‘I felt proud’: Thousands take to the road for the Black Unity Bike Ride 2024
The fifth edition of the Black Unity Bike Ride (BUBR) took place on Saturday in celebration of black empowerment on two wheels.
Thousands of cyclists of all ages and abilities set off from Leyton Sports Ground at around 10am, with pit-stops in Hackney Downs Park and Somerset House, before crossing the Thames to finish in Dulwich Park.
Paula Ogun-Hector, from Penge, attended the ride as a marshal. She said: “I’d never been to Leyton before or even taken my bike on the train, but it’s nice to try something new.
“Entering Somerset house was very magical – water fountains and beautiful architecture – felt like I’d walked into the set of Bridgerton.
“We arrived in Dulwich Park to crowds clapping, shouting ‘well done’. It felt like we had achieved something very special and I felt proud to have led riders across London in a show of unity and support for inclusive cycling.
“So many wonderful volunteers make this special event possible.”
Robert Torto, 44, of Harlesden Road, Willesden, was the star of the show, cycling his penny farthing for the length of the ride.
Mr Torto made headlines earlier this summer after he managed to track down and recover his beloved bike which had been snatched in Streatham.
At the finish line riders were met with celebrations including music, food and drink and and cycling related activities for the family.
The annual ride, dubbed London’s Carnival on Bikes, is led by more than 17 Black-led London based cycling collectives.
The event, which is delivered in partnership with London Marathon Events, began in 2020 during the Covid-19 pandemic, and following the tragic death of George Floyd.
Organisers aimed to inspire more people from underrepresented groups to start cycling and increase the diversity of the current cycling population in the capital.
According to Sport England research, 75 per cent of people from an ethnically diverse background never cycle and only 57 per cent of Black people are considered active – which is even lower than the majority of other ethnic groupings.
In 2023, the BUBR undertook a post ride survey of its participants, which found the 68 per cent were inspired to cycle more often, 69 per cent were encouraged to think about their health and well-being and 50 per cent decided to join a cycling club.
Hamid Vaghefian, head of community engagement at London Marathon Events, said: “The Black Unity Bike Ride is one of the best examples of bringing people together to show that cycling is for all.
“They break down barriers and nurture unity in the world of cycling, and am excited to see the event continue to grow.”
Pictured top: Clockwise from top left, Dwaine Terrelonge, Alicia, Jacqi Wan and Maxine in Dulwich park after crossing the finish line of the BUBR 2024 (Picture: Paula Ogun-Hector)