Tuesday 19 May 2020
Former Selby College student completes 7,200km cycling challenge to raise money for charity
Former Selby College student Bradley Johnson has successfully completed a 7,200km cycle challenge in one month – raising more than £14,000 to support the NHS and other charities during the Covid-19 crisis.
Bradley and 21 other medical students at Oxford University set themselves the challenge of cycling 100km for each of the 72 years that the National Health Service (NHS) has been established. Following social distancing guidelines, the 21 students set out on their challenge on April 13th and were able to reach their target of 7,200km within one-month.
So far, the team has raised more than £14,000 for the Oxford Hospitals Charity, which supports both NHS staff and patients, and SeeSaw, an Oxford-based charity which provides grief support to children and young people locally.
“Personally, I’ve found this experience one of the most enjoyable things that I’ve taken part in at University. It’s a very challenging time for everyone at the moment, and it’s been gratifying to raise money to assist those charities offering the most essential support to those that need it,” said Bradley. “Any support in helping us reach our goal will be greatly appreciated by us, but it will also help make a large difference to the people that the charities work with.”
The group of medical students have also produced their own charity single to help raise further funds for NHS staff and patients during the coronavirus outbreak.
After completing A Levels in Biology, Chemistry and Maths at Selby College, Bradley went on to undertake a medical degree at Brasenose College, at the University of Oxford. Bradley has since returned to Selby College to discuss his Oxbridge experience and to help current Selby College students who are looking to apply to the University.
“Throughout my time at Selby College, the teachers and staff saw me as an individual, and not just another student. I’ll be eternally grateful for the support of the College, for helping me get somewhere that, for the first time in my life, I am completely myself and I am completely happy,” added Bradley.
