Aramcons Tackle 45 Mile Ride!

October 11, 2010

By Laura Baker

Battling nature’s elements, AOC UK employees and UK-based CDPNE students participated in the Prince’s Trust Palace to Palace bike ride this year.  Supported by Saudi Aramco, the event was part of our company’s commitment to the community in which it operates.
The riders endured a 45-mile journey from Buckingham Palace in central London to Windsor Castle in the south, a lengthy trip on all accounts. However, gusty winds and cold temperatures raised the difficulty level of the ride from a leisurely track to a challenging course.

“The last five miles were torture and I could not bear sitting on the seat for one more minute. But something inside me kicked in and kept me going. When I neared the finishing line, I felt really good knowing I had completed it,” said Gabi Huggins, Professional Development employee for Aramco Overseas Company.

As the team crossed the finish line, our volunteers greeted the exhausted riders with big cheers, hugs and plenty of praise. “We’re so proud of you all,” said volunteer Patricia Cromberge from Aramco Overseas Company, later adding: “It is such a great atmosphere here, I’m glad I was able to support such a worthwhile cause.”

After some food and a well deserved rest in the end village CDNE student Mustafa Mohammed said, “I wanted to participate to support the charity and set myself a challenge. I would definitely do it again next year but I will make sure I train beforehand to avoid the pain!”

Mr. Ahmed Alzayyat, Managing Director, Aramco Overseas Company B.V. was on hand at the event to present each of the riders with a medal for their efforts. “It may seem that the nature of our businesses is at opposite ends of the spectrum however what the Prince’s Trust and Saudi Aramco definitely have in common is a deep commitment to education. Saudi Aramco pursues excellence through people and continuously strives to further the education of its workforce, its industry and the areas in which it operates,” he commented.

“Saudi Aramco is such a fantastic patron and their invaluable partnership means that we can continue changing young people’s lives,” added Paul Brown, Director of the Communications at the Prince’s Trust.

The Prince’s Trust is a charity founded by Prince Charles – the Prince of Wales, to help improve young people’s lives.