3aaa Add Pedal Power to Team Raleigh GAC
The leading national Apprenticeship provider 3aaa, whose headquarters are in Derby, has expanded its sports sponsorship programme and put its weight behind Team Raleigh GAC, the Derby-based professional cycling team.
3aaa is the outstanding training provider of Apprenticeships in England, specialising in the delivery of Professional Services Apprenticeships such as Technology, Accountancy, Digital Marketing, Financial Services and Business Administration.
They are a national company offering a personalised, local service in over 36 locations across England as they look to change the lives of young people through their work with local employers, recruiting Apprentices and helping these young people to find a pathway into the career of their dreams.
The company will be supporting Team Raleigh in their bid for podium success this summer in a number of competitions across the UK, culminating in the gruelling and high-profile Tour of Britain in September.
3aaa already heavily support football and cricket, including Derby County Football Club and Derbyshire County Cricket Club.
3aaa co-owner Peter Marples explained: “We firmly believe in the ‘Power of Sport’ and the beneficial effects it has on inspiring young people, helping them to kick start the career of their dreams.
“Many young people use their sporting heroes and memories as a source of inspiration and influence as we help them take the first steps into training and real life industry.
“The success of Team Raleigh GAC who are competing against and finishing ahead of some far bigger teams also reflects our message to employers that Apprentices have a key role in the workplace – effectively punching above their weight to add real value to a business’ bottom line.
“Cycling is one of the UK’s fastest growing sports and is becoming particularly prominent here in Derby with the opening of the fantastic new velodrome and multi-sports arena.
“We therefore look forward to contributing to Team Raleigh GAC’s success on and off the road this year and to helping to raise the profile of cycling amongst current and new audiences.”
Cherie Pridham is Director of Team Raleigh GAC. She is a retired champion cyclist and has taken Team Raleigh GAC to be one of the top UCI Continental teams with over 110 podiums last year and currently lying third in the league this season.
Cherie said: “Our roots are firmly embedded in Derby and many of our riders live in and around the city. I am grateful for the recognition and support from Derby businesses such as 3aaa.
“With their support, we can continue to build on the success already achieved this season including the Tour of Yorkshire and can secure many more podium appearances throughout the summer.
“The tie in with 3aaa is particularly relevant as we share a common ethos of the importance of teamwork - whether that is professional cyclists competing together on the road or young people gaining valuable experience and qualifications in the workplace.
“We also have a number of riders who have started with us and progressed onto world level competition and those who are still with us having, effectively, served their apprenticeship.”