This Wednesday (July 8), I’m setting off on a week’s cycle from Manchester to London. The aim of the ride is to highlight the ways in which sport can help to tackle youth crime. On the way, I’ll be visiting projects which use sport to deal with these issues.
The Laureus Sport for Good Foundation has commissioned a special report on the role which sport can play in fighting gang violence and gun and knife crime. I urge you to read this report as it makes very interesting reading. A gang is actually not that different from a sports team, both provide you with a sense of belonging, status and excitement. But, while sport also helps you develop control over your emotions and learn to respect certain boundaries, being in a gang can be destructive.
I’ve tried to keep myself in pretty good shape over the years so I hope it’s not going to be too painful. If I’m honest, the saddle is causing me the most concern – I’ll post a picture of my bike and you’ll understand!
You can keep track of my daily progress on this blog and twitter. Any messages of support will greatly appreciated!
Check out the route map here.
On the way I’m going to be joined by a few other supporters including Seb Coe, Graeme Souness, Gary Player, Matthew Pinsent, Sean Fitzpatrick, Hugo Porta, and Roger Black. So it should be a lot fun, a little pain and all for a very worthy cause.
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Daley Thompson won more decathlon honours than anybody before him. He is the only man to win two Olympic gold medals and a World Championship. He also created four world records, won three Commonwealth gold medals and two European Championships.
Rebecca on 06.07.2009 14:07
Just read the report – great stuff!
Bill Goodison on 06.07.2009 14:07
It’s a great idea and I’ve always felt sport has a lot to offer as a way of getting young people off the streets. But when are you ever going to get this useless government to listen? All they do is sell off playing fields and stop competitive sport in schools. They’ll pour money into unnecessary qangos, and pump millions in trying to stage prestige events like the Olympics and the World Cup, but do something to save young people’s lives? Never! Good luck, Daley.
Schnitzel on 06.07.2009 14:07
Wow, what do I need to do to join you?
Ken on 06.07.2009 15:07
Interesting work. Sound like it’s going to be a tough ride. I certainly hope the weather improves. Either which way, it’s a very good cause, I look forward to reading the updates.
Marcus on 06.07.2009 15:07
This is really important. We see these issues on the news every week and the problems don’t seem to be getting any better. Good for you, Daley!
Scully on 06.07.2009 17:07
They’re riding right past my house in Napton on the Hill nr Southam in Warwickshire! Go Daley!! I’ll be cheering for you!