Leeds Rhinos legend, turned Leeds Rugby Foundation (LRF) Development Officer, Keith Senior today met the media ahead of his huge 8-day, 1010 mile cycling challenge which will see him cycle from Perpignan to Headingley starting this Sunday.
2013 saw the launch of 'Quest 13', the first in a series of challenges to be completed by a team of staff from Leeds Rugby Foundation (LRF), led by Leeds Rhinos legend and LRF's Keith Senior. This year a four strong team comprising of Senior, Jonny Wainhouse, Leon Crick and Nigel Chambers will take on 'Quest 14' a gruelling 8-day challenge which will see them cycle from Perpignan in the South of France, all the way through to Leeds starting on Sunday 22nd June, 2014.
To link into the Tour de France launch, the team will cycle the Leeds – Harrogate route on the final day of the challenge, covering 134 miles and finishing at the world famous Headingley Carnegie Stadium in time to deliver the match ball prior to Leeds Rhinos vs Catalan Dragons Super League Encounter on Sunday 29th June (meaning a 4am departure!).
To see just how hard they will have to work, check out the scheduled biking itinerary below….
| Day 1 22nd June | Perpignan – Gaillac | 136 miles |
| Day 2 23rd June | Gaillac – Perigueux | 130 miles |
| Day 3 24th June | Perigeux – Poitiers | 117 miles |
| Day 4 25th June | Poitiers – Le Mans | 115 miles |
| Day 5 26th June | Le Mans – Caen (overnight ferry) | 100 miles |
| Day 6 27th June | Portsmouth – Leamington Spa | 134 miles |
| Day 7 28th June | Leamington Spa – Headingley | 144 miles |
| Day 8 29th June | Grand Depart Stage 1 + Harrogate – Headingley | 134 miles |
| Total | 1,010 miles |
Keith Senior commented: “All the training has now been done and there is no turning back. I am slightly anxious but at the same time excited to get on the road and complete this challenge. My legs have done some miles over the years, but I think this challenge will test them more than ever. It is important to remember it is not just me taking on this challenge; we are cycling as a team. Hopefully we will all return successful as a team come Sunday 29th. Until then please show your support by donating to the four fantastic charities. Finally thank you to Quest Solutions, Pims Ltd, The Yorkshire Charity, 3V Sport, Laura Crane Youth Cancer Trust, Sue Ryder Wheatfield’s, Joining Jack and O’Hara’s Ltd for your backing. Without your help this challenge would not be possible.”
Leeds Rhinos number 14, Stevie Ward commented: “Quest 14 is one fantastic concept and challenge. To cycle over 1000 miles on a bike is unbelievable. Keith Senior may have hung up his boots a few years back but he still doesn’t shy away from hard-work! Obviously my Leeds Rhinos squad number is 14 so it is fitting that I back this cycle ride. I urge everyone to back the team, donate via the official fundraising page or by text and help Leeds Rugby Foundation and the three other fantastic charities change lives. I and the rest of my Leeds Rhinos teammates will be welcoming the Quest14 team back home on the pitch when they deliver our match-ball for the Catalan Dragons game.”
Chris Clarkson commented: “I don’t envy the Quest 14 team. It is going to be hugely tough, but knowing Keith, I am sure him and the team will get through it. Good luck!”
Ian Kirke commented: “I have known Keith for a good few years now and I know how mentally tough he is. The Quest 14 team’s bodies will be in bits, but it will all be worth it when they arrive back in Leeds. Do the city proud boys!”
Leeds Rhinos CEO and LRF Trustee Gary Hetherington commented: “Keith and the team are a credit to the club and Leeds Rugby Foundation. The challenge they are undertaking is testament to their hard-work they put in at the Foundation on a daily basis. All the money raised will make a huge difference in the community so I urge everyone to back this challenge. On behalf of everyone at Leeds Rugby, we wish them the best of luck and we will welcome them with open arms at the Catalan Dragons game on Sunday 29th.”
A percentage of the raised funds from this unique event will be donated to three other life changing charities; Sue Ryder – Wheatfields, The Laura Crane Youth Cancer Trust and Joining Jack.
Show your support by donating here: https://mydonate.bt.com/events/quest14/124032
Alternatively you can Text QUES14 and their amount £2, £3, £4, £5 or £10 to 70070.
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