Pictures & Story by
Derick Holman
Good Weather, Good Fun, Great Event Rye buzzed to the sound of hundreds of cogs and wheels as the 7th Fun Cycle Challenge started recently in the town and sped across the Marsh to Hythe. One hundred and thirty riders took to the roads to raise money for local charities.
Organised over four categories to allow participation by people of different abilities and ages cyclists were able to choose different courses ranging from 10 – 100 kilometres. The charity event is now firmly established and also rejoices in the name of ‘Le Tour de Rye et Romney Marsh Fun Ride’, reflecting the attraction of the ride to overseas cyclists. One of this years surprises was the completion of the 100K course by Rotarian Trevor Collins who freely admits that cycling isn’t one of his specialities, but to the joy of his fellow members he finished the course in style. Organised jointly by the Rye Wheelers and Rye & Winchelsea Rotary Club, one of the founding members of the event is Rotarian Derek Bayntun. “Each year we generate more interest in the ride “ he said “But although growing we need to look at our organisation closely to see if faster growth can be achieved in future years. The more we can enlarge the event the more money is raised for local good causes”. So Far around £1,400 has been pledged by riders to Rye Rotary this year with the possibility of further donations from the public. Anyone wishing to add to the money already raised can still send contributions to [email protected] or telephone 01797 223574.
From November 2013 issue of “Rye’s Own”