Ride4Hugo 2025 launches in memory of Hugo Yaxley

This summer, cyclist Tom Yaxley will embark on a unique and demanding challenge to honour the memory of his brother Hugo and raise vital funds for charities including Place2Be, Air Ambulance UK and HVH Arts, which are close to their family’s heart.

Starting on 30 July, Tom will cycle more than 3,000km across the UK, stopping at every air ambulance base in the country. His route will span remote trails, steep climbs and even a sea crossing to Northern Ireland, covering over 25,000 metres of elevation. This endurance test – called the Ride4Hugo Air Base Challenge – has never been attempted before and has been submitted for a Guinness World Record. 

The challenge marks five years since the tragic car crash that took Hugo’s life in November 2020. Hugo was just 20 years old. On that day, three air ambulances were dispatched to the scene, giving the Yaxley family precious final moments with Hugo – a moment that continues to drive this mission forward.

Through Ride4Hugo 2025, Tom is raising funds for three charities that reflect Hugo’s values and the emergency response that supported the family:

• Place2Be, delivering vital mental health services in schools
• Air Ambulance UK, supporting life-saving pre-hospital care
• HVH Arts, promoting access to the arts for young people.

A longstanding commitment to Place2Be

Tom and the Yaxley family have supported Place2Be for several years through the Ride4Hugo initiative, raising significant funds to help expand access to mental health services in schools. Their support has enabled more children to access life-changing counselling and emotional support during some of their most vulnerable moments.

Funds raised from this year’s challenge will support Place2Be’s work in over 500 schools across the UK, providing one-to-one and group counselling for children, expert training for school staff, and wider mental health support for families. With one in five children now experiencing a probable mental health issue, the need for accessible school-based support has never been greater.

How you can follow the challenge and get involved

Tom’s ride is more than a physical test – it’s a moving tribute to Hugo’s adventurous spirit and a force for positive change. Together, through Ride4Hugo, we can help ensure that young people across the UK receive the care and support they deserve.

Follow Tom’s journey live and cheer him on as he cycles across the country:

Donate to Ride4Hugo 

Follow Tom's route live