Yes apparently Paul also receives regular verbal abuse and this isn't the first time physical abuse has been used.QuartzGooner wrote:Evil knows no bounds, terrible to hear of this "hit and run" attack, but so much credit to Paul for carrying on with his training.
Challenge Gibraltar - Wheelchair Fundraiser
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Basil is a Gooner
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Re: Challenge Gibraltar - Wheelchair Fundraiser
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Basil is a Gooner
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Re: Challenge Gibraltar - Wheelchair Fundraiser
Thanks Frank, it is disgusting and I can't believe anyone would intentionally knock someone out of a wheelchair - there are some sick people out there!franksav63 wrote:It's terrible to hear the news that this man, who has gone through so much, has had to deal with this hit and run and also getting abused whilst training? Some 'people' out there really do need to look at themselves! Thanks for the updates Basil!
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Basil is a Gooner
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Re: Challenge Gibraltar - Wheelchair Fundraiser
Good Morning Everyone
Better news!
It's 3 weeks since the incident that knocked Paul out of his chair and badly injured him, there have been no witnesses come forward and
definitely the culprit has not come forward either. It's been a long 3 weeks and what has seemed like an eternity for Paul but progress has been made, albeit ever so small. Paul and Bronwin have been out on the track and in the gym working hard ever since and Paul is now pulling up to 15kgs of weight around the track up to a distance of 1 mile, he has completed med ball throw and chase and slams he has also done timed laps of 400 metres and 800 metres with a 6kg med ball. In the gym he has completed different weight exercises and is using weights of up to 41kgs, even though these weights are a lot lighter than he his used to, but it has to be one step at a time. Today Paul will be in the gym with Neil as usual followed by a weekend of rest. It has been decided that Paul will attempt some small inclines along the streets above the Havant Road where Paul was hit, he will be on the road when going up and down the side streets but will stick to the pavement along the Havant Road. We will be attaching a loaned Go Pro camera to the chair and Bronwin will follow behind to give Paul as much safety as possible, the article in the online edition of the Portsmouth news has had mixed responses to the incident and could encourage people to look out for Paul, making him even more of a target, we hope this will not be the case! We have received loads of messages of support to which Paul and the crew are extremely grateful, we can assure everyone that if Paul had areas he could train without traffic around he would use them but there just aren't the hills around here to train on except Butser Hill which for the past 3 months has been too wet and dangerous to attempt. Training goes on as usual with the hope of improvement every day. Whatever the case, Paul will make Gibraltar and will attempt the rock climb!
News from Gibraltar:
Paul Lyon has been extremely busy in Gibraltar, things are coming together quite nicely and again we can only thank Paul for all his continued hard work and kind support. We have two outriders to close off the roads leading up to the upper part of the rock to which we'd like to thank Cathal Yeats and the Royal Gibraltar Police for, there's a collection arranged for Friday before the challenge, Paul and the crew will be there for a couple of hours then they will have to disappear for a challenge briefing. The support coming from Gibraltar is overwhelming and we can't wait to get there, I have heard so many good things about the place and the people!!
Donations: Donations have been coming in and yesterday Mark Chamberlain of Portsmouth FC and father of Alex the Ox - Chamberlain of Arsenal FC has made a kind donation, please keep the support coming by visiting the Virgin Money Giving website below or if you know our address and prefer to send cheques please feel free to do so. If you wish to donate to both charities by cheque we request you make two cheques payable, one to Save the Children and the other to Great Ormond Street Children's Charity. Together we can make a HUGE difference. Thank you.
Jane
www.virginmoneygiving.com/challengegibraltar
www.twitter.com/ChallengerGib
Better news!
It's 3 weeks since the incident that knocked Paul out of his chair and badly injured him, there have been no witnesses come forward and
definitely the culprit has not come forward either. It's been a long 3 weeks and what has seemed like an eternity for Paul but progress has been made, albeit ever so small. Paul and Bronwin have been out on the track and in the gym working hard ever since and Paul is now pulling up to 15kgs of weight around the track up to a distance of 1 mile, he has completed med ball throw and chase and slams he has also done timed laps of 400 metres and 800 metres with a 6kg med ball. In the gym he has completed different weight exercises and is using weights of up to 41kgs, even though these weights are a lot lighter than he his used to, but it has to be one step at a time. Today Paul will be in the gym with Neil as usual followed by a weekend of rest. It has been decided that Paul will attempt some small inclines along the streets above the Havant Road where Paul was hit, he will be on the road when going up and down the side streets but will stick to the pavement along the Havant Road. We will be attaching a loaned Go Pro camera to the chair and Bronwin will follow behind to give Paul as much safety as possible, the article in the online edition of the Portsmouth news has had mixed responses to the incident and could encourage people to look out for Paul, making him even more of a target, we hope this will not be the case! We have received loads of messages of support to which Paul and the crew are extremely grateful, we can assure everyone that if Paul had areas he could train without traffic around he would use them but there just aren't the hills around here to train on except Butser Hill which for the past 3 months has been too wet and dangerous to attempt. Training goes on as usual with the hope of improvement every day. Whatever the case, Paul will make Gibraltar and will attempt the rock climb!
News from Gibraltar:
Paul Lyon has been extremely busy in Gibraltar, things are coming together quite nicely and again we can only thank Paul for all his continued hard work and kind support. We have two outriders to close off the roads leading up to the upper part of the rock to which we'd like to thank Cathal Yeats and the Royal Gibraltar Police for, there's a collection arranged for Friday before the challenge, Paul and the crew will be there for a couple of hours then they will have to disappear for a challenge briefing. The support coming from Gibraltar is overwhelming and we can't wait to get there, I have heard so many good things about the place and the people!!
Donations: Donations have been coming in and yesterday Mark Chamberlain of Portsmouth FC and father of Alex the Ox - Chamberlain of Arsenal FC has made a kind donation, please keep the support coming by visiting the Virgin Money Giving website below or if you know our address and prefer to send cheques please feel free to do so. If you wish to donate to both charities by cheque we request you make two cheques payable, one to Save the Children and the other to Great Ormond Street Children's Charity. Together we can make a HUGE difference. Thank you.
Jane
www.virginmoneygiving.com/challengegibraltar
www.twitter.com/ChallengerGib
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Basil is a Gooner
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Re: Challenge Gibraltar - Wheelchair Fundraiser
Good Morning Everyone
A lovely sunny if not cold day here in Portsmouth, time is flying, end of January next week leaving around 2 months 7 days of preparations to go.
As you might expect training is progressing very slowly we are now up to 4 days a week and will continue at Paul's pace until things improve but it will be one step at a time with coach Bronwin keepinga good eye on him and looking after his interests from the training point of view. I can reveal that Paul has now pulled 17 kgs of weight around the track for a distance of 1200 metres which is an improvement on last week, he has also done 120 slams with a 6kg medicine ball and throw and chase, today will be his usual time in the gym with Neil and then hopefully on Monday, if the weather is right he will take to the roads and some small incline work, this time he will have a Go Pro camera attached to the chair and Bronwin will be following to give him as much protection as possible.
Gibraltar: Arrangements continue in Gibraltar, we have received maps and distances of each leg of the challenge from Paul Lyon and Pat Santos and thanks to Julie Bruzon and the good people in the relevant Gibraltar Government departments we now have the gradients. Tito is arranging the presentation of the 3 Gibraltar Shirts which are up for grabs so if you wish to make a bid on them please feel free to do so, the red shirt has £150 on it one of the white shirts has £100 and as this is the first year in European football for Gibraltar these shirts will be special as they are signed by all the squad. Gibraltar have done well on their first outing they will be better equiped for their next euro qualifiers next time around...Well Done to all the team!!!
Donations: We received £30 in donations this week and would like to thank those of you who made them, you know who you are!
We hope you all have a great weekend!!!
Jane
www.virginmoneygiving.com/challengegibraltar
www.twitter.com/ChallengerGib
Best Wishes
Jane, Paul and Crew
A lovely sunny if not cold day here in Portsmouth, time is flying, end of January next week leaving around 2 months 7 days of preparations to go.
As you might expect training is progressing very slowly we are now up to 4 days a week and will continue at Paul's pace until things improve but it will be one step at a time with coach Bronwin keepinga good eye on him and looking after his interests from the training point of view. I can reveal that Paul has now pulled 17 kgs of weight around the track for a distance of 1200 metres which is an improvement on last week, he has also done 120 slams with a 6kg medicine ball and throw and chase, today will be his usual time in the gym with Neil and then hopefully on Monday, if the weather is right he will take to the roads and some small incline work, this time he will have a Go Pro camera attached to the chair and Bronwin will be following to give him as much protection as possible.
Gibraltar: Arrangements continue in Gibraltar, we have received maps and distances of each leg of the challenge from Paul Lyon and Pat Santos and thanks to Julie Bruzon and the good people in the relevant Gibraltar Government departments we now have the gradients. Tito is arranging the presentation of the 3 Gibraltar Shirts which are up for grabs so if you wish to make a bid on them please feel free to do so, the red shirt has £150 on it one of the white shirts has £100 and as this is the first year in European football for Gibraltar these shirts will be special as they are signed by all the squad. Gibraltar have done well on their first outing they will be better equiped for their next euro qualifiers next time around...Well Done to all the team!!!
Donations: We received £30 in donations this week and would like to thank those of you who made them, you know who you are!
We hope you all have a great weekend!!!
Jane
www.virginmoneygiving.com/challengegibraltar
www.twitter.com/ChallengerGib
Best Wishes
Jane, Paul and Crew
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Basil is a Gooner
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Re: Challenge Gibraltar - Wheelchair Fundraiser
Progress: It's been a tough week but progress has been made, albeit slowly. Paul has been on the track pulling weights Monday, this didn't go so well but Tuesday was a different story in the gym and it was combined gym and track work on Wednesday, the weather was bad on Wednesday but Paul was undertaking a timed 800 metres in rain and gusts of up to 50mph, shame no one was out there taking photos. Thursday was the acid test, Paul took to the small and medium inclines and completed a total of 5.4 miles not all on inclines, however the result was better than expected but we remain cautious as it was only the first outing and there's a long way to go. Paul had a Go Pro attached to the chair and Bronwin was following close behind to avoid further incidents, this will be the routine from now until he finishes on road training. Even though Paul has been going through a tough time, as anyone who has been hit by a car would, he has tried hard to remain positive and with the help and encouragement of so many of you not least Alan Manning and Bronwin Carter, he is regaining his Positive Mental Attitude (PMA) just like he has always displayed throughout his life. Paul is so looking forward to returning to Gibraltar again and meeting the people who live there, I've heard nothing but good things about his adventures there and the kindness and generosity extended to HM Forces personnel and visitors alike. The support we have received from here in the UK is equally as encouraging, Ellen and Paul Shorey have been a large part of this encouragement over the past few weeks and we would like to thank you for this support. I can't mention everyone of you individually as there are literally over 3,670 of you plus all the other people/companies and sponsors who receive the update worldwide, and who have sent in their best wishes etc. Thank you all!!!
