David Savage
Tour Pour La Mer
Fundraising for The Mission To Seafarers
Story
Dear friends and colleagues,
I'm pleased to report that the OCIMF team acquitted itself on the Tour Pour La Mer ride last weekend with credit and although for some unknown reason the "Veteran's Award" went to a team that not only set off some 30 miles down the road from those of us who started at Greenwich, and then took a major short cut in France, we completed the full 200k in good shape and certainly feeling like moral victors!.
John Hughes, Andy Dogherty, my son John and I achieved a lot of satisfaction in completing the ride. John H, Andy and I were at a point about 12 miles from Dover and were hailed down by a marshall who encouraged our group to abort the ride and use the train in order to keep the Organisers happy! To a man, we gave him the sailors' farewell and set off with renewed will! How could we come back admitting that we needed the train? Those of you who know the A2 approach to Dover will recall the 2 mile steep descent to the ferry terminal which, after an 80 miles slog was a very exhilarating experience!
We have collectively now raised in the region of UKP7k and want to just thank all of you who have given so generously. To those who might still want to contribute, there is still time.
Several contributors mentioned that had they known about the ride, they would have like to have participated. The good news is that there was a lot of talk for a repeat event next year. If this transpires, we will be sure to let you know in good time! We can certainly attest that it was a really rewarding experience.
Donating through this site is simple, fast and totally secure. The Mission To Seafarers will receive your money faster and, if you are a UK taxpayer, an extra 28% in tax will be added to your gift at no cost to you.
To all those below who have donated already - a really great THANK YOU. In particular, we want to recognise the really generous donation of £1,000 that was made off-line by the Dubai Branch of the Nautical Institute.