Sarah Ball, joint managing director of the marketing agency Balls2 Marketing, is preparing for a 10-day cycling challenge that begins in Spain, as part of the European team for the charity, Kelly’s Heroes (We Mind and Kelly Matters). The challenge begins in September. Sponsor her here.
Sarah was part of the Paddle2Pedal women in glazing team in 2017, and she also braved the high altitudes of the Inca Trail in 2015. When she found out about the ‘Loneliest Road’ challenge at a People in Glazing Society (Pigs) networking event, she felt it important to get involved.
“When I am finishing mile 42 of a training ride, it’s easy to question why I said yes to the latest cycling challenge,” said Sarah. “But it doesn’t take long to remember that, being part of We Mind and Kelly Matters’ team, it’s important to raise both awareness and money for this incredible charity.”
Alongside Sarah and 10 other industry and charity riders will be Sarah’s daughter, Stephanie Ward. Stephanie, an electrician, is a vocal advocate for mental health issues within the construction industry. Her social media pages provide a wealth of information and support for people who may be struggling.
“Never before has there been so much pressure on mental health services,” Sarah continued. “No family is unaffected, and the past two years of the pandemic have shown that we are all in need of help and support at some time during our lives. The reason we wanted to be part of the team is that We Mind and Kelly Matters has a hands-on approach to supporting people when they need it.”
The European challenge begins in Spain on 10 September, coinciding with World Suicide Prevention Day. The route goes through France, including a 16-mile climb of 3,97 ft to the top of Mont Ventoux before finishing in Sendenhorst in Germany. Once the European leg is completed, the US team will begin their journey: a longer 17-day ride that begins in New York and ends in San Francisco on 10 October (World Mental Health Day).
“We understand the importance of putting the miles in on the run up to events like these,” said Sarah. “The challenge is huge, and we want to ensure that we have trained as much as possible before we set off.
“Of course, with charity events, there’s the question of sponsorship. We need to raise money for the charity. Donations can be made through the Just Giving Page.” Sarah has pledged to post regular updates on her personal social media accounts as well as on the Balls2 Marketing and Pigs account pages. Read more about the trip here.
