“It’s More Than Just a Bike Ride”
For the last four years, Eva and her Dad Steve have been familiar faces at Tour de Vale, returning year after year not only for the cycling, but for the fundraising, family memories and community spirit that surrounds the event. As WheelPower prepares for the final Tour de Vale in 2026, they reflect on what the ride has meant to them and why they believe others should be part of it too.
Finding Tour de Vale
Eva first took part when she was just seven years old after her Dad searched for cycling events they could enjoy together. Already familiar with the work of WheelPower, Steve felt the charity was a natural fit.
“I really liked cycling,” said Eva. “My dad searched for cycling events and we found the Tour de Vale event. We decided to fundraise for WheelPower and then we just kept doing it.” Now aged 10, Eva still loves the atmosphere of the day itself, especially the finish line!
“Everybody’s happy at the end,” she said. “It’s a great atmosphere and my dad always gets me an ice cream afterwards.”
For Steve, the event has become about much more than cycling. “The quality time together, especially outdoors, is the best part,” he explained. “The experience of fundraising, all the support and the great people we’ve met along the way means a lot.”
Fundraising as a Family
Together, Eva and Steve have raised more than £1,500 for WheelPower. Their fundraising has become a true family and community effort.
They create posters and leaflets, share updates through Steve’s business iBizify, and have received fantastic support from Eva’s school, local shops and family members. Eva also spoke warmly about the support her grandparents gave to the fundraising effort over the years.
“It’s for a great charity and I’ve really enjoyed the social aspect of it all,” Eva said.
We’re Proud to support WheelPower
Steve already knew about WheelPower’s impact through childhood experiences visiting the Guttmann Centre at Stoke Mandeville Stadium.
“I was already familiar with the great work WheelPower does to transform lives,” he said. “So there was definitely some sentiment involved in supporting the charity.”
For Eva, the motivation is simpler.
“I really like riding my bike and it’s just an amazing cause that helps many people.”
The Final Tour de Vale
With 2026 marking the final Tour de Vale, Eva hopes more people will take the opportunity to experience the event for themselves.
“If you’ve been thinking about it, then this is your chance,” she said. “Sign up now to enjoy the feeling of doing a great thing. It’s an amazing charity and you’ve done something to help it carry on.”
Steve says watching Eva take on the challenge each year has been hugely rewarding.
“Cycling itself is great exercise, but in many ways the fundraising, quality time together and getting outdoors are even greater,” he said. “I’m really proud of all the effort and energy Eva puts into both the ride and the fundraising. Even if it does cost me an ice cream.”
Tour de Vale 2026 will celebrate 20+ years of cycling, fundraising and community support for WheelPower. For families like Eva and Steve’s, it has become far more than an event – it is a tradition built around shared experiences, generosity and making a difference.
