Former Lee Valley Coach to cycle the world in Grenfell tribute
Former Lee Valley VeloPark coach and current Derny Pacer Steve Aslin is gearing up for a 30,000km solo ride around the world to mark the eighth anniversary of the Grenfell Tower fire on Saturday 14 June 2025.
Born and raised in North Kensington, Steve was deeply affected by the tragedy and is now turning personal grief into global action. His mission, Ride 4 Grenfell: Tower to Tower, aims to raise £30,000 for the Grenfell Foundation, supporting local youth and schools.
The retired firefighter, Steve will cycle from Grenfell Tower to fire stations worldwide, spreading awareness and encouraging support along the way - in what he expects to take a year and a half to complete.
Steve Aslin said: “This ride is my way of turning pain into purpose - for the young people and schools rebuilding in the tower’s shadow.
"I want to be able to help the next generation," he said. "But it's not just about raising money but also raising awareness as I go around the world about the lack of justice that's happened as we progress over time to the ninth, 10th anniversary of the fire.
"I'm leaving on the eighth anniversary and when I get back there still won't be prosecutions."
Steven Aslin, a volunteer derny pacer at Lee Valley VeloPark including for numerous racing events, will depart London on 14 June and begin an ambitious cycling journey across multiple continents. He’ll head to France first, then continue across Europe to Turkey, Kazakhstan and India.
From there, he'll travel through the Far East, onward to Australia, and finally to America. Steven plans to cycle 100 km a day, five days a week, allowing himself two days of rest each week.
Former cyclist and Sport England Chair, Chris Boardman, said: “The challenge Steve is about to undertake is truly inspirational and I am delighted to be able to support his ride round the world for Grenfell.
“The tragedy of that fateful night has left deep scars, but seeing a retired firefighter brought up amongst the community use his retirement to raise money for those affected is very powerful.
“I wish Steve all the very best on his adventure, he’s an incredible ambassador for the sport that is so dear to my heart, and I urge all of you to support him in his fundraising efforts.”
Lee Valley VeloPark is proud to back one of its own on this incredible journey. We’ll be following Steve’s ride every step of the way, cheering him on from the track.