Other News: RGK Wheelchairs are getting ready to send Paul spares and replacement parts for the chair, they will be with us mid February and a company called Smith and Austin are investigating as to whether they can make a pair of push rims as the ones on the chair at the moment are wearing, watch this space.
Jane
Have another good week!
http://www.virginmoneygiving.com/challengegibraltar
http://www.twitter.com/ChallengerGib
Other News: RGK Wheelchairs are getting ready to send Paul spares and replacement parts for the chair, they will be with us mid February and a company called Smith and Austin are investigating as to whether they can make a pair of push rims as the ones on the chair at the moment are wearing, watch this space.
Jane
Have another good week!
http://www.virginmoneygiving.com/challengegibraltar
http://www.twitter.com/ChallengerGib
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Basil is a Gooner
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Re: Challenge Gibraltar - Wheelchair Fundraiser
Good Morning Everyone
Welcome to the first update of February.
Progress: Paul has made more progress this past week and on Wednesday he took to the medium hills and included an extra hill to see how the shoulders would bear up, he pushed himself over a total distance of 8.75 miles and was sore and tired for a few hours after that but all in all we have overcome another hurdle. Next week is a scheduled week off which Paul is not 100% happy about as time is now limited but we think it's better for him to take this time off as resting is as important as training and under the circumstances this rest is more important than ever. Unfortunately just as we come to the end of the week and begin the rest period, Paul has also come down with a cold, not ideal but we will feed him scotch broth, oranges and everything else that will help fight it. the plan after the weeks rest will be to take on Hospital hill which is just about 1 mile long and on a 10% gradient, should he manage that ok I am sure he will want to take it on a few more times before heading on to some steeper hills, like always it's one step at a time. We have adjusted safety so Paul is no longer out on the roads on his own, he has a Go Pro camera attached to the chair and Bronwin following close behind, no chances being taken anymore. Gibraltar here we come!
GOOD NEWS: One of our sponsors has emailed us to say that instead of sending Christmas cards out last Christmas, they decided to donate the money to Challenge Gibraltar. We haven't mentioned them in this update as we are not sure if they would be ok with that at this stage but you know who you are and we can assure you that both we and the charities who will receive the money are extremely grateful for this kind gesture. Thank you.
EXTRA GOOD NEWS: We have been in contact with John Haldane of NCP for Heathrow and are delighted to let you know that John has offered to sought out parking for our 3 vehicles as a sponsorship, John we would like to thank you for this kindness!!
Jane
Have another good week!
www.virginmoneygiving.com/challengegibraltar
www.twitter.com/ChallengerGib
Best Wishes
Jane, Paul and Crew
Welcome to the first update of February.
Progress: Paul has made more progress this past week and on Wednesday he took to the medium hills and included an extra hill to see how the shoulders would bear up, he pushed himself over a total distance of 8.75 miles and was sore and tired for a few hours after that but all in all we have overcome another hurdle. Next week is a scheduled week off which Paul is not 100% happy about as time is now limited but we think it's better for him to take this time off as resting is as important as training and under the circumstances this rest is more important than ever. Unfortunately just as we come to the end of the week and begin the rest period, Paul has also come down with a cold, not ideal but we will feed him scotch broth, oranges and everything else that will help fight it. the plan after the weeks rest will be to take on Hospital hill which is just about 1 mile long and on a 10% gradient, should he manage that ok I am sure he will want to take it on a few more times before heading on to some steeper hills, like always it's one step at a time. We have adjusted safety so Paul is no longer out on the roads on his own, he has a Go Pro camera attached to the chair and Bronwin following close behind, no chances being taken anymore. Gibraltar here we come!
GOOD NEWS: One of our sponsors has emailed us to say that instead of sending Christmas cards out last Christmas, they decided to donate the money to Challenge Gibraltar. We haven't mentioned them in this update as we are not sure if they would be ok with that at this stage but you know who you are and we can assure you that both we and the charities who will receive the money are extremely grateful for this kind gesture. Thank you.
EXTRA GOOD NEWS: We have been in contact with John Haldane of NCP for Heathrow and are delighted to let you know that John has offered to sought out parking for our 3 vehicles as a sponsorship, John we would like to thank you for this kindness!!
Jane
Have another good week!
www.virginmoneygiving.com/challengegibraltar
www.twitter.com/ChallengerGib
Best Wishes
Jane, Paul and Crew
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Basil is a Gooner
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Re: Challenge Gibraltar - Wheelchair Fundraiser
It's been a glorious day here in Portsmouth and surrounding areas in the south of the UK and we have some fantastic news to match it with. Big donation has been made today by a company in Gibraltar.
Training: The week started disastrously and it was thought that Challenge Gibraltar was going to be cancelled, we won't go in to the reasons for this but things were very serious indeed, lets just say our youngest daughter Emma saved the day. Tuesday morning arrived and Paul was chomping at the bit to get out on the road/hills and away he went with Bronwin following close behind, they took on Hospital Hill went down to Southwick and back up, a distance of 6 miles which took 1 hour 6 minutes in sunny weather. Wednesday because of a meeting Paul turned to the track and gym and again things went very well leaving Paul with a grin as wide as a Cheshire cat. Bring on Thursday, this was the biggest test to date, up Hospital Hill, down to Southwick and on to Suicide hill where Paul made two assents, he and Bronwin then made the return journey back up Southwick Hill and finished at the top in lovely warm sunshine. Paul has reported discomfort but just manageable so he was a happy man. Next came today (Friday) and it was time to take training that one step further so Paul along with Mick Cotton took a drive out to Butser Hill, not the grass side but the road on the other side, this assent would be a distance of 1.6 miles starting on the flat then rising up and up with steep inclines as they reached the top. Happy with the first assent, Paul and Mick decided to return to the bottom and make a second climb, it was hard but it was a great feeling Paul said as he reached the top and it ends the week on a high! We are on our way, still a long way to go before Paul gets in the endurance training he needs but at least things are positive and long may it continue, well done Paul, Mick and Bronwin and everyone else involved in supporting Paul through what has proved to be very difficult times over the past 2 months.
Other News: This week has been positive in other areas to, Proptech, one of our many sponsors have offered to re-spray the push rims as the paint has all but worn off, this will give Paul better grip when pushing the chair, we would like to thank Alistair Mant and Proptech for their help in this important matter, we aim to have the push rims with Proptech on the 7th/8th April and Paul will then make do with the ordinary push rims for two days. Parkwood Community Leisure have offered to supply and print up T shirts for the crew and for the supporters who will be flying with us to Gibraltar we will also have some for those people who have supported us with sponsorship in Gibraltar, so a big, big thank you to Parkwood Community Leisure on this. The disc with sponsor logos on has been sent to Pentagon Commercials ready to be put on the support van, thank you Kevin Downham for this, various other people have been busying away in the background doing things in Gibraltar so everything looks to be in hand, sorry if we've missed anyone out.
Donation: A whopping donation was made today while Paul was out training so we would like to thank the company, based in Gibraltar, who made this donation, you can see who it is by going to www.virginmoneygiving.com/challengegibraltar The total now stands at £3,165.71 because we also received £40 in donations during the past week. We hope that UK companies will be able to help us reach the £100,000 target also. Thank you.
Jane
Have another great week!
www.virginmoneygiving.com/challengegibraltar
www.twitter.com/ChallengerGib
Training: The week started disastrously and it was thought that Challenge Gibraltar was going to be cancelled, we won't go in to the reasons for this but things were very serious indeed, lets just say our youngest daughter Emma saved the day. Tuesday morning arrived and Paul was chomping at the bit to get out on the road/hills and away he went with Bronwin following close behind, they took on Hospital Hill went down to Southwick and back up, a distance of 6 miles which took 1 hour 6 minutes in sunny weather. Wednesday because of a meeting Paul turned to the track and gym and again things went very well leaving Paul with a grin as wide as a Cheshire cat. Bring on Thursday, this was the biggest test to date, up Hospital Hill, down to Southwick and on to Suicide hill where Paul made two assents, he and Bronwin then made the return journey back up Southwick Hill and finished at the top in lovely warm sunshine. Paul has reported discomfort but just manageable so he was a happy man. Next came today (Friday) and it was time to take training that one step further so Paul along with Mick Cotton took a drive out to Butser Hill, not the grass side but the road on the other side, this assent would be a distance of 1.6 miles starting on the flat then rising up and up with steep inclines as they reached the top. Happy with the first assent, Paul and Mick decided to return to the bottom and make a second climb, it was hard but it was a great feeling Paul said as he reached the top and it ends the week on a high! We are on our way, still a long way to go before Paul gets in the endurance training he needs but at least things are positive and long may it continue, well done Paul, Mick and Bronwin and everyone else involved in supporting Paul through what has proved to be very difficult times over the past 2 months.
Other News: This week has been positive in other areas to, Proptech, one of our many sponsors have offered to re-spray the push rims as the paint has all but worn off, this will give Paul better grip when pushing the chair, we would like to thank Alistair Mant and Proptech for their help in this important matter, we aim to have the push rims with Proptech on the 7th/8th April and Paul will then make do with the ordinary push rims for two days. Parkwood Community Leisure have offered to supply and print up T shirts for the crew and for the supporters who will be flying with us to Gibraltar we will also have some for those people who have supported us with sponsorship in Gibraltar, so a big, big thank you to Parkwood Community Leisure on this. The disc with sponsor logos on has been sent to Pentagon Commercials ready to be put on the support van, thank you Kevin Downham for this, various other people have been busying away in the background doing things in Gibraltar so everything looks to be in hand, sorry if we've missed anyone out.
Donation: A whopping donation was made today while Paul was out training so we would like to thank the company, based in Gibraltar, who made this donation, you can see who it is by going to www.virginmoneygiving.com/challengegibraltar The total now stands at £3,165.71 because we also received £40 in donations during the past week. We hope that UK companies will be able to help us reach the £100,000 target also. Thank you.
Jane
Have another great week!
www.virginmoneygiving.com/challengegibraltar
www.twitter.com/ChallengerGib
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Basil is a Gooner
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Re: Challenge Gibraltar - Wheelchair Fundraiser
double post
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Basil is a Gooner
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Re: Challenge Gibraltar - Wheelchair Fundraiser
Good Morning Everyone
SECRET BENEFACTOR THROWS DOWN THE GAUNTLET!!!
Apologies - Some of you would have received last weeks update with the wrong date on, it should be 13th not 6th.
We have great news this week on the training and donations front and the O'Callaghan Hotel comes to the rescue.
