The Old Penarthians are getting on their bikes on Saturday, 2 March at midday for a 24-hour cyclothon at Anytime Fitness Penarth to raise money for their away game in Majorca against a regional team later in the month.

Ian Davis, Youth Team Tour Manager at Old Penarthians RFC, says: "We are hoping to raise £,2000 for kit for our Majorca tour. We have over 50 people coming with us, which is over 400 pieces of kit we need to raise money for.

"But the money we raise isn't just for us. Half of what we raise will be going to Headlands School in Penarth."

When choosing the type of fundraising event to do, they decided they wanted to choose something that would be inclusive for everyone.

By choosing a cyclothon, it means that many more people can get involved and help to raise as much money as possible. With three bikes set up at Anytime Fitness Penarth, over 50 people will be taking part in this incredible event. Including Old Penarthian RFC staff, players, family members and friends, from ages 15 to 80, who will each be cycling at least one hour. By the end of the 24 hours, they will have cycled the equivalent of here to Majorca, which is approximately 1,273 miles. 

Ian also reflects on the importance of community and commitment: "I wanted the boys to understand fundraising, instead of just going for sponsorship. I didn't just want to go into a business and ask for a sponsorship deal. Instead I wanted all the money to be earned by us. And it's important for the boys to know that the money they raise isn't just for us but can go to other people who need it.

"I showed them the kit package we had in mind and told them: 'raise the money, get the kit'. They needed to see that fundraising can be challenging. It's important for those young lads to understand that."

Another fundraising event held last year raised £700, and the hope is to increase on last year's number and make as much money as possible.

The Old Penarthians rugby team will be taking part in this event and most will be doing three hours on the bikes. An hour cycling, another to stay to watch and support their teammates, and then back on for another hour. It is important to display a sense of strong community values, which is one of the reasons they chose to hold the event in Anytime Fitness Penarth.