Paternal pride was on full display when Russell Fairman, whose father Chris was a former Rye & Winchelsea Rotary chairman, completed the “End2End” challenge at the weekend. Russell’s cycle ride was an 865 mile run from John O’Groats to Lands End. Doing that in seven and a half days meant the cycling group sometimes started at 8am and didn’t finish until 10pm… an average of at least 8mph. As a result of Russell’s efforts, it looks like he is set to raise in the region of £2,700 and the group of 14 that undertook the challenge with him expect to raise in excess of £50,000!
The 15 riders were raising money for “The Wooden Spoon” which is a national charity that supports disadvantaged and special needs children and Rye & Winchelsea Rotary Club also made a donation to help Russell towards his target. As a result of his new found proficiency Russell plans to ride “Le Tour de Rye et Romney Marsh Fun Ride”, reflecting the attraction of the ride to both pleasure and professional cyclists.
If you are interested in joining in the fun of this variable length event which takes place on Sunday September 28th, telephone 01797 223574 or contact ryerotary@hotmail.co.uk. All riders will be awarded a medal and refreshments at the finish ensuring that, weather permitting, this will be another day for families and riders to remember for a long while. As current Rotary president Robert Holland said : “Why not join us with your cycle, have fun and raise money for worthy local charities at the same time.”
Photo by Derick Holman