RAFA Rides

 The Royal Air Force Association Rides, better known as RAFA Rides, began in 2017. The events are designed to raise money for the vital work the Royal Air Force Association does in providing greatly needed support to the RAF Community and particularly its veterans.

Since its inception over 5,000 people have taken part, last year’s set of events raised £150,000 for RAFA with this year’s events looking to match that goal.  

This year’s events take place at RAF Marham on the 7^th June, Kendrew Barracks (former RAF Cottesmore) on 14^th June, RAF Brize Norton on 21^st June and RAF Leeming on 28^th June. Participants were able to choose from either a 25, 50, 75 or 100 mile route depending on their fitness levels. As part of the experience participants get a special cycling jersey for this year’s events, multiple feed stations along the route to re-energise and in fine British tradition, a cold beer at the end.

RAFA Rides is supported strongly by the likes of Lockheed Martin, Raytheon, Babcock, Lone Star, Plexsys, TopAces, Serco and Boeing. These companies play a strong part in our Royal Air Force and our wider Armed Forces community. But these events would not be complete without an army of volunteers, dedicated people who truly care about supporting our veterans.     

I began my participation last year taking photos at the former RAF Cottesmore (Kendrew Barracks). I grew up with Cottesmore being TTTE and finally Joint Harrier Force so it holds a special place for me having also done my school’s work experience there with GEF and MEAS. It was a nice touch that one of the volunteers for RAFA is retired Air Vice Marshal Gary Waterfall, CBE who was the final station commander before its closure in 2011.

This year I covered both Kendrew and RAF Leeming. RAF Leeming has been a new one for this year, starting from a HAS the route took the riders off station into the North Yorkshire countryside and back again for the same 25, 50, 75 and 100 mile routes. Despite some rain in the morning by the afternoon it had heated up considerably but with that ever typical high wind you always find on airfields.   

 I believe in offering my skills to these events. Having known many RAF veterans, particularly from Bomber Command, this is a cause I can get behind. So here is to next year's events and may the weather be ever in our favour!

If you would like to donate or get involved with fundraising for the Royal Air Force Association follow the link below!

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