Over twenty-four hours, from 8pm on 16th January until 8pm on 17th January, thirteen teams took to the track at the Geraint Thomas National Velodrome of Wales, in a cycle relay for Head for Change charity.

Across the full event, 13 teams made up of 78 riders completed a combined total of 44,373 laps of the 250-metre track, covering an astonishing 6,895 miles. Shared evenly, this equates to an average of 569 laps per rider, approximately 88 miles each. Collectively, the teams rode the equivalent of more than 263 full marathons, with every individual rider completing just over three and a third marathons – a remarkable physical and mental achievement.

But this challenge wasn’t just about stamina, it was about supporting players, families, and communities affected by the long-term impact of head injury in sport.

Set up by ex-international rugby player and Grand Slam winner, Alix Popham, and his wife Mel, Head for Change was created to honour former players and families affected by the long-term impact of head injuries in sport.

Following retirement, Alix was diagnosed with probable CTE and early-onset dementia as a result of traumatic brain injury sustained during his rugby career.

Helping to protect future generations, the charity’s mission is simple – prioritise brain health in sports. Funds raised through the 828 Cycle Challenge will support the charity in raising awareness through educating clubs, schools, and communities on playing sport safely. Donations also go a long way in providing care and support to former players and their families, as well as driving research into safer sport practices and brain health.

Lancer Scott was Lead Sponsor for the charity event, with colleagues taking part in the relay and others supporting on the side lines. It was a gruelling challenge, but so far, with over £8,500 of donations received (and still counting) we’re delighted to have played a small part in raising awareness of sport being a safer environment for everyone to enjoy.

Speaking about the event, Alix Popham commented:

“For me, it was an amazing experience and a completely different challenge to anything I’ve done before. Seeing thirteen teams come together and support one another throughout the 24 hours was fantastic, and the energy from start to finish was truly off the charts.

We’re already looking ahead to 2027, when we’ll be back bigger and better. A huge thank you to everyone who donated, took part, and came along to support, you truly made this event something special.”

Nia Hughes of Lancer Scott commented

“Managing the team across the full 24 hours was tiring at times, but it was also incredibly motivating and inspiring. The atmosphere in the Velodrome was amazing, and the team spirit on and off the track never dropped, even during the toughest hours.

We’re extremely proud to have been Lead Sponsor of the 24-Hour Cycle Challenge and feel privileged to support Head for Change. I’m incredibly proud of our team members who took on the physical challenge with such commitment and determination, helping to raise vital funds and awareness for an important cause.”

A huge congratulations to the thirteen teams who gave up their evenings and weekends to train, and to then endure 24-hours of riding around in circles, raising vital funds for Head for Change. We salute you!

If you’d like to donate to this brilliant campaign, you can do so here: 828 Cycle Challenge JustGiving