Felpham man overcomes his heart condition to get cycling

Ray Blackwell will be sitting in the saddle for some four hours to complete a 50-mile challenge at the Goodwood race circuit.

He hopes to raise about £500 for the MS Trust at the event on May 27. His daughter’s best friend has the condition.

“I was diagnosed with a minor heart condition last year which means I’m no longer able to run competitively, though I can jog,” he said.

“I had a place in this year’s London Marathon but I had to pull out.”

“The doctors did say I could cycle and I thought I would do another challenge instead. I’m up to 30 miles in training though I am getting saddle sore.”

The cycling will add to the catalogue of charity endeavours by Downview Road resident Ray, 74, in the past six years since he beat prostate cancer.

He has completed two parachute jumps and two marathons.

He has a window display in Darren Miles Funeral Directors in Felpham. Donations to www.ukvirginmoney.com