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Geriatric Sponsored Push

It was in early March that we first visited Dorney Lake (site of the 2012 Olympics rowing events, and home of the Eton Boat Club) to assess the possibility of holding a Geriatrics Sponsored event to raise money for our current charity - the Hayes End worship area project. The place was quite deserted, apart from a few intrepid birds, and it was bitterly cold, with gale force winds blowing direct from Siberia - was this really a good choice?



Well, on Thursday 3rd April it seemed like a reasonably good decision. That morning three "ancients" - Edna, Beryl and Enid, were pushed around the lake by Steve, Tina, Molly and Pat. We were more than ably supported by Tasha and Ajayi (both 'injured' so unable to participate). They insisted that we line up race style so they could use their Tottenham Hotspur (sad people!)flag for our official send-off - not quite sure where Tottenham Hostspurs fitted in with our endeavours but it was a good idea anyway. It was a cloudy, but mild day with just a gentle breeze, so despite the fact we had gone prepared with waterproofs they were not required.

Out on the water was a variety of school rowing crews - eights, fours and pairs, plus a few single skulls, all under training from their cycle riding coaches, so there was plenty to see. Consequently the pushers had to make sure they avoided the resolute riders who were totally focussed on the training of their young oarsmen - and women. Really didn't want to be responsible for one of the coaches taking a dip especially since there were signs saying 'No Swimming'!

After just over an hours gentle walking (or sitting as the case may be) we had circled the lake and were encouraged over the 'finish line' by Ajayi and Tasha with that strange flag. They had some prizes in the shape of chocolate bars to help replace lost energy - not too sure just how those who were wheeled qualified, as we had been sitting, enjoying conversation, watching the young rowers and having a comfortable ride so had expended little or no energy, but thanks anyway, Tasha and Ajayi. We all agreed it was a good morning out.

At the time of writing not too sure just how much we have raised, but hopefully this will be over £350 towards the renovation of our worship area at Hayes End. It should also be noted that our 2.5K push turned into a 4.5K one - didn't notice the extra mile myself!