Bags Packed, Heart Racing: My Cuban Cycling Adventure Begins
By Emma Coates, Foundation National Fundraising Events Executive
In a few short days, I’ll be boarding a plane to Cuba with 21 amazing teammates. Together, we’re taking on a challenge which still feels a little surreal: cycling 380km from Havana to Trinidad to raise money for The Openwork Foundation.
As the National Fundraising Events Executive for The Openwork Foundation, I spend my days helping others take on incredible challenges to raise money for the Openwork Foundation. But this time, it’s my turn. Honestly? I’m feeling all the emotions. Nervous, excited, and wondering if I’ve completely lost my mind! My bags are packed, helmet ready, and I’m about to say goodbye to my family, including my two little girls. That part is the hardest. I’ll miss bedtime stories and morning cuddles, but I know they’ll be cheering me on from home, and I hope this challenge makes them proud.
Back in May, I was a non-cyclist. I didn’t even own a bike. I used my bonus to buy one from Halfords and signed up for a “Couch to 100k” course run by brilliant British Cycling volunteers. Week by week, I built up my confidence and fitness until I hit that 100k milestone. Months ago, this challenge was beyond imagination. Today, I’m preparing to ride almost four times that distance under punishing heat and relentless conditions. No recovery days. Just grit, determination, and the support of an incredible team.
Why are we doing this?
For over 40 years, the Foundation has been at the heart of our network, giving grants to charities nominated by our colleagues and advisers. These aren’t just names on a list - they’re causes that matter deeply to the people we work with every day. From supporting children with life-limiting conditions to funding mental health projects and community initiatives, every grant makes a real difference where it’s needed most. Last year alone, we awarded hundreds of thousands of pounds to charities across the UK, all thanks to the generosity of our network.
Follow our journey
This is just the beginning! We’ll be sharing daily updates throughout the challenge so you can follow our progress across Cuba. Check back each day to see how the team is getting on - the highs, the lows, and everything in between. Your support and encouragement mean the world to us.
Please support us if you can. Every donation makes a difference.