Pedals vs Paddles – a frantic dash to Symonds Yat!

Whilst the Sound and Vision Team and the Finance Team are usually the best of friends a dispute has arisen between them about how much the Sound & Vision Team can spend this year on stuff! Our Treasurer refers to the buying of “new toys”. Our sound guys don’t think he quite understands. It’s becoming a problem! There is only one way to settle it! We’re going to have a race! 

On Saturday 2^nd May, the Sound & Vision Team are going head to head with the Finance Team in a race to Symonds Yat. We would like to involve the whole church! We want you to take part, take sides, support your team, and sponsor them. We want to use this race to raise some cash for “New Toys” or as the sound guys put it to replace “vital equipment”

So how is this going to work? Anthony – our chief sound guy loves pedals and often turns up to church on his bike. Iain – our treasurer, on the other hand loves paddles -  you may have noticed his red canoe in the car park from time to time. Pedals vs Paddles is a race that is going to find out which is best!

The Pedals are going to cycle 51.2 miles from theBarn in Bidford to the finishing post outside the Saracens Head pub in Symonds Yat. We have planned a lovely scenic route on quiet roads that according to Google will take 4hrs and 42mins. 

The Paddles on the other hand are going to paddle along the River Wye the 14 miles from Ross on Wye to the finishing line outside the Saracens Head. Canoes are better than bikes in many ways but do tend to go a bit slower but Iain’s local knowledge and vast boating experience leads to the conclusion that the canoes will reach win the race after 4hrs 39mins and 21secs. 

This race is going to be very very close and truly a frantic dash to Symonds Yat. 

We want to make a day of it. There will be a starting ceremony at TheBarn with a live video link to Ross on Wye to get the race under way. We are hoping to arrange a family walk in beautiful Symonds Yat while we wait for the race to pedal or paddle it’s course and then an amazing BBQ at the end. One or two of us may even visit the Saracens Head for refreshment!!

So would you like to take part? We need cyclists and canoeists who are up for a challenge. It might help if you can ride a bike but you don’t need to be able to paddle a canoe. There will be a relay element to the race so you don’t even need to commit to complete the whole distance and the team leaders are experienced, competent and even hold certificates!! There really is no excuse for not taking part.

To compete please speak to Iain for paddles and Anthony for pedals. Once the teams are formed there might be some light training arranged and we will keep the whole church informed as the competition develops. We will certainly be looking for sponsors and a lift home after the race!

Which is best pedals or paddles? – we’re going to find out!!!!