The time has come once again for one of Ospreys in the Community’s most anticipated events of the year—The Ride2Rugby! We are thrilled to announce that registration is officially open for the 2025 adventure to France during the Guinness Six Nations.
The glowing success of last year’s bike ride to Ireland still resonates with us all. Together, we pedalled through the picturesque landscapes, faced and conquered challenges (including the weather), and celebrated each milestone to the max! Most importantly, we raised £57,000 for OitC’s Sporting Memories project, that utilises sport to tackle social isolation and loneliness amongst elderly people and people suffering from dementia. The stories and friendships forged on that journey to Ireland have become an integral part of the Ride2Rugby’s legacy.
Building on the momentum of last year's triumph, this year’s ride promises to be even more spectacular, with it being a cornerstone event of OitC’s 10 Year Anniversary. As we cycle to France from Amsterdam, we will once again embrace our combined love for sports, adventure, and making a difference. The route is meticulously planned to provide an unforgettable experience, embracing the scenic beauty and history of our destinations on the way.
Just like previous years, participants can look forward to forming strong bonds, sharing stories, and creating memories that last a lifetime. Despite the change of location, the goal of the bike ride remains the same—to raise funds and awareness for the work OitC does in our communities. Every pedal brings us closer to making a positive impact.
As always, participation in the ride will include a ticket to a Guinness Six Nations game, with this year’s ride falling on Wales’ opener against France at the acclaimed State de France on Friday the 31st January.
We invite all members of our Ride2Rugby community, as well as newcomers, to join our ranks and register for this year’s bike ride. Whether you’re a seasoned cyclist or embarking on your first long-distance ride, everyone is welcome on the ride.
Riders will be expected to raise £1600 for the ride, but this will include the cost of tickets, travel, accommodation, breakfast/snacks and a bespoke OitC jersey. To register, visit this link and fill out your details. We recommend early registration to ensure your spot, as places are filling up quickly.
Speaking on the ride, Head of Community at OitC, Tom Sloane, said: “As a charity we rely on the support of people around us to continue to support our communities. Our 2024 bike ride has shown what’s possible and has helped us to secure our Sporting Memories groups for another year, and has allowed even allowed us to look at growing it again.
“We are entering in to our 10th year as a charity the 2025 and the bike ride is set to be a marquee event and fundraiser for the year again. I am extremely grateful to everyone who signed up or donated last year and look forward to cycling alongside even more great people this coming January.”
Previous rider and ex-Osprey player, Ian Gough, said: “I’ve really enjoyed being a part of the last two rides, it’s everything that’s good about rugby, camaraderie, sing songs and hard work, all while supporting a great cause.”
Another previous Ride2Rugby participant, Neil Armstrong, the Owner of RNA Plant, said: “I've been involved with Ospreys Rugby for a long time, the work that OitC do across the region is incredible, and if I can play a small part in supporting them to grow then I’m proud to do so, it’s a great few days away with likeminded people – I would encourage others to get involved. On a separate yet relevant note, I am also the bunny hop champion of Penygroes.”
The Ride2Rugby Route
We fly from Bristol to Amsterdam on the afternoon of Sunday 26th January.
Day 1 of riding is 82 miles following the canal system of The Netherlands though the Hague before cycling over the dams that keep back the North Sea.
Day 2 is broken up by a journey on the Vlissgen-Breskens ferry. We cross into Belgium as we head for our hotel in Ypres. In the evening, we attend the Last Post Ceremony at the Menin Gate which daily commemorates the fallen of The Great War in the area. The team will conquer 77 miles on this day.
Day 3 is a much shorter day of 54 miles as we cross into France and follow the frontline of the Western Front. We will stay in the French town of Arras and will have the opportunity to dine in the Arras square.
Day 4 is our last long day in the saddle as we cycle 74 miles down to Compeigne but not before we return to Mametz Wood which, for many, was a very memorable visit in 2023. We pay our respects to the Welsh Soldiers who bravely fought and fell before heading south towards Compeigne.
Day 5 gives us the opportunity for a final piece of history with a visit to Armistice Glade before completing the 50 miles to Paris and a trip around the Arc de Triomphe before preparing for the opening game in the 2025 Six Nations. The Stade de France, already a magnificent stadium, will have its atmosphere amplified by the nighttime setting.
Saturday 1st February, we have a full day in Paris to explore the city before returning home on Sunday 2nd February.
