Heroes of the WIRE
A 110-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 over 100 miles from Northern 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 graves, 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.
*Subject to change
Duration: 3–4 days
Distance: Approx. 110 miles total
Route: Northern France → Western Front → Ypres, Belgium
Day 1 – Arrival in France
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Travel to Beauvais, Northern France
- Ride to Amiens for overnight stay
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Team briefing and evening gathering
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Historical overview and introduction to the fallen Wolves
Day 2 – The Western Front Ride Begins
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Ride through key WWI battlefields along the Western Front, significantly around the Somme
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Visit graves and memorial sites of a fallen Warrington Wolves player
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Reflective stop and wreath-laying
- Stay overnight at Arras
Day 3 – Through the Fields of Picardy
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Continue north through the French countryside into Belgium
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Visit further graves and memorials connected to the Wolves players
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Group remembrance at each site
- Stay overnight near Armentieres (a significant base and logistical centre for the British Army during much of World War I, including facilities for artillery units).
Day 4 – Through the fields of Flanders & arrival at Ypres (Menin Gate)
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Final stretch of the 110-mile route
- Visit the graves and memorials of the Warrington Wolves players that lost their lives in Belgium
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Formal attendance and wreath laying at the Last Post Ceremony at the Menin Gate Memorial to the Missing, Ypres
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Moment of silence and reading of the names of the fallen Wolves players
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Evening gathering In Ypres to reflect on the journey
Day 5 – Return Travel
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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:
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Event logistics (travel, accommodation, support team, and safety cover)
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Wreaths and memorial tributes at each site
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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 |
Fundraising target to help support the Foundation’s ongoing remembrance and wellbeing initiatives.
Please note: For Part-Fund riders, at least 70% of fundraising must be received by 1st May 2026, with the remaining balance due before departure.
✅ Included
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Flights & Accommodation – Return travel and comfortable hotel stays throughout the trip
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Tour Guides & Education – Expert-led visits to the memorials and battlefields connected to the Warrington Wolves players who fell in WWI
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Support Vehicle – Luggage transport, on-route mechanical support, and rider assistance
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Snacks & Refreshments – Energy snacks, water, and on-route refreshments provided each day
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Event Jersey – Exclusive cycling jersey for all participants
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Wreath-Laying Ceremonies – Guided remembrance visits at each memorial and grave site
❌ Not Included
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Bike – Riders must bring or arrange their own bicycle
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Travel Insurance – Mandatory for all participants
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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?
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.
Refreshments and snacks 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.
How are the bikes being transported and how are the we getting there?
Our Foundation van will depart from the Halliwell Jones Stadium 2 days prior with the bikes. Riders will be flown out to the starting point.
Do I need travel insurance?
All riders are responsible for arranging their own comprehensive travel and cycling insurance. This must include cover for overseas cycling events, medical emergencies, and equipment loss or damage.