Crystal Palace fans complete charity bike ride to postponed game
A group of Crystal Palace fans have cycled 120 miles from Selhurst Park to Bournemouth’s Vitality Stadium. The plan was for them to watch the two sides meet in the Premier League but the game was called off halfway through the ride because of the coronavirus crisis.
The journey was undertaken to support Palace for Life Foundation, the club’s official charity that works with vulnerable young people in south London. The 28 riders, who have raised almost £15,000 so far, were undeterred when they found out the game had been postponed, carrying on regardless.
Anthony Wright, one of the participants, said: “It was a bit eerie arriving to an empty ground but it was worth it knowing that it was all for a good cause. It was a tough two days but it was amazing, going through the New Forest and seeing all the scenery. I’m really pleased to be here. Up the Eagles!”
Setting off from Selhurst Park on Friday, the group cycled 80 miles on the first day, taking in the Surrey hills and ending in Winchester. The game was officially postponed just before lunchtime.
Stephen Kingdom, who during a previous season cycled to every away game, said: “It was a bit different getting here and not having a game on, the last time I cycled here we won 2-0. When we heard it was off, we had a quick discussion but we all decided we’d still do it and support the foundation.”
The final leg of the journey, 40 miles through the New Forest, was completed on Saturday, with the group arriving at Bournemouth’s unusually quiet ground at lunchtime. Security staff opened the ground and allowed the riders to head pitchside, taking in the empty stands and posing for photos in the dugout.
Mike Summers, the chief executive of Palace for Life, said: “Considering everything that’s gone on this week, there were times we didn’t think this ride was going to go ahead, but it just shows the power of the Palace fanbase; they’ve all been fantastic throughout.
“It was a mixed feeling arriving at the Vitality Stadium. It’s empty and we’re sad there’s not a game but there’s a great feeling of delight and camaraderie in this group.”
The money raised will support the foundation’s work with young people who are at risk of being caught up in violent crime or antisocial behaviour. One of the programmes, Divert, was recently named Community Project of the Year at the London Football Awards and has helped 130 youngsters find work or training after being arrested.
“We’re working with young people who are on the edge of getting into difficulties, whether that’s with crime, gangs or antisocial behaviour,” said Summers. “Just because the football won’t be continuing for the next few weeks, our work will carry on. We’ll still be supporting those young people who need us and the money we’re raising here today will really help.”