Training: Monday Paul was off on endurance training where he climbed Suicide Hill 3 times before the rain came down, on the way home and halfway up Southwick Hill the rain came down hard and that ended training for the day as Paul couldn't get grip on the push rims not matter how good the gloves are. The push rims have worn and will be re-sprayed on 7th April which should make gripping a lot easier. Tuesday was the track and gym and things were good with Paul lifting a lot more weight and he is nearly on par with what he was lifting before his hit and run in December. Now here comes the biggest of acid tests to date, Paul had made his mind up on Sunday to take on Lith Avenue and for those of you who have forgotten what it looks like, we have attached some photos. It was Paul's intention to at least achieve 2 climbs in fact he achieved 4 climbs with Bronwin and Mick supporting him and he was obviously over the moon with this achievement and so are we. Today, Thursday it was back to the track and gym with weight pulls around the track and heavies in the gym with good results although Paul still remains cautious. Tomorrow, Friday Paul and Mick will be off to Butser Hill to do 4 climbs after Paul is taped up by James early in the morning, we are hoping for good results as this will be the longest endurance test since December!
GREAT NEWS: After putting out a plea of help for T shirts because our original supplier couldn't have them to us until after the challenge had finished, we are very pleased to announce that Mary Kinch and the O'Callaghan Eliott Hotel will now be the sponsors of the crew and supporters T shirts. We would like to thank Mary and O'Callaghan Eliott Hotels for their kind support with this issue and will wear our T shirts with Pride. We would like to thank all the other sponsors/companies who also offered to help us out with this matter.
Fantastic News: Yesterday, we received an email from someone who we have known a while, this person has informed us that he/she will match any £10,000 donation made by any individual or the total of what we raise up to £10,000 including what we have already collected. As we know this person but are not prepared to reveal who he/she is we can honestly say that this is a genuine offer as this person has made that same fantastic gesture before on a number of occasions before. So we hope that there are many more people like the secret benefactor who'd like to take up the challenge and help us reach the total of £100,000! Thank you.
Donations: In the meantime we have received further donations this week and so far the collected total has reached £3,389.71, lets smash the target of £100,000 for Paul's final challenge! Thank you.
Jane
Have another great week!
www.virginmoneygiving.com/challengegibraltar
www.twitter.com/ChallengerGib
SECRET BENEFACTOR THROWS DOWN THE GAUNTLET!!!
Apologies - Some of you would have received last weeks update with the wrong date on, it should be 13th not 6th.
We have great news this week on the training and donations front and the O'Callaghan Hotel comes to the rescue.
Training: Monday Paul was off on endurance training where he climbed Suicide Hill 3 times before the rain came down, on the way home and halfway up Southwick Hill the rain came down hard and that ended training for the day as Paul couldn't get grip on the push rims not matter how good the gloves are. The push rims have worn and will be re-sprayed on 7th April which should make gripping a lot easier. Tuesday was the track and gym and things were good with Paul lifting a lot more weight and he is nearly on par with what he was lifting before his hit and run in December. Now here comes the biggest of acid tests to date, Paul had made his mind up on Sunday to take on Lith Avenue and for those of you who have forgotten what it looks like, we have attached some photos. It was Paul's intention to at least achieve 2 climbs in fact he achieved 4 climbs with Bronwin and Mick supporting him and he was obviously over the moon with this achievement and so are we. Today, Thursday it was back to the track and gym with weight pulls around the track and heavies in the gym with good results although Paul still remains cautious. Tomorrow, Friday Paul and Mick will be off to Butser Hill to do 4 climbs after Paul is taped up by James early in the morning, we are hoping for good results as this will be the longest endurance test since December!
GREAT NEWS: After putting out a plea of help for T shirts because our original supplier couldn't have them to us until after the challenge had finished, we are very pleased to announce that Mary Kinch and the O'Callaghan Eliott Hotel will now be the sponsors of the crew and supporters T shirts. We would like to thank Mary and O'Callaghan Eliott Hotels for their kind support with this issue and will wear our T shirts with Pride. We would like to thank all the other sponsors/companies who also offered to help us out with this matter.
Fantastic News: Yesterday, we received an email from someone who we have known a while, this person has informed us that he/she will match any £10,000 donation made by any individual or the total of what we raise up to £10,000 including what we have already collected. As we know this person but are not prepared to reveal who he/she is we can honestly say that this is a genuine offer as this person has made that same fantastic gesture before on a number of occasions before. So we hope that there are many more people like the secret benefactor who'd like to take up the challenge and help us reach the total of £100,000! Thank you.
Donations: In the meantime we have received further donations this week and so far the collected total has reached £3,389.71, lets smash the target of £100,000 for Paul's final challenge! Thank you.
Jane
Have another great week!
www.virginmoneygiving.com/challengegibraltar
www.twitter.com/ChallengerGib
-
Basil is a Gooner
- Posts: 7025
- Joined: Fri Mar 16, 2007 10:04 am
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Re: Challenge Gibraltar - Wheelchair Fundraiser
Good Afternoon Everyone
Important News: Still waiting to see if someone will match our secret benefactor's offer of £10,000.
Training: Week started poorly, for some unknown reason the taping on Paul's right shoulder didn't work so he had to fight through the pain barrier to complete training then as he was heading home the rain came down and training was terminated due to the lack of grip Paul had on his push rims. Tuesday saw Paul back on the track and in the gym to concentrate on strength and speed, especially to his left side which was affected mostly in his accident in 1991 and during the hit and run. We have attached a photo of Paul being taped up ready for the road, it hurts when all that tape is removed I can assure you that, however not anymore because he has no hair left in those areas. Wednesday the rain came down so it was to the gym again to concentrate on more strength and conditioning and working on his weaker left side, under normal circumstances Paul would be out in the rain on the hills but there's simply no grip on the push rims in wet weather so training continues indoors. Thursday saw more rain but it didn't stop play and Paul took on another hard gym session with the Guru are extreme level to finish, well so he thought, just as Paul, Bronwin and Mick finished the Guru session out came the sun so on to the track it was for 4 fast laps of the track just to bring a 3 hour session to a perfect end! Friday is here and after being taped by James at 8am this morning Paul and Bronwin were faced with either to go to Lith avenue and do some steep climbs or go to Butser Hill and do some endurance with hill training, not being able to make choose between one or the other they decided to do both. Off to Lith Avenue to do 3 climbs followed by Butser Hill to do 2 endurance runs combined with steep climbs, mad, purely mad! Anyway this has been the best days training for a long time and both are pleased with the progress that's been made, Mick has also been pleased with the turn around and we're heading in the right direction. We all know we cannot undo what has been done in December but it is now a case of work as hard as they can to do his best, lets hope his best is to finish at the top of Gibraltar Rock!!!
The chair goes in to Solent Cycles tomorrow to have the push rims removed and then in to Proptech on Monday to be sprayed to give Paul more grip when pushing up hill, Paul should be back on the hills by Tuesday afternoon with any luck but until then it will be flat work, track and gym.
With training about to be tapered down we have down all we can to make sure Paul is in the best shape he can be for this amazing challenge, those who know Paul well, also know he will give more than 100% for this and in the meantime raise as much as he can for children around the world!!
Donations: In the meantime we have received further donations this week and so far the collected total has reached £3,414.71 inc gift aid, plus another £76 to be added today, lets smash the target of £100,000 for Paul's final challenge! Thank you.
Jane
Have another great week!
www.virginmoneygiving.com/challengegibraltar
www.twitter.com/ChallengerGib
Important News: Still waiting to see if someone will match our secret benefactor's offer of £10,000.
Training: Week started poorly, for some unknown reason the taping on Paul's right shoulder didn't work so he had to fight through the pain barrier to complete training then as he was heading home the rain came down and training was terminated due to the lack of grip Paul had on his push rims. Tuesday saw Paul back on the track and in the gym to concentrate on strength and speed, especially to his left side which was affected mostly in his accident in 1991 and during the hit and run. We have attached a photo of Paul being taped up ready for the road, it hurts when all that tape is removed I can assure you that, however not anymore because he has no hair left in those areas. Wednesday the rain came down so it was to the gym again to concentrate on more strength and conditioning and working on his weaker left side, under normal circumstances Paul would be out in the rain on the hills but there's simply no grip on the push rims in wet weather so training continues indoors. Thursday saw more rain but it didn't stop play and Paul took on another hard gym session with the Guru are extreme level to finish, well so he thought, just as Paul, Bronwin and Mick finished the Guru session out came the sun so on to the track it was for 4 fast laps of the track just to bring a 3 hour session to a perfect end! Friday is here and after being taped by James at 8am this morning Paul and Bronwin were faced with either to go to Lith avenue and do some steep climbs or go to Butser Hill and do some endurance with hill training, not being able to make choose between one or the other they decided to do both. Off to Lith Avenue to do 3 climbs followed by Butser Hill to do 2 endurance runs combined with steep climbs, mad, purely mad! Anyway this has been the best days training for a long time and both are pleased with the progress that's been made, Mick has also been pleased with the turn around and we're heading in the right direction. We all know we cannot undo what has been done in December but it is now a case of work as hard as they can to do his best, lets hope his best is to finish at the top of Gibraltar Rock!!!
The chair goes in to Solent Cycles tomorrow to have the push rims removed and then in to Proptech on Monday to be sprayed to give Paul more grip when pushing up hill, Paul should be back on the hills by Tuesday afternoon with any luck but until then it will be flat work, track and gym.
With training about to be tapered down we have down all we can to make sure Paul is in the best shape he can be for this amazing challenge, those who know Paul well, also know he will give more than 100% for this and in the meantime raise as much as he can for children around the world!!
Donations: In the meantime we have received further donations this week and so far the collected total has reached £3,414.71 inc gift aid, plus another £76 to be added today, lets smash the target of £100,000 for Paul's final challenge! Thank you.
Jane
Have another great week!
www.virginmoneygiving.com/challengegibraltar
www.twitter.com/ChallengerGib
-
Basil is a Gooner
- Posts: 7025
- Joined: Fri Mar 16, 2007 10:04 am
- Location: Anywhere away from you lot.....
Re: Challenge Gibraltar - Wheelchair Fundraiser
http://www.onlinegooner.com/article.php ... TaHLiFVhBc
A Hard Mountain To Climb
By Kevin Whitcher
Gooner fundraiser going up the rock of Gibraltar for charity… in a wheelchair
Some of you may be aware of Paul Smith, a wheelchair bound Arsenal supporter who undertakes exhausting treks in his wheelchair to raise money for charity. In the past this has been Arsenal’s nominated charity of the season, currently it’s the Great Ormond Street Hospital and Save the Children.
