Conquering the SPW Cycle Albania Challenge for Alzheimer's Research UK!
- Emma Pickles
- 23 May 2025
- 5 mins reading time
At Schroders Personal Wealth (SPW), our purpose is to change lives. We want to make a positive difference in the communities we work in, and that's why we champion volunteering and charitable initiatives that are close to our hearts.
From 10 – 17 May 2025, a dedicated team of SPW colleagues embarked on our inaugural signature charity challenge. They cycled over 400km through the breathtaking landscapes of Albania to raise funds for our charity partner, Alzheimer’s Research UK.
A journey through Albania
The cyclists embarked on a week-long adventure, starting from Pogradec to the Korça plateau. They navigated the Gramoz Mountains, Germenj woods, and Vjosa Valley, reaching the thermal springs of Benja. The journey continued to the coast and along the stunning Albanian Riviera. The final day brought with it some rain and challenging conditions, but the team pushed on to conquer the heights of the Llogora Pass, before ending with a downhill ride to the bay of Vlora, where they celebrated their achievements.
Making a difference
This challenge was not just a test of physical endurance but also a heartfelt commitment to raising funds for crucial research. Dementia is a cause that is deeply personal to us, as many of our colleagues, clients, and their families, have been deeply impacted by this devastating condition. We are immensely proud of our team's unwavering commitment and determination for this fantastic cause.
Thank you again to our corporate partners, Capgemini, Schroders, Accenture and Huntswood, whose generous donations have been crucial to our fundraising efforts.
When asked about the experience, one of our colleagues said.
My experience in Albania was absolutely incredible, far surpassing all my expectations. The country is beautiful, especially the stunning mountains, even though the climbs were challenging, particularly in the rain. The friendliness of the local people added to the enjoyment of the journey.
Raising such a great amount for Alzheimer's Research UK was a tremendous achievement, but the highlight was undoubtedly meeting the other amazing individuals on the trip. We began as SPW colleagues and returned as friends, forming a supportive team that encouraged each other through every kilometre of the 400km journey and every metre of the climbs.
This experience will stay with me forever.
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