Pedalling with purpose: AFPA Trust’s BIG Cycle 2025

The AFPA Trust’s BIG Cycle 2025 will see 18 riders from the asset finance world set off from the London Eye on 2nd October, bound for Paris three days and 300 miles later. The physical challenge is immense, but what shines through is the combination of charitable drive and industry pride.

“I’ve supported causes like Macmillan and Prostate Cancer UK in the past, but this time I wanted to back AFPA Trust itself. It’s at the heart of our industry, supporting smaller charities that often get overlooked. Riding for them felt like the right way to give back.”

“I’ll be riding for the AFPA Trust’s nominated charities. Learning that the Trust champions smaller organisations and that my small contribution can make a direct impact gives an extra motivation and a warm fuzzy feeling!”

“I first cycled to Paris in my early 20s, and nearly two decades later – with two kids and a business under my belt – I wanted to see if I was still up to the challenge. It also felt like the perfect opportunity to get back into fundraising, as it’s been too long since I last did something like this. Supporting Tommy’s Baby Charity was an easy choice, given the incredible work they do.”

“I cycled to Paris last year with Novuna for the MND charity and have completed long-distance bikepacking trips across Europe, so when the chance came to ride again for Coach Core UK, it was a no-brainer. Sport plays a huge role in my life, helping me decompress from the pressures of work and life, whilst offering physical and social benefits.

“Coach Core’s apprenticeship scheme really stood out to me — it breaks down barriers and gives young people opportunities through sport. Supporting such an incredible cause while sharing this challenge with colleagues from across asset finance feels like the perfect combination.”

“I always need a goal to do any form of exercise, and I realised the AFPA Trust BIG Cycle was exactly the kind of challenge I needed – something to push me physically while raising funds for a cause that means a great deal to me. The NACFB’s chosen charity this year is the Unbeatable Eva Foundation, set up in memory of my friend and former colleague Paul Slapa’s daughter. Seeing the dignity with which Paul has dedicated himself to the charity, and the vital support it provides to families affected by DIPG, has been all the inspiration I need to get on the bike.”

A collective effort

Every rider has a personal reason – whether it’s grief, gratitude, or the hope of helping others. But together, the peloton reflects the spirit of an industry that knows it’s stronger when it works together.

As AFPA Chair Robert Taylor puts it: “We compete in business, but here we’re one team. That’s what makes the BIG Cycle so powerful. It’s about raising money, yes, but also about proving the community side of asset finance.”

When the group pedals into Paris on 4th October, the finish line will symbolise more than 300 miles conquered. It will show what happens when an industry unites – for its people, and for the causes they care about.

All donations are gratefully received and will directly help support the charities chosen by the BIG Cycle Riders.

To find out more about AFPA Trust’s BIG Cycle, contact Robert Taylor at rtaylor@ltisolutions.com or visit the AFPA Trust website.