Going the extra mile on the UK Red Great North Ride

As a charity, Rugby League Cares prides itself on its readiness to go the extra mile to support people of all ages across Rugby League communities.

Since the coronavirus pandemic struck, we have helped countless people, young and old, from the current and former players we’ve support through our dedicated player welfare programme to the thousands of young players who have taken part in the Movember Ahead of the Game.

Our men’s mental fitness initiative, Offload, has been rolled out across the North of England and is now being delivered at 11 professional clubs. We know from the feedback we get that scores of families are now happier, safer and healthier because of men’s involvement in Offload.

The work we do is funded from many sources, and like all independent charities we rely heavily on donations and fundraising initiatives.

Last week, we were delighted when 17 hardy individuals, including ex-RL internationals Mick Cassidy, Keith Senior and Robbie Hunter-Paul, saddled up to take part in our biggest fundraiser for two years, the UK Red Great North Ride.

Over two and a half days, they pedalled 220 miles from Whitehaven to Tynemouth on a route that tested their stamina, fitness and resolve to the limit.

Throughout the ride, the team of riders never stopped smiling, even when the gradient got tough, and it was uplifting to see them all going the extra mile on our behalf.

So far, the UK Red Great North Ride has raised over £10,000, a sum which will help us continue our important work.

The riders’ Justgiving pages are still open: if you enjoy the video we have put together from the ride, please sponsor a rider if you can. The link is here.

Enjoy the video! And thanks for your continued support.