Blog. Meet THE PIG People Taking on a 450km Challenge.
September 04, 2026 | Author Giuliana Vittiglio
At THE PIG, it’s the people behind the scenes who bring the whole experience to life. From tending the Kitchen Gardens and creating delicious dishes to greeting guests and making sure everything runs smoothly, every member of the team plays an important part in making THE PIG what it is.
Next week, on Friday 11 September, seven PIG People from across the business are swapping their day jobs for cycling jerseys as they take on a challenge that's well outside their comfort zones. They’ll set off from THE PIG, in the New Forest before cycling more than 450km over three days, crossing the Channel and finishing at Maison Bollinger in France all in aid of Hospitality Action and The Drinks Trust.
We caught up with some of the team to find out why they’re taking part and what they’re most looking forward to.
Guy Freedman, Hotel Director - What’s your biggest motivation for getting on your bike and taking on this challenge?
The biggest motivation is raising as much money as we can for two charities that are very close to our hearts, while testing ourselves both physically and mentally.
450km in three days is going to be a decent endurance challenge. There will definitely be moments when the legs hurt and we question why we’re doing it, but that’s part of the challenge, digging deep, staying resilient and getting each other to the finish line.
Andy Wright, Group Head Chef: What's your biggest motivation for getting on your bike and taking on this challenge?
When we first started talking about this challenge, it felt really personal. I only started cycling during lockdown, which was a difficult time for so many people in hospitality, and these two incredible charities were there supporting our industry when it needed them most. It feels like we've come full circle now - getting on our bikes to give something back and help raise money for two amazing causes.
Guy Freedman: How have you been preparing for the challenge?
Lots of practice rides, eating marginally healthier and learning a surprising amount about cycling food and fuelling!
We’ve also done some great training rides together, including the Hospitality Action Summer Cycle and a big ride around the Isle of Wight. But I’m not sure anything can fully prepare us for 450km over three days, we’ll find out soon enough!
Luke Harbor, Group Beverage Director: What are you hoping to get out of the experience?
Lots of smiles and laughter! I’ve worked with some of the team for over 12 years, so I’m really looking forward to adding another great memory to the list.
Cycling is also a brilliant way for me to switch off and manage stress. There’s something about being out on the bike, no phone, taking in the views and just enjoying the peace. Doing that with a group of great friends, while raising money for two brilliant charities, makes it even more special.
Kamil Osaka, Head Chef: What are you hoping to get out of the experience?
I'm hoping to push myself well outside my comfort zone. It's given me a reason to get out into nature, improve my fitness, and take on something I probably wouldn't have attempted otherwise. But the biggest reward is knowing that every mile we ride is helping raise vital funds for two fantastic hospitality charities.
All: What does supporting Hospitality Action and The Drinks Trust mean to you? Both charities are incredibly close to our hearts. We all work in hospitality and see first-hand how amazing the people in our industry are.
We’re hugely grateful to everyone taking part and can’t wait to follow their journey. If you’d like to show your support, please consider making a donation here. Every contribution, large or small, will help Hospitality Action and The Drinks Trust continue their vital work supporting the people at the heart of hospitality.
