This charity cycle ride was an 85 mile trip throughout South East Wales, which Mike undertook in honour of Newport Gwent Dragons Education Officer Phil James and the charity Velindre.
Having only ever ridden a maximum of 15 miles in one go as of the 26th April 2015, Mike was so proud that family, friends, staff and community sponsors all backed him, which he found both humbling and inspirational in the build up to and during the Velothon.
When asked about the experience, Mike explained that; “The pre-event training, sweat and sometimes nearly tears was all worth it and stood me in good stead as a couple of times throughout the route I thought of Phil and all the generous donations I received. This helped me retain my focus and kept me pushing for home, especially going up the notorious Tumble climb and over Caerphilly Mountain – I don’t even fancy driving up them in the car.”
He continued; “The support I have gained has been phenomenal and yet again the rugby family has pulled together. On behalf of all those who have donated, I will be proud & delighted to present Phil with a cheque of £1155.15 for Velindre later this week, which will hopefully act as a timely boost for him before his next stage of treatment on 22nd June. Phil has spoken very highly of the support he and his family have received from Velindre throughout his 6 month treatment plan so it’s great to be able to give something back”.
Mike’s fund raising efforts were kept a secret from Phil until after the event and when Mike informed him of support and donations he had received, he was overcome with emotions and happy at the same time that everyone is thinking of him during this trying and stressful period.
Everyone here at Rodney Parade certainly have their fingers crossed for Phil when he has his operation to remove his tumour next week.
“Thank you all for your support, I think I have now caught the cycling bug so watch this space,” said a proud Mike.
Special acknowledgement to the following people for their donations & support
Peter Smith - Lane End Farm
Dennis Bennett - Newport RFC
Jim McCreedy - Director at Rodney Parade Ltd
James Stuart - Rodney Parade
Jon Raymond - Rodney Parade
Mark Jones - Rodney Parade
John Mellon - Pendragon Fireworks
Pete Grzonka - Rodney Parade
Tina French - Rodney Parade
Mandy Bond - Rodney Parade
Sara Davies - Newport Gwent Dragons
Iwan Williams - Rodney Parade
Katie Vizard - Rodney Parade
Janice Chappell - Rodney Parade
Karen Welch - Western Power Distribution
Alan Hughes - Melin Homes
Gordon Watkins - TA Roden Ltd
Stuart Davies - CEO of Rodney Parade
Nick Delahey - Rodney Parade
Alex Hoffrock - Rodney Parade
Alex James - Director at Rodney Parade Ltd
Philippa Hawkins - Bisley
Kevin Jarvis - Friends of Newport Rugby
Ro Kulkarni - Director at Rodney Parade Ltd
Will Godfrey - Chairman of Newport Rugby
Rachel King - Family Friend
Ian Wilkinson - Rodney Parade
Jeremy Vizard - Newport Gwent Dragons
Nia Singleton - Tata Steel
Angela Williams - Rodney Parade
Pete Williams - Rodney Parade
Sharon Dennison - Rodney Parade
Glyn Sage - Cwmcarn Club
Nick Dunbar - Nidus Choir
Lesley Pike - Wilko
Jerry Clabon - Interlec Systems Electricians
Calum Jones - Family Friend
Kelly Reardon-Brown - Rodney Parade
Chris Thomas - Rodney Parade
Colin Taylor - Former Colleague
Gerry O'Sullivan - Princes Trust
Special mentions also for:
Kath Sage & Family - Full support & encouragement
Martin Slape - Event & Bike Sponsor
Caldicot Town AFC Cycling Club - Cycling Support
Steve Bright - Brother-in-law & training partner
David Williams - Pre-cycle Masseur
Steve Prosser - Masseur
