Seville is famous for flamenco, Velázquez, and marmalade oranges, and now as the starting place for a 220-mle cycle ride to Malaga in aid of SSAFA, the Armed Forces charity.
Originally slated to take place in September 2020, it was – like so many things – postponed because of the pandemic, though this gave organiser Sean Mansell of Amey’s supply chain partner, Inside Out Developments, more time to train for the ride. It is a real family affair, too; the team of five includes his brother, sister, and brother in law.
And Sean – who lives in Harbury, Warwickshire – and team will need to be at the top of their game as the 220 miles, including an ascent to Ronda at around 2,400 feet above sea level, are to be covered in just three days beginning on April 1.
Sean described training through bleak and cold winter months as “difficult”, but added:
“We’re raising money for a fantastic cause, and that’s what keeps you going when the muscles in your body are saying ‘Stop!’.
“I know how much support SSAFA has given to members of the Armed Forces – I’ve had several friends over the years who have served – and their families for nearly 140 years, support that includes helping the military community deal with bereavement, injury, and disability, providing financial help, social care, and housing, as well as physical and emotional support for older veterans.
“So, I’m riding from Seville to Malaga for SSAFA not just out of respect for what it’s done in the past, but for what it’s doing today, and what it will do tomorrow – and for years to come.”
If you can support Sean’s epic ride for SSAFA, visit his fundraising page here.
