Stewarts & Lloyds RFC to Cromer Pier 180km cycle challenge.

Final week update. Appeal Preparations in a Spin

For those that follow my blogs, https://stewartslloydsrfc.rfu.club/news/steel-supports-lift-appeal-toms-weekly-blog last weeks headlines focused on donations from individuals and Sponsors, coffee stops during the unpredictable British weather , Rugby activities returning to the club and my bike going for a well earned service.

This final week of serious training has been interesting, starting with Saturday having to ditch the 20 mile outdoor plan due to the weather for an indoor spin session. On Monday I went to collect the following its service and as I started off the heavens opened. I pushed on towards Northampton and the Market Harborough and pleased that the bike performed as well as ever.

Wednesday's gift was more rain and wind. Again, a move indoors to the trainer for an hours Spinning. I take my hat off to those that go to spin classes, it is brutal. It did give me a few minutes of reflection and a tearful moment with my daughter returning to University, she kindly arranged a Funky pigeon post card with a supportive message 😢😢

On Thursday I attended the Club AGM, it was great to see a healthy number of players and members who gave cash donations. I was further encouraged with a number of members who want to join us on the day and ride out for a few miles. They include ; our Club Captain, juniors coaches, ex players and one of our more mature (78yrs young ) club legends (surely that is worth a donation) looking to join us.

Saturday delivered us a strong Westerly wind, perfect to ride into for 35 miles towards Maidwell !! then back home via Foxton lakes, narrowly avoiding the rain, to complete the final 60 mile session.

The Big Day

Coach Andy advice for this week.... short distances or spin sessions, prepare my kit and ensure we have everything ready for the support vehicle that will meet us at Kings Lynn for lunch and drinks replacement.

We leave the club at 7am on Thursday 27th August 2020 and anyone is welcome to join us for a few miles or cheer us on at the start. I only ask that you let me know by 5pm on Wednesday 26th August 2020 and either before hand or on the day speak to a buddy/ co rider and agree that when you decide to return back to Corby you will travel in a minimum of 2 for safety.

We hope to be at Cromer Pier for Fish and Chips between 4pm and 5pm then perhaps a refreshment at the Wellington.

Fundraising

I make no apology in continuing to encourage everyone, to consider how you might be able to support the appeal. A Cycle challenge to Cromer is a great foundation but at this stage will only raise 10% of what we need.

Any Volunteers ????

Finally, thanks again to everyone who has supported us so far, it really does make a difference to the pain during training and help me get through the challenge. With the help of our social media lead, we will keep you updated on the day, please keep sharing the posts and updates.

Stay safe and healthy.

Tom Manson

FULL STORY

I have been associated with Stewart's and Lloyd's Rugby Club Corby, for nearly 40 years. In 2017, I wanted to put something back into this community club and agreed to join the committee as the Safeguarding officer.

As a volunteer club, I have been continually impressed by the hard work, dedication and support from our Sponsors, Committee, players of all ages and members. Their recent efforts have enabled us to completely renovate and modernise our Clubhouse that, in hindsight, will hopefully enable us to continue operating in this challenging time for all community facilities.

The clubhouse is our key asset to ensure financial sustainability, the renovations make it a great facility for Match day events, Celebrations, Conferences and Training. It also provides us with an opportunity to improve our offer to the older and less able bodied members of our Community.

Since joining the committee, I have been determined to identify initiatives, grants and sponsorship to provide additional facilities including lift access to the social area and more modern and inclusive changing facilities. However, in the last 6 months we have been understandably focused on survival, retaining staff and staying connected with our members and players.

As we move out of lock-down, continuing to improve our facilities and offer, is becoming increasingly important. Although some may suggest easier ways to raise funds, I have decided to take on a significant one day cycle challenge.

On the 27th August, I will depart from Stewart's and Lloyd's RFC and cycle to Cromer Pier on the North Norfolk Coast, a total of 180kms.

I would like to thank one of our Ex players and National League Referee, Andy Canning, for coaching me and agreeing to join me on the journey.

My ask.

Please consider a donation towards our Clubhouse improvements or send any supportive messages to the Stewarts and LLoyds Facebook page.