Betsen Salutes Courageous Cycling Pair |
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Charity cycle of over 670 miles for 12 year old William and family friend.
12 year old William Price and close family friend Robert Guyot, 65, have completed an amazing 671 mile cycle ride from London to France in aid of the Serge Betsen Academy, a charity which helps disadvantaged children in the Cameroon, Betsen’s country of birth, providing medical support, education and rugby coaching. William has played rugby at Wasps since the age of 5 and greatly admires Serge Betsen, who has often given his time to encourage young players. William decided he would like to give something back to Serge by raising money for his charity. William has spent a lot of time in France with his ‘adopted’ grandfather, Robert Guyot who is a fanatical cyclist. They have cycled together many times and decided they were ready for a serious challenge. The pair left the London Wasps Training Ground in West London on 3rd of July. Unaccompanied, carrying all of their camping equipment and clothes; they set off on a 671 mile cycle ride to Lurcy-Levis in the centre of France. The going was pretty tough, especially for William who is not the largest 12 year old on the planet! Robert had already cycled from Lurcy-Levis around Ireland and across Wales before collecting William in London and setting off on this final leg back to his home village in France. It took a huge amount of courage and determination, especially on the part of William, as they had to endure almost constant opposing winds, rain and many very steep climbs carrying their heavy loads. They were aiming to cycle 622 miles (1000 km) but finally finished at 671 miles and received a tri- umphant welcome at France’s oldest velodrome in Lurcy-Levis on 17th July 2011. To date they have raised over £7300. September 2, 2011 |