Rugby players take on 24-hour cycling challenge for charity

The convergence of athleticism and philanthropy is exemplified by the recent initiative undertaken by a group of rugby players who participated in a 24-hour cycling challenge for charity. This event not only highlights the commitment of athletes to social causes but also underscores the importance of community engagement within sports. Rugby, a sport characterized by its physicality and teamwork, provides an ideal platform for promoting charitable endeavors, as it fosters camaraderie and collective effort among players.

The 24-hour cycling challenge serves multiple purposes; primarily, it raises funds for underprivileged communities and health-related charities. Participants engaged in this physically demanding activity demonstrated remarkable endurance while simultaneously advocating for important social issues. The choice of cycling as the medium reflects both inclusivity allowing individuals with varying fitness levels to participate—and the accessibility of the sport itself. By opting for a continuous format over an extended period, participants were able to emphasize their dedication not only to their own physical limits but also to the cause they aimed to support.

John Hollier from Burnham-On-Sea is supporting former rugby player Billy Twelevetrees  and other rugby players by cycling 350 miles in 24 hours.

John says: “It’s being held in support of Ed Slater, a former professional rugby player who got diagnosed with MND in 2022.”

“All funds raised from the challenge will be split between 4Ed, the Motor Neurone Disease Association (MNDA), My Name’5 Doddie Foundation and Matt Hampson’s Get Busy living Centre.”

To symbolise the urgency in finding a cure, this year's 'Ride Against Time' will take place in just one day.

MND affects the nerves found in the brain and spinal cord. Progression of the disease can be rapid and there is currently no cure.

More than half of those affected die within two years of being diagnosed.

"It really hit my wife and I as soon as we heard about Ed's terrible news," said Mr Twelvetrees.

"It's drastically sad, we were angry. We all want to help as friends and teammates, and that's what I'm here to do."

The Springboks defeated the Wallabies by 30 - 12 in Perth, with fly-half Pollard coming off the bench to help seal the win.

Their two wins thus far leaves them on 10 points ahead of a heavyweight clash with the All Blacks in two weeks time in Pretoria, on Saturday, August 31 (kick off: 4pm BST).

Finally, two Leicester Tigers Academy players were involved as England Under-18s triumphed in a tight match with Georgia.

Prop Diamond Ayiehfor started the match at tighthead, while front row compariot Ben Beere began amongst the replacements as the side were victorious 27 - 20 last Friday, August 16.

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Sarah H

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