University of Greenwich Deputy Vice-Chancellors complete charity cycle ride
Professors Neil Garrod and Tom Barnes, both Deputy Vice-Chancellors at the University of Greenwich, cycled from Brussels to London to raise money for the university’s charity which helps students in need.
They met in Brussels on Sunday, July 4 to watch the finale of the second stage of the Tour de France before their journey began on Monday, July 5. The path they followed is part of the route of the Tour de France.
The route took in the picturesque countryside and stunning scenery of the city of Bruges, before finishing at the historic campus of the University of Greenwich, on Wednesday, July 7. There, the Greenwich duo and 200 fellow cyclists, raising money for a variety of causes were met by friends and colleagues to enjoy a celebratory barbecue.
Professor Tom Barnes is an experienced cyclist. As a child he regularly used to cycle 60 miles from his home town to Lincoln and back to buy parts at Birketts radio shop. Cycling was also the main means of local transport when he lived in Japan for four years. He is currently a member of the Anerley Cycling Club and takes part in club runs.
Tom says: “The ride was a great experience. We made many new friends, and had the great satisfaction of successfully meeting the challenge and raising money to help our students in need. Arriving at Greenwich Park, overlooking the university, after 275 miles riding across Europe was a wonderful experience.”
Professor Neil Garrod has an impressive track record as an endurance athlete – but on two legs, rather than two wheels having run from Rome to Glasgow.
Neil says: “Tom’s company was inspirational during the ride. By the time we reached Blackheath I was really getting into it and I could certainly do it again. I set a fundraising target before the ride and have now nearly reached my goal.”
The university’s Alumni Development Fund charity helps students in serious financial hardship, pays for books and resources in the library; and provides specialist equipment and support for those with a disability and dyslexia.
There is still time to sponsor Tom and Neil. Visit: http://www.justgiving.com/Neil-Garrod and http://www.justgiving.com/thomasbarnes
Ends
For further information, please contact:
Lee Armitt
Press Officer
University of Greenwich
020 8331 9420
Notes to editors
Picture: Tom Barnes (left) and Neil Garrod in training for the bike ride.
The cycle ride was organised by Right to Play. For further information, visit: http://www.righttoplay.com/uk/get-involved/Pages/Cycle.aspx