Blog. Inside our Summer Cycle Challenge.
May 05, 2026 | Author Giuliana Vittiglio
This year’s Summer Cycle Challenge promises to be another standout date in the hospitality calendar. With anticipation building and teams gearing up to get back in the saddle, our annual cycle challenge continues to bring together colleagues, clients and friends from across the industry.
Taking place on Monday 22 June, starting and ending at Lainston House and proudly sponsored by Agilysys, riders will enjoy scenic routes through the beautiful Hampshire countryside, complete with premium hospitality pit-stops along the way at THE PIG in the New Forest, Chewton Glen and The Boot Inn, Houghton.
We caught up with a selection of returning cyclists to hear what keeps them coming back for more:
Gareth Banner, Group Managing Director, The Ned:
“Last year’s Summer Cycle Challenge was a brilliant day out that combined personal challenge with team bonding. The hospitality was exceptional, with first class food and well-earned glass of champagne at the finish line!! We’re all really looking forward to taking part again this year, especially since it’s in support of such a great charity.”
Andrew Petford, Regional Operations Director, BM Caterers:
“BM Caterers are really pleased to be returning to the Hospitality Action Summer Cycle Challenge this year with a bigger BM team. It’s a cause that resonates strongly across our business and the wider hospitality industry, offering vital support to people at different stages of their careers.
What makes this challenge particularly special is the opportunity to connect with peers from across hospitality. It’s a chance to step away from day to day operations, strengthen relationships and come together around a shared cause that has a real and lasting impact on people working in our sector.
Last year’s route offered a great mix of challenging climbs and beautiful New Forest scenery, and before I realised it, we were already well into the ride and stopping at The Pig Hotel for a BBQ lunch. I learned the hard way that enjoying the hospitality a little too much can make the second half feel longer than expected!
This year, we’re looking forward to building on that experience, pushing ourselves a little further and continuing to raise funds for a charity that does so much for hospitality professionals. After many years in the industry, it’s important to us to give something back, and events like this are a great way to do that together. Have fun and remember there is still plenty of cycling to do after lunch!”
Steve Lewis, General Manager, Lainston House:
“The key thing about the Summer Cycle Challenge is that it is a community event. There are no winners or losers, we are all in it for the same reason - a great day out, exercise, the thrill of riding and the satisfaction of knowing that we have done something good for others. From the moment they arrive, participants are warmly welcomed by the volunteers and made to feel part of the big team.
No one rides along and there is full support throughout the day. Choosing the right distance is important, and many choose to ride in a small group of friends or colleagues to ensure a team-feel from start to finish.
My advice would be to give it a go - everyone I spoke to in 2025 said they had a brilliant day and we want to make it bigger and better in 2026 for Hospitality Action, so get signed up and see you there!”
Andrew Stembridge, Executive Director, Iconic Hotels & Resorts:
"The Iconic Hotels & Resorts team is incredibly proud to be taking part in Hospitality Action's Summer Cycle Challenge once again. Last year's event was a truly memorable experience - not just for the physical challenge, but for the overwhelming sense of support across the industry. It reminded me just how caring the hospitality community really is.
As a team, we've chosen to return this year because the cause resonates deeply with all of us. Hospitality Action provides vital support to people in our sector when they need it most, and this is just one of the ways we give back while also challenging ourselves as a group.
The excitement is growing already, not least because the hospitality on offer throughout the challenge is second to none! The premium pit stops, including one at Chewton Glen, are a real highlight of the day with a fantastic range of food and drink to look forward to when you're on the road".
Thank you to Gareth, Andrew Petford, Steve and Andrew Stembridge, for giving up their time to reflect on last year's event. Whether you’re a cycling pro or simply up for a new challenge, there’s still time to register. Join teams from Bidfood, Bills, Exclusive Collection, The PIG, Limewood and more to part of a day that combines fresh air, great company and the chance to make a positive difference. Learn more here.
