A Mental health sports coach took on an extraordinary challenge to support a charity's life-changing work, cycling 100km from Weymouth to Sherborne and playing tennis at six different clubs along the way, raising over £800 in the process.
Clive Stow, 65, began his journey at Weymouth Lawn Tennis Club at 9am on World Mental Health Day, where he joined some of his Sport in Mind players for the first of many friendly matches.
From there, he rode to Dorchester Tennis and Squash Club, played at Borough Gardens, and continued north to Charlton Down, Glanvilles Wootton, and finally Sherborne Tennis Club, before cycling all the way back to Weymouth by twilight.
Despite cold weather and rain along the route, Clive completed the day with a smile, fuelled by community spirit, a few cups of coffee, and plenty of rallies.
"It was a good day despite the rain. It was tiring and I was left feeling a little sore, but worth every mile," said Clive.
"Playing tennis does so much for people's physical and mental fitness, and the laughter we share on court makes such a difference. I'm proud to have raised more than £800, especially as I only set out to raise £100!", he added.
The funds raised will go directly to Sport in Mind, the UK's leading mental health sports charity, which uses sport and physical activity to improve the lives of people experiencing mental health challenges.
Clive's not only raised vital funds, but has also shown how powerful movement, sport, and connection can be in supporting mental health. His incredible effort highlights how one person's passion for sport can inspire others to move for their mental wellbeing, proving that age and weather are no match for determination and purpose!
Sport in Mind is the UK's pioneering mental health sports charity, working closely with the NHS to deliver free sport and physical activity programmes across three key strands: Adults, Mums & Babies, and Children and Young People. Since 2010, Sport in Mind has supported over 31,000 individuals, with 94% reporting improved well-being and 91% experiencing a boost in self-esteem as a direct result of participation. The charity is dedicated to making sport accessible to all, and Sport in Mind empowers people to overcome mental health challenges through movement, education, and community connection.