A Day to Remember at the Tour de France

Friday 11 August 2017

It is only because of the generosity and involvement of special people that a charity can progress. Three such people have, through their individual generosity – finance and time - assisted Helping Rhinos become several thousands of pounds richer. Each gave in different ways. Each are deserving of our heartfelt thanks. “It genuinely feels good to help this vital cause – saving rhinos from horrific deaths, from poachers and ultimately from extinction in the wild.” said Sue.

Gerry Ryan, owner of Orica Scott – Australia’s only world-tour professional cycling team - donated a Tour de France package for two that covered the final weekend of this amazing three-week race. Sue, from Texas, who brought along her friend Nancy, successfully bid via our ‘silent on-line auction’. This included accommodation for two nights in Paris, two tribune seats virtually on the finish line on the Champs Elysees, two signed Orica Scott Team jerseys, and a private evening reception with the team.

In addition our own Patron, Phil Liggett, secured two much sought after and extremely difficult to acquire, special passes that allowed the guests to access the tightly guarded ‘zone technique’ that included a tour of the commentary tribune with Phil and his co-commentator and fellow Helping Rhinos Patron, Paul Sherwen. Trish (Trustee of Helping Rhinos) was on hand all day to ensure everything went according to plan.

The Tour de France is the world’s most famous cycle event and to see it in the flesh is not difficult, but to be able to get behind the scenes, mixing with TV media, to meet and chat with the riders, which included the White Jersey (Young Rider) winner, Orica Scott’s Simon Yates, was the icing on the cake. At the private evening reception Sue was able to speak to the guests and give her own ‘present to each rider and some staff – an autographed photograph from Dottie Metcalf-Lindenburger, America’s first female astronaut to be listed in the Hall of Fame at Davidson Space and Rocket Centre, who is a friend of Sue’s and truly believes in this vital cause.

Thanks to everyone who made the day possible and so enjoyable.