Solent lecturers to cycle more than 1000km for charity

Sylvain Donneaud, Sport Coaching lecturer and Lee Bridgeman, Sport Science and Performance lecturer at Solent, are setting out on Thursday 5 September to cycle more than 1000km across 10 days.

The duo are cycling in memory of Sylvain's daughter, Zoe, who passed away in 2019 at eight years old. With a fundraising target of £10,000, Lee and Sylvain are being cheered on by their colleagues at Solent, with a support crew including a postgraduate student from the University. The pair say:

"We are supporting Naomi House and Jacksplace as Sylvain and his family were given the opportunity to stay there three times, including Zoe's last stay when she passed away. Money raised during this ride could go towards a much-needed respite stay, nursing care, family bereavement support and many more services the hospices provide.

"We're grateful for the support of our colleagues at Solent and encourage anyone to donate if they can - every penny makes a difference."

Naomi House & Jacksplace provide vital hospice care for children and young adults, offering a home from home to more than 500 families. Sylvain and his family received tremendous support from Naomi House during Zoe's treatment and in the last days of her life, and every penny raised from the ride will go directly to the charity.

Peter Abrahams, Head of Supporter Services at Naomi House & Jacksplace, says: "We are in aw of Sylvain and Lee - 1000km across two countries - what an incredible challenge to take on for our hospices, and a truly inspirational way to honour Zoe.

"Good luck and thank you to you both - we hope the cycle goes well and we can't wait to cheer you over the finish line with applause, gratitude and famous Naomi House cake."

Lee and Sylvain are much-loved members of the Solent community, offering excellence to students and staff in everything that they do. Earlier in the year, Sylvain was instrumental in developing a pilot flag football scheme with Hampshire Constabulary, engaging young people in sport to tackle anti-social behaviour. 

Donate to Lee and Sylvain's challenge here.