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On the 23 June 2013 Ibis FC tragically lost a friend and team mate Rob Evans, who died competing in the Nice Ironman.   Rob was a real inspiration to everyone at the club; he always trained hard, played hard and competed with a smile on face. Rob and I played upfront together for two seasons, it was always such a pleasure to play alongside Rob.  Off the pitch Rob was a total gent and a good friend to many. Rob’s untimely death has had a big impact on all of us at Ibis FC.

On an early summer’s day in June, 364 days after the incident, many of his team mates young and old  are getting together to collectively run the Hackney Half Marathon.  Whilst for some the distance will be a straightforward, for many this distance is stretching personal boundaries.  Retired players are returning to the club for this event, along with new players who never met Rob.  Some are running more than 5k for the first time, some are running through injury, some have been told by the doctor to stop altogether! To date, 23 players have signed up and details of the event can be found here: http://runhackney.com/half-marathon/

We will be raising money for three great charities, of which two have a close connection to Rob and the club, they are:

1)      The East Anglian Air Ambulance - Rob died on 23rd June in a cycle crash during Ironman France held in Nice. He was airlifted by helicopter but didn't make it to the hospital. The EEEA do incredible work in and around the area that Rob haled from.  You can read about the EEEA here www.eaaa.org.uk

2)      The Multiple Sclerosis Therapy Centre South Yorkshire – Minch’s mother in law runs this centre which provides wonderful loving care and support to people with MS and their families. You can read more about the great work they do here www.mstherapysyorks.co.uk

3) The Laureus Sport for Good Foundation - Who's  goal is to help young people overcome the limitations imposed by challenging social issues including poverty, homelessness, war, violence, drug abuse, discrimination and AIDS. Read more here: http://www.laureus.com/aboutus

As we approach the anniversary, our thoughts are with Rob’s family and friends….and we’d like to show thanks and our support to them for the help they have given Ibis FC by running for Rob and collecting for these two great causes.  

Please support Ibis FC on our Run-for-Rob to celebrate his life. If you would like to join us on race day as a supporter we would be delighted to see you.  We will continue our celebrations after the run in a pub and by watching the World Cup Matches scheduled for the day – we know Rob would approve!

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