Riding Stronger Together – The Velo 2025
At Ford Search Partners, we believe strong relationships are forged not only in boardrooms but out on the road – sometimes quite literally. On Saturday 12th July 2025, we had the pleasure of hosting one of our most valued clients for a truly memorable event: The Velo, a 100km cycling experience around the breathtaking Isle of Wight.
Under blue skies and golden sunshine, the day couldn’t have been better. The Island provided a postcard-perfect backdrop of rolling hills, coastal views, and winding lanes that tested legs and lifted spirits in equal measure.
Our five-strong team from FSP were up bright and early – four in support vehicles and Kayleigh, our very own two-wheeled ambassador, joining the 12 riders from the mainland. We met them off the 10:15 Wightlink FastCat in Ryde, fully stocked with water, bananas, and oat-based snacks. After a few tyre tweaks and final stretches, the peloton rolled out.
The route wound its way through Ryde, Seaview and into Bembridge, with support vehicles never far behind, giving the riders space to find rhythm but always ready with supplies. Spirits were high and legs were strong as the group climbed out of Brading and passed through Alverstone and Arreton, where we staged a quick water stop – gratefully received.
From there, it was on through the hills of Godshill and Ventnor, sweeping down through Whitwell and Niton before the long, satisfying climb up to the Blackgang viewpoint. The reward? Lunch, laughter, and a well-earned rest in the garden of the Wight Mouse Inn at Chale.
Refuelled and rehydrated, the group pressed on down the iconic Military Road, tracing the island’s stunning coastline through Brighstone and Brook to Compton, where we paused for a photo with the white cliffs and distant Needles. Then came the toughest climb of the day – relentless but conquered with grit – followed by the sweeping descent into Freshwater.
As the kilometres ticked by, the route carried us through Yarmouth and onto the narrow lanes past Shalfleet and Porchfield, before a final sea breeze along the Gurnard seafront into Cowes. A quick stop at FSP HQ gave time for a final round of water and goodbyes to three of our team before the last leg: across the Floating Bridge to East Cowes (just missing one, but enjoying the view while we waited), then a final effort through Whippingham and back towards Ryde. The pace was electric – we could barely keep up with them by car – but they made it in time for the slightly early ferry.
We handed over bags, celebrated with a well-earned (non-alcoholic) beer, and waved off some very weary but very proud riders.
The Velo wasn’t just a cycling challenge – it was a celebration of partnership, teamwork, and shared experience. It reminded us why stepping outside the office matters. It’s about connection, trust, and creating memories that last far beyond a finish line.
A massive thank you to everyone involved – and especially to our client team for trusting us with their day. We’re already planning the next one. Here’s to more miles, more memories, and more moments that bring us closer together.