The only way is up…
Details of some of his past efforts, Challenge 100, Challenge 200, Challenge 300 and Challenge Emirates can be read at your leisure by clicking on the links above.
Unfortunately, although in the past Paul, a season ticket holder at Arsenal, was able to raise money on matchdays at the stadium, the club no longer allow this, but nevertheless he is undertaking one final challenge – Challenge Gibraltar – in which he will take on the Rock of Gibraltar in his wheelchair this weekend.
Paul will push himself in his wheelchair from the bottom to the top of the Rock. The start is in the dockyard and the finish is under the cable car station at the top. The Rock is the hardest road race in the world, 2.8 miles of very steep roads zig zagging all the way up. When Paul was in the Royal Navy, before he suffered a car accident that saw him unable to walk, he ran the Rock Race 12 times, holding the world record for 24 hours and only beaten by 2 seconds.
If you want to read more about Paul’s life and the experiences he has been through both before and after his accident, there is an excellent interview with him here.
Additionally, during his training for this task between Christmas and New Year, he was the victim of what appears to be a deliberate hit and run incident, for which the culprit has never been found. Details of that can be read here.
This is Paul’s final charity challenge, so we are giving it some publicity in the hope that he can raise a decent sum of money. If everyone who reads this donated just £1, it would mean a few thousand quid to add to the total amount raised.
Donations can be made through Paul’s fundraising page and for up to date details and plenty of photos of his preparation for the challenge, his twitter feed is @ChallengerGib
Good luck this weekend to Paul, and here’s hoping you raise a potload of money for the two charities.
15th April 2015
A Hard Mountain To Climb
By Kevin Whitcher
Gooner fundraiser going up the rock of Gibraltar for charity… in a wheelchair
Some of you may be aware of Paul Smith, a wheelchair bound Arsenal supporter who undertakes exhausting treks in his wheelchair to raise money for charity. In the past this has been Arsenal’s nominated charity of the season, currently it’s the Great Ormond Street Hospital and Save the Children.
The only way is up…
Details of some of his past efforts, Challenge 100, Challenge 200, Challenge 300 and Challenge Emirates can be read at your leisure by clicking on the links above.
Unfortunately, although in the past Paul, a season ticket holder at Arsenal, was able to raise money on matchdays at the stadium, the club no longer allow this, but nevertheless he is undertaking one final challenge – Challenge Gibraltar – in which he will take on the Rock of Gibraltar in his wheelchair this weekend.
Paul will push himself in his wheelchair from the bottom to the top of the Rock. The start is in the dockyard and the finish is under the cable car station at the top. The Rock is the hardest road race in the world, 2.8 miles of very steep roads zig zagging all the way up. When Paul was in the Royal Navy, before he suffered a car accident that saw him unable to walk, he ran the Rock Race 12 times, holding the world record for 24 hours and only beaten by 2 seconds.
If you want to read more about Paul’s life and the experiences he has been through both before and after his accident, there is an excellent interview with him here.
Additionally, during his training for this task between Christmas and New Year, he was the victim of what appears to be a deliberate hit and run incident, for which the culprit has never been found. Details of that can be read here.
This is Paul’s final charity challenge, so we are giving it some publicity in the hope that he can raise a decent sum of money. If everyone who reads this donated just £1, it would mean a few thousand quid to add to the total amount raised.
Donations can be made through Paul’s fundraising page and for up to date details and plenty of photos of his preparation for the challenge, his twitter feed is @ChallengerGib
Good luck this weekend to Paul, and here’s hoping you raise a potload of money for the two charities.
15th April 2015
-
Basil is a Gooner
- Posts: 7025
- Joined: Fri Mar 16, 2007 10:04 am
- Location: Anywhere away from you lot.....
Re: Challenge Gibraltar - Wheelchair Fundraiser
CHALLENGE COMPLETED!
Please, Please donate to help the children.
We are very proud to report that on Saturday 18th April 2015, Paul took on Gibraltar Rock and made it to the top, not only did he make to the top in smashed it as people would say. Road manager Shaun Johnstone had a time of 2 hours 29 minutes and 1 second on his watch however we have it as an official time of 2 hours 14 minutes and 1 second because of the 15 minute wait Paul had at the St. Michaels Cave entrance where there were taxis and tourist blocking the road and one of the St John Ambulance guys was also timing Paul and stopped his stop watch to allow for this unforeseen hold up. We will be sending out an official and final update later in the week as there are now lots of things to do and we want to thank lots of people in the final update as well so please bear with us.
OFFICIAL TIME - 2 HOURS 14 MINUTES AND 1 SECOND IN A WHEELCHAIR, THAT IS ONE HELL OF AN ACHIEVEMENT WHEN YOU'RE ALSO CARRYING INJURIES.
In the meantime here are some links to stories that have been printed, please take a few minutes out to read them. Thank you.
http://www.onlinegooner.com/article.php ... TTVbyFVhBd
http://www.chronicle.gi/headlines_details.php?id=35795
Jane
Have another great week!
www.virginmoneygiving.com/challengegibraltar
www.twitter.com/ChallengerGib
Please, Please donate to help the children.
We are very proud to report that on Saturday 18th April 2015, Paul took on Gibraltar Rock and made it to the top, not only did he make to the top in smashed it as people would say. Road manager Shaun Johnstone had a time of 2 hours 29 minutes and 1 second on his watch however we have it as an official time of 2 hours 14 minutes and 1 second because of the 15 minute wait Paul had at the St. Michaels Cave entrance where there were taxis and tourist blocking the road and one of the St John Ambulance guys was also timing Paul and stopped his stop watch to allow for this unforeseen hold up. We will be sending out an official and final update later in the week as there are now lots of things to do and we want to thank lots of people in the final update as well so please bear with us.
OFFICIAL TIME - 2 HOURS 14 MINUTES AND 1 SECOND IN A WHEELCHAIR, THAT IS ONE HELL OF AN ACHIEVEMENT WHEN YOU'RE ALSO CARRYING INJURIES.
In the meantime here are some links to stories that have been printed, please take a few minutes out to read them. Thank you.
http://www.onlinegooner.com/article.php ... TTVbyFVhBd
http://www.chronicle.gi/headlines_details.php?id=35795
Jane
Have another great week!
www.virginmoneygiving.com/challengegibraltar
www.twitter.com/ChallengerGib
-
Basil is a Gooner
- Posts: 7025
- Joined: Fri Mar 16, 2007 10:04 am
- Location: Anywhere away from you lot.....
Re: Challenge Gibraltar - Wheelchair Fundraiser
THE FINAL CHAPTER - PART ONE
OFFICIAL FINISH TIME IS 2 HOURS 14 MINUTES AND 1 SECOND.
I request that you read all of the statement below, there is another part to follow, Thank you.
Photos attached but you can also view more at the following link:
http://motrp.smugmug.com/Events/Charity/Gibraltar
In 2013 while pushing himself from Plymouth to London via Portsmouth, unknown to us all, Paul was already thinking about what he could do for his next challenge and in fact he was also thinking that he was no longer getting any younger so perhaps he needed to start thinking of what he would do for his last challenge. As you know the 3 of his previous challenges began at Naval ports where he was based at one time or another during his Naval career so he thought that if there was to be a final challenge it would have to start at another Naval port to bring an end to what has been an amazing, challenging and out of this world set of challenges that not even those of us who are able bodied could even begin to imagine taking part in. The first challenge that came to mind was to start off from Rosyth in Scotland, but then he mulled it over and thought that the logistics of that would be a nightmare and not a fitting reward to his crew for all the kind support and hard work they have given him throughout the past years. Then, he said to me a big light turned on in his head 'CHALLENGE GIBRALTAR' this would be the most fitting place and best reward to his crew for everything they have done for him over the past years. Paul told no one of this decision until around November 2014, by then he had already started the ball rolling in terms of finding sponsors etc and only when things began to look positive did he inform us all that his FINAL CHALLENGE would be Gibraltar. Of course we all thought he was mad and in fact we have always thought this from the very beginning when as someone who had just came out of 12 years in lock down syndrome had decided that he would like to start doing some fundraising for Arsenal FC charities 8 years ago, he also raised funds for two local children in Portsmouth. Paul's first wheelchair challenge was 6 miles around the outside of the Emirates Stadium using his NHS wheelchair, that was a very difficult challenge being his first and using a chair so heavy and not really suitable for any challenge.
From then on Paul had been bitten by the fundraising bug again and those who were at the first challenge have been there supporting him throughout, with the odd change of crew member due to personal circumstances. One of the first guys to volunteer to support Paul should he decide to do anymore challenges was Paul's Road Manager, Shaun Johnstone, and looking on the funny side I think he regretted saying that as he knew nothing of what Paul was capable of or his determination to succeed. He was quickly followed by Alan Manning volunteering who has been there by Paul's side driving Paul on and on when things became tough on the hills and in all weathers. Then along came Mike Morley a 75 year old cyclist who offered to ride as an outrider on the longer distance challenges he made us laugh time and time again, what a brilliant man. Mick Arrow who also offered the same support. We also had with us Phil Arrow on one challenge and Trevor Arrow on another there were also Eddie Carr, Bronwin Carter, Sean Broderick and David Aylieff-Sansom who has done a magnificent job as official photographer and finally Mick Cotton who at 75 years of age is as fit as a butchers dog as the guys would put it, Mick has been by Paul's side most of the past year when Bronwin was unable to be there for training and has been a fantastic help all year long. This year we employed the expert skills of James Morris of Up and Running Sports Therapy Clinic based at ROKO in Portsmouth, James has been responsible for helping Paul battle with the hit and run injuries sustained in December and any other injuries picked up during training prior to that. So as you can see there have been a great crew behind Paul throughout these challenges and as Paul maintains and I have to agree with him, without those people he would not have been able to take on and beat these amazing goals he had set himself.
Throughout the years Paul has trained in all sorts of weather, rain, hail, sun, high winds, snow up to 3 inches deep at times, he's lifted tremendous amounts of weight and reached speeds of up to 42.1mph in the chair. He's taken on things that neither able bodied or disabled people would have even considered and he's done the majority of this training and fundraising quietly and without any fuss. Three years ago because Paul was aiming to raise greater amounts of money for children's charities we had to work hard to get him to accept publicity in fact it took three weeks to persuade him to accept the publicity he would need to reach his targets, we employed a publicity secretary to contact major television, radio and even the paper media to promote everything Paul had done selflessly in the past and what he was about to take on but for some unknown reason which baffles all of us to this very day not one of them were interested. Despite their lack of enthusiasm Paul was determined to go ahead with his challenge in the belief that there are kind and generous people out there who believed in what he was doing for children was a good thing and that they would help him reach his targets. Unfortunately this wasn't to be the case but as we all know you can't make people give to charity and there are over 350,000 charities out there looking for support.
