Riders preparing for epic challenge
They have been training in all weathers and fundraising with just as much determination.
Now a group of Pompey fans about to take on an epic charity bike ride have reached an important milestone.
They aim to raise £32,000 for eight good causes – including Pompey in the Community and the Pompey Supporters’ Trust – by cycling 300 miles from York’s Bootham Crescent back to Fratton Park in time for kick-off on May 2.
Pompey players are fully behind the team and will be meeting some of the York2Pompey riders at the training ground this week.
The cyclists have already smashed through the £22,000 barrier, which includes £1,300 raised from fans before the Bury game last week.
Ride organiser Tom Dearie said: “We can’t everybody enough for their generous donations and we couldn’t believe it when we counted all the money we raised at Fratton Park and realised how much fans had given.
“It’s great to know that when we set off, we’ll have the full support of the club behind us.
“Some of the players have said they wanted to join us, so maybe seeing them at the training ground will convince them it’ll be a great idea for next year!”
The charities the ride is supporting include: The Elizabeth Foundation, Sam’s Haven, Jack’s 1st Steps, Harbour Cancer Support, Kitbags & Berets, Pompey in the Community and Pompey Supporters’ Trust (and directly the Disabled Supporters’ Association and the Pompey Pals project). Yorkshire Cancer Research is also on the list, as nominated by York City.
Click here to make a donation.
The York2Pompey cyclists will travel up to York by coach from Fratton Park on Tuesday and will begin their 300 mile journey back on Wednesday, April 29.
They aim to be at Fratton Park by 1.30pm on Saturday, May 2, ahead of Pompey’s game against the Minstermen.