Sixth Form students beat teachers in charity cycle challenge

Students and staff from Rochdale Sixth Form College race a combined distance of 164.3km in support of mental health charity Mind

Students and staff from Rochdale Sixth Form College recently raced a combined distance of 164.3km in support of mental health charity Mind.

The one day event, hosted by the college’s Student Union, saw students and college staff go head to head, cycling on two exercise bikes, competing to see who could cycle the furthest distance within an allotted time.

Deborah Faulkner, Assistant Principal, said: “The charity bike race was a fantastic opportunity to demonstrate how sporting activities can improve wellbeing, as well as raising much needed funds for the charity. It definitely brought out the competitive side of staff and students alike, creating an electric atmosphere around college.”

Whilst staff managed to cycle an impressive 80.7km, the student team were the ultimate champions, coving 83.6km – a distance further than Rochdale to Liverpool.

A2 Level student and Student Governor, Farah Hussain, said: “Competing against teachers or staff members from around college was great fun. It was even better that the students won the race and we are looking forward to taking part (and winning!) again next year."

Through support from everyone at the college, the bike race raised over £238.

Rochdale and district Mind focus on the wellbeing and recovery of people who experience mental health distress, supporting them to live fulfilling lives.