However, despite this Paul and the crew have raised an amazing £2.3 million pounds for several different charities and that is no mean feat. "Challenge Gibraltar" is looking for one generous and kind person or a number of people to donate just £5185.54 more which will take the sum raised to £10,000, if this happens we have been promised another £10,000 from a secret benefactor who we have met before and who has made generous donations in the past. So we are writing to ask for your help to reach this £10,000 mark and gain the extra £10,000 which would be a fantastic end to an amazing challenge and 8 amazing years of selfless hard work in aid of others.
THANKS TO CREW:
Shaun - Road manager who has done a sterling job of managing the challenges and the crew on and off the road, we couldn't have picked a better man for the job, you friendship is valued.
Alan - Medic and by Paul's side encouraging him on and on when times were difficult and for his friendship which we also value a great deal.
Bronwin - Paul's coach for a year from this very day. Bronwin has coached Paul hard, helped him through times when he's been injured and pushed him to his limits in order to get him to the top of the Rock. Bronwin would be the first person to say that Paul ALWAYS gave 100% plus throughout the year.
David - David has captured ALL the challenges on camera brilliantly and as also helped out in other situations when needed, you're a great person David.
Eddie - Eddie has kept our spirits up with his jokes etc, has worked hard when needed and has been a great friend to us all, Eddie is also an ex-Royal Naval man and like Paul served with the Portsmouth Field Gun Crew.
Sean - Sean has been a long time friend of Paul's since they met on HMS Chatham, Sean worked hard when needed and has supported Paul time and time again, Sean also served with Portsmouth Field Gun Crew with Paul. Sean is about to get married, we wish you and Narouz a happy life together.
Mick - Paul has the utmost respect for Mick, throughout the past year nothing has been too much trouble for him, he's been there in training, taken Paul to Butser Hill for long distance hill training run up and down with him and during the challenge he was running backwards and forwards to and from the support vehicle without breaking in to a sweat. Mick is as honest as the day is long, Paul and he share the same outlook in life and are able to communicate well together. Mick you're a legend!
James - James did a great job looking after Paul, it's not been easy for you with the injuries moving around all the time and then the hit and run, the screaming when removing the tape was painful but funny but most of all needed, gladly there wasn't anything major for you to do during the challenge.
St John Ambulance (Gibraltar) We didn't expect these guys to be there, no arrangements were made with them but to our surprise two ambulances turned up, one took the lead in front of the support vehicle the other took up the rear. Thank you so much guys for your support and especially the guy (Please send your name by return) who helped re-tape Paul up while we were waiting at the caves, your support was magnificent!
We would also like to thank all those guys who were with us during different challenges, there's too many to mention but we can assure you we are very grateful to you and so are the millions of children you and Paul have helped with the funds you have raised.
We'd like to thank ALL those of you how flew to Gibraltar to support Paul during his challenge, we really did and still appreciate you kind support and encouragement, well done to those of you who walked up the rock as well.
Paul is an emotional, passionate,honest and an amazing man, his selfless passion to help others is remarkable and if it was up to me I would recommend he received an award of the highest honour for all the things he has done....Mostly silently. He is so grateful to have the friends he has around him because you make up a great part of his life and without you and us his family he'd be lost. These past few days have been very, very emotional knowing his challenges have come to an end mainly caused by the hit and run but also his age and the slow deterioration of his brain injury. One thing is for sure, he won't forget all these special moments and the special people he has met, we have photos and videos to recall all of them. Thank you.
In the meantime here are some links to stories that have been printed, please take a few minutes out to read them. Thank you.
http://www.onlinegooner.com/article.php ... TTVbyFVhBd
http://www.chronicle.gi/headlines_details.php?id=35795
Jane
GIBRALTAR, WE WILL NEVER FORGET YOU, PLEASE DON'T FORGET US!
OFFICIAL FINISH TIME IS 2 HOURS 14 MINUTES AND 1 SECOND.
I request that you read all of the statement below, there is another part to follow, Thank you.
Photos attached but you can also view more at the following link:
http://motrp.smugmug.com/Events/Charity/Gibraltar
In 2013 while pushing himself from Plymouth to London via Portsmouth, unknown to us all, Paul was already thinking about what he could do for his next challenge and in fact he was also thinking that he was no longer getting any younger so perhaps he needed to start thinking of what he would do for his last challenge. As you know the 3 of his previous challenges began at Naval ports where he was based at one time or another during his Naval career so he thought that if there was to be a final challenge it would have to start at another Naval port to bring an end to what has been an amazing, challenging and out of this world set of challenges that not even those of us who are able bodied could even begin to imagine taking part in. The first challenge that came to mind was to start off from Rosyth in Scotland, but then he mulled it over and thought that the logistics of that would be a nightmare and not a fitting reward to his crew for all the kind support and hard work they have given him throughout the past years. Then, he said to me a big light turned on in his head 'CHALLENGE GIBRALTAR' this would be the most fitting place and best reward to his crew for everything they have done for him over the past years. Paul told no one of this decision until around November 2014, by then he had already started the ball rolling in terms of finding sponsors etc and only when things began to look positive did he inform us all that his FINAL CHALLENGE would be Gibraltar. Of course we all thought he was mad and in fact we have always thought this from the very beginning when as someone who had just came out of 12 years in lock down syndrome had decided that he would like to start doing some fundraising for Arsenal FC charities 8 years ago, he also raised funds for two local children in Portsmouth. Paul's first wheelchair challenge was 6 miles around the outside of the Emirates Stadium using his NHS wheelchair, that was a very difficult challenge being his first and using a chair so heavy and not really suitable for any challenge.
From then on Paul had been bitten by the fundraising bug again and those who were at the first challenge have been there supporting him throughout, with the odd change of crew member due to personal circumstances. One of the first guys to volunteer to support Paul should he decide to do anymore challenges was Paul's Road Manager, Shaun Johnstone, and looking on the funny side I think he regretted saying that as he knew nothing of what Paul was capable of or his determination to succeed. He was quickly followed by Alan Manning volunteering who has been there by Paul's side driving Paul on and on when things became tough on the hills and in all weathers. Then along came Mike Morley a 75 year old cyclist who offered to ride as an outrider on the longer distance challenges he made us laugh time and time again, what a brilliant man. Mick Arrow who also offered the same support. We also had with us Phil Arrow on one challenge and Trevor Arrow on another there were also Eddie Carr, Bronwin Carter, Sean Broderick and David Aylieff-Sansom who has done a magnificent job as official photographer and finally Mick Cotton who at 75 years of age is as fit as a butchers dog as the guys would put it, Mick has been by Paul's side most of the past year when Bronwin was unable to be there for training and has been a fantastic help all year long. This year we employed the expert skills of James Morris of Up and Running Sports Therapy Clinic based at ROKO in Portsmouth, James has been responsible for helping Paul battle with the hit and run injuries sustained in December and any other injuries picked up during training prior to that. So as you can see there have been a great crew behind Paul throughout these challenges and as Paul maintains and I have to agree with him, without those people he would not have been able to take on and beat these amazing goals he had set himself.
Throughout the years Paul has trained in all sorts of weather, rain, hail, sun, high winds, snow up to 3 inches deep at times, he's lifted tremendous amounts of weight and reached speeds of up to 42.1mph in the chair. He's taken on things that neither able bodied or disabled people would have even considered and he's done the majority of this training and fundraising quietly and without any fuss. Three years ago because Paul was aiming to raise greater amounts of money for children's charities we had to work hard to get him to accept publicity in fact it took three weeks to persuade him to accept the publicity he would need to reach his targets, we employed a publicity secretary to contact major television, radio and even the paper media to promote everything Paul had done selflessly in the past and what he was about to take on but for some unknown reason which baffles all of us to this very day not one of them were interested. Despite their lack of enthusiasm Paul was determined to go ahead with his challenge in the belief that there are kind and generous people out there who believed in what he was doing for children was a good thing and that they would help him reach his targets. Unfortunately this wasn't to be the case but as we all know you can't make people give to charity and there are over 350,000 charities out there looking for support.
However, despite this Paul and the crew have raised an amazing £2.3 million pounds for several different charities and that is no mean feat. "Challenge Gibraltar" is looking for one generous and kind person or a number of people to donate just £5185.54 more which will take the sum raised to £10,000, if this happens we have been promised another £10,000 from a secret benefactor who we have met before and who has made generous donations in the past. So we are writing to ask for your help to reach this £10,000 mark and gain the extra £10,000 which would be a fantastic end to an amazing challenge and 8 amazing years of selfless hard work in aid of others.
THANKS TO CREW:
Shaun - Road manager who has done a sterling job of managing the challenges and the crew on and off the road, we couldn't have picked a better man for the job, you friendship is valued.
Alan - Medic and by Paul's side encouraging him on and on when times were difficult and for his friendship which we also value a great deal.
Bronwin - Paul's coach for a year from this very day. Bronwin has coached Paul hard, helped him through times when he's been injured and pushed him to his limits in order to get him to the top of the Rock. Bronwin would be the first person to say that Paul ALWAYS gave 100% plus throughout the year.
David - David has captured ALL the challenges on camera brilliantly and as also helped out in other situations when needed, you're a great person David.
Eddie - Eddie has kept our spirits up with his jokes etc, has worked hard when needed and has been a great friend to us all, Eddie is also an ex-Royal Naval man and like Paul served with the Portsmouth Field Gun Crew.
Sean - Sean has been a long time friend of Paul's since they met on HMS Chatham, Sean worked hard when needed and has supported Paul time and time again, Sean also served with Portsmouth Field Gun Crew with Paul. Sean is about to get married, we wish you and Narouz a happy life together.
Mick - Paul has the utmost respect for Mick, throughout the past year nothing has been too much trouble for him, he's been there in training, taken Paul to Butser Hill for long distance hill training run up and down with him and during the challenge he was running backwards and forwards to and from the support vehicle without breaking in to a sweat. Mick is as honest as the day is long, Paul and he share the same outlook in life and are able to communicate well together. Mick you're a legend!
James - James did a great job looking after Paul, it's not been easy for you with the injuries moving around all the time and then the hit and run, the screaming when removing the tape was painful but funny but most of all needed, gladly there wasn't anything major for you to do during the challenge.
St John Ambulance (Gibraltar) We didn't expect these guys to be there, no arrangements were made with them but to our surprise two ambulances turned up, one took the lead in front of the support vehicle the other took up the rear. Thank you so much guys for your support and especially the guy (Please send your name by return) who helped re-tape Paul up while we were waiting at the caves, your support was magnificent!
We would also like to thank all those guys who were with us during different challenges, there's too many to mention but we can assure you we are very grateful to you and so are the millions of children you and Paul have helped with the funds you have raised.
