Fundraising for our Mental Health & Wellbeing projects at OITC, the continuation of the programmes is vital for the users which include over 200 people living with dementia & their carers.

In addition we are looking to fundraise for our TACKLE project, a secondary schools programme which helps to reengage 12-16 year olds in education and enterprise using sport, whilst helping to boost self confidence, help build resilience and promote soft skills.

This year we will be cycling from Schipol Airport in Amsterdam to the Stade de France.

https://www.ospreysrugby.com/news/ride2rugby-2024-recap

Day 1 of riding is 82 miles following the canal system of The Netherlands though the Hague before cycling over the dams that keep back the North Sea.

Day 2 is broken up by a journey on the Vlissgen-Breskens ferry. We cross into Belgium as we head for our hotel in Ypres. In the evening, we attend the Last Post Ceremony at the Menin Gate which daily commemorates the fallen of The Great War in the area. The team will conquer 77 miles on this day.

Day 3 is a much shorter day of 54 miles as we cross into France and follow the frontline of the Western Front. We will stay in the French town of Arras and will have the opportunity to dine in the Arras square.

Day 4 is our last long day in the saddle as we cycle 74 miles down to Compeigne but not before we return to Mametz Wood which, for many, was a very memorable visit in 2023. We pay our respects to the Welsh Soldiers who bravely fought and fell before heading south towards Compeigne.

Day 5 gives us the opportunity for a final piece of history with a visit to Armistice Glade before completing the 50 miles to Paris and a trip around the Arc de Triomphe before preparing for the opening game in the 2025 Six Nations. The Stade de France, already a magnificent stadium, will have its atmosphere amplified by the night time setting.