Riding into the sunset

Rugby League Cares's biggest fundraiser every year is an epic week-long cycling adventure featuring up to 20 riders, many of whom are former players taking on a challenge that propels them out of their comfort zones.

As well as enjoying the physical challenge, the ride sees players come together for a week away to enjoy the banter and the craic which most of them find hard to replace in their new roles away from sport. And at the same time, they raise much-needed cash which the charity ploughs back into its work supporting other former players.

In the summer of 2022, Adrian Morley, Nathan McAvoy, Paul Wood and Keith Senior were among 17 riders who rode an amazing 550 miles off-road over six days from Niagara Falls to New York City, raising £40,000 along the way.

The Empire State 500 ride was a lot more physically demanding than I thought it would be but that's what made it so special. Riding alongside the lads and helping each other get through it was brilliant and an experience I'll never forget. And we raised lots of money for a very good cause.