Pedal for a cause

AN EASTWOOD high teacher is more than halfway through a gruelling charity journey.

Gordi Reid is currently cycling around Scotland to visit the country’s top 40 rugby clubs and raising money for a fund close to his heart.

His efforts are for the Craig Hodgkinson Trust, which exists to provide defibrillator equipment to sports teams, clubs and communities — all in aid of former teammate, Craig, who died while playing, from an unknown cardiac defect.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

Gordi’s epic journey comes to its conclusion on Saturday when he and teammates Owen McInroy and Ally Peterson visit Glasgow’s clubs, starting with the southside’s Whitecraigs, Cartha and GHA.

They will arrive at West Lodge at 10am, before heading to Dumbreck at 10.30am then cycling to Braidholm at 11am.

Their journey will conclude at old Anniesland — home of Craig’s former club Glasgow Hawks, and also of GHK, where Craig’s father John coaches and Gordi plays.

GHA’s Rangi Jericevich said: “We are more than aware of the risk of cardiac issues to players after our own Jim Clarke suffered a cardiac arrest whilst playing for the GHA 2As earlier this season.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

“Thankfully his team mate Tony Hampson, a doctor, was on hand to perform emergency treatment which ultimately helped to save Jim’s life. 
“Although the incident did not occur at Braidholm, it made us acutely aware of the need for a defibrillator at the club in the event that any such instance occurs in future.
“GHA will soon have a defibrillator thanks to the great work done by the Craig Hodgkinson Trust in raising both awareness and funds for purchasing defibs for community clubs.”

Taking a break from his 630 mile cycle, Gordi told The Extra: “Thanks to the huge support we have received so far — and a huge thank you to everybody who has already donated.

“The legs are in agony. It’s a very tough shift with endless long steep hills.”

You can donate at lastinghope.bhf.org.uk/briggsycycle, and follow the trio on Twitter @BriggsyCycle or on Facebook by searching for Briggsy Scottish Rugby Cycle for the Craig Hodgkinson Trust.

Related topics: