Olympic medallist joins Steyning cyclists
OLYMPIC gold medallist Sally Gunnell will be among 60 local cyclists aiming to raise £30,000 for charity.
The group, made up of cyclists from Steyning and the surrounding villages, will take to the South Downs Way on July 4 and 5.
Funds raised will go towards two charities – Steyning's Southdown Nursery and the Noel Orphanage in Rwanda, which is run by the Point Foundation.
Sally is the patron of the foundation, which aims to transform lives and communities in the African country.
Orphanage
She told the Herald: "I have been out to the orphanage.
"They have got absolutely nothing.
"It is a charity which is very close to my heart."
Sally added she was a little wary of swapping running shoes for the saddle, but expected the group of riders to pull together.
Apprehensive
"I am very apprehensive," she said.
"It is something I have never done before.
"I am much more comfortable on two feet.
"It is a big challenge, but it's a good bunch of people and we will help each other."
Ambitious
Nikki McIvor has been involved in numerous fund-raising and charity events with Southdown Nursery, but said this was the most ambitious yet.
"The first day is Winchester to Steyning, 60 miles across the Downs, leaving at 6am," she said.
"Most of them are going to have a good eight-hour ride."
After an overnight stop in Steyning, the riders will get back in their saddles for another early start and a seven-hour ride to Eastbourne, finishing at Beachy Head.
Fantastic
Riders have received support from beyond the local community.
Nikki thanked energy food and drink group Clif-Bar, Budget rent-a-car at Gatwick and South Downs Bike, Storrington, for the backing they were giving to the cyclists taking on the challenge.
Nikki added: "Each rider has pledged to raise 500 in sponsorship for our charities.
"This is the most ambitious project yet.
"If we pull it off, it will be fantastic."
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Monday 13 February 2012
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