Cycle race success for Mat

 

Mat Wilson, Laboratory Director from the School of Sport, Performing Arts and Leisure, took part in the 3,000 mile Race Across America bicycle race.

 

Mat and team mates Professor Greg Whyte, Richard Ball and Clive Middleton, finished third, averaging 20mph over 3,000 miles. They took six days to complete the challenge and finished on Wednesday (June 18).

 

The challenge received the backing of Little Britain star David Walliams, who donated £1,000 to start the team’s fundraising.

 

Ironman triathlete Mat and his three team mates received support from his colleague and sports psychologist Professor Andy Lane, sport psychology lecturer Shaun Galloway and postgraduate students Hannah Twigg and Ian Lahart.

 

Professor Lane said: “This is a fantastic achievement for Mat and the support team. The Race Across America is known as the world’s toughest cycle race and to finish third in an amazing result for them.”

 

Mat has appeared as a consultant for Channel 4 and BBC on shows such as The Games, Too Big to Walk and The Challenge. Before setting out, he described the race as having “huge personal and professional meaning” to him.

 

The four riders are raising money for Cardiac Risk in the Young (CRY) a charity close to Mat and Greg’s hearts as they both work for the charity for free, raising awareness of sudden cardiac death in young individuals.

 

To donate to their campaign, visit www.justgiving.com/raam2008

Picture: Mat Wilson (far right, in short sleeved shirt) and Andy Lane (left, front row, blue shirt) and Greg Whyte (far left, black t-shirt) pictured before the race started with students who are supporting the challenge.

 

For media inquiries, contact Vickie Woodward in the Press Office on 01902 322736 or 07973 335112.

 

Ref: 4234/18/06/08/VW

Date Issued: Wednesday, 18 June 2008