We'd like to thank ALL those of you how flew to Gibraltar to support Paul during his challenge, we really did and still appreciate you kind support and encouragement, well done to those of you who walked up the rock as well.
Paul is an emotional, passionate,honest and an amazing man, his selfless passion to help others is remarkable and if it was up to me I would recommend he received an award of the highest honour for all the things he has done....Mostly silently. He is so grateful to have the friends he has around him because you make up a great part of his life and without you and us his family he'd be lost. These past few days have been very, very emotional knowing his challenges have come to an end mainly caused by the hit and run but also his age and the slow deterioration of his brain injury. One thing is for sure, he won't forget all these special moments and the special people he has met, we have photos and videos to recall all of them. Thank you.
In the meantime here are some links to stories that have been printed, please take a few minutes out to read them. Thank you.
http://www.onlinegooner.com/article.php ... TTVbyFVhBd
http://www.chronicle.gi/headlines_details.php?id=35795
Jane
GIBRALTAR, WE WILL NEVER FORGET YOU, PLEASE DON'T FORGET US!
-
Basil is a Gooner
- Posts: 7025
- Joined: Fri Mar 16, 2007 10:04 am
- Location: Anywhere away from you lot.....
Re: Challenge Gibraltar - Wheelchair Fundraiser
THE FINAL CHAPTER - PART TWO
OFFICIAL FINISH TIME IS 2 HOURS 14 MINUTES AND 1 SECOND.
FINAL DISTANCE COVERED WAS 3.83 MILES, ALL UP HILL!
I request that you read all of the statement below, there is a final part to follow, Thank you.
Link to the Portsmouth news story
http://www.portsmouth.co.uk/news/wheelc ... -1-6709594
Challenge photos can be viewed at this link below
http://motrp.smugmug.com/Events/Charity/Gibraltar
SECRET BENEFACTOR HAS KEPT HIS PROMISE AND DONATED HIS £10,000 (EARLY), WHICH ALSO ADDS £2500 GIFT AID!!! Thank you.
This second part of THE FINAL CHAPTER is to say thanks to our amazing sponsors and supporters in general, so we hope you will read it all because it will be wholly written by Paul who has difficulties with his reading and writing at the best of times. Because there is lots to cram in we have a final part to come which will either go out today or Monday, Please bear with us!
The past 8 years have been fantastic for me and at the moment very emotional as I know that my challenges are now at an end. I know people say that something will come along and things will be OK but at present I don't feel they will be, these whole last 8 years have been fully dedicated to helping disadvantaged children and teenagers with cancer or young teenagers who have been forced on to the streets because their parents have just abandoned them or told them to get out and not to come back through one reason or another. I have loved every single minute of what me, my wife, Jane and my crew have achieved on behalf of these people, I have found new friends who I love and respect very much and would never wish to change any of it ir them. The preparations for every challenge have been extremely hard and at times have put big strains on Jane and myself, I don't mean the threat of divorce, I mean all the running around, taking me to training, picking up the grandchildren, looking after the house the car the garden and looking after me when I've been unwell and low at times. Jane has watched me suffering the pain from injuries and in particular this year the hit and run and not being able to do anything to help, but we have managed to pull through it and as she has said, giving up has never been something I have considered. Those involved with the challenges are now moving on and doing their own thing, they all have jobs to do and families to be with, for me it's going to be very hard to move on. I love my family and although I haven't spent loads of time with them due to my training everyday or at least 6 days a week I have spent time with them and enjoyed every moment. I can now spend more time with them and Jane but this big change, as good as it will be, will take time to adjust to. it may take a few months or maybe a year so in my heart I know it's going to be hard. I really want to thank everyone who has supported me through the past eight years, who have listened and perhaps understood how I felt at any particular difficult time. I hate complaining, I just like to get on with things knowing that there are people and especially children in this world who are so much worse off than I am, despite my own disabilities, head injury crush injuries to my chest, hips, damaged shoulders. neck and spine. I love being around people who make me laugh and share the same interests these have been the things that have been keeping me going and that and the fact we have been making a difference to a child's/children's life.
I have not been one for self pity and definitely seek no reward for the fundraising that the crew and I have done, I am just finding this ending difficult to deal with and hope things will progress for the better and as quickly as possible, who knows, if my hit and run injuries heal I may come up with something else but as Shaun Johnstone (Road manager) said yesterday, nothing can top Challenge Gibraltar so it is good to go out on a winner. I know that I did all the pushing in my chair(s) but I also know that I could not have done any of these challenges without the crews I've had around me, they have supported me through thick and thin and through all kinds of weather, Mick Cotton in particular this past year has been out on the track with me in freezing temperatures helping me when Bronwin was unable to make training though one thing or another. Not one member of crew has let me down and I am proud to know each and everyone of them who I hope will be my friends forever!
THANK YOU TO MY SPONSORS:
As I have mentioned before none of these challenges could have been made possible without the support of my crew(s) but in addition to them the same applies to the support of our sponsors, some of which who have been with us for a few years. So in no particular order I would like to begin to thank them and some particular individuals, so I ask if you would kindly bear with me please.
RGK WHEELCHAIRS. After my first challenge of 6 miles around the outside of the Emirates Stadium, I decided to up the mileage so needed a better chair to take this challenge on, I asked Great Ormond Street Charity department if they had one at the Hospital but they said they didn't but one of the girls in the Charity office said she would try and find one for me. On the 18th December I received a phone call from her telling me that she had found a chair and the sponsor was RGK Wheelchairs based in Burntwood Staffordshire. Russel Simms CEO of RGK got in touch with me and the chair was on it's way within days so I could train in it ready for the 50 miles challenge. After that the Portsmouth to Emirates challenge came to mind so again RGK were only to keen to loan me the chair again. After that I tried to return the chair to RGK but received a phone call from Russel that would change my life and fundraising events forever. Russel informed that RGK had been in discussion about my fundraising and had decided that because of my past efforts and my future plans I could keep the chair. I want to thank you Russel and RGK with all my heart for this kind gesture and everywhere I go I will have this chair as a reminder of what you have done to help me and my crew to achieve with regards to our fundraising efforts. I also want to point out that Russel and RGK donated the Freewheel to prevent me from hitting bumps and being thrown from the chair and help me move along at speed.
Proptech. Proptech have supported us for 3 years now by supplying water and energy drinks and most recently for Challenge Gibraltar they helped me with my push rims by spray painting them so I could get a good grip as the old paint on the push rims had worn away after 7 years of use up and down hills along the flats and at speeds of up to 42.1mph. Alistair Mant and the CEO Colin Choules of Segers/ Proptech have been really good to me and I cannot thank you enough for the things you have done which as you say have been no trouble to you at all. Other people involved from Proptech have been Wayne Potter, Gavin Scott and Nick Western. Again I thank you from my heart for everything.
Parkwood Community Leisure. I have been sponsored by Parkwood Community Leisure since day one of my very first fundraiser, Sue Page was kind enough to allow me to use the track for the first fundraiser but as time went on I contacted her to ask if I could use the gym to help me build up my strength and without hesitation she and Danny Churcher of Parkwood were only to pleased to help and I have been there ever since. Without your help and friendship I would have not been able to prepare myself properly so using the correct equipment and facilities was essential so I really do appreciate everything you have done for me which has enabled me and my crew to change children's lives, you have a special place in my heart.
Southgate and Finchley Coaches. We have known Keith and Elaine Scrivens of Southgate and Finchley Coaches for quite a few years now and along with their partner of the company, Peter Rice, their undying support has been highly valued and we have become very good friends with Elaine and Keith over the years and are proud to call them our friends. Thank you for all your kind support over the years, and thank you for being in Gibraltar to watch my last challenge, so much appreciated.
Globaleather. Globaleather have supported me for that past 3 years, it became clear that my hands could never continue to cope with the speeds I was reaching going down hill and all the gloves I had tried before turning to Globaleather just weren't up to the standard I needed to help me complete my challenges successfully and without causing permanent damage to my hands. I bought one pair of their gloves 3 years ago and found them to be what I really needed, so I approached Sharon May of Globaleather and asked if they would be able to sponsor me. The reply I am so happy to say was a positive yes and ever since that day I have used these fantastic gloves. I have also been able to help trial their new gloves of which Globaleather continue to strive to improve, I recommend these gloves for any person whether in a wheelchair or able bodied. Thank you for you very kind support, they certainly played a major part in getting me to the top of the Rock.
Pentagon Commercials/Ridgeway Group. When I decided to take on my first point to point challenge , Portsmouth to the Emirates Stadium in London it was clear we needed a support vehicle to carry all our cases, spares and equipment, I spoke to my good friend and ex-Portsmouth football player, Linvoy Primus, who you have seen in photos of all the posters. I asked Linvoy if he knew of anyone who may be able to supply us with a support vehicle, he spoke to Kevin Downham of Pentagon Commercials, part of the Ridgeway group. Kevin was more than happy to help us out and has supplied us with support vehicles for over 4 years now, Kevin we will be forever in you debt and thank you so much for your help and cooperation in supplying the support vehicles that have helped us so much, the crew and I are so grateful to you Kevin and all your workforce.
Solent Cycles. What can I say about Solent Cycles. I approached them 4 years ago I think along with other local Portsmouth businesses and they along with 3 other business were more than prepared to help me with my requirements for my challenges. Mike and Jeannette Paget were only too please to help me out by supplying me with road safety equipment such as a helmet, helmet light and rear lights, a hi visibility jacket, repairs to my tyres as well as replacement tyres for the recumbent and off road tyres for the 'Wheelchair of Hope', time and time again it has been no trouble for them to do repairs where necessary, removing the push rims on numerous occasions over the past 3 months to have them re-sprayed as the years of training and challenges had worn the paint away but most of all they were there when things went wrong and fixed it. They feel they played just a small part in helping me out but I want you to know Mike and Jeannette you played a huge roll throughout the past 4 years and like other sponsors I thank you from the bottom of my heart, I will be forever grateful. Your staff are first class, Sam especially, nothing was too much trouble for him to help me and at short notice, his knowledge and know how is incredible and he is a huge credit to your company. I want to say a special thank you to Sam.
Up and Running Sports injuries Clinics. During training last year I picked up a few injuries, Bronwin my coach referred me to Keith Waldon, owner of Up and Running to see if he could help sort me out, after the first visit things felt a bit better but there was someway to go. At that first meeting I asked Keith if he would be happy to sponsor me and my challenge, Keith was more than happy to do so and assigned sports therapist James Morris to me and my challenge. James has worked on me for a while and when things were coming together nicely I became a victim of hit and run, this incident presented different issues for James and Up and Running to contend with but eventually his persistence and
the taping up before going hill training paid off, I was able to deal with the pain more effectively and everything was near perfect for the challenge on the day. To Keith I say thank you for agreeing to sponsor me, to James I say thank you for being there when I needed you at short notice, other members of the Up and Running team were on hand if James wasn't available so in effect it was a team effort from start to finish and I am again proud to have been associated with you. If anyone reading this needs urgent help with pain issues and cannot get to see a physiotherapist on the NHS, I thoroughly recommend you pay a visit to Up and Running at ROKO in Portsmouth.
