Superhero Spinathon Raises £5K For Dorset Mental Health Charity

More than 100 community-minded cyclists took part in a 12-hour superhero-themed spinathon in aid of mental health charity Dorset Mind.

Held at the West Hants Club in Bournemouth and supported by care home provider Colten Care, AFC Bournemouth Ladies and Team Mind BMX, the indoor static bike marathon raised around £5,000.

It was the fourth year the event has been held, with participants booking one or more 25-minute individual slots to do their bit on the pedals in return for a donation.

The superhero theme prompted a range of costumes. While instructors Cat and Clare dressed as Wonder Woman and Cat Woman respectively to host a spin studio with classes for the whole day, Colten Care’s Director of Marketing Barney Baxendale cycled for three and a half hours as Bananaman.

Barney, a mental health first-aider and Colten Care’s staff welfare lead, said:

“The energy and community spirit was amazing. It was an inspiring day from start to finish. To see so many people come together - riding, cheering, supporting one another - was a powerful reminder of the strength and generosity of our local community."

“Cat and Clare were extraordinary. Spinning continuously for twelve hours takes not just physical stamina, but real commitment and heart, and they carried the day with such positivity and purpose. Colten Care is proud to have supported an event that raises both vital funds and wider awareness for Dorset Mind.”

The spinning was done against a soundtrack that featured 90s girl bands, Ibiza rave and superhero movie themes.

West Hants Club members were among those taking part. Chief Executive Peter Elviss said:

“The spinathon brought a brilliant atmosphere to the club. Members, friends and staff showed up ready to ride, cheer and pitch in, and the sense of community was clear from the moment Cat and Clare started.”

AFC Bournemouth Ladies’ Head Coach Helen Bleazard, and four players, took to the saddle too.

Helen, who has participated in all the spinathons so far, said:

“It’s such a great occasion. I’m always in awe of how Cat and Clare manage to complete such a monumental challenge. Congratulations to them again and for raising such a great amount for the charity. Hopefully they’ll have the strength to do another one next year.”

Among the members of Team Mind BMX who took part were John Twitchen, Vice-Chairman, British Champion Lee Hunt and three elite juniors.

John said:

"Team Mind is all about bikes and mental health, and so the spinathon is the perfect event to promote the benefits of physical exercise and fun with friends as a way of helping people look after their mental health. With the funds raised going to our own first choice charity, it's a must for us to support this event. Massive well done to the West Hants crew.”

Linda O’Sullivan, Chief Executive of Dorset Mind, said:

“Another epic achievement from Cat, Clare and everyone at West Hants – 12 hours on a bike, it makes me feel weak at the knees just thinking about it. We hear firsthand what a difference our support makes to people across Dorset, and these vital funds will help us reach more people. We couldn’t be more grateful for this amazing achievement.”

Donations can still be made at West Hants Spinathon - JustGiving