Mother and daughter complete cycling challenge

Isle of Wight businesswomen, Maria and Katie Moore, completed an intense cycling challenge last weekend, riding 450 kilometres from Argentina to Chile, to raise vital funds for the Genesis Research Trust.

The Genesis Research Trust is the largest collaboration of reproductive health researchers in the UK.

Maria and Katie, owner of Island-based companies Quay Management and Cowes Cycling,
started the gruelling five-day ride in Bariloche, Argentina on Tuesday 12 February. Cycling
up to 80+ kilometres each day, they rode across the Andes – on tough terrain and up
vertical inclines of 4,600 metres – to conclude their journey in Puerto Varas, Chile.

The duo were rewarded with spectacular scenery including snow-capped active volcanoes,
undulating hills and stunning lakes as part of their journey.

“What an incredible week! This was by far the toughest challenge I have ever embarked
upon both mentally and physically,” commented Katie.

“We got in some good training on the Isle of Wight ahead of the challenge, but It was by far the toughest endurance event I have ever undertaken, at times we were cycling in 44
degrees and taking on some intense inclines. It was an amazing experience and we were
overwhelmed by the beautiful scenery,” added Maria.

Taking on the challenge for the Genesis Research Trust, an Imperial-based charity that funds original research to investigate why and how things can go wrong with conception, pregnancy and birth, Maria explained her decision to ride for the charity: “This cycling challenge was to raise money to help all those parents and children facing a lifetime of coping with genetic disorders and for those who know the terrible heartache of years of trying to start their family.

“Every child deserves a healthy start to their life and as a parent, I know how much we want our children to be healthy and happy.”

Maria and Katie have so far raised over £8,500 for the London-based charity: “We have managed to raise an incredible amount of money – I am overwhelmed by the generosity. I would like to personally thank everyone who donated to help change the lives of women and babies past, present and future.”

To find out more about the Genesis Research Trust, visit genesisresearchtrust.com. If you would like to donate to this cause, visit Maria and Katie’s JustGiving page.