Over 750 riders from 11 countries united at the RAF Association Rides 2022, to raise more than £90,000 in support of the RAF community.
The RAFA Rides event was founded in 2018 by RAF Association ambassador, Air Vice-Marshal Gary Waterfall. It has since grown in popularity with both avid and amateur cyclists, as either a virtual or in person cycle across a chosen four distances - ranging from 25 to 100 miles, with elevation ranges of 1,000 to 6,000 ft.
"It was an absolutely brilliant day which raised a huge amount of money for a superb charity. I couldn’t recommend it enough to people and have already signed up for next year!"
Group Captain Kilvington
This year, the event was generously supported by Defence partners, Lockheed Martin UK. A record 352 riders attended the RAFA organised event, cycling the beautiful and sunny routes of the Leicestershire and Rutland countryside. Meanwhile a further 400 members of the RAF community joined the effort from afar, virtually cycling from Norway to New Zealand and Saudi to Cyprus.
"Outstanding event and incredible efforts from teams all around the world – a huge well done to everyone who took part, supported, sponsored and made this event such an astounding success!"
Wing Commander Nevin
During the day, live feeds between Leicestershire, RAF stations across the UK and the teams in other countries brought the riders together, despite being dispersed all around the world.
"I continue to be amazed at how this event is growing each year. The support our RAF community shows to those who need a little bit of help is incredible. Once again RAFA Rides can call itself as a truly global event.
I would like to thank everyone involved in the event, from the amazing riders and their families, the volunteers who made the day the success it was and everyone who sponsored riders. In these very difficult financial times it is moving to see people still donating money to a cause dear to them."
Air Vice-Marshal Waterfall
RAF Association ambassador and RAFA Rides founder
"Thanks to everyone who made this year’s RAFA Rides such a success – again! Next year’s RAFA Rides promises to be even more exciting, so watch this space."
Amy Petterson
Head of Community Fundraising RAF Association
In 2023 the RAFA Rides are cycling the grounds of former RAF Cottesmore and Kendrew Barracks; sign up here to participate from anywhere in the world and help raise money for the RAF Community along the way.
