850 mile ride in memory of Simon
TWO members of OPM RFC have begun an epic cycle challenge to raise funds for the Motor Neurone Disease Association in memory of their former club chairman Simon Adams, who died from the disease a decade ago.
Matt Price and Mark Ward started in Newcastle on September 28 and aim to finish at their community rugby club Old Plymothians & Mannamedians in Plymouth on Saturday October 9.
They will cover 850 miles in 12 days, visiting all 13 of this season’s Premiership clubs along the way.
A popular Plymouth head teacher, Simon was 46 when he was diagnosed with MND in 2009.
Simon began fundraising with a £1m target to help fund vital research so that in future the words “you have Motor Neurone Disease” will be followed by “it is curable”.
Since Simon died in 2011, his friends, family and the rugby community have continued fundraising to achieve the total on his behalf.
Matt and Mark hope that their Premiership tour will raise at least £15,000 to add to the pot, which currently stands at just over £565,000.
Matt said: “This year we’ll be marking the tenyear anniversary of Simon’s passing, so it seems like the right time to do this fundraiser. Plus, it’s a great excuse to visit all the Premiership rugby clubs along the way.”
“It’s Matt’s fault I got roped into this; I hate cycling,” explains Mark, “but I’m doing it for Simon! Rugby clubs are like a family, it affects you deeply when one of your own is struck down. Many club members have done their part to raise money over the years, we’re just trying to do our bit.”
The finale to the challenge will be a black-tie dinner in Plymouth where they plan on raising more funds by auctioning off signed shirts donated by each club along the way.