Over 2,000 cyclists came together to take on RAFA Rides in June, making it the biggest RAFA Rides season to date.
Events took place at Kendrew Barracks, RAF Marham, RAF Brize Norton and RAF Leeming.
Cyclists had the unique opportunity to tackle a range of routes and distances at some of the RAF’s most prolific stations, from cycling down the runway of an operational fast jet station at RAF Marham to going inside the wire of RAF Leeming.
Cyclists of all ages and abilities took part in RAFA Rides, among them were former England rugby player and ex-RAF pilot Rory Underwood MBE DL and former England and Leicester Tigers rugby player Martin Johnson CBE.
RAFA Rides began in 2018 and since then, over 6,500 people have taken part. Over the years, it has become much more than a cycling event. It’s a chance for participants to meet up with old friends, make new ones and challenge themselves physically.
Former GP Jim Hope was forced to put his cycling, and his life, on hold when he was diagnosed with leukaemia 15 years ago. He took part in the Kendrew Barracks ride this year and found the set-up and atmosphere ideal, given his specific requirements.
“Given my nerve damage, I have to be a bit more mindful, but at RAFA Rides I know there’s actually going to be someone there to come and give me a hand if I need it. It’s quite an interesting bunch of people that do it – it’s more mixed than other rides I do. And we all have burgers at the end which is lovely,” said Jim.
Liam Clark-Brown, Associate Director of Fundraising & Engagement at the RAF Association, said:
“We’re absolutely delighted with the turnout for this year’s RAFA Rides. These are so much more than cycling events – they’re a chance for people to invest in their own health and fitness, increase their self-esteem and improve their overall wellbeing. Indeed, 97% of this year’s participants said the events had a positive impact on their wellbeing.”
