Renowned philanthropists John Caudwell and Modesta Vzesniauskaite are set to host their annual weekend of fundraising in Monaco this weekend, returning with their Cycle with Champions and Butterfly Ball events.
Held entirely outdoors, the two annual events on Friday 24th and Saturday 25th September have both been masterminded by former professional cyclist Modesta. In 2020, the combined events raised a record-breaking €1.3million for UK-based charity Caudwell Children.
Following last year’s two successful events, John Caudwell commented: “After such a traumatic and disruptive period in all our lives, to come together safely and share in the warmth of friendship while helping some of the most disadvantaged families in the UK was a very special experience and the money raised will go a long way in helping children all over the UK.”
On Friday 24th September a group of cyclists, which last year included UK cycling legend and 2021 Tour de France Green Jersey Winner Mark Cavendish, will set off for a 85km one-day sponsored ride set against the picturesque backdrop of the Côte d’Azur and tackling some of the region’s mountainous terrain before descending into the port of Monaco to celebrate their achievements.
Says former Olympic cyclist Modesta Vzesniauskaite: “John and I met through cycling and it is one of my greatest loves. To combine this with our greatest passion, helping charity, gives us great joy and we are so grateful to everyone who joins us to take part here in Monaco and helps to raise money for Caudwell Children.”
Following the cycling, attention turns to the outdoor terrace at the luxurious Monte-Carlo Bay Hotel where on Saturday 25th September invited guests will join John and Modesta under the stars for an evening of exquisite hospitality, entertainment and fundraising.
Charity CEO, Trudi Beswick, said: “We are overwhelmed by both John and Modesta’s unrelenting commitment and support. These fabulous events come at a time when disabled children and families are feeling more isolated and afraid than ever before, and when it has not been possible to deliver our usual calendar of fundraising events. The supporters of these events will literally be a lifeline to Caudwell Children, and will enable us to continue being a lifeline to the families we support. We are so incredibly grateful.”
Caudwell Children is a national children’s charity based in the UK, founded in 2000 by John Caudwell and led by CEO Trudi Beswick. The charity has supported over 55,000 disabled children with 653 different medical conditions. In 2019, they officially opened the Caudwell International Children’s Centre, the UK’s first independent purpose-built facility for the assessment, intervention and research of autism.
Chairman Emeritus, John Caudwell, remains the charity’s most passionate supporter and personally donates the charity’s administration and management overheads each year, enabling 100% of all direct donations to be spent directly on the children and families they support.
For more details or to support Caudwell Children visit www.caudwellchildren.com or follow them on social media.