Ernie Stobbs
Ernie's Saint Gobain 350 year anniversary ride page
Fundraising for Macmillan Cancer Support
Story
Three hundred and fifty years ago, Saint-Gobain was established by King Louis XIV of France to compete with the dominate Venetian Glass Industry. Two years later it made a lasting mark when commissioned to manufacturer the Palace of Versailles’ famous Glass Mirrors. A lot has changed since 1665. Throughout 2015, we’re celebrating Saint-Gobain’s 350th anniversary, its history, and the legacy of the men and women who together have built the longest standing company on the CAC 40 French stock market index and one of the longest serving manufacturing companies in the world.
One celebration activity taking place is a challenge which will see 130 UK riders from across the Saint-Gobain Group, cycle 425 miles in four days from London to Blois in the Loire Valley, France.
The cyclists will leave London, location of the Saint-Gobain Innovation Centre, on July 10th and arrive on July 13th at the Saint-Gobain Archives in Blois – home of the records signed by King Louis XIV, which incorporated Saint-Gobain in 1665.
A big challenge, such as this, is a great opportunity to raise funds in support of the Saint-Gobain Together programme.
My Story
I began cycling ten months ago when I signed up for a 100-mile charity ride and was reminded by my Mother that I didn’t have a bike. I bought a bike and started cycling. I now openly admit to now being a little obsessed.
I put in place a training plan at the start of the year and I’ve been making good progress. Up until the end of April I had managed to cover 700 miles in training – this equates to about 50 hours – that’s a big sacrifice when you’ve a family and full time job.
Cancer affects us all, either personally or as we support our loved ones. Macmillan Cancer Support does an amazing job in the UK – something I’ve experienced first-hand through my Father.
Father was one of the lucky ones and has made a full recovery; however within weeks of Father being told he was out of remission, his Brother (my Uncle Jimmy) and his niece Sandra were both diagnosed. This has added even more focus to my training, now more determined than ever to rise to the challenge and do whatever I can to support the work of Macmillan.