The Ride of Champions event on Sunday, June 15 will see participants tackle the demanding terrains of Hampshire and the Isle of Wight.
The route, starting at Sparsholt College near Winchester, will take cyclists through Hampshire’s scenic roads, down to Portsmouth, across the Isle of Wight and back to the New Forest.
The event aims to raise funds for the charity’s Operation Airbase appeal, which plans to relocate its airbase to a central location, bringing doctors, pilots and paramedics within a 10-minute flight time to nearly 70 per cent of their patients.
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Tim Daniels (far left) is one of those taking part (Image: Tim Daniels) Among the participants is Tim Daniels, a former air ambulance patient who suffered a near-fatal accident 11 years ago.
The air ambulance team saved his life after he broke his neck, back, shoulder and nearly all of his ribs in a cycling accident.
Since then, Tim and his friends have raised substantial funds for the charity.
Tim said: “I am so excited to be participating in and supporting the Ride of Champions. Nearly 12 years ago, I had a near-fatal cycling accident, and but for the wonderful team at HIOWAA, I would not be here today.
“Since that day, I have been determined to raise funds for the charity and have completed a number of cycling challenges over the years, raising more than £100,000 in that period.
“This continues to this very day when I will be on the start line along with a group of friends who have all supported me in my fundraising efforts and various challenges.
“As we cycle right across the whole region where the charity has been saving lives for more than 17 years, it will be a wonderful vindication of the work this charity performs for all the residents and visitors of Hampshire and the Isle of Wight.”
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Keith Wilson, charity director of income and engagement, said: “This fantastic but gruelling event celebrates the unique and dynamic landscapes of both Hampshire and the Isle of Wight.
“Riders will experience the joy and camaraderie of journeying side by side, supporting one another on this enormous challenge.
“Crucially, support from those taking part and those who have sponsored them will get us one step closer to the centre of the community we serve.”
The registration fee is £60, which includes a detailed route handbook, ferry tickets, a charity event jersey, live rider location tracking, a finisher’s medal and an event mechanic.
Top finishers will receive exclusive trophies and branded charity merchandise.
Sign up at register.enthuse.com/ps/event/RideofChampions.