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Beckenham Ironman 125 Challenge - 19 October

Beckenham Ironman 125 Challenge - 19 October

Beckenham RFC19 Sep 2019 - 22:15
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What a guy

Dan Silvester is a true club legend. It's quite possible he has swum, ridden and run further than any player at Beckenham. And now it is at it again in aid of the 125 Build.

Dan has decided to inaugurate the annual Beckenham Ironman 125, being a 1.9km swim, 102km bike ride and 21.1km run. This will take place on 19 October and is timed to allow Dan, all things being equal, to finish up at the club ahead of kick-off as the 1st XV host Westcombe Park in a league match. This will be an annual event running on the weekend closest to October 19 and will be open to all comers.

Our thanks go out to our friends Beckenham Spa who host the swim leg. Beckenham Rugby Cyclists for planning the bike ride and Beckenham Half Marathon for providing the route for Dan to complete his challenge.

Dan has already set up his crowdfunding page so you can donate to help him reach his target. We have also added a link called Ironman Donations at the top of our home page so you can donate directly without hunting for this article.

All that remains is to wish Dan well, thank God it's not us going with him, to thank you in advance for supporting Dan as he trains and completes his Ironman challenge and turn the floor over to Dan.

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Drum roll please)… I am back with a new challenge and an AMAZING cause.

This year, Beckenham Rugby Club celebrates being 125 years old. This is 125 years of being a hub for the local community that welcomes everyone young and old.

My first experience of Beckenham was when I was taken down to the club by Matt Dickens after losing a bet. The first person I had the pleasure of meeting was Kenny Hill. He asked what position I played. I told him that I had played hooker, but could no longer play there due to an injury. First week over and I am informed I am playing hooker for the 2’s and so began my journey.

I can honestly say that it has been one of the better decisions I have made in life, despite the numerous sprained body parts, body shavings and too many other mishaps along the way that have occurred during my time at the club.

The club is a truly special place helping people from all walks of life to keep fit, build friendships, become part of a team and learn some life skills along the way. It really is a fantastic melting pot of people from all walks of life – a massive dysfunctional family which holds its doors open to everyone!

To keep the family together, there is a huge amount of work that is done to ensure everything works – from looking after the grounds and buildings, creating programmes for the juniors, to organising games, washing the kit, as well as raising much needed funds. We have a lovely group of volunteers which run the day-to-day (extra helpers always welcomed!!).

In celebration of 125 fantastic years of Beckenham Rugby Club, and in anticipation of another successful 125 years, we are planning to extend our clubhouse to keep it as a central part of the community.

It takes significant costs to run a rugby club of our size, so fundraising is essential to keep it running and updated. Due to our unique anniversary, we have created the 125 clubhouse build – and this is where we need your help.

To help us raise some funds, the club have convinced me that I should do a 125km challenge in recognition of the 125th year! I’ll be swimming 1.9km, cycling 102km and finishing with a 21.1km run just for good measure. As much as I like to torture my body, I am hoping to raise at least £10,000 by doing this and so I am asking if you could dig into your pocket and help support us.

It would mean a huge amount to everyone at the club.

Date of the challenge is 19th October. You’re welcome to join me for any of the individual disciplines – the support would be amazing!! I’ll be running back into the club in time to watch (not play – at least I don’t think I’m on the team sheet…yet!) our 1st XV playing against Westcombe Park, so please come down, say hi, enjoy the game and massive after party!!

In anticipation of your generous support, a heartfelt Thank you from me and everyone at Beckenham Rugby Club!

Dan Silvester

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