Press Release: 2017 Christmas Charity Time Trial

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CLUB CHARITY TIME TRIAL TO HELP TWO LITTLE GIRLS

Blaydon Cycle Club will host their second annual Charity Time Trial this December to raise funds for two little girls with rare Batten disease.

Nicole and Jessica Rich were both diagnosed with the terminal illness within months of one another, striking a blow no family should have to endure. Since receiving the news, family and friends have tirelessly raised funds so the girls get the support and treatment they need.

Father, Matthew Rich, is a member of Blaydon CC who have pledged their support to the family. Their first fundraising time trial took place in December 2016 raising £1000 and proving a huge success not only in raising money, but for everyone involved.
Club Chairman, Paul Wright, said, “We planned last year as a one-off but it was immediately obvious it would make a worthwhile annual event.”
The time trial is held on the 12 mile ‘M12’ course in Stamfordham Village, Northumberland.

Despite being a regular racing route, the expectations on the day are more in keeping with the charity angle, with prizes given not only for best times but also for the craziest costumes and outlandish bikes.

[See attached image: ‘Adam Jarps of Manilla Cycling as The Grinch’]
The 2016 event saw cyclists of all abilities mixing it together, from national racers to social club riders, most of whom choosing to abandon their usually aerodynamic style for one that really gets into the Christmas Spirit dressing as The Grinch and, of course, Santa!
[See attached image: ‘Michael Todd of Derwentside CC – Christmas Tree Tamdem’]

Paul Wright said, “It was a fantastic day which far exceeded what we’d hoped for the Rich family! The enthusiasm was amazing and the effort everyone went to was overwhelming. It would be great to repeat that again this year.”

The 2017 event again takes place in Stamfordham Village, Northumberland on 17th December and is open to all CTT affiliated clubs and riders.
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NOTES TO THE EDITOR
More information and entry details can be found here:
www.cyclingtimetrials.org.uk/race-details/16148

You can read more about the Rich family’s story here:
www.thenicolerichfoundation.org.uk

 The Nicole Rich Foundation was set up in 2016 by the family, only weeks before
their second daughter, Jessica, was diagnosed with the same disease. Both
daughters are undergoing extensive, pioneering treatment to slow progress and
hopefully find a cure for the disease.
 Nicole is five years old and Jessica is two.
 Battens disease is a rare genetic disorder which causes progressive deterioration of
the brain and nervous system. Sufferers may lose their sight, speech, ability to walk
and develop epilepsy before the disease ultimatly claims their lives.
 Blaydon Cycle Club was set up in September 2013 and has grown to 180 members. The club caters for all abilities with various group rides from beginner to development through to a successful team of racers.

Featured Photos – click to download .zip file.

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