Once a Wire

Heroes of the WIRE

The Warrington Wolves Memorial Ride

A 90-mile cycling tribute along the Western Front to honour the Warrington Wolves players who gave their lives in the First World War.

In 2026, a dedicated group of Warrington Wolves supporters, staff, and community members will take part in a remarkable journey of remembrance — cycling 90 miles from southern France, tracing the Western Front through some of the most significant battlefields of the Great War, before finishing at the Menin Gate in Ypres, Belgium.

Along the route, riders will lay wreaths, visit the gravestones, and stand at the very places where 10 of the 11 Warrington Wolves players lost their lives during the First World War. Each mile of this journey will honour their bravery, sacrifice, and the enduring bond between our club, our town, and those who served.

This ride is more than a challenge — it’s a living act of remembrance.

Together, we’ll keep the memory of the fallen Wolves alive and ensure that their stories continue to inspire future generations of Warrington fans.

Duration: 3–4 days
Distance: Approx. 90 miles total
Route: Southern France → Western Front → Ypres, Belgium

Day 1 – Arrival in France

  • Travel to southern France

  • Team briefing and evening gathering

  • Historical overview and introduction to the fallen Wolves

Day 2 – The Western Front Ride Begins

  • Ride through key WWI battlefields along the Western Front

  • Visit the first memorial site of a fallen Warrington Wolves player

  • Reflective stop and wreath-laying

Day 3 – Through the Fields of Flanders

  • Continue north through the French countryside into Belgium

  • Visit further gravestones and memorials connected to the Wolves players

  • Group remembrance at each site

Day 4 – Arrival at Ypres (Menin Gate)

  • Final stretch of the 90-mile route

  • Group ceremony and wreath-laying at the Menin Gate Memorial to the Missing

  • Moment of silence and reading of the names of the fallen Wolves

  • Evening gathering to reflect on the journey

Day 5 – Return Travel

  • Group return to the UK

There are 20 rider places available.


Each participant is asked to raise a minimum of £1,500 in sponsorship, which will help cover event costs and directly support the Warrington Wolves Community Foundation’s community programmes.

All funds raised will contribute to:

  • Event logistics (travel, accommodation, support team, and safety cover)

  • Wreaths and memorial tributes at each site

  • Foundation projects supporting health, wellbeing, and inclusion in Warrington

Pricing Options

Option Initial Payment Fundraise Target Total Commitment
Full-Fund £1,500 - £1,500
Part-Fund £150 £1,350 £1,500
Fundraise Only £150 £1,500 £1,650*

*Includes a small additional fundraising target to help support the Foundation’s ongoing remembrance and wellbeing initiatives.

Please note: For Part-Fund and Fundraise Only riders, at least 70% of fundraising must be received by 1st May 2026, with the remaining balance due before departure.

✅ Included

  • Flights & Accommodation – Return travel and comfortable hotel stays throughout the trip

  • Tour Guides & Education – Expert-led visits to the memorials and battlefields connected to the Warrington Wolves players who fell in WWI

  • Support Vehicle – Luggage transport, on-route mechanical support, and rider assistance

  • Snacks & Refreshments – Energy snacks, water, and on-route refreshments provided each day

  • Event Jersey – Exclusive cycling jersey for all participants

  • Wreath-Laying Ceremonies – Guided remembrance visits at each memorial and grave site

❌ Not Included

  • Bike – Riders must bring or arrange their own bicycle

  • Travel Insurance – Mandatory for all participants

  • Food & Beer – Main meals and alcoholic drinks are not included

🇬🇧 Pre-Ride Fundraiser (UK) – National Memorial Arboretum

Date: To be confirmed – early 2026
Route: Warrington → National Memorial Arboretum, Staffordshire (approx. 80 miles)
Overview:
Supporters and local cyclists will take on an 80-mile ride from Warrington to the National Memorial Arboretum.
The group will visit the South Lancashire Regiment Memorial and lay a wreath in remembrance of the Warrington Wolves players who served.
This event will also raise funds to support the overseas remembrance ride and the Foundation’s community projects.

Got any questions?

Check the Q&A Section below or email NeilKelly@WarringtonWolvesFoundation.com
 
Is the bike ride for me?

Our bike rides are aimed at keen amateurs and are designed for a broad range of experience, speeds and stamina. It’s not competitive, and you don’t need to have done anything like this before. However, we always recommend a sensible training programme leading up to the ride - as you’ll enjoy the event so much more if you’re properly prepared.

Can I join on my own?

Yes, of course! Many of our supporters sign up for our challenges as individuals - this is a fantastic way to meet new friends. Just leave the team name blank when you register. 

Are there any age restrictions?

For safety reasons all participants must be aged over 18 at the start of the ride.

What's Included?

Our prices are as all-inclusive as possible.

All meals and refreshments are included.

Accommodation, outward travel from and return travel to the start point is also included.

What type of bike do I need?

A standard hybrid or road bike is suitable for this challenge.