WE’VE DONE IT: Philip Holford, left, of Myddelton & Major, with the team Allan Hilder, Steve Skinner and James Prowse after completing the the 520-mile Massif Challenge
A Wiltshire property consultancy boss has successfully completed the ‘epic’ 520-mile Massif Challenge – smashing his charity fundraising target in the process.
Philip Holford, Senior Partner at long-established Salisbury High Street firm Myddelton and Major, described the gruelling ride as a ‘rollercoaster of physical and mental attrition’.
He has to date raised more than £5,535 – easily outstripping his £2,000 target.
Half the money donated will go to Cancer Research UK and the British Heart Foundation, leaving the other half for local charities chosen by his four-man team, the Property Pedlars.
He said: “It was an epic challenge – a rollercoaster of physical and mental attrition due to the distance, conditions, terrain and time constraints.
“Our efforts were further rewarded as we won the ‘Challenge Trophy’, given to the team with the most sponsorship money, for the second year running.”
The Property Pedlars raised £20,000 for charity in winning the Challenge Trophy in 2015 having completed the infamous 450-mile Alpe d’Huez Challenge to mark Philip’s 50th birthday.
Philip, whose ride mirrored much of stages three to five on the 2016 Tour de France, is delighted with the funds raised so far.
“It is fantastic to break the £5,000 barrier. The donations provided me with inspiration when I needed it most, for which I’m very grateful.
“Who knows, I might do another one!”
The 2016 Massif Challenge began with a 170-mile route from St Malo to Angers, followed by a 200-mile effort from Angers to Limoges on day two.
Race organisers Challenge Adventure Charities, a Hampshire-based voluntary organisation, saved the toughest stage until the final day as entrants scaled a mountainous 150-mile trip from Limoges, through the volcanic Massif Central, to Clermont-Ferrand.
Philip is leaving his Just Giving page at www.justgiving.com/Philip-Holford2 open for further donations. Alternatively, cheques made payable to “Challenge Adventure Charities” can be sent to him at his office.
