A team of Harlequins and Exeter Chiefs legends and supporters are set to tackle a 180-mile cycle over three days to raise vital funds for the Harlequins Foundation this May.
Putting historic rugby rivalries aside, the riders will embark on the Harlequins’ flagship Rival Ride from Sandy Park, the home of Exeter Chiefs, on 16 May and finishing at The Stoop just in time for the final Quins home game of the season on 18 May.
This year’s event will be the fifth edition of the Rival Ride and among the names competing will be former rugby stars and regular rival riders Olly Kohn, Mark Lambert and Luke Wallace, alongside roughly 80 supporters.
Lambert, an ex-Harlequin of more than 17 years, said: “It is a challenging, fun, memorable event and offers all of us the opportunity to make some brilliant memories whilst supporting the Foundation, which is the beating heart of Harlequins.
“Oh, and you might see a few old boys who played a bit going really slowly up some hills in Devon!”
Last year’s race managed to raise £90,000 and the riders are aiming to surpass that figure in May to enable the Harlequins Foundation to deliver invaluable support to the community and implement life-changing projects, such as the Girls Only SWITCH programme.
The funds raised will be put back to supporting the Harlequins’ focus boroughs: Richmond, Kingston, Hounslow, Croydon, Merton and Wandsworth, which surround the Stoop stadium.
The Harlequins Foundation generated £3.9million of social value in these boroughs last season, taking the total impact of their work over the last three years to an impressive £10.3million.
Kohn, a former Premiership champion with Harlequins said: “The Rival Ride is a great chance to connect with some old faces.
“Some I’ve played rugby with, some I’ve had a beer at The Stoop with, and some I’ve struggled on a hill with during previous Rival Rides.
“Connecting with these people in this challenge is a great way to support our fantastic Foundation.”
The Rival Ride challenge not only serves as a crucial fundraising initiative but also embodies the spirit of the rugby community and its power to unite people for the greater good.
Nik Hart, Head of Fundraising and Engagement for the Harlequins Foundation said: “It’s fantastic so many people come together to take on the annual challenge, whether former players or Quins supporters, and the sense of camaraderie over the two days of the event is wonderful.”
The inspirational riders will also enjoy full support throughout the ride, including accommodation, meals, bespoke Rival Ride cycling jerseys, matchday tickets for the Exeter game on 18 May and a post ride celebration at the Stoop.
More information on how to register and donate can be found here.
Featured image credit: Photo by Andrew Fosker provided by Harlequins Rugby Club Communications Team.