Sponsors in Gibraltar.
Now as most of you know, Challenge Gibraltar was our first and only overseas challenge so we needed sponsors in Gibraltar that were willing to help us with sponsorship, most of all we needed to get there to do the challenge so this was going to be our toughest challenge in terms of finding sponsors for this Final challenge. We required a hotel, flights, and places to sponsor our meals, we also needed the support of the police and local authorities and people so it was a case of where to start.
O'Callaghan Eliott Hotel. We sent out a number of requests to hotels in Gibraltar and within a week of that request, we received a positive email from O'Callaghan Eliott informing us that they were prepared to offer us accommodation and breakfast as sponsorship, this as you can imagine was fantastic news. Mary Kinch and her Staff were fantastic towards us, nothing was too much trouble and we had the most wonderful rooms and service that you could ever imagine the facilities are fantastic. Mary, thank you so much for everything, when we visit Gibraltar again we will definitely stay with you! Mary is a wonderful person, polite and happy and very professional at all times.
Cafe Rojo. In search for sponsors for our meals one of two places came forward, Cafe Rojo which is run and owned by Annette sponsored our evening meals on Thursday 16th and again on Saturday 18th after our challenge, the service, food and staff were fantastic and very helpful and Annette was the perfect hostess. We are all very grateful for your kind support in sponsoring our meals Annette hope to see you again soon!
The Cannon Bar. The Cannon bar is one of the most welcoming bars I have ever been in to, Jane who is the owner of the Cannon Bar was only to happy to sponsor our meals throughout our stay in Gibraltar but not only that all our drinks were on the house as well, we never expected such generosity ever, we were just happy with the sponsorship of the excellent food. All of the crew and those who flew to Gib to watch us take on the challenge cannot thank you Jane and your wonderful staff enough for all that you did to make us feel so very welcome in Gibraltar, we will definitely be visiting you again Jane and can't wait to see you soon.
Flights. At a Save the Children charity ball held at the O'Callaghan Hotel, Paul Lyon, representative of Save the Children (Gibraltar) Who I will talk more about in our final 'Final Chapter' email made a speech to the guest, at the head table was the Honourable Chief Minister Fabian Picardo. During his speech Paul had made the announcement that a man in a wheelchair and his support crew were to travel to Gibraltar to take on the challenge of pushing himself up the Rock in 4 hours or less, Paul mentioned that we were looking for sponsors for our flights so my crew and I could take on this challenge. After his speech Paul sat down, shortly afterwards the Chief minister passed him a note written on an napkin, the note basically said that the Gibraltar Government will sponsor the flights! That was it the challenge was on, as is usual with the people of Gibraltar their generosity shone through as it does time and time again. To the Honourable Chief Minister we say a huge, huge thank you for your generosity and as mentioned before we all wish you your wife and son all the very best with the arrival of your new born child within the next week or so!!! To the people of Gibraltar we also say a big, big thank you for your support and kindness.
Stephanie Ball - http://www.meteogib.com Thank you Steph for all the weather updates you have been sending me during our run up to the challenge and thank you for the weather brief at the challenge briefing. Stephanie has just gone freelance and also does work for GBC as well her website is mentioned here so if you are planning to go to Gib visit this webpage. Best Wishes to you and Steve.
Other Supporters In Gibraltar. I want to thank the Royal Gibraltar Police, HM Forces on Gibraltar and the Gibraltar Chronicle and the St John Ambulance who turned up on the day of the challenge without notice to escort us to the top, fantastic effort and fantastic support from you all.
David Hoyle - Poster designer. For most of my challenges we have had posters designed, printed and delivered, sent or handed out. All of these posters have been designed by a good friend of ours, David Hoyle. Now David has been asked time and time again to design posters for our challenges and without hesitation he has come up with some very eye catching designs which have been displayed all around the place as far up as Scotland to as far away as Gibraltar, they have also been sent via email to many countries all over the world from the USA to Australia. David thank you so much for these posters, I think I have a copy of each one which I will frame to help me remember very good times shared with very good people.
Anonymous sponsor. For the past 2 years I have had an anonymous sponsor for my training gear, that anonymous sponsor has been Paul Lyon and also the school in which he is head teacher, Paul I thank you for the gear, it has helped me enormously and kept me warm in the winter months. I will talk more about Paul Lyon in my last Final Chapter update.
Special supporters. I cannot remember everyone's name solely due to my head injury but I do remember your generosity and support. I would like to thank my good friend Linvoy Primus, who has been a fantastic support to me throughout my challenges and I would also like to thank my friends James and Oliver Phelps also known as the Weasley twins of Harry Potter fame, I have appreciated your support always.
Included in this category of Special Supporters are those I have had the privilege to mix with on a daily basis at the Mountbatten Centre Portsmouth, I've enjoyed every moment spent with you guys, you've made me laugh and cry but most of all you have given me so much support and hope, especially when times got tough. You have inspired me so much and I hope we will continue that friendship and have our tea/coffee and toasted tea cakes for many years to come. I can't mention each and everyone of you singularly but you do know who you are and you can guarantee you will always remain very special in my heart. Then there's my friends here in the street where I live and around the Portsmouth area and in fact around the country, each and everyone of you mean special and different things to me, please all of you be my friends forever!
In the meantime here are some links to stories that have been printed, please take a few minutes out to read them. Thank you.
http://www.onlinegooner.com/article.php ... TTVbyFVhBd
http://www.chronicle.gi/headlines_details.php?id=35795
Jane
GIBRALTAR, WE WILL NEVER FORGET YOU, PLEASE DON'T FORGET US!
http://www.virginmoneygiving.com/challengegibraltar
http://www.twitter.com/ChallengerGib
Best Wishes
Jane, Paul and Crew
OFFICIAL FINISH TIME IS 2 HOURS 14 MINUTES AND 1 SECOND.
FINAL DISTANCE COVERED WAS 3.83 MILES, ALL UP HILL!
I request that you read all of the statement below, there is a final part to follow, Thank you.
Link to the Portsmouth news story
http://www.portsmouth.co.uk/news/wheelc ... -1-6709594
Challenge photos can be viewed at this link below
http://motrp.smugmug.com/Events/Charity/Gibraltar
SECRET BENEFACTOR HAS KEPT HIS PROMISE AND DONATED HIS £10,000 (EARLY), WHICH ALSO ADDS £2500 GIFT AID!!! Thank you.
This second part of THE FINAL CHAPTER is to say thanks to our amazing sponsors and supporters in general, so we hope you will read it all because it will be wholly written by Paul who has difficulties with his reading and writing at the best of times. Because there is lots to cram in we have a final part to come which will either go out today or Monday, Please bear with us!
The past 8 years have been fantastic for me and at the moment very emotional as I know that my challenges are now at an end. I know people say that something will come along and things will be OK but at present I don't feel they will be, these whole last 8 years have been fully dedicated to helping disadvantaged children and teenagers with cancer or young teenagers who have been forced on to the streets because their parents have just abandoned them or told them to get out and not to come back through one reason or another. I have loved every single minute of what me, my wife, Jane and my crew have achieved on behalf of these people, I have found new friends who I love and respect very much and would never wish to change any of it ir them. The preparations for every challenge have been extremely hard and at times have put big strains on Jane and myself, I don't mean the threat of divorce, I mean all the running around, taking me to training, picking up the grandchildren, looking after the house the car the garden and looking after me when I've been unwell and low at times. Jane has watched me suffering the pain from injuries and in particular this year the hit and run and not being able to do anything to help, but we have managed to pull through it and as she has said, giving up has never been something I have considered. Those involved with the challenges are now moving on and doing their own thing, they all have jobs to do and families to be with, for me it's going to be very hard to move on. I love my family and although I haven't spent loads of time with them due to my training everyday or at least 6 days a week I have spent time with them and enjoyed every moment. I can now spend more time with them and Jane but this big change, as good as it will be, will take time to adjust to. it may take a few months or maybe a year so in my heart I know it's going to be hard. I really want to thank everyone who has supported me through the past eight years, who have listened and perhaps understood how I felt at any particular difficult time. I hate complaining, I just like to get on with things knowing that there are people and especially children in this world who are so much worse off than I am, despite my own disabilities, head injury crush injuries to my chest, hips, damaged shoulders. neck and spine. I love being around people who make me laugh and share the same interests these have been the things that have been keeping me going and that and the fact we have been making a difference to a child's/children's life.
I have not been one for self pity and definitely seek no reward for the fundraising that the crew and I have done, I am just finding this ending difficult to deal with and hope things will progress for the better and as quickly as possible, who knows, if my hit and run injuries heal I may come up with something else but as Shaun Johnstone (Road manager) said yesterday, nothing can top Challenge Gibraltar so it is good to go out on a winner. I know that I did all the pushing in my chair(s) but I also know that I could not have done any of these challenges without the crews I've had around me, they have supported me through thick and thin and through all kinds of weather, Mick Cotton in particular this past year has been out on the track with me in freezing temperatures helping me when Bronwin was unable to make training though one thing or another. Not one member of crew has let me down and I am proud to know each and everyone of them who I hope will be my friends forever!
THANK YOU TO MY SPONSORS:
As I have mentioned before none of these challenges could have been made possible without the support of my crew(s) but in addition to them the same applies to the support of our sponsors, some of which who have been with us for a few years. So in no particular order I would like to begin to thank them and some particular individuals, so I ask if you would kindly bear with me please.
RGK WHEELCHAIRS. After my first challenge of 6 miles around the outside of the Emirates Stadium, I decided to up the mileage so needed a better chair to take this challenge on, I asked Great Ormond Street Charity department if they had one at the Hospital but they said they didn't but one of the girls in the Charity office said she would try and find one for me. On the 18th December I received a phone call from her telling me that she had found a chair and the sponsor was RGK Wheelchairs based in Burntwood Staffordshire. Russel Simms CEO of RGK got in touch with me and the chair was on it's way within days so I could train in it ready for the 50 miles challenge. After that the Portsmouth to Emirates challenge came to mind so again RGK were only to keen to loan me the chair again. After that I tried to return the chair to RGK but received a phone call from Russel that would change my life and fundraising events forever. Russel informed that RGK had been in discussion about my fundraising and had decided that because of my past efforts and my future plans I could keep the chair. I want to thank you Russel and RGK with all my heart for this kind gesture and everywhere I go I will have this chair as a reminder of what you have done to help me and my crew to achieve with regards to our fundraising efforts. I also want to point out that Russel and RGK donated the Freewheel to prevent me from hitting bumps and being thrown from the chair and help me move along at speed.
