Rokpa Glasgow News Page 8

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At last the planned Sponsored Cycle to help raise funds for the Ropka Glasgow Soup Kitchen went ahead with two teams of 6 completing the route on consecutive Sundays .. Team 1 on 11 September and Team 2 on 18 September 2005.

The first planned date was postponed due to the hurriedly-arranged visit of the children from the Rokpa Himalayan Dance Tour who arrived for a week's stay on that Sunday. As the morning of the second planned Sunday dawned, it was quickly realised that the horizontal rain and gale force winds did not provide the best cycling conditions, and another new date was set. But further difficult circumstances for some of the cyclists on that date meant another week's postponement.

Thanks to all our sponsors .. and to the backup teams of Lithgow and Lithgow Wilson, and Kevin in their respective 'sag' wagons, who were to meet the cyclists at various points along the route to provide support, encouragement, drinks and a place to effect any running repairs.

The teams began at Bishopbriggs Sports Centre and followed the path beside the canal as far as the Falkirk Wheel, returning by the same route after some picnic refreshment. The first team of Andy, Mae, Stuart, Kevin, Charlie and Ally pedalled the 20 miles to the Wheel virtually without a stop, in tremendous weather conditions. After a hearty lunch care of the Wilson family, a quick look round the Visitor Centre, and posing for the team photograph, it was time to start the return. A slight headwind and a bit of tiredness in the legs saw the group stopping at Auchenstarry for a good break, while watching two climbers prepare and ascend the cliff. But Bishopbriggs was sooned reached and everyone returned home .. some doing a little bit more cycling!

The second team of Fiona, Barbara, Isa, Lisa, Craig and Ian completed the same route a week later, and enjoyed a cooked lunch courtesy of 'sag' driver Kevin.

(Click the pics to view .. click the "Back" button to return)

Our heartfelt thanks go to everyone involved, not only for the time they gave up but also for the tremendous effort they put in! And of course, to all our sponsors who helped us raise just over £1000 to help many of Glasgow's homeless people.

YOU COULD HELP WITH FUNDRAISING FOR ROKPA SOUP KITCHENS! Click here for details!!