Michael Vaughan jubilant as ‘Chance to Ride’ fundraising peloton reaches finale in London
September 17, 2013
Michael Vaughan stands in the famous Long Room at The Oval cricket ground, his legs trembling having reached the end of a 462 mile cycle across England and Wales. He is asked how he managed the feat, how he kept focus that whole time…
He says, quite simply: “I count the chip shops of the towns we go through, that’s the secret to keeping the mind entertained.”
The former England captain Michael Vaughan was talking to fellow riders and guests at the celebration finale breakfast of the PruProtect Chance to Ride charity bike ride, which followed the final night ride stage from Southampton to London this morning (Tuesday).
Vaughan was joined on the final stage from Southampton to The Kia Oval by fundraisers and celebrity supporters former tennis ace Tim Henman and England footballer Jamie Redknapp who have raised thousands for the Laureus Sport for Good Foundation and the Cricket Foundation’s Chance to Shine initiative.
Local school children welcomed the peloton as it arrived in the early hours. It had followed the England v Australia - NatWest One Day International series, travelling to each of the cricket venues before reaching its conclusion today.
Vaughan, who guided England to Ashes victory in 2005, said: “It’s going to be a long, long time before I want to see a saddle again! The Chance to Ride has been everything I expected it to be – tough, exhilarating, inspiring and great fun.
“We’re raising a lot of money for Laureus and Chance to Shine, two great causes and it will all be worth it for the kids who get to play sport or get other opportunities thanks to the funds we have raised.
“I’d also really like to thank the fundraisers and friends who joined me, including Andrew Strauss, Victoria Pendleton, Jamie Redknapp and Tim Henman.”
Tim Henman, who watched the final ODI before taking part in the night ride, added: “As a Laureus Ambassador, I was delighted that Michael invited me on Chance to Ride and although it was a challenge, I really enjoyed the night ride to London.
“This event has had great support since it started 12 days ago and Michael deserves a lot of credit for making it happen and getting us all together to help raise funds for disadvantaged children.”
Laureus World Sports Academy Member Sean Fitzpatrick was also at the Kia Oval, welcoming the returning riders. He said: “It was a great feat by all the riders and I would like to congratulate them for their support on this initiative. Michael Vaughan and his fellow Ambassadors have made a superb contribution to Laureus and Chance to Shine during the Ride.”
If you were inspired by the Chance to Ride fundraiser, take a look at some of the other events you can get involved in with Laureus here!