Proptech. Proptech have supported us for 3 years now by supplying water and energy drinks and most recently for Challenge Gibraltar they helped me with my push rims by spray painting them so I could get a good grip as the old paint on the push rims had worn away after 7 years of use up and down hills along the flats and at speeds of up to 42.1mph. Alistair Mant and the CEO Colin Choules of Segers/ Proptech have been really good to me and I cannot thank you enough for the things you have done which as you say have been no trouble to you at all. Other people involved from Proptech have been Wayne Potter, Gavin Scott and Nick Western. Again I thank you from my heart for everything.
Parkwood Community Leisure. I have been sponsored by Parkwood Community Leisure since day one of my very first fundraiser, Sue Page was kind enough to allow me to use the track for the first fundraiser but as time went on I contacted her to ask if I could use the gym to help me build up my strength and without hesitation she and Danny Churcher of Parkwood were only to pleased to help and I have been there ever since. Without your help and friendship I would have not been able to prepare myself properly so using the correct equipment and facilities was essential so I really do appreciate everything you have done for me which has enabled me and my crew to change children's lives, you have a special place in my heart.
Southgate and Finchley Coaches. We have known Keith and Elaine Scrivens of Southgate and Finchley Coaches for quite a few years now and along with their partner of the company, Peter Rice, their undying support has been highly valued and we have become very good friends with Elaine and Keith over the years and are proud to call them our friends. Thank you for all your kind support over the years, and thank you for being in Gibraltar to watch my last challenge, so much appreciated.
Globaleather. Globaleather have supported me for that past 3 years, it became clear that my hands could never continue to cope with the speeds I was reaching going down hill and all the gloves I had tried before turning to Globaleather just weren't up to the standard I needed to help me complete my challenges successfully and without causing permanent damage to my hands. I bought one pair of their gloves 3 years ago and found them to be what I really needed, so I approached Sharon May of Globaleather and asked if they would be able to sponsor me. The reply I am so happy to say was a positive yes and ever since that day I have used these fantastic gloves. I have also been able to help trial their new gloves of which Globaleather continue to strive to improve, I recommend these gloves for any person whether in a wheelchair or able bodied. Thank you for you very kind support, they certainly played a major part in getting me to the top of the Rock.
Pentagon Commercials/Ridgeway Group. When I decided to take on my first point to point challenge , Portsmouth to the Emirates Stadium in London it was clear we needed a support vehicle to carry all our cases, spares and equipment, I spoke to my good friend and ex-Portsmouth football player, Linvoy Primus, who you have seen in photos of all the posters. I asked Linvoy if he knew of anyone who may be able to supply us with a support vehicle, he spoke to Kevin Downham of Pentagon Commercials, part of the Ridgeway group. Kevin was more than happy to help us out and has supplied us with support vehicles for over 4 years now, Kevin we will be forever in you debt and thank you so much for your help and cooperation in supplying the support vehicles that have helped us so much, the crew and I are so grateful to you Kevin and all your workforce.
Solent Cycles. What can I say about Solent Cycles. I approached them 4 years ago I think along with other local Portsmouth businesses and they along with 3 other business were more than prepared to help me with my requirements for my challenges. Mike and Jeannette Paget were only too please to help me out by supplying me with road safety equipment such as a helmet, helmet light and rear lights, a hi visibility jacket, repairs to my tyres as well as replacement tyres for the recumbent and off road tyres for the 'Wheelchair of Hope', time and time again it has been no trouble for them to do repairs where necessary, removing the push rims on numerous occasions over the past 3 months to have them re-sprayed as the years of training and challenges had worn the paint away but most of all they were there when things went wrong and fixed it. They feel they played just a small part in helping me out but I want you to know Mike and Jeannette you played a huge roll throughout the past 4 years and like other sponsors I thank you from the bottom of my heart, I will be forever grateful. Your staff are first class, Sam especially, nothing was too much trouble for him to help me and at short notice, his knowledge and know how is incredible and he is a huge credit to your company. I want to say a special thank you to Sam.
Up and Running Sports injuries Clinics. During training last year I picked up a few injuries, Bronwin my coach referred me to Keith Waldon, owner of Up and Running to see if he could help sort me out, after the first visit things felt a bit better but there was someway to go. At that first meeting I asked Keith if he would be happy to sponsor me and my challenge, Keith was more than happy to do so and assigned sports therapist James Morris to me and my challenge. James has worked on me for a while and when things were coming together nicely I became a victim of hit and run, this incident presented different issues for James and Up and Running to contend with but eventually his persistence and
the taping up before going hill training paid off, I was able to deal with the pain more effectively and everything was near perfect for the challenge on the day. To Keith I say thank you for agreeing to sponsor me, to James I say thank you for being there when I needed you at short notice, other members of the Up and Running team were on hand if James wasn't available so in effect it was a team effort from start to finish and I am again proud to have been associated with you. If anyone reading this needs urgent help with pain issues and cannot get to see a physiotherapist on the NHS, I thoroughly recommend you pay a visit to Up and Running at ROKO in Portsmouth.
Sponsors in Gibraltar.
Now as most of you know, Challenge Gibraltar was our first and only overseas challenge so we needed sponsors in Gibraltar that were willing to help us with sponsorship, most of all we needed to get there to do the challenge so this was going to be our toughest challenge in terms of finding sponsors for this Final challenge. We required a hotel, flights, and places to sponsor our meals, we also needed the support of the police and local authorities and people so it was a case of where to start.
O'Callaghan Eliott Hotel. We sent out a number of requests to hotels in Gibraltar and within a week of that request, we received a positive email from O'Callaghan Eliott informing us that they were prepared to offer us accommodation and breakfast as sponsorship, this as you can imagine was fantastic news. Mary Kinch and her Staff were fantastic towards us, nothing was too much trouble and we had the most wonderful rooms and service that you could ever imagine the facilities are fantastic. Mary, thank you so much for everything, when we visit Gibraltar again we will definitely stay with you! Mary is a wonderful person, polite and happy and very professional at all times.
Cafe Rojo. In search for sponsors for our meals one of two places came forward, Cafe Rojo which is run and owned by Annette sponsored our evening meals on Thursday 16th and again on Saturday 18th after our challenge, the service, food and staff were fantastic and very helpful and Annette was the perfect hostess. We are all very grateful for your kind support in sponsoring our meals Annette hope to see you again soon!
The Cannon Bar. The Cannon bar is one of the most welcoming bars I have ever been in to, Jane who is the owner of the Cannon Bar was only to happy to sponsor our meals throughout our stay in Gibraltar but not only that all our drinks were on the house as well, we never expected such generosity ever, we were just happy with the sponsorship of the excellent food. All of the crew and those who flew to Gib to watch us take on the challenge cannot thank you Jane and your wonderful staff enough for all that you did to make us feel so very welcome in Gibraltar, we will definitely be visiting you again Jane and can't wait to see you soon.
Flights. At a Save the Children charity ball held at the O'Callaghan Hotel, Paul Lyon, representative of Save the Children (Gibraltar) Who I will talk more about in our final 'Final Chapter' email made a speech to the guest, at the head table was the Honourable Chief Minister Fabian Picardo. During his speech Paul had made the announcement that a man in a wheelchair and his support crew were to travel to Gibraltar to take on the challenge of pushing himself up the Rock in 4 hours or less, Paul mentioned that we were looking for sponsors for our flights so my crew and I could take on this challenge. After his speech Paul sat down, shortly afterwards the Chief minister passed him a note written on an napkin, the note basically said that the Gibraltar Government will sponsor the flights! That was it the challenge was on, as is usual with the people of Gibraltar their generosity shone through as it does time and time again. To the Honourable Chief Minister we say a huge, huge thank you for your generosity and as mentioned before we all wish you your wife and son all the very best with the arrival of your new born child within the next week or so!!! To the people of Gibraltar we also say a big, big thank you for your support and kindness.
Stephanie Ball - http://www.meteogib.com Thank you Steph for all the weather updates you have been sending me during our run up to the challenge and thank you for the weather brief at the challenge briefing. Stephanie has just gone freelance and also does work for GBC as well her website is mentioned here so if you are planning to go to Gib visit this webpage. Best Wishes to you and Steve.
Other Supporters In Gibraltar. I want to thank the Royal Gibraltar Police, HM Forces on Gibraltar and the Gibraltar Chronicle and the St John Ambulance who turned up on the day of the challenge without notice to escort us to the top, fantastic effort and fantastic support from you all.
David Hoyle - Poster designer. For most of my challenges we have had posters designed, printed and delivered, sent or handed out. All of these posters have been designed by a good friend of ours, David Hoyle. Now David has been asked time and time again to design posters for our challenges and without hesitation he has come up with some very eye catching designs which have been displayed all around the place as far up as Scotland to as far away as Gibraltar, they have also been sent via email to many countries all over the world from the USA to Australia. David thank you so much for these posters, I think I have a copy of each one which I will frame to help me remember very good times shared with very good people.
Anonymous sponsor. For the past 2 years I have had an anonymous sponsor for my training gear, that anonymous sponsor has been Paul Lyon and also the school in which he is head teacher, Paul I thank you for the gear, it has helped me enormously and kept me warm in the winter months. I will talk more about Paul Lyon in my last Final Chapter update.
Special supporters. I cannot remember everyone's name solely due to my head injury but I do remember your generosity and support. I would like to thank my good friend Linvoy Primus, who has been a fantastic support to me throughout my challenges and I would also like to thank my friends James and Oliver Phelps also known as the Weasley twins of Harry Potter fame, I have appreciated your support always.
Included in this category of Special Supporters are those I have had the privilege to mix with on a daily basis at the Mountbatten Centre Portsmouth, I've enjoyed every moment spent with you guys, you've made me laugh and cry but most of all you have given me so much support and hope, especially when times got tough. You have inspired me so much and I hope we will continue that friendship and have our tea/coffee and toasted tea cakes for many years to come. I can't mention each and everyone of you singularly but you do know who you are and you can guarantee you will always remain very special in my heart. Then there's my friends here in the street where I live and around the Portsmouth area and in fact around the country, each and everyone of you mean special and different things to me, please all of you be my friends forever!
In the meantime here are some links to stories that have been printed, please take a few minutes out to read them. Thank you.
http://www.onlinegooner.com/article.php ... TTVbyFVhBd
http://www.chronicle.gi/headlines_details.php?id=35795
Jane
GIBRALTAR, WE WILL NEVER FORGET YOU, PLEASE DON'T FORGET US!
http://www.virginmoneygiving.com/challengegibraltar
http://www.twitter.com/ChallengerGib
Best Wishes
Jane, Paul and Crew
