between these iconic cities, demonstrating extraordinary resilience and deep commitment to saving children’s lives.
MBE Recognition for Charitable Leadership
Shamsul Abdin, Head of the H&K Cycle Club, has recently been awarded an MBE (Member of the Order of the British Empire) in recognition of his decade-long commitment to charitable fundraising and community leadership. His efforts have raised more than £2.2 million for causes supporting women, children and vulnerable communities across Asia and Africa.
“Five years ago, this was an untested dream. Today, it’s a mission that has become part of who we are. Every kilometre we ride is fuelled by the strength of the children we ride for; their courage inspires us to push through the most punishing moments. This fifth anniversary ride is more than a milestone; it’s a celebration of hope, perseverance, and the lives we’ve been able to save together.”
Shamsul Abdin, MBE, Head of H&K Cycle Club
Supporting Little Hearts Across Africa
The route, first conquered by the H&K Cycle Club in 2022, has only ever been completed by this team. Each year, they have faced the same unrelenting heat, dangerous highways, and physical exhaustion, yet their purpose keeps them in the saddle. Funds raised will support Muntada Aid’s Little Hearts project, a vital initiative that has been transforming lives since 2012.
Little Hearts provides free, life-saving surgeries for children from disadvantaged backgrounds across Africa and beyond, reaching nearly 3,500 children in 15 countries to date. The impact of this UK cycling team desert ride charity initiative extends far beyond the kilometres covered, directly saving young lives.
“Five years of this ride is an extraordinary achievement. The dedication and resilience of the H&K Cycle Club serve as a beacon of hope, not just for the children we support, but for anyone who believes in the power of community to drive change. Every pound raised gives a child the chance to live a long and healthy life.”
Kabir Miah, Programmes Manager at Muntada Aid
The H&K Cycle Club invites supporters to make this landmark year the most impactful yet. Every donation brings them closer to their £1 million target and closer to saving hundreds more lives through this remarkable cycling challenge.
