Motorcyclists from across the Isle of Wight are set to come together this Saturday (19th July) for the annual Gordon Endler Memorial Ride, raising money for 2 vital local Air Ambulance charities.
The charity ride will support Hampshire & Isle of Wight Air Ambulance and Dorset & Somerset Air Ambulance, continuing a tradition that began in memory of Gordon Endler, a well-known local biker who died in a road traffic incident in July 2020. His partner, Jacqui Stannett, was a pillion passenger and survived thanks to the quick response of the Air Ambulance crew who airlifted her to Southampton General Hospital.
Now in its 6th year, the ride regularly attracts over a hundred bikers. Riders will meet from 11:30 on Saturday at Sandown Airport, with a planned departure at 12:30. Facilities including a café, food, drinks and toilets will be available at the meeting point.
Volunteer marshals will be in place at junctions and traffic lights to help keep the large group together. Organisers are asking the public to be patient while the bikes pass through local roads, with the promise that they will clear any hold-ups as quickly as possible.
The ride will be led by Jacqui Stannett and Gordon’s son, Joe Endler, and is organised by Jon Flexi and Pippa Ellis of Solent 1990’s Sportsbikes. Members of the public are welcome to visit Sandown Airport to see the bikes before departure and again at the finish. Riders will also stop at Freshwater Bay and Blackgang Viewpoint, where supporters can make donations in person.
Volunteers from the Hampshire & Isle of Wight Air Ambulance will be present at Sandown Airport, with collection tins circulating along the route. Donations are not compulsory but will be gratefully received.
Organisers have extended their thanks to Sandown Airport for hosting the ride, Blue Dot Printing of Portchester for providing hi-viz vests for marshals, and all the volunteer marshals and riders who have supported the event over the years.
‘Donations are not compulsory’? Phew, that’s a relief.
Can say that again, need every penny to pay the 47%
Southern Water bill increase.