I should also disclose the secrets of our success, indicate the bar for participation (skill, experience etc), and why more teams should sign up next year. 1. Success factors - Two of our team had never cycled in a velodrome before. Key requirement is enthusiasm, and in my case not having broken any bones by falling off my bike before the event (yes I am and was the weakest link - eg I had my saddle at the wrong height until a pro pulled me over and politely pointed this out). 2. Why sign up? It’s an incredible day out (talks by cycling pros, a massage etc) and an excellent evening meal (assisted by having dinner with part of the very able #Hausfeld team with who we have worked on a occupancy safety systems for several years - it will be well worth reading the Tribunal’s judgment in a few months, not least as this case is not a folllow-on damages claim). You also get to add a new Lycra top (also a good look for middle aged men.. contrary to the views of naysayers). 3. Really why sign up? It’s a very worthy cause. I have been fabulously lucky in life in an array of ways, including that my three kids have not needed GOSH’s services. This is precisely the sort of event that the fabulously lucky should support. And well done to all the many teams for doing so (including #Freshfields, #Willkie etc etc).
It’s not all work and no play. Yesterday I attended and participated in a charity track cycling event at the London Velodrome. The cause was Great Ormond Street Hospital (GOSH), one of the world’s leading children's Cancer hospitals, last night we heard some incredible stories of children impacted by cancer; their resilience, determination and fortitude. It really does put life into perspective! I’m pleased to say that with the help of my colleagues Mat Hughes, Paul Taylor and Oliver Rake we actually managed to win the (plate) trophy. So whilst we weren’t the quickest overall, we were the quickest of the slowest! We were also joined by our friends and colleagues from #Hausfeld for a dinner and charity auction. The event raised over £300k and took the charity over the £2m mark for the event over the last few years. They are currently raising money to build a market leading facility here in the U.K. Final thanks to #WillkieFarr and Peter Burrell, and #Freshfields who are also involved in the event. I’m already looking forward to improving our time next year !
