Taking part in a charity challenge is a big commitment and we want to make sure you’re fully prepared. Here’s a round up of our most frequently asked questions.
Signing Up
WHAT IS THE AVERAGE AGE?
We welcome people from all age groups. Participants have been aged between 18-70+ and have travelled from all corners of the globe to join us.
WHO TAKES PART?
Everyone who signs up for HMT charity challenges has two things in common – a love of metal and the desire to help those less fortunate. People from all walks of life take part which makes for an interesting and diverse group of fellow participants. Most people who sign up for the first time don’t know anyone else beforehand: by the end, you’ll be part of a brother and sisterhood that spans the globe!
HOW FIT AND HEALTHY DO I HAVE TO BE?
You will need to undertake regular physical training in the weeks leading up to the event. choose the level of challenge that you undertake. If 175 miles of cycling is enough of a challenge for you, then stick with it. If 1000 miles is more your speed, then good luck!! The idea is to push yourself and of course, push those donations.
HOW MANY PEOPLE TAKE PART?
For The Virtual Ride, there is no maximum limit- In 2020, our first Virtual ride had just under 400 people from over 35 countries taking part. We actively support you getting to know fellow riders through our social channels, and we’ll also host Livestreamed HMTV shows on Youtube for you to get to know us and of the larger characters involved and the all important charities.
Fundraising
Heavy Metal Truants was established in 2013 to fundraise for four charities who support services to children in the UK: Nordoff Robbins Music Therapy, ChildLine/NSPCC, Teenage Cancer Trust, and Save the Children. All fundraising goes through The Truants Foundation and is split equally between the four charities.
WHAT FUNDRAISING HELP WILL I RECEIVE?
Raising funds is one of the toughest parts of a charity challenge. However, it is possible to reach and even exceed the sponsorship target as many participants have proved. Here on the Heavy Metal Truants’ website there are ideas to give you some inspiration. Our core of regular participants can also offer you their top tips.
WHAT HAPPENS IF I CAN’T RAISE THE SPONSORSHIP MONEY?
For the virtual ride, there is no minimum level, but of course we hope you’ll raise as much as possible to support our children’s charities.
HOW MUCH OF THE MONEY I RAISE WILL DIRECTLY HELP THE CHARITY?
Physical – Charity challenges incur costs for travel, accommodation, food, staff etc., the registration fee contributes towards these costs, the balance is covered by your sponsorship funds unless you choose to cover the balance personally and all funds raised above this will go directly to support the four charities.
For the Virtual event, there are no challenge costs incurred so 100% of your fundraising will reach the charities.
WHAT IF MY SPONSORS THINK MY CHALLENGE IS A HOLIDAY?
The challenge of taking part starts months before departure due to the fundraising and
training involved. Once on the challenge the physical exertion of cycling long distances and being in the saddle for up to 8 hours a day is not to be under-estimated, particularly if you’re doing it around working hours as many of our HMTs do. The experience is often outside most people’s comfort zone. However, the personal satisfaction of overcoming these physical and emotional barriers and benefiting the charities we support is fantastic.