BRIDGES FOR MUSIC ADE CHARITY RIDE RAISES NEARLY £27,000 ON DAY ONE OF ITS 10TH EDITION.

The Bridges for Music ADE Charity Cycle has raised nearly £27,000 following a gruelling first day on the road, with approximately 40 riders completing 138km through heavy rain and challenging weather conditions on their journey from London to Amsterdam. Marking its landmark 10th edition alongside the 30th anniversary of Amsterdam Dance Event (ADE), the two-day charity ride brings together artists, industry leaders and cycling enthusiasts, including American actor and activist Rosario Dawson, alongside representatives from AlphaTheta, Resident Advisor, LabelWorx, Waterworks Festival and the wider electronic music community.

Departing from Resident Advisor’s Shoreditch headquarters on Tuesday 20th October, riders faced difficult conditions throughout the opening leg, battling the elements as they made their way towards Harwich. Despite the weather, the group completed 138km, with spirits remaining high as they prepare for the final stretch into the Dutch capital on today.

With almost £27,000 raised so far, the group is calling on the international music community to help reach its ambitions to fund tuition for 100 students at the Bridges Academy in Langa Township, Cape Town this coming year.

Over the past nine editions, more than 400 riders have raised over £511,000, helping Bridges for Music establish two dedicated education spaces in Langa Township: the Bridges Academy, supporting young adults pursuing careers in music, and the Creative Club, providing a safe and creative environment for children under 18. Together, the programmes support more than 300 young people annually through music education, mentorship, meals, counselling and pathways into the creative industries.

“Thanks to the collective fundraising efforts of more than 400 riders across the past ten editions, we have built two schools: the Bridges Academy for young adults and the Creative Club for younger children. Thousands of young people have found a safe haven at our campus in Langa Township and have been able to develop dreams beyond their context.” Valentino Barrioseta, Founder & CEO, Bridges for Music

The 10th anniversary celebrations will continue during ADE, with Bridges for Music joining forces with art’otel Amsterdam for House of A on Thursday 22nd October for a full-day programme celebrating African music, creativity and industry connections. Featuring Kususa, Oskido, Kalawa Jazmee, Yamz, Phiwo and Paradise Sound System, the programme will bring together established artists, emerging talent and Bridges for Music alumni alongside industry conversations, networking and wellbeing activities.

As riders prepare for the final day of cycling, Bridges for Music is encouraging the global music community to get behind the initiative and help turn the momentum of its first day into meaningful opportunities for the next generation of young creatives.