Emphasising the strong links between Sunderland football club and our friends over the Irish Sea, Sunderlands excellent Foundation of Light planned a 375 mile bike ride from Eire to cross the line at the Stadium of Light after a gruelling 5 day pedal.
Michael , the boss at Sunderland dentists Oliver's Dental Studio joined former players Michael Gray and Chris Makin for the final leg of 65 miles from the borders down to the Stadium of Light.
The chance to raise funds justified being squeezed into a Lycra cycle top that may have fitted Michael as a 16 year old. He was quoted as saying he has every sympathy for any ladies going out on a Saturday night with their Spanx on. Standing as he did next to Messrs Gray and Makin was a bonus for those boys as he emphasised their still highly tuned torsos. Marco of course has learnt how to enjoy the finer things in life.
The two Michaels, one as fit as a butchers dog, one likes his Guinness
The final 65 mls for the ageing dentist seemed manageable even with his two hours of training as a howling gale allowed for more sailing than cycling on the six hour cycle home.
Michael was delighted that his efforts, including auction bids, brilliantly supported by family, friends and patients of the studio neared £3000 to the brilliant foundation who do so much good work in the local community.
Crossing the finish in the Champs de Sunderland with Marco, Micky and Chris leading the way.
Michael and Harry Hall (Reds)
The idea for the ride came from keen Sunderland cyclists Susan and Harry Hall of Reds Hair and Beauty and with excellent support from Grafton , cycleworld amongst others, should see the Foundation raise some valuable funding.
Michael is still delighted to accept sponsorship for his efforts on behalf of the foundation via his Just Giving page at http://www.justgiving.com/Michael-Oliver2 and can be contacted at Olivers Dental Studio on 0191 5282340
