Cyclists around the globe smash World Bicycle Relief’s Pedal to Empower goal, riding 16.7 million kilometres in just three days

Over 300,000 cyclists came together in an international cycling movement to fundraise and boost awareness of the global charity’s goal to empower women and girls with bikes

25 July, 2022 -  From 3-5 June 2022, World Bicycle Relief’s Pedal to Empower challenge inspired cyclists of all abilities to break down barriers for women and girls through the power of bicycles. The life-changing non-profit’s challenge to cyclists worldwide to come together and ride one million kilometres in celebration of World Bicycle Day on June 3rd was resoundingly beaten over the three days, with an incredible 16,780,156 kilometres ridden by 305,842 supporters.

Riders of all abilities and experience levels took part in the Pedal to Empowerchallenge from around the world, signing up via World Bicycle Relief or Strava, indoors or outdoors, on e-bikes and hand cycles, solo or with family and friends. Many sought to energise their community or workplace by organising a group ride to commit to a fundraising or mileage goal together.

Public engagement with this challenge was remarkable, with cyclists around the world taking to two wheels to share World Bicycle Relief’s goal to help women and girls live safer lives, and access education, employment and healthcare quickly. Participants from 89 countries took part in Pedal to Empower. Highlights included American cyclists covering an extraordinary 1,942,637 kilometres with each rider logging an average of 70 kilometres; while Brits took on 1,171,074 kilometres - an average of 65 kilometres each.

All donations and funds raised during the challenge will go toward World Bicycle Relief’s mission to help people conquer the challenge of distance, achieve independence and thrive. Access to reliable transport via the bicycle will help thousands of women and girls unlock their potential, providing them with the means to focus on education, obtain vital healthcare services, and achieve greater earning potential. 

Adrienne Karecki, Global Executive Director of Development & Communications, World Bicycle Relief, said: “We are thrilled with the results of this year’s Pedal to Empower event, having participants join us across 89 countries. Whatever your cycling level, and whether riding solo or through creating community events, we all connected together - for women and girls in our programs, and to celebrate the power of the bicycle and the freedom bicycles provide to reach even the most basic needs.”