Frequently Asked Questions

What is the event?

The ride it’s an activity where charitable fundraising, sporting excellence and healthy living are combined to create a unique experience for everyone involved. It is an exciting cycling event where you can use your pedal power to help fund our Scholarship Programme.
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How do I register?

All the information you need to begin registration is on our How to register page.
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What does my registration fee cover?

Your registration fee gains you access to the event, guided tour ride, bike rental, helmet rental, registration pack and contribution towards the expenses required to run the event.
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Do I have to register in advance for the ride?

Yes. Unfortunately, we cannot accept new entrants on the day of the event. Online registration will close the week before the ESOMAR Congress. Please do not hesitate to contact us in case you have any last minute inquiries.
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What methods of payment are accepted?

You can pay your registration fee via Paypal or with all major bank and credit cards.
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Tell me more about the route

On this 4 – 5 hour tour we ride beyond Edinburgh, cycling along quiet cycle paths through woodlands and country parks and taking in several fabulous historic buildings. We set off from the coastline city of Leith and cycle along the coast to the historic fishing harbour of Newhaven. Then we head to the city centre via cycle paths taking in the classic new town and old town architecture of Edinburgh. Next we ride south out of the city cycling past Edinburgh’s extinct volcano Arthur’s Seat, and off road to Craigmillar castle where Mary Queen of Scots fled in 1566. From here we continue on a mix of quiet roads and dedicated cycle paths to Newhailes House reminiscent of “Downton Abbey”. This grand Palladian country house was originally built in the 17th century, owned by the influential Dalrymple family it featured prominently during the Scottish Enlightenment. We then re-join the coast at Musselburgh visiting Fisherrow harbour and stop for something to eat at a suitable venue depending on the weather. After a break we cycle along the coast to the promenade at Portobello beach – Edinburgh’s sea side – and then return to our starting point in Leith.
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How should I prepare for the ride?

Train as much as you like! We know that you have full-time jobs and that it can be difficult to find time for training ahead of the event. On the day of the event, we strongly recommend that you check the weather forecast and bring the appropriate clothing. The ride is done at a medium pace, has a stop for a coffee or snack lunch and a total maximum distance of around 30 km (20 miles). It is good to have a decent level of cycling fitness.
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What I am fundraising for?

You can use your pedal power to cycle and help fundraise for our Scholarship Programme. We aim to fund 3 new scholarships for deserving students coming from a disadvantaged background. You can help them continue their studies and eventually pursue a career in market research.
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How are funds raised by me recorded?

Once registered for the event you can start fundraising for the event by sharing the ESOMAR Foundation donation page and encourage your friends to donate by stating your name or the name of your team in order to record all donations. There are many fun ways in which you can meet your fundraising target, such as bake sales, or a quiz night, or by simply asking your friends and colleagues to donate! You can find our suggestions in our handy guide.
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Can I fundraise without taking the ride?

In case you cannot make it to Edinburgh but you’d still want to take part in this event, you could hold your own fundraiser for the Scholarship fund or support one of the riders in reaching their goal
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Can I register alone or with a team?

You can choose to participate on your own or with a team. Our recommendation is to do the ride as part of a team because it can be much more fun, and you can help to keep each other motivated during your training and fundraising.
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Is there a minimum or maximum size for a team?

Your team can be as big or small as you like. We do suggest that you try and get as many of your friends involved as you will all be able to keep each other motivated through the fundraising and training.
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Is it a race? Will there be a winner?

The Charitable Fundraising Bike Ride is not a race. In order to keep the competition component, we will award the individual and the team that manages to fundraise the biggest amount of money for the EF Scholarship Fund.
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Timing and practicalities

The ride will take place on Saturday 7th of September.  We will notify you the exact time and location of the pick-up prior to the event. We are aiming to start the ride at 13:00 local time from Leith.
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What happens if I can’t take part in the event?

If for any reason you have to pull out of the Challenge, you will forfeit your entry fee as this is non-refundable.
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Can I sponsor the event?

The ESOMAR Foundation is inviting organisations interested in sponsorship and other opportunities to register their interest. For more information on becoming a partner to our events, please contact info@esomarfoundation.org
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