Our Patron

Chris Boardman MBE

We are proud to introduce our esteemed patron, Chris Boardman, Olympic and World Champion, and an advocate for the transformative power of bicycles.​

We were fortunate to host Chris Boardman at our annual cycling sportive in May 2024.

Organised by the local cycling club VCR Colchester, the event saw 116 cyclists tackle two routes, raising funds and awareness for our cause.

Chris got hands-on, learning to prep a bike and load it onto a container for Africa, highlighting his commitment to our mission.

Chris Boardman, with a remarkable career spanning from 1989 to 2000, seamlessly transitioned from professional cycling to becoming a leading figure in the global cycling community. His endorsement as our patron in 2015 marked a significant milestone for Re-Cycle, aligning our mission with his deep-seated belief in the bicycle as a means to change lives.

Boardman sees the bicycle not merely as a mode of transport but as the most efficient one. His vision resonates with our commitment to rescuing unwanted bikes from the UK and repurposing them in Africa, where a bicycle can be the lifeline for education, healthcare, and livelihoods.

"It's just a great concept — everybody wins," Boardman affirms. His endorsement emphasises the dual impact of preventing bicycles from ending up in landfills while simultaneously providing essential transportation solutions in Africa.

By having Chris Boardman as our patron, we draw inspiration from his passion and dedication to making a difference. Together, we amplify our mission to empower communities, one bike at a time.

“Why not refurbish them for people who can’t afford any other method of transport? It’s a no-brainer. In the UK having a bike is fashionable, cycling is a trendy thing to do. In Europe bikes are very functional, people ride them in normal clothes — you don’t see ‘cyclists’. But worldwide, it is the poor people’s transport; it’s how you get around. For some people it’s a choice but for others it’s a genuine means to get towork, to a school, hospital or clean water—their only means.”
Chris Boardman
Patron
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