Chris Richards Monopoly cycle ride

Fundraiser Chris Richards took the term travel Monopoly to a new level this weekend by cycling through every location featured on the iconic London board game.

Making his way to everywhere from Pentonville Road to Park Lane, Chris was aiming to raise money for Newport YMCA. And if proof was needed of his epic quest, he even paused for a selfie at every stop, “went to jail” and got himself a picture with the police.

Chris, who is also chair of the Wales youth charity, was cycling with fellow trustee Chris Bowditch. He completed the ride in five and a half hours and raised more than £600.

He said: “I knew it was going to be difficult and gruelling, but I kept reminding myself about the difference it would make to the young people who have benefitted from the work we do at Newport YMCA.

“I have wanted to this for a while now and the support I received from my colleagues, friends and family was overwhelming.

“I know the funds will be going to the right place. I have the privilege of seeing the impact Newport YMCA has on its community first hand. Even if I only manage to help one person, it’s one more person’s life that we have bettered.”

This is Chris’ second fundraising cycle ride after biking from Bristol to London last summer.

He set off at 8.30am on Saturday 27 June from YMCA England’s office in Farringdon before heading to Old Kent Road, Whitechapel and Kings Cross railway station. The ride was completed around the plush surroundings of Mayfair and London’s west end.

Chris said: “It is a great achievement for me and I would like to take the opportunity to thank everyone who took their time to support my trek and make a donation.”

All funds raised will go to Newport YMCA, the oldest voluntary youth organisation in the city.  You can still give to Chris’ appeal by donating on his JustGiving page: https://www.justgiving.com/MonopolYMCA

If you would like to fundraise for YMCA, please visit www.ymca.org.uk/fundraising or email events@ymca.org.uk .

ENDS

For more information, please speak to Andy Mortimer, YMCA England Media Manager at Andrew.mortimer@england.ymca.org.uk or call 07972 669623.