RAFA Rides 2023

On the 17 June I took part in the annual ‘RAFA Rides’ on behalf of the Royal Air Force Association.

RAFA Rides was established in 2018 when I was part of the original 100 cyclists who pedalled 111 miles around Rutland with the hope of raising £10,000. Since then, the event has grown massively and it is now an international event with cyclists from all over the globe (USA, Cyprus, Al Udeid) taking part as well as those participating in the UK; and what with me being a ‘RAFA Rides Champion’, I’m more than happy to take part and support this worthy cause.

Our day started at 0600 when I (and 4 other friends outside the RAF) set off to pedal 35 miles around Richmond Park. A quick bacon butty stop and my Brother-in-laws and then a further 50 mile cycle around Surrey where we stopped off at Windsor Castle on the way home. The day itself was really enjoyable and it was a great opportunity to raise some much needed funds while supporting the excellent work RAFA do for the RAF Family of yesterday and today. In total over 800 cyclists took part and the event is growing every year. After the pedalling, we kept with tradition and had an excellent BBQ followed by (a few) beers afterwards.

I can honestly recommend this event to anyone wanting to take up cycling, the opportunity to do something good for someone else was always going to be my motivation to take part in RAF Rides 2023……bring on 2024!

Ben Moore OC Accounts