Dozens of dads set aside their slippers and Sunday papers on Father’s Day to saddle-up for Norwood’s annual Junior Bike Ride. They were among 340 people who took part in the 10-mile off-road adventure in Elstree yesterday, helping to raise £35,000 for the Charity’s work with people with learning disabilities, and children and families in need.
Riders included the McRae family from Stanmore, who raised around £350 for the Charity. Mum Jackie and dad James were joined by their four children Benjamin, 11, Charlotte, nine, Alex, eight, and five-year-old Isabelle, who gave the family moral support from a child seat on the back of her father’s bike.
James, a self-confessed ‘bike-aholic’, wanted the family to experience a cycling experience altogether, and chose to support Norwood because it is a local charity. Jackie added: “We are fortunate that we have a family in good health, so we wanted to help others who are less fortunate than ourselves.”
The McRaes completed the 10-mile route in two hours and particularly enjoyed the scenic route and the up-hill climbs. “We were pleased that the ride wasn’t too easy and enjoyed the challenge as it reminded us of the challenges that others face in their day to day lives,” said Jackie.
Also taking part in this year’s ride were seven-year-old Nathanel Young, who learnt to ride a bike especially for the event, and his elder brother Eliot. The pair, who live in Southgate, completed the course in around two and a half hours. Nathaniel said: “I found the 10-mile ride fairly easy and enjoyed all of the bumps, although the uphill was a bit difficult.”
This was the first time that both Eliot and Nathaniel have taken part in a charity event together. Eliot said: “I really enjoyed taking part in the ride, which is in aid of such a good cause. It was very special riding with my brother and motivating him throughout the day.”
The Junior Bike Ride, which started and finished in the grounds of Haberdashers’ Aske’s Boys’ School, was open to children aged seven to 14-year-olds, their parents, grandparents and other older family members. Each rider received a free t-shirt and goody pack, courtesy of the event’s official media partner, the Jewish News, and the top fundraiser will win an iPod.
Ian Tate, Head of Norwood Challenges, said: “As a dad myself, I realise how tempting it can be to put your feet up on Father’s Day. However, there’s nothing quite like being out and about with the family and, despite a chilly start, there was no better place to be yesterday than the Junior Bike Ride.
“This year’s ride was a great success, and I’d like to thank all our young riders for helping us to raise such a fantastic amount of money for the thousands of children, families and adults who we support.”
