Prince’s Mead are celebrating the incredible achievement of the Prince’s Mead Larks, a team of courageous dads from our school community who completed the Ride of Champions on Father’s Day, raising an amazing £3,750 for the Hampshire and Isle of Wight Air Ambulance (HIOWAA).
The 100-mile challenge took the team from Sparsholt College to Southampton, across the Solent by ferry, around the stunning coastline of the Isle of Wight, and back via Yarmouth to Lymington, before completing the final stretch through the New Forest to Sparsholt. Despite the intense heat and sunshine, the team completed the course in an impressive 9.5 hours.
Tackling steep climbs, coastal winds, and soaring temperatures, the Prince’s Mead Larks stayed strong and upbeat throughout, fuelled by breath-taking views and an unshakable team spirit.
Completing the ride on Father’s Day made the achievement all the more special, with their families cheering them on in support of a cause close to many hearts.
Adam King, Head of Prince’s Mead, said:
“We are incredibly proud of the Prince’s Mead Larks, not just for the physical challenge they completed, but for the generous spirit in which they undertook it. Their effort reflects the strength and kindness of our school community.”
Chris Cousins, Chair of the Prince’s Mead Association, added:
“This was a truly inspiring feat by a brilliant group of dads. Completing such a demanding challenge on Father’s Day was a wonderful tribute to their families. We’re so grateful to everyone who supported them.”
A heartfelt thank you to the Prince’s Mead Larks for going the extra mile (or hundred!) and raising vital funds for HIOWAA. The funds raised will be going towards their Operation Airbase Appeal which is looking to raise for £3.6 million to move the critical care team, currently based from the airbase in Thruxton, and the charity team, based in Nursling, to a site near Southampton Airport, bringing the operation teams together under one roof. You can find out more about the appeal on their website www.hiowaa.org.