Steve Bluff became a Co-opted Trustee at Above & Beyond in May 2017 and it didn’t take long before he agreed (willingly, we might add) to take on the Bristol to Paris Cycle Challenge 2018.

Steve has spent much of his career in senior leadership roles in the retail and consumer goods sector and has recently set up his own coaching and consulting company to help start-ups and more established businesses develop their operation and leadership teams.

As a father of three, Steve is passionate about helping Bristol thrive and keen to get involved in supporting the nine city centre hospitals that are at the heart of our community. We sat down with him for a chat:

Why have you decided to take on the Bristol to Paris Cycle Challenge 2018?

As a new trustee I wanted to take the opportunity to get fully involved with our flagship fundraising event to help raise money and the charity's profile whilst achieving a personal challenge too.

What are your expectations for the ride?

I’m a novice cyclist so I’m in no doubt the whole trip will be a personal challenge with many highs and lows. I’m sure that the finishing line with the Eiffel Tower as a backdrop will be a sight to behold.

Have you taken part in any other charity challenges?

No, this is my first and biggest!

How do you plan on reaching the £1,700 fundraising total?

I’m going to get out there and cajole my business network, friends and family. It’s really important that all of us taking part in Bristol to Paris convey just what a great cause this is all for.

What would you say to people thinking about signing up to Bristol to Paris?

Take the leap of faith and do it today. No experience necessary – just a positive mindset, a bike and a willingness to put in the hard yards! The adrenaline will help you get there too.  

Have you started training and getting your gear together yet?

I treated myself to a new lighter bike and have started to get out there. No Lycra overload yet though!

See the Bristol to Paris Cycle Challenge 2018 page for more details and contact [email protected] or 0117 927 7120 with any queries.