We are proud to announce the launch of a special fundraising trophy in support of our latest event, Race from the Base.

Taking place at Henstridge Airfield on Saturday 10th June 2023, Race from the Base is an ultra-cycling challenge with three different distances to choose from: 30km (The Circuit), 60km (The Cruise) and 100km (The Climb). All routes will start and finish at our airbase at Henstridge Airfield.

On what is expected to be a truly memorable day, the event will begin at 9.30am for those undertaking the 100km route, followed by a 10.30am start for the 60km route and an 11.30am start for those completing the 30km route. We will also have a rider’s village and entertainment for spectators who are coming along to support the cyclists taking part.

The ‘Hugo Yaxley Trophy’ has been created in memory of one of the charity’s patients, Hugo Yaxley, who was a keen cyclist and tragically lost his life in a road traffic incident in November 2020. Our critical care team cared for Hugo at the scene of the incident and then airlifted him to University Hospital Southampton to receive further treatment. Tragically, Hugo died in hospital later that night as a result of his injuries, which were catastrophic. 

Following Hugo’s passing, his brothers Thomas and Joshua Yaxley, along with friends and family members, have raised over £46,000 in aid of DSAA.

To honour his memory and the fantastic fundraising efforts of Hugo’s family, the charity will present ‘The Hugo Yaxley Trophy’ to the participant who raises the highest amount in sponsorship for Race from the Base.

Emma Jones, Fundraising Manager for Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance said:

We are so excited to be holding the first Race from the Base cycle challenge at our airbase in June. It really is going to be a fantastic event and we can’t wait to see everyone on the day.

On behalf of the whole team, I would like to say a huge thank you to Tom, Josh and their family and friends, for raising such an incredible amount for us. We are so pleased to receive the family’s blessing to dedicate this special fundraising trophy in Hugo’s memory. We hope that it will inspire those taking part to raise as much as possible.

Speaking about the fundraising trophy, Thomas Yaxley said:

We are really touched that Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance have introduced this award in Hugo’s memory. The clinical team were there when we needed them the most; they gave Hugo a fighting chance and although he didn’t make it, they gave our parents a chance to say goodbye. That means more to us than could ever be conveyed by words, so it’s been a real privilege to raise money and awareness for them. Knowing that the funds we have raised have given others the same fighting chance that Hugo had, is a fitting legacy to an extraordinary young man.

Entrance fees for Race from the Base are Adults: £25 (30km), £35 (60km), £40 (100km); Under 16’s: £10 (30km), £15 (60km).

Please note, the 100km distance is not open to Under 16’s. All children under the age of 16 must be accompanied by an adult.

Sign up for Race from the Base today