Steve Franklin took on a wheely big challenge this summer as he battled the wind and rain, cycling 100 miles to raise money for Blind Veterans UK..
He was one of 40 hardy souls who took on the Prudential RideLondon-Surrey 100 for Blind Veterans UK. The route took him through the City of London and Canary Wharf, out to Box and Leith Hills in Surrey, and then back into London along the Mall.
Steve says: “It was an amazing experience but I have to be honest, it was the worst weather I’ve ever cycled in! There was persistent wind and rain around the whole track. It really boosted my spirits when I spotted the Blind Veterans UK cheer squad at the 86-mile mark and I got that final burst of energy to pass the finish line.”
Steve, who works in the Estates department at the University of Sheffield, is a keen cyclist and a member of Holmfirth cycle club. This is the second year he has taken part in RideLondon, and, despite the rain, he beat his finishing time from last year.
Steve chose to fundraise for Blind Veterans UK after becoming aware of the work they do in local communities around the UK. As well as having friends who serve in the Armed Forces, Steve’s girlfriend’s father is ex-Royal Air Force, and nine members of her family also served.
Steve says: “RideLondon was a brilliant chance to get myself fit, but it was also an opportunity to give something back to people who have served our country and lost their sight. I’m so pleased my friends and colleagues got on board with the cause and were really generous with donations, which certainly helped during those long hours of training.”
As for his next challenge, Steve already has his eye on a coast-to-coast cycle ride and intends to fundraise again for Blind Veterans UK. You can support his effort here.
