Date of ride: 30th August 2020

Both James and Ben know Hambo with James having played with him at mini rugby level at Oakham Rugby Football Club and both Ben and James being coached by Matt at ORFC in more recent years. 

Hambo's determination and can do spirit is something that has always inspired James & Ben so they are using their new found interest in cycling as a forum to raise both awareness and funds to support The Mat Hampson Foundation. 

With both lads playing rugby locally still they have decided to tour rugby clubs they have played against or grounds they have played at in a one day biking bonanza. The route will take them at least 140 miles (222K), climbing 6,500+feet and they will pass 18 rugby clubs across the county throughout the day. They will begin and end their journey at the home of ORFC and will pass clubs such as Market Harborough, Lutterworth, Leicester Tigers, Syston, Melton Mowbray and others and hope the rugby community get behind them and support this fantastic cause. 

Covid-19 lockdown has been the inspiration for the ride. Prior to this year neither of them had ridden for anything other than 'social' bike rides and have now discovered two wheels as a form of exercise with their rugby passions being haulted. As both are inexperienced riders the challenge is extreme and the training schedule is ramped up but in their words will be 'very much worth it'. 

A bit about the Matt Hampson Foundation:Our aim is to provide advice, support, relief and/or treatment for anyone suffering serious injury or disability which has arisen from any cause, but in particular from participation in or training for any sport, sporting activity or other form of physical education or recreation. We assist individuals by offering direct grants or by paying into existing and future funds to assist with equipment, technology or just every day expenses.