Onwards & Upwards and XO Bikes held a fantastic bike ride in the summer of 2024 - The Great Release. 120 riders completed 125km visiting 2 prisons, hearing from exceptional people on both sides of the criminal justice system. There was fantastic food provided by the Clink, coffee from Redemption Roasters and an awesome after party held at Herne Hill Velodrome complete with sunshine! Please take a look at the official video from TGR ’24 to get an idea of what a great day this was.

We are really excited to announce the opening for sign-ups for The Great Escape 2025!

Join us on Friday 09th May 2025 for a day of stimulating muscles and minds. We have carefully designed this years’ event to be different from 2024; challenging while introducing riders to different aspects of the criminal justice system and the reason why we exist as a charity.

Setting off from Richmond, visiting Bronzefield Women’s prison and Feltham YOI while taking in the beautiful Surrey countryside on route to Herne Hill Velodrome in South East London for a belter of an after-party.

Two fantastic routes (one for all and one for the aspirational elite), thought provoking speakers from those on both sides of the prison system, mouth watering food as well as a whole load of gorgeous early summer sunshine (promise of sunshine is not legally binding). An unforgettable day.

Limited spaces available so sign up early to avoid missing out on the ride of the summer. Entry fee is £200pp for a team of 5. Use this link to secure your place now.

If you have any questions or would like to talk to one of the team for some more information do let me know, and we shall hope to look forward to seeing you in May.

Onwards and upwards!

Ollie and team Great Escape!