Over two unforgettable days, riders challenged themselves across some of Yorkshire's most spectacular and demanding roads, united by one purpose: helping transform the lives of children and young people across the Bradford District.

A Warm Welcome Before the Challenge

The weekend began at Packetts headquarters, where riders, volunteers, sponsors, friends and families gathered for a warm send-off. Riders heard words of encouragement from main sponsor Wayne Cowley (Director, Packetts Insurance), Route Director Stuart Dunbar, and Wayne Jacobs, CEO and Co-Founder of One In A Million, before rolling out to the cheers of family and friends.

Taking on the Yorkshire Dales

With the ceremonial countdown complete, the riders rolled out of Saltaire and into the Yorkshire Dales. The Advanced Group conquered an epic 89-mile opening stage to Masham, while the Intermediate Group completed an equally impressive 63-mile route. 

Stuart Dunbar reflected on the spirit of the event: "The Packetts Tour de Dales brings together a team of people from various walks of life and varying levels of experience in cycling to show that, whatever ups and downs we may face in life, when we come together for a common cause we can achieve great things”.

Both teams were welcomed by family and friends at Black Sheep Brewery, where tired legs were replaced with smiles, stories and a well-earned sense of achievement.

Celebrating Resilience

Saturday evening gave everyone the opportunity to recharge, reflect and celebrate. 

Riders came together for food, refreshments, presentations and awards recognising everything from determination and resilience to the rider with the most tyre punctures!

Nobody Rides Alone

Sunday morning brought fresh legs, renewed determination and one final challenge. The Advanced Group completed a demanding 107-mile return ride to Saltaire, including a memorable stop at the Yorkshire Air Museum, while the Intermediate Group completed an impressive 64-mile route via Ripon, Boroughbridge and Wetherby.

Sachin Brar from LCF Law said: “I was looking for an event to challenge myself and push some boundaries on the bike, then this charity ride came up! It was a very well-organised and supported event, to raise money for a fantastic cause. My favourite moments were undoubtedly seeing how much money we raised for OIAM, meeting some like-minded people and seeing the beauty of the Yorkshire Dales. I'll be signing up next year!”.

A celebration worth crossing the finish line for!

The weekend concluded at Saltaire Brewery, where riders were welcomed home by family, friends, sponsors and supporters.

Every rider received a commemorative certificate before awards, presentations and celebrations marked another successful chapter in the Tour de Dales story.

Wayne Cowley, Packetts Insurance, said: “We are very proud as a business to have supported this event for 10 years. Packetts Tour de Dales shows what can be achieved when the business community comes together behind a common purpose. Every mile ridden will help One In A Million continue strengthening the physical, emotional and mental wellbeing of children and young people across the Bradford District, raising aspirations and creating brighter futures”.

Wayne Jacobs, CEO and Co-Founder of OIAM, said: “To our main sponsor, Packetts, and especially Wayne Cowley, thank you for ten years of outstanding generosity and partnership. Your continued support has made the Packetts Tour de Dales one of our flagship fundraising events. Thank you to our event supporters Capricorn Corporate Services UK, Black Sheep Brewery, Saltaire Brewery and Nuffield Health. To our incredible support team for your dedication throughout the weekend, and to every rider who cycled the extra mile to help make a lasting difference for children and young people across the district”.

Thank you to the talented Rob Freeman Photography for capturing such amazing pictures.

As riders crossed the finish line, it was clear this weekend was about far more than miles ridden. It celebrated partnership, perseverance and community, with every mile helping One In A Million continue creating brighter futures for children and young people across the Bradford District.

We look forward to riding with you again in 2027!