A Cardiff to London bike ride will mark the first fundraising efforts for the Tom Maynard Trust, set up following the tragic death of Welsh cricketer Tom Maynard in June 2012.
Starting at the SWALEC Stadium in Cardiff, thirty cyclists, including former England cricketer Andrew Flintoff and several former Glamorgan and Surrey cricketers, will ride 150 miles over two days to the Kia Oval on 20th and 21st August 2012.
The ride, which is being funded by investment management firm Brewin Dolphin, will aim to arrive shortly before the start of the Clydesdale Bank 40 match between Surrey and Glamorgan on Tuesday August 21st, which will be a tribute match to Tom Maynard.
Former Glamorgan bowler, now assistant investment manager at Brewin Dolphin, Andrew Davies who will be cycling with the peleton, said: “Tom was an incredibly talented player so it is extremely fitting that a Trust has been established in his name to support aspiring young cricketers of the future. Having known the Maynard family for a number of years, I’m pleased to be able to take part in this ride and support it through Brewin Dolphin so that we can kick start the fundraising for the Trust. I hope that we are able to raise some considerable funds through our efforts.”
The Tom Maynard Trust was set up in memory of the 23-year-old Surrey and former Glamorgan batsman by his family in July 2012. The trust will exist initially to help the development of aspiring disadvantaged cricketers and other sportspeople who require support with different aspects of their career development, including bursaries, help with training and education, financial support for overseas placements and assistance with kit and equipment.
The trust is supported by individual members of Surrey and Glamorgan – the two clubs Maynard played for – and the Professional Cricketers’ Association (PCA).
Ian Williams on behalf of the Tom Maynard Trust said: “We have been overwhelmed at the interest shown from all areas of Tom’s life both in terms of those wanting to cycle and contribute in whatever way, particularly Brewin Dolphin, whose enthusiasm for the event has been phenomenal. All the support is a huge testimony to the esteem in which Tom was held.”
Those wishing to support the charity bike ride should visit http://www.justgiving.com/teams/TomMaynard