Frankie’s Marathon Cycle for Children’s Hospice South West
7 year old Frankie from North Devon has achieved something truly remarkable, completing a marathon-length cycle to raise funds for Children’s Hospice South West (CHSW) and making a huge difference to families in the South West when they need it most.
On Saturday 2 May, Frankie took to the Tarka Trail, cycling from Braunton to Bideford and back again, an incredible total of 42.58 kilometres! With determination well beyond her years, Frankie completed the distance in just 3 hours and 27 minutes, raising an impressive £684 for CHSW. Frankie said: “I am fundraising for Children’s Hospice South West to help make the most of short and precious lives.”
Her inspiring journey began during a family conversation over the Christmas holidays. Frankie’s mum, Sarah, explained how the idea first took shape:
“During the Christmas holidays, we were talking to Frankie and her younger sister, Daisy, about how lucky we all were… and how others weren’t as lucky. Frankie has always been an empathetic child… and in that moment she decided she wanted to do more and have a challenge.”
Inspired to help other children, Frankie set her sights on completing a marathon but in her own way. With her dad an ultra-marathon runner, she wanted to take on a similar challenge but chose cycling instead. Despite being shown the distance and the enormity of the task, Frankie remained unwavering in her determination. She quickly began fundraising, even creating her own sign and raising £261 at a family wedding by sharing her mission with guests.
In the lead-up to the big day, Frankie trained with her family, turning long bike rides into fun outings filled with singing and encouragement from her supportive family. Her younger sister Daisy rode along too, while her dad ran beside her, a true team effort to help Frankie succeed.
As the challenge approached, nerves understandably began to build, so much so that Frankie wasn’t told the exact date of her attempt. Instead, she thought she was just heading out for a practice ride when the real challenge began.
Midway through the return journey, after stopping in beautiful Instow, Frankie began to doubt herself: “I don’t think I can do this challenge Daddy, it’s quite hard,” she admitted. But with gentle encouragement, her dad revealed the finish line was closer than she thought, and that her family were waiting to cheer her on at Fremington Quay. With renewed energy, Frankie pushed through the final stretch!
Sarah added:
“She sped up to us with a huge smile on her face, Nanny was crying (as usual) and we are just so proud of her!”
Poppy Harrop, Area Fundraiser for Children’s Hospice South West, praised Frankie’s incredible achievement: “We are so proud of Frankie and her amazing determination. The money she has raised will make such a difference to the babies, children and young people and their families supported by CHSW, helping us continue to provide vital care and create precious memories.”