Next generation takes cycle challenge
‘NORWOOD IS an incredibly special charity and a cause which is close to my heart,” says Adam Doffman. “For me, not only are the international cycle challenges an amazing way to raise money for this most worthwhile cause, but a brilliant way to meet and ride with actual beneficiaries of the charity. James, Nick, Lawrence, Jon — the list goes on in terms of the fantastic people I have had the pleasure to ride with. It’s a unique and particularly moving aspect of the bike rides.”
For more than 25 years, Norwood has been running charity challenges all over the world and it has been fortunate to have a group of loyal and dedicated participants
(“our challengers”, as Norwood fondly refers to them). They have cycled miles through deserts, through remote jungles and up steep inclines. Over the years, an incredible solidarity has formed and people often describe the challenges as one of the best experiences of their lives — a big part of why they continue to return year after year.
Adam and his brother James, two of the younger challengers, followed in the footsteps of their father, Nick Doffman, who has been a Norwood Challenger for over 20 years now. As James says: “I was jealous of the trips. They always looked like so much fun. When my brother (Adam) went on a few with our dad, I really wanted to give it a go.”
Adam’s first cycle challenge was at the age of 17, when he joined his father in Kenya. He has now participated in seven international cycle challenges and is not planning on stopping any time soon. Speaking about his most recent challenge, where he cycled through Tanzania, he says: “Tanzania is an absolutely breathtaking country, both in terms of the physical beauty of its game reserves, Kilimanjaro and Mount Meru, and the people who were warm, friendly and very excited to see us and learn more about Norwood.
“Physically, the challenge was intense and required a decent level of physical fitness, particularly in the afternoon after lunch. The heat, hills and general fatigue accumulate and create a genuine physical challenge — it isn’t a holiday — but the camaraderie of the group and the knowledge that the challenge is contributing to vital funds required to sustain Norwood’s services, keeps you going.”
James joined his dad and older brother on his first challenge when he was 19. He says: “It’s an unbelievable achievement and an unbelievable way to raise money for the charity. People often want to prioritise work but this is equally, if not more, important. In one word, Norwood Challenges are incredibly ‘fulfilling’.”
He continues with a plea to his peers who might be considering taking part in their first Norwood Challenge: “Just do it! Be open minded and throw yourself into it; it’ll be one of the most inspiring and rewarding experiences of your life.”
In 2019, Norwood Challenges bring you breathtaking adventures from around the world. The next Norwood Challenge is an Italian lakes cycle in May. To find out more about this and other challenges and to sign up, contact challenges@norwood.org.uk.
020 8809 8809, info@norwood.org.uk norwood.org.uk
Registered charity 1059050