Pedal power for charity

By Mark Stevens
19/7/18

Exeter Chiefs prop Jack Owlett provided a fitting welcome to Sandy Park for Martin Chaldecott this week as he continues to cycle around the coast of mainland Britain helping to raise funds for the Matt Hampson Foundation.

Martin, who is chairman of Ellingham & Ringwood RFC, set off from his club on June 1 and is the final few days of his near 4,000-mile ride.

Knowing that Jack was himself a former Mini/Junior member of the Hampshire club, he made the slight de-tour off his schedule route from Plymouth to Exeter to pop his head into the home of the Chiefs, where he not only met Jack and officials of the club, but was also presented with a signed jersey and a quick guided tour of the stadium.

Martin is one of many rugby followers who have done their bit for the Matt Hampson Foundation, which was set-up after the former Leicester Tigers forward was left paralysed during an England Under-21s rugby session in 2005.

Since then Matt has battled hard to live as normal a life as possible. Paralysed from the neck down and breathing via the aid of a ventilator, it is testament to him that he decided to set up the Foundation so that others who have suffered similar catastrophic injuries through sport can receive support and assistance.

As well as his Foundation duties which include, visiting, mentoring, providing advice and fundraising, Matt delivers inspirational talks to young people and businesses around the country. He is also a forwards coach at Oakham School and Oakham Rugby Club, an ambassador for both the RFU's injured Players Fund and Restart (The Professional Rugby Association's charity). Patron of Special Effect a charity set up to help disabled children communicate through technology.

Matt commented: “This is an amazing challenge, especially with the weather we have had the last few weeks, so we are so grateful for Martin choosing to support us and we wish him well for the final stage of his challenge”.

Martin, who was joined on his Exeter leg of the ride by Chiefs supporter Phil Bailey, added: “It’s been an amazing experience, whilst doing some good for others. It feels good to do good! It's been tough at times, especially with the heat, but I've loved every minute of it and I'm very grateful to the Chiefs for their welcome and the support they have shown me.”

If you would like to sponsor Martin, his Just giving page is www.justgiving.com/fundraising/martin-chaldecott1