RAFA Rides, the RAF Association’s global cycling event, is back, offering even more opportunities for even more people to take on a physical challenge and have fun.
Since its inception in 2018, RAFA Rides has created a space where RAF personnel, veterans and supporters can come together to share the joy of cycling and the benefits of an active lifestyle.
Whether riding for the sense of achievement, the fresh air, or the camaraderie, RAFA Rides is a unique chance for people to recharge, refocus and feel good, on and off the bike.
Last year saw the RAFA Rides season expand to include four events throughout June at Kendrew Barracks, RAF Leeming, RAF Brize Norton and RAF Marham.
Now heading into its ninth year, the Association has launched a new 12-mile route for 2026, making RAFA Rides more accessible to anyone, regardless of their experience.
Liam Clark-Brown, Associate Director of Fundraising and Engagement at the RAF Association, said: “The growth of RAFA Rides has been exponential with over 6,500 people taking part since its inception in 2018. It has now become much more than a military cycling event, giving participants an opportunity to meet up with old friends, make new ones and challenge themselves both physically and mentally in a supportive environment.”
Over 2,000 cyclists came together last year to take on RAFA Rides, including former England rugby player and ex-RAF pilot Rory Underwood MBE and former England and Leicester Tigers captain Martin Johnson CBE, making it the biggest RAFA Rides season to date.
Participants can choose from route options of 12, 25, 50, 75 and 100 miles at each RAFA Rides event, taking place on the following dates:
- RAF Marham – Saturday 6 June
- Kendrew Barracks – Saturday 13 June
- RAF Brize Norton – Saturday 20 June
- RAF Leeming – Saturday 27 June
Those unable to attend the in-person events can take advantage of RAFA Rides Your Way, designed for participants who want to join from anywhere in the world.
To find out more about RAFA Rides 2026 and sign up to an event, visit rides.rafa.org.uk
