Over 1,000 cyclists from across the globe came together to support the RAF community last Saturday, 17 June 2023.

The RAF Association's annual cycling event, hosted by RAFA Rides, took place in scorching temperatures, but didn't put the riders off.  

Over 400 riders tackled routes in soaring summer temperatures around the Rutland and Leicestershire countryside at the in-person event at Kendrew Barracks, formerly RAF Cottesmore, in Rutland, with more than 650 people taking part virtually around the world. 

Among the riders at Kendrew Barracks was BBC One Saturday Kitchen presenter and RAF Association Ambassador Matt Tebbutt, who took a break from his hosting duties to take on the 100-mile route.

Matt Tebbutt of Saturday kitchen completed a chairty bike ride in Rutland this weekend. Image credit: RAFA.

Virtual riders took part from the many places members of the RAF community find themselves. There were riders in France, Germany, Qatar, New Zealand, North Dakota, Greece and Japan - all united for one cause. 

Together they raised over £110,000, which will be used to support people in the RAF community who are in need. 

The event, which was made possible thanks to the generous support of headline sponsor Lockheed Martin UK, and modelling and simulation software provider PLEXSYS UK, was created to allow people all over the world to come together, either in person or virtually, in support of the RAF community. 

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The Association's Head of Community Fundraising Jenn Shephard said:"We were delighted with the turnout for this year's RAFA Rides and we're extremely grateful to everyone who took part, either at Kendrew Barracks or remotely. It was truly heartwarming to see people from all over the world come together to support the RAF community." 

400 riders competed in a 100-mile chairty bike ride in Rutland over the weekend. Image credit: RAFA.

If you have been inspired to take part in RAFA Rides 2024, find out more and register here.