CARA Fundraising Events and Challenges

Whether you’re a novice or a seasoned cyclist, the CARA Cambridge-London Cycle Challenge is just the ticket. Clocking up over 60 miles in one day, cyclists ride from the spires of Cambridge University to a central London location.

Currently CARA is assisting 180 academics from over 30 countries. The Cycle Challenge will help CARA continue supporting its refugees, and open doors to many more individuals in need.

To date, CARA has successfully run two Cycle Challenges starting in 2008. The first annual bike ride raised over £10,000 with the help of our diverse participants, ranging from students, professors, refugees, and distinguished CARA members.

The Cycle Challenge can be your opportunity to proactively engage in CARA's work, and enjoy a special day. CARA provides advice on training, fundraising and accommodation in Cambridge for all participants. On the day, CARA staff and volunteers will be on hand to provide support, first aid and bicycle maintenance.


In June 2008, 65 cyclists raised over £10,000 to support persecuted academics in the UK and abroad. We really appreciate the enthusiasm and hard work of all those who took part in the 2008 Cycle Challenge. Some happy cyclists:

'Very many congratulations to all involved.' Anne Lonsdale, Deputy Vice Chancellor, University of Cambridge
'It felt good to be actually cycling for a good cause. Thanks for organising it.' Stuart Taylor
'We thoroughly enjoyed the ride - great route.' Professor Judith Stephenson and Dr Alastair Barkely
'Thanks so much for organising this. This was the most fun I have probably ever had on a bike. The people were lovely and it ran really smoothly.' Alice Wilson

Photos from CARA Cycle Challenge 2008 can be viewed here.

Whether trekking the Inca Trail, doing a sponsored marathon or cycle or running a local fundraiser, CARA is happy to provide support and fundraising advice. We will also try to secure a place for you on your chosen sporting event. Please contact the CARA office at info.cara@lsbu.ac.uk or on 0207 021 0880 to discuss further.

Enjoy a challenge, but at a slower pace? Walking a scenic route of the South Downs, Just Walk enables you to take part in an organised walk on 9th May to raise money for the charity of your choice. Participants have the option of taking part in a 10, 20, 40 or 60 kilometre walk.

Just Walk is organised by Across the Divide. It is simple to register and take part. To register, visit their website on www.just-walk.co.uk, complete the form and select CARA as your charity.

On 10th May 2008, two CARA teams walked 20 and 60 kilometre across the South Downs with the 60 kilometre group completing the route in a gruelling 11 hours.

Despite the heat and hills, it was a really fantastic day. The highlight has to be the last 2 hours; I never thought walking with a head torch could be so hard! - Great to be walking for such a good cause.
- Katie Eves