Allianz are extremely proud and excited to be partnering with Barnardo’s, the UK's largest children’s charity, who support thousands of young people and their families.

Our Path to Paris cycle challenge will be a gruelling four days in the saddle, with the responsibility of completing the final leg of Allianz's year long fundraising relay from Glasgow to Paris, raising £100,000 for our corporate charities.

Laura, Dean and Andrew will represent Allianz Trade UK & Ireland (want to know more about our 3 cyclists).

Thank you for your support.

Dean:

Why am I doing it? As children are often the most vulnerable in our society and face many challenges the support that Barnado’s provides is critical. The charity cycle from London to Paris represents the biggest challenge I will face since taking up road cycle in 2020. It is a privilege to take part in this event to raise money to support the great work that Barnado’s volunteers carry out.

Fun fact? I started road cycling at the age of 50 and joined a local club. it is a sport that suits all ages and abilities. Give it a try!

Since putting myself forward to participate I have gone on 10 training rides completing 720 kms and climbed 6,284 mtrs. Here’s hoping I can do another 10 times and that it will be enough!

Laura:

Hey there, lovely people! 🚴‍♀️ Let me tell you why I'm putting the pedal to the metal for a fantastic cause! Cycling isn't always a breeze, but it's my ultimate stress-buster and a fantastic way to soak in the sights and sounds around me. There's nothing quite like the feeling of freedom you get from zipping around on two wheels.

Now, here's where the fun and feel-good factor comes in. We’re gearing up for an amazing adventure, and we’re on a mission to do some serious good along the way. For every £1 you donate, Barnardo's put 94p straight into supporting children and young people who really need it (retail costs not included). How awesome is that? Find out more here and join us in making a difference!

Oh, and here's a fun tidbit for you: I cycle to work every single day, rain or shine. And now, I'm taking it up a notch by cycling between Allianz offices. It's a bit of a throwback to when I made the big move from Allianz Trade in Paris to London almost 8 years ago.

So, what do you say? Let's pedal our way to reaching our goal of raising £3,000 and making a real difference for children in need. Join me on this epic ride, and let's spread some love and positivity along the way! 🌟

Andrew:

I'm excited and daunted in equal measure to take part in what is going to hopefully be a challenging but achievable cycle from London to Paris. I believe there probably should also a boat at some stage but I’m not a details person!

It’s undertaken for a really worthwhile charity, Barnardo’s, whose work resonates with me as their volunteers make a huge difference in young lives at the time when it can have the most lasting impact.

I found my way into cycling as quick and easy way to store excess cash in carbon fibre form and confirm my children’s’ fears that I am every bit as uncool at they feared. Over recent years with fluctuating fitness and enthusiasm levels I have completed the Wicklow 200 and various other sportives in sunshine, often rain and sometimes both over the hills around Ireland.