Ahead of England’s Guinness Men’s Six Nations match against France, Nick Anderton, General Counsel at Castore, cycled the 200-mile journey to Paris in aid of the RFU Injured Players Foundation.
The challenge began at Allianz Stadium, Twickenham, and ended at the Stade de France, Paris, taking more than two days while battling wind and rain.
Nick set off for the first leg on Thursday 12 March, a 68-mile journey to Newhaven, via Brighton, to catch the 23:00 ferry to France.
The first day was arguably the biggest challenge, with heavy rain and strong winds, as well as a puncture for Nick’s friend Greg, who was accompanying him on the first leg.
Speaking to IPF Ambassador and rugby commentator Nick Mullins ahead of his departure, Nick explained why he was so determined to take on this colossal cycle for the RFU Injured Players Foundation, saying:
“I love the sport and I love England Rugby, so taking on this challenge felt like a really positive way to support the game and give something back.
“I’m very aware that I’m fortunate to be able to take on something like this, and that many players who have sustained a life-changing injury simply can’t, which is why the work of the RFU Injured Players Foundation is so important.
“The Foundation provides vital, long-term support for players at every level of the game, from the amateur community through to the professional ranks, as well as their families.
“Working at Castore, as England Rugby’s official technical kit partner, it was important to me to support England Rugby’s official charity and reflect the rugby family ethos of looking after each other.”
Nick successfully completed the 200-mile trip to Stade de France in plenty of time to support England Rugby in their thrilling Test Match against eventual Championship winners France.
Speaking ahead of kick-off, after a journey of 18 hours in the saddle, Nick said:
“It’s been a brilliant few days, tough at times, but hugely rewarding.
“The weather was pretty brutal for the first couple of days, especially on day one riding through the Surrey Hills in driving rain and near gale-force winds!
Watch highlights of the journey here
"Arriving at the Stade de France was an incredible moment.
"After more than two and a half days on the road and around 18 hours in the saddle, my legs were definitely shouting at me, but thankfully the sun came out on the final day which made the run into Paris even more special.
"Seeing the stadium come into view and knowing the challenge was complete made every mile worthwhile, especially doing it for the RFU Injured Players Foundation.
“Throughout it all I kept reminding myself that, whatever the weather threw at me, however much my legs ached or how cold I was (who cycles at the end of winter/early spring?!?) it was a real privilege to be able to do something like this. Not everyone has that opportunity physically and I kept reminding myself of that.
“It’s been fantastic to support the Injured Players Foundation and the incredible work they do within the rugby family, while raising awareness for such a brilliant charity.
“I love sport, I love a challenge, and I love England Rugby. Being able to do something that supports the rugby community means a lot, especially as my six-year-old son Will now plays the game himself. A big shout out to Sale FC!"
Nick has so far raised more than £1,200. If you would like to donate, you can do so here
