The third Annual RJ7 charity bike ride set off on Friday 15th September 2023, heading over the Moors.  The ride was organised by Andy Hewitt, OH 1982-92 and the route was planned by Nick Wright, OH 1984-94.

The ride was in honour of Richard Jones, a good friend and neighbour of Andy's, who was a rugby player, captain, and coach, including to both Andy and Nick's sons.  He sadly passed away in 2021 from Leukemia.

There were 18 riders who left Wetherby Rugby Club on that bright Friday morning, heading North East to ride through the stunning landscape of the North Yorkshire Moors National Park on this two-day event.

This year, on the first day the ride passed over the famous Blakey Ridge and headed to the seaside village of Sandsend for a quick celebratory pint, before finishing in Whitby next to the whalebone arches for a brief overnight stay and some local fish and chips.  The first day was 81 miles in total with an overall climb of almost 5000ft.

The return leg on Saturday set off in rainy conditions which stayed for the first 10 miles, before the mist set in across the top of the Moors. It was via the spectacular valley of Rosedale with its notorious climb up Egton Bank (almost 33% at one point!!!). Again, the day covered 83 miles - this time with an overall climb of over 5000ft. A lunch stop in Easingwold to regroup and then it was back to the club for a well-deserved massage and BBQ.

The ride raised funds for Phoenix Health & Well Being, who are a Leeds-based charity providing specific therapies to local people with chronic mental and physical health issues who couldn’t normally afford the support provided. The final numbers are still being counted but it will be in excess of £3,000.